The Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force (RSCNPF) is aware of a disturbing trend on social media where people are sharing videos of themselves displaying various forms of weaponry. We have seen at least two local artists brandishing what appear to be firearms in videos that are being circulated via the social media platform, WhatsApp. The RSCNPF strongly condemns such actions as they have no positive value for our nation’s safety, security, and social development.
As we work with other national security agencies to curb the recent crime spike, we want to make it clear that we have a “zero tolerance” policy regarding the display, depiction, or description of all forms of weaponry in locally produced and owned digital content. Such actions are a source of negative influence for the young and impressionable in our society. Irresponsible acts that promote anti-social behavior and violent tendencies will not be tolerated. We consider such acts as a celebration and encouragement of violent crimes against citizens and residents, and anyone involved in the production of such content will be regarded as a suspected threat to life, liberty, and property.
During the last decade, social media has become an integral part of our personal and professional lives. We must understand that using an electronic device to disseminate reckless digital content does not exempt individuals from the consequences of irresponsible social media usage. Our investigations have revealed that in almost all circumstances, the adults engaging in these activities are fully aware of their actions’ level of influence and the potential for far-reaching consequences. Nevertheless, they persistently display a high level of indifference and willful ignorance.
To combat the spread of this regressive school of thought, the RSCNPF will not accept any excuses, explanations, arguments, or pleas from those whose reckless actions automatically categorize them as suspected threats to life, liberty, and property. As with everything in life, the choice is yours to make. We simply encourage everyone to choose wisely.