The first two cameras of a new CCTV network in St George’s are fully operational, senator Jeff Baron confirmed yesterday.

The state-of-the-art pan-tilt-zoom cameras have been positioned in the Town Square and also at the entrance to the Olde Towne to bolster security.

The move follows a spike in crime in St George’s earlier this year and the pledge from Mr Baron that he would prioritise the installation of CCTV cameras in the town.

The installation has been welcomed by local Government MP Kenneth Bascome and Mayor Quinell Francis.

“This is just another area the One Bermuda Alliance is delivering on its promises and part of a policing plan to bring a sense of security to the community,” Mr Bascome said.

“It is part of an ongoing programme of investment in the community of St George’s and there is more to come.”

Ms Francis added: “This is a good step for the people of St George’s. This is the first two of nine cameras that are to be installed in the town.

“The cameras will be tied to the police and monitored by the police which will help to keep our town safer.”

At the end of April, officers began foot patrols in the Olde Towne as part of a bolstered police presence implemented by Mr Baron, the Minister of National Security.

“I can confirm that we have two operational CCTV cameras in St George’s,” he said.

“We will continue to see more of these cameras go up in the coming weeks to help address the concerns of the people of St George’s.

“It is a good first step and will only help the residents, law enforcement agencies and also the corporation going forward to exist in a safer environment.”