Arrest Warrant Treaty incorporated in Saint Lucia laws
Wednesday, August 28, 2019
by GIS
THE TREATY WAS DEVELOPED IN RESPONSE TO DEFICIENCIES IN EXTRADITION LAWS AMONG CARICOM STATES.

A bill to incorporate the CARICOM Arrest Warrant Treaty in the laws of Saint Lucia has been passed.

The treaty, in existence since 2008, seeks to combat cross border crime and enhance cooperation among law enforcement agencies and security in the CARICOM region. It was developed in response to the deficiencies in extradition laws among CARICOM member states.

The Arrest Warrant Treaty makes provision for a central authority of the issuing state to make a request for the surrender of a person. Following the request, the executing state is expected to take necessary measures against the requested person in compliance with the laws.

CARICOM chairman and Prime Minister of Saint Lucia, Hon. Allen Chastanet, said the treaty is meant to provide a more efficient system for the surrender of persons among CARICOM member states. He added that provisions must be made in the law to empower a competent authority to arrest and detain someone under the warrant.

Saint Lucia signed on to the CARICOM Arrest Warrant Treaty on July 6, 2017.