40 Arrests During Weekend & Holiday Period
“While there were no major criminal incidents reported, there were 40 arrests made” from 5pm on Wednesday [July 29] through to 5am today [Monday, August 3], the police said.
A police spokesperson said, “The Bermuda Police Service thanks the public for its cooperation over the Cup Match holiday, following an operational policing plan that contributed to a largely safe and peaceful long weekend.
“While there were no major criminal incidents reported, there were forty arrests made during the period 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday, July 29, 2026, through to 5:00 a.m. today, Monday, August 3, 2026. Most of those arrests related to individuals who were wanted on outstanding warrants.
“Despite the positive overall outcome, several incidents remain a cause for concern. Police arrested seven motorists on suspicion of driving or having care and control of a vehicle while impaired by alcohol or drugs. Additionally, five individuals were taken into custody after allegedly being found in possession bladed articles, namely knives.”
Acting Commissioner of Police Na’imah Astwood expressed concern over the continued poor judgement by individuals who choose to operate a vehicle while impaired, saying, “Roadside Sobriety Stops combined with traffic checks and stop and search operations will remain in place as the Bermuda Police Service continues efforts to reduce this life threatening behaviour. However, as we’ve repeatedly stated we cannot do it alone and call upon you the community to do your part by helping to foster a cultural change that makes impaired driving socially unacceptable.”
Addressing the arrests involving bladed articles, Acting Commissioner Astwood said officers remain focused on removing weapons from Bermuda’s streets. “Too often we hear people say they are carrying a knife because they believe it makes them safer. The reality is that carrying a weapon frequently increases the risk of serious injury or violence. Our message is straightforward: avoid confrontation wherever possible and contact police if you feel threatened. Choosing not to carry a weapon protects both you and those around you.”
The Acting Commissioner also acknowledged “minor public order incidents” that occurred near the conclusion of the festivities on Friday, saying, “There were two isolated disturbances at the Somerset Cricket Club grounds which were quickly brought under control through the coordinated efforts of police officers, event security personnel and members of the Royal Bermuda Regiment. Both of these incidents allegedly involved individuals making threats while brandishing knives. The subjects involved were immediately arrested and the weapons seized. Both matters remain under investigation and anyone with information is asked to please call 211 or 295-0011.”
Acting Commissioner Astwood concluded by recognising the collective effort that contributed to a successful holiday weekend, adding, “Cup Match is one of Bermuda’s most celebrated traditions, and ensuring that it can be enjoyed safely requires a partnership between police, our emergency service colleagues, event organisers, volunteers and the public. I sincerely thank everyone who played their part, particularly our officers, Reserve Police and Royal Bermuda Regiment personnel, whose professionalism and commitment throughout the weekend were instrumental in delivering a safe and enjoyable event for our community.”
Arrest Breakdown:
- Assault on Police/VRA/Offensive Words- [1]
- D.U.I- [6] Highest Breathalyser reading, 284/100
- Having Care and Control of a motorcar whilst Impaired- [1]
- Bladed Articles- [5]
- Possession of an offensive weapon in an increased penalty zone/Bladed Article- [1]
- Possession of a controlled Drug/Importation of a controlled drug- [1]
- Possession of a controlled drug w/intent and Possession of drug equipment- [1]
- Breach of Bail Conditions – [1]
- Driving whilst disqualified by reason of age – [1]
- Common Assault – [5]
- Effecting a public mischief – [1]
- Offensive Words – [3]
- Warrant – [13]
- Wilful Damage – [1]
For extensive coverage of Cup Match spanning over a decade, visit our website BernewsCupMatch.com, the island’s most comprehensive resource on the Cup Match holiday.
- Over 8,000 photos here
- Over 200 videos here
- Over 100 graphics here
- History here
- Dedicated website: BernewsCupMatch.com
