Three individuals lost their lives and ten were injured due to mass shootings at popular nightclubs in Turkey and the Caicos Islands early Sunday morning.
The Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police reported that the incident took place at a hookah and cigar lounge in Providencia right before 3 a.m. on July 27th. So far, no arrests have been made, but it seems that at least four suspects were involved.
Police Commissioner Fitz Bailey described the situation as “deeply intrusive.” At a press conference, Prime Minister Charles Washington Mythic suggested that it might be linked to gang-related violence, particularly within Haitian communities. He called on community members to collaborate with law enforcement regarding the illegal gun flow into the country.
Mythic expressed his concern, saying, “What we are witnessing is unprecedented. This level of violence is not something we can forgive as normal. We can’t just accept this; it’s not how things should be.”
Authorities reported that ten victims were taken to hospitals following the assault, with seven still hospitalized. One person is in serious condition, and two were airlifted for more advanced medical care. Local hospitals were locked down to maintain safety and secure the area.
In a statement on their official Facebook page, the police condemned the shootings and urged the community to assist in the investigation.
The statement emphasized the alarming capacity of criminals to inflict severe violence against residents and visitors. It encouraged anyone with information to step forward to help hold those responsible accountable.
A reward of $10,000 has been offered for information leading to an arrest, but as of now, the motives behind the attack remain unclear.
Prime Minister Mythic reassured the public of the government’s full support for law enforcement efforts and highlighted the significance of community unity in addressing such violence.
The tragedy underscores ongoing issues surrounding illegal immigration, as an estimated 10,900 Haitians reside in the Turks and Caicos Islands, making up roughly one-third of the population. Most live in Providenciales, but only a fraction have permanent residency.
Mythic warned those who remain silent about suspicious activities, urging them to report any knowledge about criminal actions. “This government is committed to ensuring safety in the Turks and Caicos Islands for all families,” he asserted.
