Two men were stabbed and several people arrested after violence broke out at John Smith’s Bay yesterday.

A 19-year-old and a 20-year-old both suffered stab wounds, but they were not thought to be life-threatening.

Commissioner of Police Stephen Corbishley condemned the violence, as well as firearms incidents in St George’s and Pembroke on the same evening.

He said: “I strongly condemn the actions of those who, in the last 24 hours, have sought to disrupt the peace of this holiday weekend with acts of violence.

“The incident at John Smith’s Bay is particularly disturbing in light of the fact that so many people were gathered at that location and contravening Covid-19 regulations, thus possibly creating a public health risk.

“Not to mention the wanton acts of violence committed in full view of nearby residents, as well as families, including young children making the best of the sunny conditions on the day with a visit to that popular beach.”

The two injured men were treated at the King Edward VII Memorial Hospital and discharged.

Police received reports that between 75 and 100 people were gathered at John Smith’s Bay in Smith’s Parish against the Covid-19 social distancing guidelines yesterday.

Several calls were made to police that several people at the beach were fighting, using helmets, chains and knives.

A police spokesman said that the crowd had already started to disperse when they arrived.

A 17-year-old male was arrested for driving while impaired and a 16-year-old male was arrested for possession of a controlled drug with intent to supply.

Another 16-year-old male was arrested for affray.

The Bermuda Police Service said there were several video recordings of the incident on social media.

A police spokesman said: “The public are reminded that under Phase 3 of the Reopening of Bermuda Plan, gatherings are limited to 20 persons with physical distancing in place.

“The public are also advised that there will be a heightened police presence across the island over the next few days to further ensure the safety and wellbeing of residents.

“We ask that you continue to partner with us in our ongoing efforts to make Bermuda safer.”

Police are urging anyone with information to contact 211, the main police number at 295-0011 or the independent and confidential Crime Stoppers hotline at 800-8477.