Prime Minister Gaston Browne and Public Safety Minister Sir Steadroy Benjamin have condemned a shooting in Bathlodge that claimed the life of a 20-year-old woman and left a 13-year-old critically injured.
A third person also suffered gunshot wounds in the attack.
Browne described the shooting as deeply disturbing and unacceptable, while extending condolences to the family and loved ones of the young woman who was killed. He also expressed hope for the recovery of those injured.
“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,” Browne said.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with all those affected by this terrible act of violence.”
The prime minister voiced alarm over the recurrence of gun crimes in Antigua and Barbuda, warning that the use of illegal firearms must not be allowed to become normalised.
He called on the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda to act swiftly and use every lawful resource available to identify and apprehend those responsible.
“There can be no safe haven for those who take illegal firearms into our communities and recklessly endanger the lives of our people,” Browne said.
“I have every confidence that the Police will pursue this matter vigorously, and I urge them to act swiftly to identify and apprehend those responsible and bring them to justice.”
Sir Steadroy said the deadly shooting would not weaken the resolve of the Government or the Police in their efforts to combat gun crime.
He noted that the incident occurred as the Police Force intensified its crime-fighting operations, including increased patrols and enforcement activities in identified areas.
“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 said.
He also pledged the Government’s continued institutional and material support for the Police.
Both officials appealed directly to residents of Bathlodge and surrounding communities to cooperate with investigators. Anyone who witnessed the shooting, heard anything suspicious or has information that could assist the investigation is being urged to contact the Police.
“Someone knows something. We appeal to that person or those persons to do what is right. Give the Police the information they need,” Sir Steadroy said.
“Silence only protects those who commit these acts and allows them the opportunity to strike again.”
The Government said tackling gun violence cannot be left to the Police alone, stressing that families, schools, churches, communities and other institutions must work together to discourage criminal activity, protect young people from negative influences and reject illegal firearms.
Browne and Sir Steadroy again expressed condolences to the family of the woman who was killed and solidarity with the families of those injured.
