A call has been made for witnesses to shooting incidents to come forward and help the Island combat the rise in armed crime that is now giving Bermuda a reputation overseas for lawlessness.

In a statement last night Public Safety Minister David Burch added to comments he made earlier in the day on the latest shooting incidents. He said: "Last night, another mother was left mourning the loss of her son. To the mother and her family, I extend my deepest and heartfelt condolences.

"In the early hours of this morning another young man was shot and injured. And just this morning, Court Street was the scene of yet another ridiculous broad daylight shoot-out.

"No words can express the sheer disbelief, anger and frustration that I and the rest of Bermuda are feeling today. It is clear that we are a Country at a dangerous cross road.

"The fact is that we are fast becoming an Island known for its lawlessness, instead of a Country known for its pink sand beaches and international business prowess. This is not a reputation to be proud of.

"Understandably Bermudians are sick and tired of these brazen acts of gun violence. The people who commit these crimes don't see the pain and agony of the families of their victims. It is a needless waste, and in our 21 square miles, such shameless and cowardly acts shouldn't be allowed to happen.

"The collective calls from Government House, the Premier, the Bermuda Police Service and myself to end this gun violence have fallen on deaf ears.

"It is my view that these brazen acts should not go unanswered by the Bermuda Police Service. And I am confident that the Bermuda Police Service will employ all of its resources to bring about justice.

"In the interim, however, I want to plead with the residents of this Country. I am urging you to continue to stand firm in the face of this seemingly endless cycle of gun violence. Be assured that your Government and the Bermuda Police Service will never back down from the challenge of wrestling back our communities from the hands of a defiant few.

"We are doing all within our power to restore peace and normalcy to those affected neighborhoods and to the Country as a whole as quickly as possible.

"While these have been trying days, I cannot stress enough that the public's cooperation is needed now more than ever. These incidents have witnesses and we need those individuals to come forward and provide whatever information they have to the Police. It will take a significant act of bravery for these people to come forward, however their bravery could potentially prevent another life from being lost.

"I join with the Police in appealing for any witnesses or persons with any information about these incidents to contact investigators at 299-8115 or via the confidential Crime Stoppers Bermuda Hotline at 800-8477. Anonymous tips can also be sent via the Crime Stoppers Bermuda website at www.crimestoppers.bm."