Police have assured the public of increased security measures for the upcoming Soufriere Jazz event, following a recent shooting at the Soufriere Mini Stadium that left one man dead and another injured.
The incident occurred on Monday while preparations were underway for the jazz activity scheduled for May 2. In the aftermath of the incident, Inspector Kimroy Rene of the Soufriere Police Station sought to reassure residents and patrons that law enforcement is taking decisive action.
“I know in recent times, we’ve witnessed some incident that has created some level of discomfort to patrons and residents of Soufriere. However, the police [are] pursuing every lead and have been engaging in and conducting operations in direct response to those activities,” Inspector Rene said in a statement issued today.
He disclosed that three people have so far been taken into custody in connection with the shooting, which claimed the life of 38-year-old Clayus Joseph, alias ‘Gramoxone’, of Fond Benier, Soufriere and left another victim hospitalised in critical condition.
“The investigations are continuing, and we are doing everything within our power to ensure that we bring the perpetrators of those crimes to justice,” the police inspector added.
He also revealed that senior police officials have committed to strengthening security for the highly anticipated jazz event.
“We have been in consultation with the Office of the Commissioner of Police and the Divisional Officer, who have guaranteed us that an elevated level of policing will be provided during the hosting of those events. Soufriere Jazz has always been an exciting activity and event, and we know that there are lots of patrons who are looking forward to those activities. What we want to do is give you the reassurance that we, the police, are doing everything and will have a heightened police presence.”
Meanwhile, Permanent Secretary in the Department of Youth Development and Sports, Dr Uralise Delaire, strongly condemned the attack, describing it as deeply troubling.
“It is with deep concern and profound sadness that I address the brazen and unfortunate attack perpetrated against a worker at the sports stadium – an incident which has shaken us all,” Delaire said in a statement.
She stressed that sporting facilities must remain safe spaces for all.
“The Department of Youth Development and Sports condemns, in the strongest possible terms, this act of violence committed in a space that has long been regarded as a sanctuary for young people, families, athletes, and the wider community. Our sporting facilities are intended to be safe spaces – places of discipline, mentorship, recreation, hope and positive transformation – not scenes of fear and criminality.”
Delaire said the incident undermines the core values promoted through sport, including respect, peace, unity and human dignity.
“It is particularly troubling that such an incident occurred within an environment dedicated to nurturing our youth and building stronger communities,” she said.
She also extended support to those affected by the incident: “On behalf of the Department, I extend heartfelt concern and solidarity to the staff member affected and wish for a full and swift recovery. We also stand in support of all workers and patrons who may feel unsettled by this incident.”
Reaffirming a zero-tolerance stance on violence, Delaire added: “Let me be clear: violence has no place in our sporting spaces, our communities, or our nation.”
She called for stronger community responsibility and collaboration among citizens, security agencies and stakeholders to safeguard public facilities.
“We will continue to work closely with the relevant authorities to ensure that our sporting venues remain secure and welcoming to all,” Delaire said.
Increased police presence is critical to ensure the safety of festival goers. We have unequivocally condemned the heinous acts. Now we need to recognize these are young people. They are struggling with a wide range of issues. It is time to embrace them and show them love and support. We need to demonstrate that we genuinely care. This should be the basis for interventions going forward. We need to invest and deploy resources in these communities to enhance the lives of the youth do that they can choose positivity instead of negativity. Hope instead of despair. Love instead of hate.