Gun violence remains a pressing concern in Barbados, with crime data from 2024 revealing a staggering 161% increase in gun-related murders. The alarming trend was highlighted in the latest report from the Barbados Crime Observatory, which recorded 207 firearm-related crimes last year. Of these, 169 were classified as major crimes, including 76 shootings. Notably, all victims of gun-related homicides were male.
Senior Research Analyst at the Criminal Justice Research and Planning Unit, Kirk Goodridge, emphasized the severity of the situation.
“The overall crime rate in Barbados increased by 0.44% in 2024, with 28 more crimes recorded compared to the previous year,” Goodridge explained. “However, major crimes against property and persons actually declined. What stood out was the sharp rise in murders and gun-related crimes.”
According to the data, the murder rate climbed by 158%, while firearm-related crimes surged by 172% compared to 2023. Goodridge described the dramatic rise in gun use as “exponential,” calling it one of the most significant areas of concern.
In response, authorities are stepping up efforts to combat crime. Director of the Criminal Justice Research and Planning Unit, Cheryl Willoughby, stated that stakeholders are working on targeted strategies to address at-risk individuals and tackle the root causes of violence in communities.
“Our goal is to implement evidence-based decision-making, focusing on specific areas and populations,” Willoughby said. “By directing our resources strategically, we can provide assistance where it is needed most. This means identifying the sociological and social issues affecting these communities and addressing them collectively.”
She stressed the importance of a collaborative approach, bringing together experts to develop comprehensive crime-fighting solutions.
As Barbados grapples with rising gun violence, authorities remain committed to tackling the issue through data-driven interventions and community-based initiatives.