Police Investigate Vessel with 11 Decomposed Bodies Washed Ashore in Caribbean

Police are investigating a boat found on Canouan island in the Caribbean with 11 decomposed bodies onboard. The vessel, measuring 45 feet, had some remains that were not intact, with several passports from Mali discovered. While the identities of the deceased remain unconfirmed, the investigation involves international cooperation and forensic analysis to determine the circumstances.
The Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force has initiated an investigation after a boat, found along the coastline of Canouan, turned out to have 11 decomposed bodies onboard. The discovery was reported around 10:45 a.m. on Monday, with the police quickly responding to the scene near Little Bay and Cherry Hill.
Authorities confirmed the vessel, measuring 45 feet in length and 12 feet in width, was found entrenched along the shore. The condition of the bodies is problematic, as they were described as being in an “advanced state of decomposition”; some remains weren’t fully intact, raising several challenges for identification.
During the investigation, several passports were recovered from the boat, hinting at connections to the Republic of Mali in West Africa. However, as of now, no official identification of the deceased has been made, with procedures still in place. Police are working alongside regional and international entities to ascertain crucial details about the boat and the victims.
The human remains have been transported to St. Vincent for further forensic examination at the Kingstown mortuary. “This incident is deeply concerning, and we understand the public’s interest in the matter,” an official statement from the police noted, assuring that the case is being handled with high priority.
The RSVGPF emphasized its commitment to thoroughly investigate every lead while adhering to all necessary protocols. It’s worth mentioning that the U.S. State Department issued a Level 4 Do Not Travel advisory for Mali back in July 2023, stressing issues like crime, terrorism, and kidnapping as primary factors.
According to the advisory, violent crimes such as armed robbery and kidnapping are frequent in Mali, particularly around holidays. It also raises alarms about terrorist groups actively planning attacks, underscoring the need for caution. Given this context, the investigation into the boat and its contents could unravel more about the complex circumstances surrounding these tragic deaths.
The police investigation into the vessel with 11 decomposed bodies is unfolding under serious scrutiny, with remains identified as potentially connected to Mali. Authorities are working diligently to clarify the identities of the victims, and the U.S. State Department’s advisory sheds light on the dangers in Mali, offering context to this evolving situation. Overall, the case raises numerous questions about maritime safety and regional stability.
Original Source: www.foxnews.com