Fishermen in St Vincent and the Grenadines have been assured they can continue operating at sea without fear, despite concerns over recent United States drone activity in the country’s waters.

Commissioner of Police Enville Williams said there is “zero threat” to law-abiding fisherfolk, stressing that ongoing operations are not directed at legitimate maritime activity.

“There is no threat to you going to sea to ply your trade, zero threat to you. None,” Williams said during a press briefing at the Ministry of National Security on April 1.

He explained that the US operations are aimed at individuals involved in drug trafficking, particularly those transporting cocaine in breach of local and international laws.

“Ordinary fishermen… have absolutely nothing to fear,” he added.

The reassurance comes weeks after a February 13 drone strike by the United States military in waters near Canouan killed three Saint Lucia nationals, raising concerns among regional fisherfolk.

The incident occurred near fish aggregating devices (FADs), about 45 miles southeast of mainland St Vincent and 32 miles east of Canouan, within the country’s Exclusive Economic Zone.

The operation was later confirmed by United States Southern Command, which said the strike targeted a vessel linked to designated terrorist organisations. Reports of similar incidents have also contributed to unease among those who rely on the sea for their livelihood.

National Security Minister St Clair Leacock said the Regional Security System has since engaged U.S. authorities on the matter.

He noted that while initial responses from the US were limited, diplomatic efforts by regional leaders have led to greater cooperation. According to Leacock, there is now a commitment from U.S. officials to respect Caribbean sovereignty, in line with the region’s long-standing position as a “zone of peace”.

Authorities have urged calm, maintaining that legitimate fishing activity remains safe.