Suspected gang member charged under anti-gang laws

A suspected gang member from Five Cays, Providenciales, has been formally charged under the Anti-Gang Ordinance following an investigation by detectives from the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force (RTCIPF).

Carlos Usher Higgs, 20, is facing multiple serious charges related to an incident that occurred on Friday, September 21, 2024. The charges are as follows:

· One count of gang membership, contrary to section 4(1)(b) of the Anti-Gang Ordinance.

· One count of theft.

· One count of kidnapping.

· One count of possession of an imitation firearm.

These charges represent an important step in law enforcement efforts to curb gang-related violence in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

The anti-gang ordinance was introduced to give law enforcement more tools to address rising gang violence. Authorities have been working to dismantle criminal networks that pose a serious threat to community security. The inclusion of a gang membership charge is a clear indication that the RTCIPF is targeting the root of organized criminal activity.

Higgs is currently in police custody, awaiting trial. His arrest and the charges against him underscore the government’s commitment to crack down on gang-related crime and violence in areas of the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Higgs’ alleged involvement in gang activity, as well as serious crimes such as theft and kidnapping, contribute to growing security concerns in certain districts. Five Cays has been a focal point for law enforcement, and this latest arrest is part of an ongoing strategy to disrupt local gang activity and reduce violence.

The use of an imitation firearm in the incident has raised further alarm as it demonstrates the willingness of suspected criminals to use intimidation tactics that endanger public safety. The RTCIPF continues to urge the community to come forward with any information that can assist in the fight against organized crime.

The Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police said it is taking a tough stance on gang involvement, following its mandate to enforce the Anti-Gang Ordinance and other related laws.

The community has been asked to remain vigilant and cooperate with police investigations as police continue their efforts to make neighborhoods safer. The authorities are mainly focused on ensuring that young people are kept away from gang culture and given alternatives to a life of crime.