The January 16th killing of French national Eric Heinis in Bonne Terre, Gros Islet, marked a troubling start to 2024 for Saint Lucia, with a total of 7 deaths within 23 days. Responding to the situation, French Ambassador to the OECS and Barbados His Excellency Francis Ettienne expressed deep concern via a statement issued last week, where he renewed calls for increased vigilance to French travelers due to escalating gun related activity. Additionally, he highlighted ongoing collaboration between French authorities and Saint Lucian officials to enhance crime-fighting efforts. This cooperation includes a Joint Security Commission initiated in 2022 by Prime Minister Philip Pierre to address issues like firearms and drug trafficking between Martinique and Saint Lucia. In a subsequent interview with Hot 7 News, His Excellency expressed optimism that local law enforcement would expedite resolution despite incomplete facts in the case.
“Every loss of life is a sad event, especially in violent circumstances like this one” he said. “I have to stress the fact the we don’t have all the facts and we need to have the facts and knowledge of the facts. That’s why, we trust that the police will do its work…we hope it will be swift” the Ambassador added.
When asked whether he believed the situation had jeopardized diplomatic ties between the European Nation and Saint Lucia, the Ambassador stated that this was not the case. However, he did indicate that the murders place an unnecessary strain on the relationship.
“Its not jeopardizing the relations, its just places stress on the community, and we are part of the community. The French are part of the community in St. Lucia” he added.
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