Basseterre, Saint Kitts, April 17, 2026 (SKNIS): Prime Minister and Minister of National Security, the Honourable Dr. Terrance Drew, has commended the twenty-six law enforcement officers who successfully completed the Regional Security System (RSS) Training Institute Basic Tactical Training Course 1 of 2026, describing their achievement as a critical investment in national and regional security.
The officers, drawn from the Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force, the St. Kitts-Nevis Defence Force, His Majesty’s Prison, and the Customs and Excise Department, were formally recognised during a certificate presentation ceremony held at the National Heroes Park today, April 17, 2026.
In delivering remarks at the ceremony, Prime Minister Drew underscored the importance of equipping frontline personnel with the training necessary to meet the growing demands of modern security operations.
“It would be unjust to ask you to perform at high levels without providing you with the requisite training,” the Prime Minister stated. “This course reflects our commitment as a government and as a nation to ensure that those charged with protecting our people are properly prepared, highly skilled, and fully supported.”
Dr. Drew also highlighted the historic significance of the training, noting that it marks the first time such an RSS course has been hosted within a member state. He said this milestone signals the Federation’s serious and proactive approach to strengthening its national security architecture.
Throughout the intensive programme, participants were exposed to a wide range of tactical and operational disciplines, including ambush operations, raids, reconnaissance, casualty evacuation, and border security drills. The training also incorporated critical modules in financial investigations, asset recovery, anti-money laundering, and digital forensics, reflecting the increasingly complex and interconnected nature of modern threats.
Prime Minister Drew emphasised that while equipment remains important, human capacity development is the cornerstone of effective security.
“Our greatest asset in the fight for national security is not equipment or infrastructure—it is you, the men and women who have committed your lives to service to your country,” he affirmed. “Capacity building remains our number one priority, because well-trained officers are the foundation of any effective security strategy.”
Dr. Drew further stressed the importance of continuous learning in an era where threats are rapidly evolving, ranging from organised crime and cyber threats to disaster response and border protection. He encouraged officers to remain adaptable, disciplined, and prepared to perform under pressure.
The prime minister also praised the multi-agency nature of the training, noting that collaboration among law enforcement and security bodies is essential to addressing today’s complex challenges.
“The threats we face do not respect institutional boundaries, and therefore our response cannot be confined within them,” he said. “When our forces train together, they build trust. When they build trust, they operate seamlessly—and when they operate seamlessly, they deliver results that protect our nation.”
As a demonstration of the government’s support and appreciation, Prime Minister Drew announced that each successful graduate will receive a monetary award of $1,000. Additionally, the top-performing participant, Grade 2 Officer Kuame Rey of the Custom and Excise Department, will receive an extra $500.
The completion of this course marks a significant step forward in strengthening the Federation’s security capabilities, reinforcing the government’s commitment to building a highly trained, cohesive, and resilient national security workforce.
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