St John’s, Antigua – The Antigua and Barbuda Police Force has confirmed that it is investigating potential connections between recent missing persons casesbut says there is no evidence to suggest that a cult or organized group is behind the disappearances.
At a press conference on Thursday, Acting Commissioner of Police Everton Jeffers addressed public speculation, stating that authorities are examining all possibilities as they work to locate missing individuals, including nine-year-old Chantel Crump, who was abducted on her way home from school on Wednesday.
“As we investigate these cases, we are looking at all angles, including patterns related to age, location, and any possible links,” Jeffers said. “At this time, however, we have no evidence to suggest that a cult or gang is behind the disappearances.”
Jeffers announced that a dedicated investigative unit has been formed to review past and current missing persons reports in an effort to identify potential links.
“The team will carefully analyze cases to determine if there is a common thread,” he said. “We are treating this matter with the urgency it deserves.”
The police have been actively searching for Chantel Crump and have questioned two individuals in connection with her disappearance. As part of the ongoing investigation, officers drained a cistern at the home of a male suspect in Glanvilles on Thursday.
The police continue to urge the public to provide any information that could assist in their investigations.
“If you see something, say something,” Jeffers said. “Even the smallest detail could be the breakthrough we need.”
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Criminal Investigation Department at 462-3913 or 3914.
The police have assured that updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
