A formal investigation into allegations of corruption within the Police Service is the best way "to clear the air" and restore public confidence, the United Bermuda Party claimed yesterday.

Such an investigation would also provide Police with new ways of tackling crime now prevalent here, Shadow Public Safety Minister Michael Dunkley said.

"We believe an outside investigator of the service would be best positioned to clear the air," he stated.

"The allegations made on the floor of the House of Assembly last Friday are extremely serious, and they have been echoed by others in the community. The steps we take must conclusively erase any doubts and suspicions created by the allegations.

"We cannot be looking over our shoulders when it comes to law enforcement in Bermuda, particularly at a time [when] we need our best effort against criminals and the growing gang problem."

Former Assistant Police Commissioner Wayne Perinchief last week told the House that hard-core drug pushers have been caught red-handed but let off the hook. The former Cabinet Minister insisted a Commission of Inquiry, which would involve overseas authorities probing Police, Prisons and Customs, was necessary.

His claims were backed by fellow Progressive Labour Party MP Ashfield DeVent.

On Wednesday, however, Governor Sir Richard Gozney disagreed with the call saying, "I don't think it is necessary."

Yesterday, Senator Dunkley said while he respects the Governor's opinion, he doesn't agree with it.

"We respect what the Governor has to say about 'policing in Bermuda', and appreciate the concrete steps that have been taken to strengthen policing in areas where the challenge to law and order is most keenly felt."

He continued: "But with so many speaking out about corruption, we remain concerned that allegations be subject to the most rigorous, confidence-building investigation."

A formal review of the Police Service is long overdue, Sen. Dunkley said.

"Clearly the crime situation is bad and, to many, getting worse. We maintain there is an urgent and pressing need to reassess our approach to crime fighting. The time for a formal review of strategies, deployments, force structure is long past due; the last one being conducted in 2003.

"The inspections offer highly useful reviews of what is working well, what is not working well and recommendations flow from them...Bermuda needs one now."