PRESS STATEMENT
The Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force (RSVGPF) wishes to provide an update on an ongoing investigation into the discovery of a vessel that washed ashore in the area of Little Bay, Cherry Hill, on the island of Canouan on Monday, May 26, 2025.
At approximately 10:45 a.m., a report was received regarding a suspicious vessel found along the coastline. Officers from the Canouan Police Station responded promptly and, upon inspection, discovered the remains of eleven persons onboard. The vessel, measuring approximately 45 feet in length, 12 feet in width, and 6 feet in depth, was found grounded in the area.
The Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force (RSVGPF) wishes to provide an update on an ongoing investigation into the discovery of a vessel that washed ashore in the area of Little Bay, Cherry Hill, on the island of Canouan on Monday, May 26, 2025.
At approximately 10:45 a.m., a report was received regarding a suspicious vessel found along the coastline. Officers from the Canouan Police Station responded promptly and, upon inspection, discovered the remains of eleven persons onboard. The vessel, measuring approximately 45 feet in length, 12 feet in width, and 6 feet in depth, was found grounded in the area.
The remains were in an advanced state of decomposition, with some not fully intact. Several passports were recovered at the scene, appearing to originate from the Republic of Mali, a country in West Africa. At this time, no official identification of the deceased has been confirmed, and the investigation remains active.
The RSVGPF is collaborating closely with regional and international partners to verify both the origin of the vessel and the identities of the individuals on board.
The human remains have been transported to mainland St. Vincent, where they are currently held at the Kingstown mortuary for further forensic and investigative procedures.
This incident is deeply concerning, and we recognize the public’s interest and concern. We assure the nation that the RSVGPF is handling this investigation with the utmost seriousness and sensitivity. We are committed to pursuing every lead and ensuring that all procedures adhere to international standards.
We ask for the public’s patience and cooperation as this complex investigation continues. Anyone with information that may assist is encouraged to contact the Criminal Investigations Department/Major Crimes Unit at 1-784-456-1810, Police Control at 1-784-457-1211, Police Emergency at 999/911, or the nearest police station.
We extend our appreciation to the officers involved for their swift and professional response. Further verified updates will be shared with the public as they become available.