A wheelchair-bound man was arrested during a major police operation at Wilton’s Yard on Saturday morning after officers allegedly found him in possession of an illegal firearm. The early-morning raid formed part of a wider crackdown on suspected criminal elements in communities along Chaussee Road.
The operation, which covered a section of surrounding communities, involved widespread searches. Several individuals, including those reportedly on their way to work, were stopped and searched by officers. Residents described the raid as sweeping and intense, with multiple homes targeted.
In a recording captured during the raid, one distressed resident described the extent of the search: “They searched everywhere. Downstairs, upstairs… they lift up the bed, opened my wardrobe, went through the clothes, even the laundry basket.”
Another speaker in the recording referenced the growing involvement of women and girls in facilitating criminal activity. The comment pointed to a recent police operation in Bois Patat that led to the arrest of a 15-year-old girl and a 21-year-old woman.
Residents also raised questions about police procedures during the raid, particularly the demand for national ID cards. According to the speaker, police were requesting identification in what residents believe was an attempt to locate individuals named on the search warrants issued for the operation. “They asking your ID card to make sure,” the speaker said, expressing concern over the method and motive behind the requests.
As of press time, the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force has not released an official statement regarding the outcome of the operation or the number of arrests made. However, community members are calling for increased transparency and a more respectful approach from law enforcement in future operations.
