Bahamas Police Commissioner Resigns Amid Drug Scandal

Bahamian Police Commissioner Clayton Fernander has resigned amid a major drug trafficking scandal linked to corrupt law enforcement officials, as confirmed by Prime Minister Philip Brave Davis. The resignation follows recent indictments from the U.S. Justice Department, which revealed a massive cocaine importation conspiracy involving high-ranking Bahamian officials, including police and defense force members. Bribes for facilitating drug shipments reportedly ranged from $10,000 to $2 million, with significant quantities of cocaine smuggled through the Bahamas since May 2021. Although Fernander faces no charges, the Prime Minister emphasized the need for systemic reform and hinted at further leadership changes within the police force. Fernander had previously advocated for civilian oversight and an anonymous whistleblower system to combat corruption. The fallout from the scandal has sparked public outcry and demands for accountability within the Royal Bahamas Police Force.