NASSAU, BAHAMAS — A former Prime Minister issued a scathing rebuke of the Royal Bahamas Police Force’s handling of corruption allegations, again calling for an independent investigation and accusing Prime Minister Philip Davis of failing to take decisive action.

Dr Hubert Minnis asserted that the police force should not investigate itself, especially when the charges involve senior officers.

Commissioner of Police Clayton Fernander announced an internal investigation weeks ago into bribery allegations involving former Criminal Investigations Department Head Michael Johnson. However, critics from the Opposition have argued that the internal probe is inadequate and cannot be trusted to uncover the full extent of the alleged wrongdoing.

“These allegations involve multiple murders and bribery linked to a robbery that has become the focal point of the alleged corruption scandal,” Dr. Minnis wrote in a statement. He also noted that Prime Minister Philip Davis has acknowledged the severity of the situation, describing it as “terribly disturbing.”

However, Dr. Minnis criticized the Prime Minister for failing to take stronger action.

“His actions must match his words,” the statement continued, accusing Prime Minister Davis of being “paralyzed by indecision” and lacking the urgency and leadership required to address the crisis. Dr. Minnis has called for a commission of inquiry to be established, which he believes would be the most appropriate response to the gravity of the allegations.

He further urged the Prime Minister to address the nation and outline his government’s steps to investigate the RBPF and identify any institutional issues that may have contributed to the alleged corrupt practices.