A man has been arrested in connection with a social media music video that promoted violence against police officers, it was revealed yesterday.

Commissioner of Police Stephen Corbishley said the “drill music” video — which glamorises gangs and the use of automatic weapons — was a serious concern.

Mr Corbishley said: “This video is most concerning and the BPS have already made one arrest and are actively searching to detain others involved.

“There are many positive aspects of urban street music to express views in a constructive way, but drill music is not one of them, not least as it is indicative of associated gang violence.

“Therefore, the circulation of this video has given the BPS the opportunity to now investigate any criminal behaviour by those involved, not least in relation to potential offences related to the lyrics of the track.”

He added that police were also looking for people who appeared in the video and for those involved in its production.

Mr Corbishley said the lyrics of the song contained threats of violence towards police, judges and others, though no individuals were named.

He added that the Bermuda Police Service did not see the video as a genuine threat of future acts of violence.

However, he said that threats of violence or offensive words had the potential to indicate criminal activity.

Mr Corbishley added: The BPS welcomes people who want to be engaged in community activities and often music is a good way of bringing people together and also expressing views.

“But this type of music is extremely violent. It is not something we tolerate and, of course, it advocates the use of violence and other aspects of gang-related criminality.”

Mr Corbishley said: “While freedom of speech is protected under law, inciting violence is not and we thoroughly condemn the message being promoted in this video — or any communication that suggests or threatens violence against any member of the public.

“What we really do need to do is concentrate on dealing with gangs through community outreach, both from the police and parish constables, but also alongside the Ministry of National Security’s team, Pastor Bean and others, that do work each and every day in the community to engage with gang members and steer them away from violence.”

The arrested man, who has not been named, is in custody pending further inquiries.

Mr Corbishley was backed by Wayne Caines, the national security minister.

Mr Caines said: “I am sure many people have seen the ‘drill’ music video on social media, depicting young men promoting violence towards members of the Bermuda judiciary, police service and Department of Public Prosecutions.

“This video is reprehensible and should be denounced by all right-thinking Bermudians.”

Mr Caines added: “There comes a time in society where we must collectively rise up and show our disdain for such behaviour.

“These young men must not be given safe harbour in our community. We must rise and stand against this awful and deplorable act.”

A police spokesman added that anyone with information on the people in the video or those involved in its production should contact the Criminal Investigation Department on 247-1744.

Information can also be passed on through the independent and confidential Crime Stoppers hotline on 800-8477 or at crimestoppers.bm.the public.”

The arrested man, who has not been named, is in custody pending further inquiries.

Mr Corbishley was backed by Wayne Caines, the national security minister.

Mr Caines said: “I am sure many people have seen the ‘drill’ music video on social media, depicting young men promoting violence towards members of the Bermuda judiciary, police service and Department of Public Prosecutions.

“This video is reprehensible and should be denounced by all right thinking Bermudians.”

Mr Caines added: “There comes a time in society where we must collectively rise up and show our distain for such behaviour.

“These young men must not be given safe harbour in our community. We must rise and stand against this awful and deplorable act.”

A police spokesman added that anyone with information on the people who appeared in the video or those involved in its production should contact the Criminal Investigation Department on 247-1744.

Information can also be passed on through the independent and confidential Crime Stoppers hotline on 800-8477 or at www.crimestoppers.bm.