Debra Tobierre

Government senator and prominent Vieux Fort businesswoman Debra Tobierre has taken issue with a statement on Facebook by UnitedPac that Prime Minister Dr. Kenny D. Anthony has endorsed her to contest the 2016 General Elections in Vieux Fort South.

Tobierre also plans to lodge a formal police report and seek legal advice regarding a violent threat against her in response to the UnitedPac statement.

In the August 23 post, the UnitedPac – a politically-motivated group – asked: “Who will be the next aspiring district representative for Vieux Fort South?”

UnitedPac then went on to state: “In a secret meeting in Vieux Fort last night Prime Minister Dr. Kenny D. Anthony has basically endorsed Deborah Tobierre to contest the 2016 General Elections in Vieux Fort South! Will Deborah Tobierre represent Vieux Fortians or will she be continuing on the same path as Kenny Anthony and simply continue the destruction of Vieux Fort South! Vieux Fort South people stand and be counted say NO to Deborah Tobierre she is a continuation of Kenny D Anthony!”

In one of the responses to the post, a man commented: “There’s something called a hollowpoint, desperate times require desperate measures.” The man, identified as a government employee on his profile, removed the comment close to midday today.

“Hollowpoint” refers to a hollow-point bullet – a bullet that has a pit or hollowed out shape in its tip often intended to cause the bullet to expand upon entering a target in order to decrease penetration and disrupt more tissue as it travels through the target.

In an exclusive interview with St. Lucia News Online (SNO) today, August 25, Senator Tobierre said the UnitedPac statement is “absolutely not true” and believes the man’s comment was a “direct response” to the article distributed by UnitedPac.

“I will, as a matter of formality, report this to the police. This type of behaviour is not acceptable and should not be taken lightly, irrespective of who you are,” she said, adding that the man who made the threat “looks familiar but I do not know him personally”.

On the issue of replacing Dr. Anthony, Tobierre said: “There is rampant speculation but Dr. Anthony has never discussed anything like that with me and to the contrary, has publicly discouraged the thinking.”

Asked what may have triggered such rumours, Tobierre said: “I guess because he appointed me as a government senator, I am a prominent business person in Vieux-Fort and people know that we have great, mutual respect for each other. A lot of the rumour seems to be originating from the Labour camp and every time someone approaches me, I denounce their claims. I have been told things like, “I got it from good grounds.” And I respond, “Well, now you are getting it from the horse’s mouth.” But, regardless of the belief or even if there was truth to it that should not expose me to open threats of violence.”

The businesswoman believes the situation is getting out of hand.

“I feel that it demonstrates the extent that people are willing to go to in support of their political party. We are looking for good representation and yet, will incite violence and threaten others who have opposing views. This attitude which is so prevalent in our small society, only serves to discourage individuals who want to contribute to the development of our country. I will be consulting my attorney for advice. Although, I am not sure what legislation exists here to deal with such, since Facebook threats is a relatively new phenomena.”

She is appealing to “all forms of media, journalism and those actually engaged in spreading propaganda to raise the level of discourse, keeping in mind the responsibility we have to be objective in our views”.

“It might be difficult to demand that people be more responsible but if we consider what is really affecting our country, our attitudes and mindsets largely will determine our future. We should consider the sense of entitlement and cultural dependency that has long been prevalent, and the negative impact on our ability to prosper as a result. Also, the message that we are sending out to the youth of this country, and the negative impact on their minds.

“The more we allow such to go unchecked, the more that we encourage deviant behaviour. We already have unenviable rates of murder, useless assaults and other types of crime. We resort to violence, rather than find better ways to deal with conflict resolution.”

Tobierre, who was officially sworn in on January 2012, as a senator, may not take up another political appointment.

“I am deeply honoured that Dr. Anthony had such confidence in me, but due to my current business responsibilities and the political climate, I may be reluctant to accept such an appointment in the future,” she said.

UnitedPac (United Political Action Committee Group), according to its Facebook fan page, is a “conservative-minded grouping of young persons” formed soon after the November 2011 General Elections.

UnitedPac describes itself as a proud autonomous entity and it aims to “harness the creative skills of its members in serving as a watch dog and advocacy body in promoting and safeguarding the best interest of the youth and exemplifying the standards of good governance”.

