A small number of criminals are unleashing a disproportionate amount of harm on the community, police have said in the wake of recent shootings.

Acting Commissioner of Police Antoine Daniels noted that organised crime in Bermuda has evolved over time, with the criminals becoming more dangerous.

“Individuals involved in this type of activity are increasingly ruthless, less empathetic, more violent, digitally enabled and better connected, both locally and afar, than those of previous generations,” he said on Friday.

“One concerning trend is the growing effectiveness of offenders. For example, in 2012, police recorded 29 firearms incidents resulting in five fatalities.

“In contrast, in 2025 to date, there have been seven firearms incidents, but with four fatalities. This suggests a higher rate of lethality per incident.”

However, Mr Daniels pointed out that forensic evidence has shown a small amount of firearms and individuals are behind a disproportionate number of offences.

He said that between January 1, 2024, and August 21 this year, 27 firearm incidents were recorded.

Mr Daniels added that a total of seven firearms were responsible for the incidents, and three of the firearms have been recovered, with two people awaiting trial in connection with two of the recovered weapons.

He also confirmed that one firearm seized last year had been linked to multiple incidents.

“Investigations into each of these matters remain ongoing,” Mr Daniels said. “The Bermuda Police Service remain committed while continuing to prioritise our efforts to disrupt the illegal possession and use of firearms, and are working diligently to bring those responsible to justice.”

Mr Daniels spoke this month on The Daily Hour talk show, where he said that the firearm used in the fatal shooting on Court Street on August 12 has been linked to several other offences.

He said that the weapon “comes under a particular criminal gang, whose leader is quite ruthless”.

Mr Daniels added on the show: “We are putting everything into targeting him and his groups because … this particular person is really wreaking havoc in our small country, so we just need to try to root this out because it almost seems like it’s this recruitment of young people to go and do this dirty work, which is unfortunate.”

In response to questions from The Royal Gazette, Mr Daniels said the comments were not intended to alarm the public or play down the presence of firearms in Bermuda.

“The intent was to provide relevant insight into the environment from a policing perspective,” he added.

Mr Daniels confirmed that the firearm used in the Court Street shooting — when Nakai Robinson, 18, and Natrae Eversley, 23, were killed — was linked to other offences. However, he was not in a position to say which incidents or how many.

The acting commissioner also said he could not provide information about the gang leader referenced, but did state that the investigation was “not new” and that the individual had been known to police for several years.

“Police investigators continue to pursue inquiries into what is being described as a complex and protracted matter involving multiple offences/offenders,” Mr Daniels told the Gazette on Friday.

“As the investigation has now reached a pivotal phase, it is not possible to release specific details at this time.”

Mr Daniels emphasised the need for the public’s help in tackling gang violence, stating that solving serious and complex crimes often depends heavily on community co-operation

“When the BPS and the Department of Public Prosecutions are able to secure convictions in violent or organised crime cases, it not only brings offenders to justice but also strengthens public confidence and improves community safety by removing the most dangerous individuals from our streets,” he said.

“We understand that people may feel fear or hesitation, particularly when dealing with individuals who may have access to weapons.

“A commonsense approach is always encouraged — do not put yourself at risk.

“If you witness suspicious activity or potential criminal behaviour, maintain a safe distance and report what you see.”

He urged the public to stay alert, to note unusual behaviour or unfamiliar individuals in their area, and to report suspicious activity either directly to police or through Crime Stoppers.

Mr Daniels also said that the public should encourage others to speak up and support their neighbours, offering emotional support or practical help to those who are affected by crime.

“Bermuda’s small size presents both strengths and challenges,” he said.

“On one hand, close community ties mean information often circulates quickly, and many residents are aware of the key threats within their local areas.

“On the other hand, the fear of retaliation, especially in a close-knit community, can make it difficult for individuals to testify or co-operate openly.

“That is why the BPS have robust systems in place to protect confidentiality.

“We take the safety of those who come forward very seriously, and every effort is made to ensure that identities and information are safeguarded.

“As a country, we must weigh fear against the courage to do what’s right.

“Yes, some of the individuals involved in violent crime do have access to firearms, but if we choose to remain silent and inactive, the problem will only continue to grow.

“We urge all residents to be vigilant, be brave and work together to keep our communities safe.”

Anyone with information can call the serious crime unit on 247-1739, speak with a familiar police officer, call the confidential Crime Stoppers hotline on 800-8477 or submit a tip online at crimestoppers.bm.

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