Oliver Gobat.
Police officials said that investigations into the death of hotelier Oliver Gobat remain active and they are hoping to bring some closure to this high-profile murder.
It was revealed at a police press conference today (August 14) that the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force (RSLPF) is receiving assistance from the British government in this case.
Crime Chief Milton Desir told a media conference that local police are now awaiting the results of an analysis, which is being conducted in the United Kingdom (UK).
It is not clear how soon the force could receive the analysis, but this could lead to an arrest and possible prosecution of an individual or individuals, who might be responsible for Gobat’s murder.
The British government had long expressed an interest in assisting local police with the investigations, but said they cannot examine cases where a suspect could face the death penalty.
The death penalty had not been applied in St Lucia for 19 years, but it has not abandoned.
This statement was met with several criticisms and Prime Minister Dr Kenny Anthony was also not supportive of the request to waive the death penalty for this case.
However, an inquest into Gobat’s death commenced in Surrey, United Kingdom on March 26, 2015 and was heard at the Woking Coroner’s Court. It is not clear whether the inquest has been completed.
Oliver’s parents have been pushing for foreign assistance. They have even doubled a reward offer of £120,000 for information leading to the arrest and prosecution of suspects in his killing.
The family has already employed a forensic team from the UK to assist with the investigation.
Oliver Gobat’s body was found in his Range Rover on Cap Estate on April 25, 2014 burnt beyond recognition.
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