ST JOHN’S, Antigua and Barbuda — Prime Minister Gaston Browne has called for peace and urged against retaliation following a double murder that claimed the lives of two members of the country’s Rastafarian community.

The victims, a 49-year-old man and an 18-year-old woman, were standing outside a dispensary at the Nyabinghi compound in Creek Side around 4 pm on Tuesday when occupants of a silver Honda CR-V reportedly got out of the vehicle and opened fire.

They were taken to hospital but died prior to arrival.
In a social media post, Browne condemned the killings as “senseless” and extended condolences to the Rastafarian community, particularly Ras Selah, whose daughter was reported to be among the victims.

“My sympathy and prayers go out to Ras Selah, whose daughter was reported as one of the victims,” he said.

He contined: “Selah, we know it’s very difficult for you to be predeceased by a child, however, please remain strong and don’t be influenced into any reprisal. Continue to soldier on and be assured that we continue to stand in solidarity with you and the Niabinghi family. Be strong.”