One captured in attacking Vincentian PM, Senator Francis believes more could be on run

Vincentian authorities on Friday captured a woman for attacking Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves that left him drenched in blood on Thursday while he was entering the parliament.

Government Senator Julian Francis announced in the parliament that the woman was captured on Thursday night.

Francis said while one has been arrested, there could be more associated with the conspiracy to harm the Prime Minister with an intent to kill him. He said the attacker wanted to meet the PM Gonsalves to apologise. He also cautioned such people to be vigilant and said social media is always watching such heinous attacks.

The Prime Minister was attacked by angered protestors, demonstrating against the new legislation to make the COVID-19 vaccine mandatory for health workers across the twin-island country.

74-year-old was taken to Barbados for an MRI-Scan, where he was informed that he is doing well. In a statement released later Friday, Prime Minister said the attack intended to kill him.

"I take this assault as not just an injury, but also look to the intent of the throwing of this projectile at me. The intent was to cause grave harm, even death." wrote the Vincentian Prime Minister.

Furthermore, he said, "By all means, exercise your right to protest, but, that gives you no right to do violence toward anyone."

He also stated that to have access to the parliament is the fundamental right of the parliamentarians. PM said doctors assured them there are no neurological deficits, and he only suffered a concussion, which requires monitoring for four to six weeks. He said the injury could've been more serious.

Besides this, Prime Minister thanked the people for sending their thoughts and prayers. He also acknowledged the police and doctors who assisted him through it.

The attack on Ralph Gonsalves was highly condemned across the region, with representatives of sister islands denouncing the actions.