Police Investigate Vessel With 11 Decomposed Bodies Washed Ashore in Caribbean

Police are investigating a 45-foot vessel found on Canouan Island with 11 decomposed bodies on board. Officials recovered several passports from Mali, but identification of the victims is pending. The RSVGPF is coordinating with international agencies to resolve the case and address public concerns about safety in the region.

In a shocking discovery, police are investigating a vessel that washed ashore on Canouan Island in the Eastern Caribbean, containing the decomposed remains of at least 11 individuals. The Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force (RSVGPF) received the report around 10:45 a.m. on Monday, noting the boat was found along the coastline near Little Bay and Cherry Hill.

Officers dispatched from the Canouan police station responded promptly to the scene, where they discovered the gruesome remains onboard. The boat, measuring 45 feet long, 12 feet wide, and 6 feet deep, was reportedly grounded in the area. Authorities described the state of the remains as “advanced decomposition,” with some parts not being fully intact.

Alongside the remains, investigators recovered several passports believed to originate from Mali, a country in West Africa. However, law enforcement officials have not yet officially identified any of the deceased. The investigation is ongoing as police work to ascertain the identities and origins of those on board the vessel.

Collaborating efforts are underway between the RSVGPF and regional as well as international agencies to clarify the circumstances surrounding the boat. The human remains have since been transferred to St. Vincent’s Kingstown mortuary, where they will undergo detailed forensic examinations.

“This incident is deeply concerning, and we understand the public’s interest in the matter,” police officials stated, emphasizing the seriousness of the investigation. They assured citizens that all leads will be pursued and that appropriate protocols will be adhered to throughout the process.

Adding to the complexity, the U.S. State Department had issued a Level 4 Do Not Travel advisory for Mali as of July 2023 due to risks related to crime, terrorism, and kidnapping. The advisory highlighted the prevalence of violent crime in the region, particularly during local holidays.

The advisory notes, “Violent crime, such as kidnapping and armed robbery, is common in Mali. Violent crime is a particular concern during local holidays and seasonal events in Bamako, its suburbs, and Mali’s southern regions.” Furthermore, it warns of terrorist threats that may target various public venues.

In summary, authorities are grappling with a challenging investigation into a vessel that washed ashore on Canouan Island, containing 11 decomposed bodies. The RSVGPF is working closely with international counterparts to identify the victims and the circumstances surrounding their deaths, while a travel advisory has highlighted ongoing threats in Mali, raising concerns about the broader implications of this incident.

Original Source: www.foxnews.com