Castries was rocked by bloodshed on Saturday as two men were shot dead in separate broad-daylight incidents, leaving several others nursing gunshot injuries and the capital reeling from the brazen attacks.
Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre, who also serves as Minister for National Security, issued a strong statement hours after the shootings, describing the events as “cruel and senseless acts of gun violence.”
“Today, our city was shaken by cruel and senseless acts of gun violence, which claimed the lives of two citizens,” Pierre wrote on social media. “To the families and friends who are now grieving, I extend my deepest condolences.”
According to police, four individuals were swiftly taken into custody shortly after the incidents, believed to be linked to the deadly attacks. Authorities confirmed that investigations are ongoing, but have not released further details on the suspects or the motive.
In his response, Prime Minister Pierre announced that he had convened an urgent meeting with national security officials to chart a decisive way forward. He vowed that the government would not allow criminals to dictate the climate of fear.
“These brazen and reckless acts will not be allowed to continue,” Pierre declared. “I fully understand the fear and anxiety that many are feeling and I share that concern. But let me be absolutely clear: we will not allow criminals with nothing to lose, hold this country hostage. Together, with determination and unity, we will restore safety and protect our people.”
The killings mark another grim episode in the island’s escalating gun violence, with public frustration mounting over repeated attacks in the heart of the capital
