Both the Bordelais Correctional Facility (BCF) and the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force (RSLPF) have confirmed to Saint Lucia Daily Post that reports circulating on social media Friday evening alleging a manhunt for escaped prisoners are false.
The claims, which spread rapidly across various platforms, sparked widespread concern among citizens, prompting authorities to issue an urgent clarification.
Acting Chief at the Bordelais Correctional Facility, Mr. Kerwin Albert, categоrically denied the reports, emphasizing that no such incident had occurred. “There is no truth to it, none whatsoever,” Albert stated. “We have established protocols that we follow in situations like these. If there were any such developments, the public would be properly informed through official channels.”
He further noted that misinformation of this nature has unfortunately become increasingly common and can have serious consequences if left unchecked.
Meanwhile, senior officers within the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force also addressed the situation, explaining that the rumors appear to have stemmed from heightened police activity across the city and northern division.
According to officials, multiple operations were being conducted at the time, which may have led to public speculation and the eventual spread of false information.
A senior police officer underscored that such operations are routine and form part of the force’s ongoing efforts to maintain law and order.
“The police carry out these operations at any time, and they are often extensive and strategic in nature,” the officer explained. “These exercises are critical to national security and public safety.”
The officer also urged members of the public to exercise caution and responsibility before sharing unverified information. “We are appealing to the public to seek confirmation before spreading such statements. False information can and does cause unnecessary panic, as we have seen in this case,” the officer added. “The RSLPF has clear protocols in place to communicate with the public in the event of serious incidents such as a prison escape. If such a situation were to arise, the public would be formally notified.”
Authorities are continuing to encourage citizens to rely on official sources for accurate information and to refrain from amplifying unverified claims, particularly those that may incite fear or disrupt public order.
The BCF and RSLPF reiterated their commitment to transparency and public safety, assuring citizens that there is no cause for alarm.