The group currently manages two Facebook pages, a Twitter account and other social media avenues.

The main opposition United Workers Party has publicly denied involvement in the group.

A relative of an Odsan man, who was injured during an attack on his family at Morne lay-by, Castries Friday evening, has cautioned members of the public that “nowhere is safe” especially at lonely places at nights.

Benjamin Popo, a bus driver, along with his five-year-old daughter and common-law-wife, were enjoying a view at Morne lay-by when a male, armed with a gun, appeared sometime between 8:30 p.m. and 9 p.m.

The relative, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the bandit with the gun “cranked” the firearm.

“When Popo realised the gun had no bullets he attacked him (the bandit)…. The wife and child were screaming, so of course he put up a fight not knowing there were two other guys waiting below, so the attacker ran.

“When the other two realised what happened they came with their cutlasses, then Popo ran, but one of the attackers ran after him with the cutlass. And in trying to block the guy from chopping him, he chopped his left arm, then that guy ran as well. They (Popo and his family) then got into the vehicle and went to Victoria Hospital,” the relative said.

Popo, who got chopped close to his wrist, did surgery the following day. He is now recuperating at home.

“The guys were under the place waiting. I’d like this out there because when I look at it nowhere is safe. It could have been worse. Right there in that area you’re trying to mug someone?” the relative pondered. “He (Popo) got chopped on his hand. Imagine a five-year-old have to witness that? These guys are sick.”

The relative told SNO that the public must be on their guard at all times.

“Please let these people know that the area is not safe. It is not safe at all. I was really upset…. Trust me it cud have been worse. He could have gotten killed. The child and mother could have gotten killed as well. These men – well boys – had nothing better to do. Ya’ll see there was a child there, ya’ll still went ahead and did that.”

The bandits escaped without taking anything due to the fight put up Popo to protect his family.

Police are investigating.

The area in Ravine Chabot, Castries where the baby was found.

The police are still trying to find the person or persons responsible for dumping a newborn baby in Ravine Chabot, Castries last week.

Police Press Officer Aniel Innocent told St. Lucia News Online (SNO) today that no arrest has been made for this matter. Innocent said police are still working with members of the community to identify the mother or anyone responsible for the crime.

The baby was discovered in a black plastic bag at about 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, August 21 in the community. The baby was transported to Victoria Hospital where he was pronounced dead.

This issue has brought about widespread criticism on the person or persons responsible for the act, which most believe is the mother of the child, stating it is a total disregard for human life.

Persons voiced their opinion on the issue through SNO, saying that regardless of the circumstances the mother was faced with, she should not have dumped her child, but rather give up him up for adoption. Others suggested that the mother should have used protection or pills to prevent pregnancy, if she was not ready to have a baby.

Some readers also used the scenario where she may have been raped and decided to get rid of the baby, but this they believe is no valid reason for ending a human life. Other anonymous women even stated that they have been trying to get pregnant and have been unsuccessful for many years and at the same time someone dumped their baby.

One person said: “I am disappointed at this situation. I have a 10 month old of my own and day by day I look into her eyes and I’m like whoa…dats me doing the best I can, to care of her, but to put the baby in a plastic bag just sends shivers up my spine. There is no situation too big for the lord to handle. Shameful act…betta she seek medical attention immediately cuz there might still be some of the stuff inside her…..may the lord have mercy on your poor soul.”

If anyone has information or knows of anyone who was or may have been pregnant and cannot give an account of their baby or may be responsible for the concealment of birth of a newborn male, can make contact with the Major Crimes Unit at telephone number 456 3752 or 456 3754.

Linus Constantine, chairman of St. Lucia Youth Talk

Mother of missing youth leader Linus Constantine has expressed disgust and frustration, stating that she is fed up with the way in which her son’s matter is being dealt with by the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force (RSLPF).

Constantine, who is originally from Foriesterre, Castries and is known to stay at three different homes, was reported missing by relatives on April 27 after they were told he had not been seen for weeks.

