National

Son Of The Soil: Should The Next Northern Bahamas Police Chief Be From Grand Bahama?

GRAND BAHAMA, BAHAMAS – Assistant Commissioner of Police Shanta Knowles was officially appointed as the officer responsible for the northern region in December 2023.

Published

2 weeks ago

December 5, 2024

Italia Hall

Assistant Commissioner of Police Shanta Knowles was officially appointed as the officer responsible for the northern region in December 2023.

Her appointment came with high praise from former police commissioner Clayton Fernander, who commended her invaluable contributions to the Royal Bahamas Police Force over decades of service.

Under her leadership, there have been some high-profile cases in that region.

Valencia Edgecombe – Grand Bahama Resident
“She’s been a great asset here in Grand and I know it’s a great opportunity for Grand Bahamians to uphold a new position here in Grand Bahama.”

In fact, during the handing-over ceremony on Grand Bahama when Knowles was appointed, the former commissioner also stated that the next assistant commissioner responsible for the northern region would be a Grand Bahamian.

Clayton Fernander – Former Commissioner
“Who born and grew here in Grand Bahama… I promise them that Ms. Knowles is here for a reason to do JUST THAT… to groom the fine women and men here as chief superintendents… Who are looking for that next level and my eye is on a few of them and training will come and I can assure the Bahamian people, especially Grand Bahamians that the next ACP in the north will be right here, from Grand Bahama.”

Now, residents are wondering… Will that promise be fulfilled?

Garvin Mackey – Grand Bahama Resident
“I think that would be very good for a change that would be very nice… because they would know the inside scoop of what’s going on.”

As for the qualities residents believe the next officer should possess, they stressed the importance of strong leadership and a commitment to prioritizing the needs of the northern Bahamas.

Letita Hield – Grand Bahama Resident
“Just an honest person, someone who’s looking out for The Bahamas people.”

Cecil Moore – Grand Bahama Resident
“Man or woman once they address the law first.”

Residents also emphasized the urgency of filling the position, noting that islands outside the capital, like Grand Bahama, deserve to be prioritized…

Letita Hield – Grand Bahama Resident
“Just to enforce the law, in terms of like breaking in and protection around the shopping companies around this time.”

Garvin Mackey – Grand Bahama Resident
“It’s urgent that we have a trustworthy, Yano law and fulfilling person who is not corrupt but professional and wants the best for the force and its future.”