Kenny D. Anthony condemns suddenly increased gang violence in Vieux-Fort

Parliamentary Representative for Vieux-Fort South Kenny. D Anthony spoke about the rising gun violence in his constituency.

Monday, 8th November 2021

Vieux-Fort , St Lucia: Parliamentary Representative for Vieux-Fort South Kenny D. Anthony spoke about the rising gun violence in his constituency. On Sunday, he said the situation in Vieux-Fort Town is unacceptable and requires decisive action by all concerned. He said his constituents are mortified by the rampant and indiscriminate firing of guns in and around the town of Vieux-Fort, and he spent entire night and day responding to calls and messages. Anthony said the volleys of shots suggest that highly sophisticated weapons had been discharged on all sides. He said the exchanges of gunfire caused fear and panic among constituents and the town virtually became a war zone. "It cannot be right or acceptable that Vieux Fortians are unable to roam their town freely," said Parliament Representative Anthony. He also engaged the police to get a sense of their response strategies and determine whether any hindrances require intervention or direction on the executive level. "As Parliamentary Representative for Vieux-Fort South, I strongly condemn the acts of violence and the blatant disregard for the laws of Saint Lucia and the lives of our citizens," said Anthony. He said the bullet struck an innocent lady on Saturday night while she was in the comfort of her home. Of late, too many Vieux-Fortians have either been killed or injured through gun violence. "The Police must spare no effort in tracing those responsible for these shootings, and everything must be done to bring them to justice. I call on all Vieux-Fortians to play their part by cooperating with law enforcement agencies." Parliamentarian said the Commissioner of Police assured the situation in Vieux-Fort South will be brought under control, and more police officers have been dispatched to Vieux Fort to patrol the troubled areas. "I pledge my full support to the police and all other agencies that are currently on the ground and working tirelessly to identify the culprits and secure our community. I will continue to dialogue with the police, and I urge Vieux-Fortians to do the same. It is in everyone's interest to assist the police in carrying out their duties." He said there could be no solution until the gangs are disarmed, and for that, we need the entire community's support. The former prime minister (Kenny D. Anthony) also called on the gangs to stop the senseless killings, "Your actions are destroying your own lives and terrorizing our beautiful community. Put down the guns, and let us commit ourselves to repair the damage that has already been done so that we may save lives and restore the reputation of Vieux-Fort South."