Police yesterday expressed concern over a growing trend involving firearms after shots were fired in four separate incidents in the space of a week.

Gunshots rang out at Southampton Rangers Club Friday morning and firearms were reportedly fired at residences in Warwick and Sandys earlier in the week. Two men were also arrested on charges of possessing an imitation firearm.

Said Superintendent Paul Wright at a press conference held to highlight Police concerns: "Just from the figures, we've had 35 firearms reports this year, 22 of which have been confirmed.

"It's a worrying trend. We are very concerned that in light of recent incidents, one of our officers may be challenged by an individual brandishing an imitation firearm or a real firearm.

"The Police officer cannot be expected to be able to differentiate if the firearm is real or fake."

Premier Ewart Brown stated his own concerns yesterday, saying a motion on increasing lawlessness in Bermuda is to be debated in the House of Assembly July 10.

"As legislators, we cannot avoid this issue on the House agenda," he said. "I believe some creative ideas will emerge from our debate that can help inspire new thinking and new action in our community to curb this troubling trend."

According to Supt. Wright, head of the Serious and Organised Crime Division, part of the problem is people aren't willing to aid Police investigations.

"My detectives can cite many examples where they are satisfied that people have witnessed incidents and can identify the offenders but refuse to cooperate with the police," he stated. "Often the very communities that have been shot up end up protecting the offender.

"Bermuda, quite rightly, has a low tolerance for these types of incidents, and we want the public to play their part."

The spate of violence saw two men arrested in the West End in connection to the brandishing of an imitation firearm.

And gunshots were reported twice earlier in the week once early Thursday morning on Bluebell Lane, Sandys, and once early Saturday morning off Lorraine Drive in Warwick.

In the most recent incident, shots were fired into the air at an event held at the Southampton Rangers Club sometime around 1.30 a.m. yesterday.

No one was reported injured. In this instance, Police are optimistic they will be able to find witnesses.

"We know there were a lot of people there, so we feel confident that we will have several people come forward and help to point us in the right direction," said Supt. Wright. "Serious Crime officers are on the scene as we speak."

Another issue of concern for the Police is the lack of proper security like CCTV cameras and screening procedures at various bars, clubs and events.

Said Supt. Wright: "They must do their part to work with police in advance to ensure the safety of the public."

Despite the rise in incidents, he said that Police are responding appropriately.

"Over the last several months, hardly a week goes by without the media reporting on violent offenders appearing at court. From the perspective of uniformed visibly effective policing, there has been a significant police presence on the streets. Their presence has been very well received by the law abiding community."

According to Supt. Wright, the community needs to work with Police to help curb the dangerous trend.

"We encourage the community to use the Bermuda Police Service and Crime Stoppers to play your part in denying the criminal minority their view that they can do whatever they want," said Supt. Wright.

Anyone with any information about firearms related activity or suspicious persons are asked to contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-623-8477.