Constantine was last known to be staying by a friend in Corinth, Gros Islet. A decomposed body found on Marisule beach on April 15 is believed to be that of  Constantine, but only forensic tests could confirm that.

Juliana Goolaman told St. Lucia News Online (SNO) in an interview today that it is exactly four months since her son – chairman of St. Lucia Youth Talk - went missing and she has reached a point where she is no longer confident that the RSLPF could solve the case.

“I don’t have words to say how I feel. I don’t even know how to say how I feel. I am so fed up, is like I can just scream… to see for so long. Maybe if they were saying something to me I don’t mind, but the fact is they have nothing to say is really getting to me,” Goolaman told SNO.

The distraught mother said as recent as last Tuesday, August 19, she made contact with the officer in charge of the case to do a follow-up on the matter and was told that they are still awaiting the forensic results.

Goolaman said efforts were made by both Constantine’s father and her daughter to meet with security officials to bring some closure to the matter; however those attempts proved futile.

“It seems that it has been falling on deaf ears,” the mother told SNO.

Police Press Officer Aniel Innocent, in a recent comment, said another sample was sent to the forensic lab for testing. However, she was not able to provide a date when these tests could be completed.

Jn. Pierre-Emmanuel

Press Secretary to Prime Minister Dr. Kenny Anthony, Jadia Jn. Pierre-Emmanuel, has raised concerns over her own safety after hearing the news about the murder of her colleague, Bahamian Press Secretary Latore Mackey, who was found dead in a vehicle on Monday, August 25.

Speaking on a radio programme today, Jn. Pierre-Emmanuel said while the circumstances surrounding Mackey’s death are still sketchy, there is still a need for persons like herself (in political office) to look out for their own safety.

Jn. Pierre-Emmanuel’s comment was pointed directly to concerns made by Mackey before his death, as it relates to his safety and not specifically what may have led to his murder, given the fact that there is no evidence that links his murder to the political office he held.

However, she claims she was attacked most recently by a female in the parking lot at the Office of the Prime Minister. The press secretary said while she is aware that she must be on her guard, she claims that she is not afraid to discharge her duties as press secretary. Jn. Pierre-Emmanuel said she will continue to do so fearlessly.

Mackey, 37, was found in a black Hyundai Tucson sports utility vehicle in the middle of the road at around 4:30 a.m. The vehicle had collided with a lamp pole near an intersection. He was discovered lying in the vehicle with a gunshot wound to his neck.

Mackey

It is unclear whether Mackey was shot from inside or outside of the car he was travelling in. Robbery may be ruled out, as Mackey was reportedly found with several thousand dollars in cash on him when police arrived at the scene.

Mackey was the Bahamas Information Services (BIS) deputy director and the Bahamas Prime Minister Perry Christie’s press secretary.

Yesterday Jn. Pierre-Emmanuel paid tribute to her fallen colleague via her Facebook profile. See below:

THE PAIN THAT NEVER HEALS

When you serve in the position of Press Secretary, you automatically belong to a network and family with others who serve in the same position in the islands. I have formed great friendships and I have gotten sound and priceless advice from my colleagues.

I am the baby of them all and they usually worry about me. They worry about the pressure, about my safety and about my sanity. We share our experiences. We update each other on what is happening in our respective islands. We copy each other’s styles and programmes. We are one.

Earlier today, I was informed that the Press Secretary to the Prime Minister of the Bahamas was shot and passed away as a result. Mackey was reportedly shot in his government vehicle multiple times last night. I have been reflecting and I cannot really express what I feel.

I know many of my colleagues are in shock and are in a state of deep reflection. I can hear and sense the pain and worry. There is not much I can say and I too am wondering about the circumstances and recent experiences. This loss is sudden and deep and the wound is beyond the shores of the Bahamian islands.

I wish to express my deepest condolences to Mackey’s family, the Government and people of the Bahamas and our network of dedicated Press Secretaries.

Rest In Peace Latore Mackey.

On Friday, August 22, 2014 you wrote, ” When the enemy is at ease, be able to weary him; when well fed, to starve him; when at rest, to make him move. Appear at places to which he must hasten; move swiftly where he does not expect you.

Be Swift as the wind. Quiet as the forest. Conquer like the fire and Steady as the mountain.”

