Antigua and Barbuda: Minister Orders Probe into Fatal Police Shooting

0
131

Complaints from the Bolans community over the fatal police shooting of 18-year-old Khalil Simon have reached the desk of National Security Minister Steadroy Benjamin.

The incident, which occurred last week, has triggered fierce debate about police conduct. Relatives say Simon was shot multiple times by a lone officer after police responded to a report of a domestic dispute. One of the shots struck him in the head. Witnesses insist he was given no chance to surrender and that lethal force was used prematurely.

Minister Benjamin, who oversees the police, confirmed he has ordered a full investigation and is awaiting a report from law enforcement and the Director of Public Prosecutions. “I’m asking the public don’t prejudge anything. Wait until all the facts are revealed,” he said, urging patience while the inquiry continues.

While calling the incident regrettable, the minister expressed confidence that officers acted with “prudence, diligence and professionalism.” He added that if flaws in procedure are identified, action will be taken.

Meanwhile, Simon’s family is considering legal options, including a potential lawsuit against both the police and the government. Relatives maintain that excessive force was used and that Simon, who died on his 18th birthday, was treated “like an animal” after being shot.