Ken Chaplin

The following letter first appeared in The Tribune on Tuesday, December 21, 2010 and is posted here with the kind permission of the author.

I write as a concerned Bahamian regarding safety and security in Nassau harbour with particular concern for the eastern end of the harbour.

I live on the waterfront and have recently been the victim of boat theft – which I witnessed just two weeks ago.

RBDF did respond promptly by the way and I had good co-operation from Cpl. Rolle of the police in the control room.

Another boat was stolen last night I understand from the Nassau Yacht Club before 9:00 pm.

This latest incident has moved me to write and ask for your assistance and give you my thoughts for a solution.

It appears there is good presence at the main/western end of the harbour where most of the heavy and international traffic occurs, however I feel there is a “hole in the net” at the eastern end and we Bahamians are not getting the protection we would like.

RBDF and Police marine patrols are a welcome sight, however all manner of speeding unlit boats can be seen throughout any given evening at the eastern end of the harbour.

Fort Montagu was completed in 1742 and was built at this strategic location for good reason.

I feel strongly that it should once again be pressed into active service and be an outpost for the Police/RBDF – this would eliminate the cost, delay and hassle of creating a new building.

I am convinced that if there was a permanent presence here it would make a difference. With a boat docked in the lee of the fort ready for action, night surveillance, radar, searchlight installation and any suspicious boat challenged after dusk I feel we can “close the hole”.

Other benefits would be realized with the increased security of the Montagu park area and to the safety and security of tourists visiting this historic site.

Many historic forts and castles around the world are active military posts today.

We need action now!