Major Leacock warns businesses: Help tackle gang activity or face closure 

By Val Matthias. Updated 2:33 p.m., Monday, September 28, 2026, Atlantic Standard Time (GMT-4). 

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Security Major St. Clair Leacock has warned that businesses which become gathering places for gang-related activity could face closure if they fail to maintain order and security.

Speaking on the New Times programme on MondaySeptember 28, Leacock said the government and law enforcement authorities are determined to confront what he described as gang-type behaviour involving some young people.

His comments come amid growing public concern over youth violence and following the circulation of a social media video showing a fight involving a group of young men at a popular business establishment.

Leacock said the issue extends beyond schools and includes places where young people gather and engage in disruptive behaviour.

He argued that business owners have a responsibility to ensure their establishments do not become venues for disorder and intimidation.

“Some of these things, we’ll have to close some of them down. We will have to close some of them down because if they cannot conduct their business and provide the kind of security as required for good order, then they’ll have to come under the hammer.” 

The National Security Minister said authorities cannot allow a situation where incidents of aggressive and disrespectful behaviour become a regular occurrence.

He warned that individuals involved in such activity should not believe they are beyond the reach of the law.

“You can’t be bigger and badder than the state,” Leacock said, stressing that public order must be maintained. 

The Minister also signalled continued support for law enforcement efforts to address criminal activity and anti-social behaviour.

Referring to comments previously made by the Commissioner of Police, Leacock said the Police Force would not back away from confronting the problem.

“The police is not going to retreat one inch. So this is a time in which we have to do what we have to do.” 

Leacock’s remarks form part of a broader discussion on measures being considered to address gang activity, youth violence and public disorder, as authorities seek to reassure citizens concerned about safety in communities and public spaces.

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About the Author: This story was written and submitted by freelance journalist Mr. Val Matthias, a trained communicator with more than two decades in the media sector. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Media and Communication (UWI Mona), a Master of Science in Tourism and Hospitality Management (UWI Cave Hill), a Certificate in Digital Marketing, and has years of broadcast journalism experience rising to ranks of a programme manager. All supporting materials for this story have been presented, vetted, and verified. Mr Matthias can be reached at [email protected]