Prime Minister Gaston Browne and Public Safety Minister Sir Steadroy Benjamin Condemn Deadly Bathlodge Shooting

Prime Minister the Right Honourable Gaston Browne and Minister responsible for Public Safety, Sir Steadroy Benjamin, have strongly condemned the latest incident of gun violence in the Bathlodge community, which has claimed the life of a 20-year-old woman, left a 13-year-old in critical condition at hospital, and resulted in a third person suffering gunshot injuries.

Prime Minister Browne described the incident as deeply disturbing and extended heartfelt condolences to the family and loved ones of the young woman whose life was taken. He also expressed his concern for the injured and joined the nation in hoping for their recovery.

“The loss of a young life through gun violence is deeply troubling and unacceptable. A family is today grieving the loss of a daughter and loved one, while another family anxiously awaits news of a 13-year-old who is critically injured. Our thoughts and prayers are with all those affected by this terrible act of violence,” Prime Minister Browne stated.

The Prime Minister expressed deep concern and abhorrence at the incidences and recurrence of gun crimes in Antigua and Barbuda, stressing that the use of illegal firearms to carry out criminal acts cannot be allowed to become normalised within the society.

Sir Steadroy noted that the latest incident comes at a time when the Royal Police Force has intensified its crime-fighting activities aimed at suppressing serious criminal activity and increasing police presence in identified areas.

“This latest act will not weaken the resolve of the Government or the Police. The Royal Police Force will continue to be active and relentless in its efforts to bring crime under control, to remove illegal firearms from our streets, and to identify and bring offenders before the courts,” Sir Steadroy stated.

Photo credit: Wayne Mariette