Today, there is no more I can say…your faith will carry you to your mother’s arms.

The dumping of a newborn baby boy in a river at Ravine Chabot, Castries has resulted in widespread criticism, a hot topic of discussion, and most importantly, a genuine concern for citizens island-wide. The baby was discovered in a black plastic bag at about 10:00 a.m., on Thursday, August 21.

Coordinator of the Foster Care and Adoption Programme at the Ministry of Human Services, Victoria Francis, told St. Lucia News Online (SNO) in an exclusive interview today, August 28, that the incident is an unfortunate one and is advising persons in situations where they cannot afford to take care of a child, to seek help.

“Some people are aware of the services and even those that are unaware can still come into the ministry,” Francis advised.

She explained the programme is a safety net for children in difficult circumstances.

“We can try to have a plan in place for mothers, where the child can be placed in foster care or put up for adoption,” she added.

The role at the Human Services Ministry, she explained, is to find a suitable home for these foster children and to ensure that the children are in a safe and loving environment.

“Persons can come in to human services and we can speak with them, provide them with the physiological support needed for placing the child up for adoption,” Francis added.

The foster programme coordinator stated that they are a number of women who have joined the programme. She said in most cases it is because the women are financially unstable and wish to secure better homes and families for their children.

She further explained however, that they are a number of other reasons why mothers seek the assistance of the ministry.

“Some might be a situation of rape or the person they got pregnant for denies paternity and does not accept responsibility and they feel that they are not able to cope with a new baby.”

The coordinator told SNO that they are many persons who are willing to adopt children, who enter foster care programme. She explained that the adoption process is a legal matter that must be placed before the court.

Interested persons must undergo an assessment process to determine their suitability, provide character references, police certificate and recent medical report; be of sound emotional and mental health and be in a stable relationship. Applicants and their families must also be interviewed and their homes, visited as part of the assessment process.

The objective of the programme is also to provide alternative placements for children in need of care and protection; to help children heal emotionally and afford them the opportunity to once again enjoy their childhood.

It also seeks to enable children to go on to become well-adjusted adults who can enjoy their personal lives and make a valuable contribution to the society; to recruit and train foster parents and adoptive parents; and to promote family preservation through appropriate methods.

The foster care programme also provides services in child abuse and, neglect prevention and management, child maintenance, foster care and adoption, counseling, crisis intervention and critical incident stress debriefing (CISD).

Gibson-Marks

Saint Lucian attorney-at-law Tamara Gibson-Marks was prevented from leaving St. Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) on Friday, August 22 by immigration officials.

The former SVG High Court registrar, who is currently facing charges of fraud and financial irregularities, was unchecked 12 minutes before boarding a flight, destined for St. Lucia.

Reports reaching St. Lucia News Online (SNO) indicates that Gibson-Marks checked in to travel on a one-way ticket to St. Lucia last Friday on LIAT flight L310, which was scheduled to depart St. Vincent at 7:15 a.m. Reports are, she was unchecked and her bags removed at 7:03 a.m.

The flight was initially booked by Duane Daniel on Thursday, August 21. This is the same day the Saint Lucian-born attorney appeared in court and was subsequently slapped with three charges. Daniel is one of her lawyers. An extension was requested until 7:10 a.m. on Friday, August 22. On that same morning, a request was made to have the name changed to Gibson.

She turned up at the SVG airport and checked in her luggage. It wasn’t long after, that officials at the airport realised that Gibson-Marks was facing charges for financial irregularities and acted quickly to prevent her from leaving SVG. Immigration informed the attorney that she would not be permitted to join the flight to St. Lucia. She was subsequently unchecked and left the airport.

The former SVG High Court registrar was charged with the theft of EC$21,925 between April 30 and May 21, 2014. She was recently charged with presenting a certificate which was to her own knowledge false, in a material particular to with an order claim 96/1980 on May 17, 2014.

She was also charged with direct abuse of authority in office as registrar of the High Court of SVG and arbitrarily closing account number 800300 at the St. Vincent Co-operative Bank.

Gibson-Marks pleaded not guilty to all charges. She was granted bail in the sum of EC$30,000. She is expected to make another court appearance at Kingstown Magistrate Court on October 7.

