NASSAU, BAHAMAS  — Free National Movement (FNM) Deputy leader Shanendon Cartwright is advocating for a unified national effort to address crime while emphasizing the importance of steadfastly rejecting attempts to tarnish the nation's reputation.

Describing the challenge as a "collective responsibility," the St. Barnabas MP said: "This collective commitment to combating crime must be matched by a resolute national obligation—a duty to rebuff and denounce the endeavors and personal motives of individuals, groups, or entities, whether domestic or foreign, whose clear agenda is to inflict unjustified reputational harm upon our nation and its people.

"Let us unite our endeavors to confront our national crime challenge while refusing to shelter or condone those who aim to defame and disparage the Bahamian people and the Commonwealth of The Bahamas," he said.

The recent surge in violent crimes within the country has garnered significant media attention, particularly in key tourist markets, featuring prominently across major television networks and newspapers. Both the United States and Canada have recently issued travel advisories concerning The Bahamas, cautioning their citizens about the rise in homicides.

To date, the country has reported 25 murders for the year 2024.

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