The island’s new Minister for National Security has called for the entire community to be held accountable amid an increase in violence.

Wayne Caines said the new Government would deal with the problem using a “multifaceted” approach and also revealed that the public would be “formally” asked for help this week.

Mr Caines said in a Facebook post “Since I became Minister of National Security, we have experienced two murders, a near-fatal stabbing, a fracas involving gang-related persons at Cup Match. This increase in violent activity is concerning. Please know our team has been working around the clock to action our plan.”

Play at Cup Match was temporarily halted on Friday after a fight involving spectators.

Last Tuesday a man was rushed to hospital after being stabbed in the chest and the following day a man was knifed in the stomach in a busy Hamilton store.

Jahcari Francis, 20, was fatally shot on July 19 — a day after the General Election.

Ten days later, Jahkoby Smith was stabbed to death at the wake for Mr Francis at the West End Sailboat Club, where another man was also stabbed.

Mr Caines added: “Just because we have not made our actions public [and we will] please do not feel the matter is not in hand. We will deal with this issue using a multifaceted approach. Again, the respective teams are working diligently.”

Mr Caines added that he had met the Governor and the Commissioner of Police and “both understand the problem and key issues”.

He said: “Both men are committed to working to stamp out violence in our country. But this is a community problem, these are our sons, brothers, boyfriends, ace boys, nephews, godsons, husbands. We must hold them accountable.

“Hold the police accountable, hold me as the minister accountable, but we must hold each other accountable for this mess.

“This will only be solved if we tackle it together. This week we will formally ask for your help. Please be ready to roll up your sleeves.”

Adding that the problems are clear, he called for people to tell him that they are “willing and able to help”.

Mr Caines added: “We will put you to work. Continue to believe in our country, continue to believe in our sons. Let’s dig deep, make the necessary changes and evolve to a more loving and caring society.

And he invited concerned members of the public to contact him by e-mail at wmcaines@gov.bm or by text on 704-8900.