Gov’t condemns “dastardly act”
BASSETERRE, St. Kitts - AS the Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force continues its investigations into the incident where shots were fired at the home and vehicle of Deputy Prime Minister the Hon. Shawn Richards, one person has been taken into police custody.
The incident occurred yesterday (Mar. 10) morning at about 3:15 in Sandy Point.
Neither the Deputy Prime Minister nor the other occupants of the house were injured during the incident.
A press release issued by the Police yesterday afternoon informed that one person was in custody “assisting with the investigation”. No word has since been given as to whether or not that individual was charged or released.
In a press statement however, the Government of St. Kitts and Nevis strongly condemned the act and expressed thanks to God that the Deputy Prime Minister and his family escaped the ordeal unscathed.
“Prime Minister Dr. the Honourable Timothy Harris and his Cabinet have condemned in the strongest possible terms the shooting incident… The Security Forces have been mobilized to deal with this latest dastardly act to undermine safety and security in the country as they continue to do their best to maintain law and order for all citizens and residents of St. Kitts and Nevis.
“The Government thanks Almighty God that the deputy prime minister and his family were not hurt physically and are safe. Many law abiding citizens and residents have conveyed well wishes to the minister and his family, while expressing their abhorrence of the cowardly incident.”
The press release underscored the government’s determination to continue its fight against crime and violence within the Federation.
“The Government wishes to reassure all that it will not be deterred in the fight against crime and will continue to fully support the security forces in the protection of all the citizens and residents.
“Persons are encouraged to cooperate with the Police if they have any information on the incident. Persons who may have information can share that information anonymously by calling any station, Crime Stoppers or by using the SKN Report a Crime App on their smartphones.”
Deputy Prime Minister Richards also issued a statement following the incident where he gave assurance that he is well, as are the other members of his family.
“I wish to express my profound gratitude, and that of my family, for the numerous calls and messages of encouragement and support in light of this unfortunate incident…I wish to assure the public that my family and I are safe and we are confident that the law enforcement agencies will handle the matter through to its logical conclusion within the limits of the law.”
