Greater analysis of data is expected to help measure the success of work designed to tackle violence on the island, the Minister of National Security revealed this week.

Michael Weeks said that the information would be used to spot patterns and determine where to focus efforts.

His comments came in response to remarks from Robert King, the shadow minister, who claimed that the Progressive Labour Party government had “become adept at highlighting isolated wins while ignoring systemic failures”.

Mr King said: “For months, we have watched Michael Weeks celebrate his ministry’s ‘successes’ with carefully crafted messaging. But behind the headlines lies a harsher reality — one that no press release can conceal.

“For too many, especially our young people, life is becoming more dangerous, not safer.”

Mr Weeks hit back that the safety and security of Bermudians should not be used as a political football.

In an opinion piece published today, he added: “Those of us who are serious about improving Bermuda know that this is not a political issue.

“It is a social issue that requires collaborative action. Action we are taking.”

Mr Weeks highlighted the investment of more than $500,000 in community organisations where work directly addresses the root causes of violence.

He noted that the Bermuda Police Service received 200 new body cameras — devices that the minister said provided “a greater level of security to members of the public and to our officers”.

Mr Weeks added: “We are also enhancing our use of data to identify trends, deploy resources where they are most needed and evaluate the impact of our initiatives.

“Some push for more police on the streets as the only solution and while we are hiring more officers, we do not believe that is the only solution.

“Alongside enforcement, we are committed to tackling the social and economic drivers of crime.

“This means expanding early-intervention programmes, supporting at-risk youth and working closely with community leaders, schools and families to prevent crime before it occurs.

“We are also reviewing border security measures to ensure our agencies have the tools and intelligence they need to prevent illegal weapons and drugs from entering Bermuda.”