4 Convicted For Illegal Entry, 6 Awaiting Trial, and 22 under Investigation
Acting Deputy Chief of Police, Davidson Valerie, has revealed that several illegal entrants into Dominica have been arrested and facing trial in court. He said some boats that brought in people through the back door have also been impounded, and that people that harbour nationals who came in through the back door will be prosecuted to the full extents of the law.
“Eight boats have been seized for investigations,” he disclosed. “Out of the many people, who were reported to have illegally entered into Dominica, 4 have been convicted, 6 are pending trial and 22 are pending investigations.”
Valerie described the massive operations of the police to curb illegal entry as successful, adding that law enforcement officers will increase their efforts to grind illegal entry and exit of people to/from the country. He warned people who harbour family and friends that enter the country without due documentation, saying they will have their day in court.
“Anyone who aids and abets another in the commission of illegal entry, commits an offence and will be liable to prosecution in accordance to the law, the penalty of which is $3000,” Valerie warned. “It is time that we accept responsibility for our actions.”
He cited several instances where people attend social parties and lodge with families after coming from abroad as a crass display of irresponsibility, and of endangerment. He said anyone that comes into the country must submit themselves to the government for proper processing so as to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in Dominica.
Meanwhile, National Security Minister Rayburn Blackmoore urged Dominicans to exercise collective consciousness into fighting and exposing illegal entries into the country. He said that given the dangers of the coronavirus pandemic, everyone must put up a common front against careless endangerment to their lives and health. He also urged law enforcement officials to invade communities with illegal entrants are to fish them out for legal prosecution.
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