Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Luke Defreitas addressed the media on Monday, August 18, providing details of the incidents and reassuring the public of the force’s commitment to restoring safety in the city.
The first shooting occurred around 10:30 a.m. on Jeremie Street, where 27-year-old Jamie Williams was gunned down. Just two hours later, at about 12:30 p.m., another act of violence unfolded on Micoud Street, claiming the life of 26-year-old Takeel Haiel James of Patterson’s Gap, Castries.
In both incidents, stray bullets struck innocent passersby. At least two individuals were injured, with one young man still hospitalized in critical condition.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of the deceased and the injured. We are working tirelessly to gather evidence, interview witnesses, and track down the perpetrators,” ACP Defreitas said.
Defreitas revealed that officers actively engaged the shooters during the Micoud Street incident. The swift action led to the detention of two individuals and the recovery of the suspect vehicle.
“Our technical and investigative teams are fully engaged and we are confident in our ability to resolve these cases,” he stated.
The Assistant Commissioner acknowledged the audacity of the attackers, describing the incidents as alarming for their brazenness in the heart of the city.
“These recent incidents demonstrate the audacity and brazenness of rival factions who, despite our sustained operational efforts, continue to execute violent intentions with reckless abandon. It is alarming that they have escalated such actions, bringing violence into the heart of our city and putting innocent lives at risk,” Defreitas said.
The address also touched on lingering concerns over allegations of interference in prior homicide investigations. Defreitas sought to reassure the public that those matters do not represent the wider conduct of the RSLPF.
“We want to assure the public that these incidents are isolated and do not reflect at all the overall professionalism and dedication of our force. We are taking steps to address these issues and ensure that our procedures are robust and effective.”
ACP Defreitas reiterated that the police remain committed to professionalism, integrity, and public safety, but appealed for stronger community cooperation.
The police continue to maintain a heightened presence in Castries and are actively pursuing leads to dismantle criminal networks believed to be responsible for the recent violence.
