June 21 - Daily Report
Tue, 2011-06-21
Disturbance at Horseshoe Bay - Early in the afternoon on Monday police attended Horseshoe Bay beach in Southampton where a local group was holding a public event. The group had obtained an Occasional Liquor Licence from Magistrate’s Court and the event was attracting a growing crowd that caused severe congestion issues at the car park and access road. As the crowd grew throughout the day the organisers’ ability to control the event was tested. By about 7:00 pm the police estimated attendance to be in the thousands and they witnessed several offences of public disorder. Seven arrests were made for public fighting, obstruction of police and breach of the peace. The police assessed the nature and size of the crowd to be a threat to public safety and they ordered the organisers to close the event early. Section 51A is a recent amendment to the Liquor Licence Act that authorises the police to close a liquor licence area when there is a risk to public safety arising from serious disorder. More than two dozen police officers were on hand and no further incidents occurred as the crowd left the beach.
It is clear that the safety of this event would have benefitted from a more substantial security plan and earlier notice to the police, but we are grateful for the cooperation from the organisers and patrons who closed the event peacefully. Going forward, the police would encourage concert and large event organisers to make early contact with the Chief Inspector at the local police station where the event is planned. All stakeholders should be included to ensure that adequate security and safety arrangements are in put place in advance of the event.
Update: Burglary on Middle Town Lane
The 33 year old man injured after gaining entry into a Middle Town Lane, Pembroke residence is currently in stable condition at King Edward VII Memorial Hospital’s Intensive Care Unit. Inquiries into the incident are ongoing.
Road Safety Advisory
The Bermuda Police Service continues to advise the motoring public to slow down and to drive as well as ride responsibly on the island’s roads. Additionally, we urge those traveling in cars to use their seatbelts at all times and make sure any children traveling in the vehicle are appropriately restrained. Those traveling on motorcycles should always fasten their helmets and avoid making a third lane.
Holiday Weekend Police Activity
Over the National Heroes holiday weekend there were 3 people arrested on suspicion of impaired driving. Police officers also arrested 42 people for outstanding warrants and conducted 16 liquor license checks at various liquor licensed premises throughout the island.