While she was not asked to surrender her travel documents, she was placed on a bond.

A Guyanese man has succumbed after he was stabbed in Ciceron, Castries early this morning.

Reports are that the victim, 34-year-old Cedolf Hunte of Ciceron, was attacked by four masked men at around 2:40 whilst playing cards with friends in the community.

A stab wound under his right arm is believed to have resulted in his death.

Hunte’s stepmother Rufina Francis told St. Lucia News Online (SNO) that he was also robbed of cash. Francis said it is believed that two men known to the community may be responsible for his death.

She told SNO that Hunte was driving a van sometime late last year, which was robbed of goods. The owner of the van and Hunte, at the time, confronted the men who they believed were responsible.

Since then, the person who was allegedly responsible for the break-and-enter, had told people in Ciceron that he will stab Hunte.

Relatives have alleged that the suspect and another friend from La Toc may be responsible for the stabbing incident.

Francis described Hunte as a hardworking individual, who liked to keep to himself.

Hunte was a construction worker and had been living in St. Lucia for about seven years.

Anthony Charlery at the Royal by Rex Resort in Rodney Bay, St. Lucia on January 8, 2014.

A man of St. Lucian descent was murdered in London, United Kingdom just before midnight on Friday, August 29.

Anthony ‘Tony’ Charlery, 59, a well-known music promoter who lived in Kensington, was stabbed in the neck as he tried to run from his attackers. He collapsed and died on Portobello Road, west London.

Investigators say Charlery was attacked by two local men as he left the Mau Mau bar in Portobello Road W11. He was alone.

London police said “Tony was a local man and a much loved grandfather. His family are devastated by his death in such a brutal way.”

Charlery, who is from Dennery, often vacationed in St. Lucia.

He is survived by several children and grandchildren.

Charlery

Joseph said she is waiting on the police to contact her.

A female passenger has alleged that she was repeatedly punched by a bus driver last night, Sept. 1 after she requested a refund.

Angelle Joseph told St. Lucia News Online (SNO) that the incident occurred at about 11 p.m. on a Ciceron bus. Joseph said she sat in the bus on Bridge Street, Castries and waited.

When the bus was filled with passengers, Joseph said the driver began to collect the fares, during which time she gave him $5.

The driver gave her $2 in change. However, Joseph said the bus driver shortened her by $1 and she brought this to his attention.

Angelle Joseph showing her swollen face.

“I asked him why it is $2 I’m receiving, not $3, because to my knowledge if you board the bus before 11 p.m. you pay regular price, and if not, you pay a price and a half. He said I could go and report him to the president of the National Transportation Council.”

The driver then refused to give her the $1. As a result, Joseph decided to take another bus and requested a refund – the balance of $3.

However, Joseph told SNO that the driver refused and proceeded to collect bus fares from the other passengers. When she got off the bus, Joseph said she went by the driver’s window and continued to request the refund at which time the driver attended to leave.

She proceeded to ask for the money at which point she was allegedly punched in the face and assaulted repeatedly.

“Honestly I never thought it would have come to this point, where I would have been assaulted by a driver and being punched in my face. Even my uniform had been damaged, ripped off,” Joseph added.

Joseph said a report was later made to the police, who told her they would contact her for more information. She said no contact has been made with her, thus far.

“I’m being attacked by the owner of the bus saying that I vandalised his vehicle and that was never reported to the police last night night,” Joseph told SNO.

The Gros Islet police are currently investigating a similar issue where a Guyanese woman had an altercation over a fare difference of 25 cents with a Gros Islet bus driver on August 22.

Audrey Fredericks, who lives in Bois D’Orange, Gros Islet, had told SNO that she was allegedly assaulted and bitten by the bus driver in a fall-out over bus fare for $3.25 cents.

Fredericks has also written the National Council of Public Transportation.

POLICE PRESS RELEASE - About 6:05 p.m. on Monday, September 1, 2014, officers attached to the Babonneau Police Station conducted an operation at Morne Assau, Babonneau.

