‘Police officers are out there’
Despite a recent uptick in break-ins at popular tourist sites, the Department of Public Safety remains vigilant in its efforts to keep the community safe by deploying more officers around these sites, according to DPS Commissioner Clement Bermudes last week.
He said in an interview that more officers have been deployed in the streets of Saipan as well as up north near popular tourist sites during the holiday season after an uptick in burglaries were reported.
“Police officers are out there. We’re spreading our officers, increasing their visibility during the holidays. It’s the holiday season and unfortunately some people are just taking advantage. [Criminals] are very opportunistic. They look for the right time and the right place,” he said.
With DPS ratcheting up efforts to deter burglaries, Bermudes encourages tour guides to do their part, like informing tourists to keep their valuables safe by making sure they’re not in plain view.
“We can reduce [crime] by removing valuables from easy view. Even at the beach, have somebody stay back. It may be asking too much, but that’s the best security that we can have. If something happens, call DPS,” Bermudes said.
Marianas Visitors Authority managing director Chris Concepcion earlier said there has been an increase in the number of burglaries victimizing tourists in popular tour sites and dive sites.
“We’ve received reports directly from visitors and tour operators about the increase in crimes, including a convertible whose top was ripped open and had items stolen, car windows being smashed at tourist sites, and passports and credit cards found in trash bins in Marpi,” he said.
This, he said, could damage the CNMI’s reputation as a destination.
“We pride ourselves on being a safe destination, and for the most part we are indeed a very safe destination, with low crime rates relative to the size of our population. But every time a crime is committed against a tourist, the problem is amplified because their experience is shared with friends and family overseas, and oftentimes posted on social media, which does immense damage to our reputation as a secure place to visit,” he said.
MVA is calling on DPS and the community to help deter crimes against tourists.
“We respectfully request that our law enforcement partners beef up patrols in Marpi, the Laolao dive site, Obyan, and Ladder beaches, and other areas frequented by tourists. This will deter would-be criminals from committing more crimes. We also ask the community to be vigilant. Report crimes or suspicious activity and look out for our visitors who are here to enjoy our gorgeous islands. Our law enforcement officers cannot do this alone. The tourism industry is what fuels our economy, so we all must do our part to make our communities safe and attractive. Tourism is everybody’s business,” he said.
Clement Bermudes
