Navy

RFA Tideforce deployed to Turks and Caicos Islands to help tackle surge in gang violence

RFA Tideforce is being deployed to the Turks and Caicos Islands to help tackle a surge in gang violence.

The 39,000-tonne Royal Fleet Auxiliary tanker is carrying a Wildcat helicopter and specialist police firearms officers.

It is thought to be the first time a naval ship has been sent to deal with organised criminal violence by drug gangs on a British Overseas Territory island, according to a report in the Daily Telegraph.

Defence Secretary Ben Wallace said: "I have directed the Royal Navy to deploy RFA Tideforce to the Turks and Caicos Islands and support the law enforcement-led response to the surge in gang violence.

"The ship will contribute to the safety and security of this British Overseas Territory by working with local and specialist police forces on security operations, including surveillance and air support.

"Our Armed Forces are once again demonstrating the UK's enduring commitment to global peace and stability."

The Caribbean archipelago of 58,000 people has seen 15 fatal stabbings since early September.

In comments reported by the Associated Press on Tuesday, UK Foreign Secretary James Cleverly said: "The UK has a moral and constitutional responsibility to support and protect the people of the overseas territories, who are a valued part of the UK family.

"We had to act following the terrible violence we've seen in the Turks and Caicos Islands these past few weeks."