During the operation, officers searched the premises and property of 40-year-old Elias Emmanuel of Morne Assau, Babonneau. During the search, the officers uprooted and destroyed 102 Marijuana Plants. Also, a quantity of dry plant material suspected to be Cannabis was recovered.

Emmanuel was subsequently arrested and charged for Possession of a Controlled Drug and Cultivation of a Controlled Drug. He appeared before the First District Court in Castries where he was bailed in the sum of $2,500.00 cash or suitable surety on each charge.

He is expected to make another court appearance on September 26, 2014.

Police are making headway in their investigation into the dumping of a baby’s body in Ravine Chabot, Castries on August 21, 2014.

Reliable sources say a female suspect is now at a hospital under police supervision.

The sources added that the mother is experiencing complications in relation to the alleged abortion.

“She may be charged subsequent to her being discharged from the hospital,” a source said.

The baby was discovered in a black plastic bag at about 10 a.m. on Thursday, August 21 in the community.

The baby was transported to Victoria Hospital where he was pronounced dead.

A number of persons have been assisting police with their investigation.

The crowd around the scene of the shooting.

A former inmate was shot by a Bordelais Correctional (prison) officer by Constitution Park in Castries around 4 p.m. today.

Eyewitnesses alleged that the man was shot after he assaulted the prison officer.

One eyewitness told St. Lucia News Online: “I saw the guy push the officer three times…. He (prison officer) shot directly at the guy’s leg, close range. He held him to shoot him.”

Another eyewitness said the victim was behaving aggressively.

“He was only hitting the officer,” the source said.

A prison officer, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the victim is a former inmate who has a history with the shooter.

“That ex-inmate always harassed the officer whilst he was incarcerated at the (Bordelais) Facility,” the officer said in defense of his comrade.

The prisoner said the incident happened moments after they got off a Bordelais bus.

“After the incident, the ex-inmate was escorted to the hospital by the officer,” he said.

The Royal St. Lucia Police Force (RSLPF) hosted a ceremony yesterday, September 4 to re-commission its Central Police Station on Bridge Street, Castries which was closed about three years ago due to mould infestation and other problems.

Speaking at the ceremony, Police Commissioner Vernon Francois said the rehabilitation was made possible through collaborative efforts of the RSLPF and corporate St. Lucia.

“We are celebrating the determination of officers and the tremendous support of corporate St. Lucia,” Francois said. “I am extremely proud of the officers’ move on this project. They could have simply said it is the responsibility of the government, but with considerable cooperate support they decided that we are the government and we should make our contribution.”

Acting Superintendent Emmanuel Joseph said officers formed a committee called the Central Development Committee to oversee the refurbishment of the abandoned building, which was used decades ago by the Traffic Department and most recently by Central Station.

“Our emphasis on this particular undertaking stems from our understanding of its historical significance both to law enforcement and to the general public,” Joseph said.

Deputy Commissioner Errol Alexander told the gathering that the restoration of the building represents a major step towards fulfilling the policing needs in Castries.

“This marks the RSLPF’s commitment towards providing a professional policing service and also marks a chapter in the Force’s history, which will serve as a model as to what can be achieved when goals and objectives are persistently pursued in spite of criticism, opinions and discouragement,” Alexander said.

Minister of Home Affairs and National Security Victor Phillip La Corbiniere also lauded the initiative.

“I am especially heartened and I feel gratified that the police are working in this direction, it sends a very positive spirit for the RSLPF. It also sends a very positive spirit to the community at large, so they can see that the police really have the interest of the country and crime-fighting and security at the top of their list,” La Corbiniere.

Sponsors for the reconstruction of the police station included: RG Group of Companies, M&C Home Depot, Precision Surveillance, among several others.

Plaques of appreciation were presented to the sponsors for their contribution followed by the official ribbon-cutting to commission the building.

A crowd comprising mainly students at Constitution Park. A stabbing involving two students occurred close by earlier this afternoon.

A male student is currently in serious condition at hospital after sustaining stab wounds this afternoon during a fight.

The incident reportedly took place near the La Croix bus stop in Castries around 4:30 p.m.

Another student is suspected of doing the stabbing. The victim was rushed to hospital on a police vehicle.

