In an effort to reduce crimes against tourists and guest properties, the Bermuda Police Service (BPS) has established a new Tourist Crimes Unit (TCU).

This unit commenced operation on May 26 and will operate throughout the summer months until the end of October this year.

They will work with investigative units within the BPS, as well as with outside government and private stakeholders and will initially be staffed by two Constables drawn from Operational Policing Division (Patrol Department) ? P.c. Welsey Robinson and P.c. Shameen Iqbal.

According to a spokesperson from the Ministry of Tourism, Nea Talbot, these two officers will be supplemented by an additional officer drawn from the Schools Resource Unit during the peak months of July and August.

Ms Tablot said the TCU will function primarily as a proactive crime prevention unit and some of their tasks will include high visibility patrols in uniform at tourist venues and special events including beaches, shopping nights, recreational areas, guest properties and street parades.

"They will also interact with tourists, providing reassurance and crime prevention advice," she said.

The TCU will also liaise with the Crime Prevention Unit (CPU), BPC Criminal Investigation Units, guest properties, the Department of Parks and Tourism.

Ms Talbot said the TCU will conduct investigations involving crimes against tourists and will arrest those who are suspected of, or who have committed offences against tourists.

"The Minister of Tourism and Transport, Dr. Ewart Brown said his Ministry fully endorses and supports this latest initiative by the Bermuda Police Service.