Munroe Backs Police Chief silence on voice notes

Minister of National Security Wayne Munroe has publicly endorsed Commissioner of Police Clayton Fernander's decision to withhold further public comments on the ongoing investigation into controversial voice notes.

In a statement today, Munroe expressed his full support for the approach taken by Fernander and the Royal Bahamas Police Force (RBPF). "I have read the statement issued by the Commissioner of Police concerning the investigation of voicenotes being conducted by the Security and Intelligence Branch of the Royal Bahamas Police Force," Munroe said. "I am mindful of the judicial condemnation of my predecessor in the former administration and Dr. Duane Sands, the current Chairman of the FNM who was then Minister of Health."

Munroe referenced past criticisms directed at former officials, including former Minister of Health Dr. Duane Sands, who faced judicial censure for awarding a contract to a star witness in a high-profile trial without proper board approval. Similarly, former Minister of National Security Marvin Dames was criticized for alleged undue contact with the witness in the Frank Smith case. Smith was acquitted of the charges.

The ongoing investigation involves voice notes between a suspect in a $1 million heist at a private airport and two other individuals. This probe led to the suspension of the head of the Criminal Investigation Department, who has been placed on garden leave.

Munroe reiterated his trust in the RBPF’s Security and Intelligence Branch, stating, “I defer to the judgment of the Royal Bahamas Police Force in exercising their constitutional function. I reiterate my confidence in the Security and Intelligence Branch’s ability, competence, and professionalism to conduct this investigation with probity and expedition.”