St. Lucia News Online also understands that a fight between two female students occurred in the same area around the same time.

More details soon.

Brian Felix

A father of two from Mongouge, Choiseul but living in Soufriere, sustained injuries when he was attacked at a bar in Soufriere Friday night, Sept. 5.

Brian Felix, 30, also known as Salad, was taken to hospital after he was beaten and wounded.

There have been conflicting reports concerning his injuries. Relatives say Felix was chopped while eyewitnesses say in addition to the severe beating, he was stabbed.

Felix, the father of two daughters – ages 8 and 3 – was admitted at St. Jude Hospital.

Reliable medical sources say Felix’s condition has been stablised and he is able to speak.

Felix in hospital.

Devon Eugene at Victoria Hospital. He is now recovering at home.

A 19-year-old is now recuperating at home after he was stabbed on Friday, Sept. 5 when he allegedly attempted to defend a relative.

Devon Eugene told St. Lucia News Online (SNO) on Sunday that he sustained two stab wounds to his abdomen and waist.

The incident occurred around 4:30 p.m. near the La Croix bus stop.

Eugene said his cousin, a high school student, was hit with a plastic water bottle by another student.

“So I remove my cousin out of the way and push the one who hit him and his brother say ‘what happen?’ twice and we started to fight. I didn’t know I got stabbed. It was my friend who told me,” the supermarket employee told SNO.

He said the male who stabbed him is not a high school student.

On that day several fights broke out among students and also involved injuries.

PRESS RELEASE - About 6:20 a.m. on Sunday, September 7, 2014, a police officer was driving his vehicle along the Mon Repos Highway when he sighted a male suspect wanted by the police.

The officer stopped his vehicle and proceeded towards the suspect who attempted to evade him by running into the nearby bushes. The officer gave chase and caught up with the suspect. He resisted arrest and physically assaulted the officer as well as attempted to disarm him.

During such time, a female officer came to his aid. The suspect kept on fighting with the officers at which point, the male officer discharged one round of ammunition at the suspect hitting him in the leg. He was transported to St. Jude’s hospital where he was treated and admitted.

The 40-year-old suspect of Mon Repos, was wanted by police for numerous offences ranging from Possession of Fraudulent Documents to Stealing.

He is expected to be charged shortly.

PRESS RELEASE - About 5:30 p.m. on Saturday, September 6, 2014, a female standing in the vicinity of a business place at Beanfield, Vieux Fort, was indecently assaulted by a young male in the full view of an off duty police officer.

The officer approached the male, identified himself to the individual and informed him that he had committed an offence by indecently assaulting the female. The suspect started insulting the police officer, who then informed him that he was under arrest.

The suspect reached in his pocket for a pair of scissors and launched at the police officer with it. The police officer attempted to disarm the suspect, who repeatedly launched at the officer with the intent of stabbing him.

The officers discharged one round of ammunition at the suspect, hitting him in the leg. He was subsequently taken to St. Jude’s hospital where he was treated and admitted.

The matter is currently being investigated.

Cedolf Hunte

A post mortem examination conducted on the body of a Guyanese man, who was stabbed in Ciceron, Castries, on Saturday August 30, revealed that he died from hemorrhagic shock secondary to stab wounds.

Police Press Officer Aniel Innocent told St Lucia News Online (SNO), today that no arrest has been made in the matter thus far, since investigations are still ongoing.

Cedolf Hunte, 34, also known as ‘Body’, of Ciceron, was attacked by four masked men at around 2:40 whilst playing cards with friends in the community.

An eyewitness told SNO that he saw when Hunte collapsed and fell on his back. The eyewitness said Hunte may have suffered a serious head injury based on how he fell.

The source said after Hunte fell, the perpetrators ran, and a few residents gave chase. According to relatives of the deceased, some known characters from the community may be responsible for his death.

Hunte’s stepmother Rufina Francis had told SNO that she believes the issue stemmed from Hunte’s confrontation with persons who was allegedly responsible for the break-and-enter, of a van he drove sometime late last year.

Relatives have alleged that the suspect and another friend from La Toc may be responsible for the stabbing incident.

Hunte was a construction worker and was living in St. Lucia for about seven years, before his death.