US Col. Richard Slater (right), in discussion with Jamaican Lt. Col. Garfield Prendergast, in a CWC 2007 security exercise in Jamaica on March 22, 2006. Photo: Norman Grindley, Deputy Chief Photographer, Jamaica Gleaner

According to Lance Selman, Director Implementation Agency for Crime and Security (IMPACS) -- the organisation mandated by Caricom Heads to lead the strategic planning for the security of the event at the regional level -- the region would be hosting the next biggest world sporting event after FIFA World Cup 2006 and these security initiatives are being put in place to ensure that the significant influx of visitors expected for the event will be guaranteed a safe, secure and crime free environment.

The region is at present collaborating with regional law enforcement bodies, international agencies such as INTERPOL and international partner countries towards developing and executing plans and operations for accurate, timely and effective security arrangements.

In addition to Intelligence Management, regional planners are also addressing issues relating to Customs, Immigration, Maritime Security, Enhanced Law Enforcement Human Resources, Closer Regional Cooperation and Amicable Public Interaction with law enforcement agencies.

The CWC International tournament comprises matches played over a 55 day period in nine venue states across the region, commencing with warm up matches between March 5 and 9, the Opening Ceremony on March 11 and a series of 51 matches culminating in the final match and Closing Ceremony in Barbados on April 28, 2007.

The IMPACS Director emphasised that, while regional security is being put in place, national police and security forces will continue to conduct their normal duties to improve the fight against crime in their own states.

Mr Selman has assured that the personal and community safety of the people of the Caribbean will reap the benefits of the regional security measures.