The Royal Saint Lucia Police Force (RSLPF) is issuing an important reminder to the public regarding the wearing of balaclavas and ski masks in public spaces.
Recent observations have indicated an increase in the prevalence of individuals donning such masks in public areas, prompting the need for clarification on the legal ramifications of this practice under the Criminal Code of Saint Lucia.
In accordance with Section 521 of the Criminal Code, the wearing masks, including balaclavas and ski masks, in public places is subject to specific legal provisions.
Important things to note about Section 521:
• There is a general prohibition against wearing masks in any public way or place, and doing so is considered an offence. Those who violate this rule may be fined five hundred dollars (XCD500.00) if convicted.
• If an individual wears a mask in public with the intention of committing a crime, they could face imprisonment for up to one year if convicted.
Certain situations are exceptions to this prohibition, including:
• During carnival, a drama, or other public performances or spectacles.
• For medical reasons.
The RSLPF also wishes to address concerns specifically related to motorcyclists.
It has come to our attention that some individuals are using balaclavas and ski masks as an alternative to proper motorcycle helmets.
We emphasize that these masks do not meet the safety standards required for helmet use and are not a lawful substitute. Motorcyclists are reminded that helmets must comply with safety regulations to ensure their protection whilst riding.
The RSLPF urges all citizens to adhere to these regulations to avoid legal consequences and to promote safety and security within our communities.
SOURCE: Royal Saint Lucia Police Force
Why does RSLPF have to bring a standard COvid mask into this advertisement? Just say baclavas are illegal on bikes, just now u gonna see every biker wearin dat deh,no tickets issued!!!
The camo too all of them wearing like they In the army
Meanwhile bad boy pulling up next to police on their bikes not helmet and nada.
maybe just MAYBE d first step to a crime-free saint lucia would be banning the sale of ski masks. especially the colourful ones criminals buy. or OR OR maybe the government can TRACK the sale of ski masks to catch criminals. even better. DUMB govt. DUMB slp and DUMP uwp. i could run this country better with my eyes closed.
Bravo RRSLP. It was about time !!
If we can’t wear it neither should the police.
We need to go after the criminals are give the police the support …
Some of us Saint Lucians are not sure of what we want or we just like to criticize. The Police do nothing, we criticize, they do something and still some of us, instead of supporting, we criticize. Remember the story of the ‘Old man and the donkey?’ You can’t please everyone. The RSLPF must just continue to do whatever you have to do legally to remove the vermins from our streets and communities. You all have my full support.
What about the hoodies? Temperature of 88° Fahrenheit and still wearing a hoodie? I have never seen snow in Saint Lucia. Maybe someone else has seen it. These things are red flags for criminality. They reduce the usefulness of cameras.
The politicians don’t have the guts to make this place secure. They are too afraid that they will lose votes. Add to that, the security managers don’t know what they are doing. It’s a disastrous bouillon. Try driving in the major capitals with all your windows tinted black (blackout). St. Lucians living overseas can tell you more. What is happening here are only half measures. It’s like being almost pregnant.
And also, is there any logical expl
The rslpf is allergic to undertanding that all crimes matter and you just cant decide on 1 at a time! It must be all or nothing! I agree with this mask mandate however it will only be a matter of time when the energy to enforce this mask mandate runs out! We have seen this with tints, loud music, colored headlights, wearing of camoflouge, riding in the trunk of a pick up etc etc etc. Why can’t you all enforce all laws concurrently? You all on a beat for minor collision but you all passing a live bank robbery happening saying ” is traffic they send me an patrol!” Wth is this? You all passing endless criminal code infractions daily and expect order in our society…mazheee!