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Misinformation and Reports of Missing Persons

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The Royal Saint Lucia Police Force (RSLPF) has issued a statement addressing recent concerns regarding missing persons, alleged kidnappings, and other incidents circulating on social media and messaging platforms. While the force emphasizes that it takes all reports concerning public safety seriously, it explicitly warns that unverified information shared online should not be treated as fact until confirmed by official police channels. Between August 1 and September 14, 2026, the RSLPF received eleven missing persons reports; nine of these cases have been resolved with the safe return of the individuals involved, though one case remains open. Specific updates were provided regarding two high-profile cases within this period. The body found along the Millennium Highway in Castries on September 11 was identified as Marissa Ogis, a 21-year-old reported missing on September 10; a post-mortem examination confirmed her cause of death was strangulation, and the police have expressed their deepest condolences to her family while assuring them that justice is being pursued with two suspects currently in custody. In contrast, the search for James Hunter Noel, also known as TJ, a 59-year-old from Fonra Viewfort who went missing on September 2, continues as investigators work to establish the full circumstances surrounding his disappearance. Beyond providing case details, the RSLPF strongly urges the public to exercise caution before sharing unverified information, noting that rumors and false claims can cause unnecessary fear, distress families, interfere with ongoing investigations, and even place innocent people at risk. The force specifically discourages individuals from confronting suspects based on social media tips or taking matters into their own hands, as vigilante actions can compromise police work and endanger communities. Furthermore, the statement reminds citizens that sending threatening communications via electronic devices may constitute offenses under the Computer Misuse Act, particularly Section 151 subsection C, which penalizes using computers to send messages intended to cause annoyance, distress, or anxiety. To ensure public safety remains a shared responsibility, the police encourage members of the community to report genuine incidents and suspicious activities through official channels rather than spreading rumors. The RSLPF highlights the availability of the crime hotline at 555 and their dedicated mobile app for reporting concerns directly to investigators. By verifying information with authorities before reposting it and avoiding vigilantism, the public can help maintain accurate communication and support the force in its commitment to keeping Saint Lucia safe for everyone.
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The Royal Saluta Police Force RSLPF is aware of concerns circulating on social media and messaging platforms regarding alleged missing persons, attempted kidnappings, and other incidents. The police force takes all reports concerning the safety and security of the public seriously. However, members of the public are reminded that information circulating on social media, messaging applications, and other platforms should not be treated as confirmed unless it has been verified by the RSLPF. Between August 1 and September 14, 2026, the Royal St. Lucia Police Force received a total of 11 missing persons reports. Out of these, nine cases have been resolved, resulting in the sift return of the individuals involved. However, one individual remains missing. James Hunter Noel, also known as TJ, a 59year-old from Fonra Viewfort, was reported missing on Wednesday, September 2nd, 2026. In the case of 21-year-old Marissa Ogis, who was reported missing on Thursday, September 10, 2026. We can confirm that the partially decomposed body found along the Millennium Highway in Castries on Friday, September 11, 2026 has been identified as hers. A postmot examination conducted on Monday, September 14, 2026 confirmed that the cause of death was strangulation. The RSLPF extends its deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of Marissa Ois. We recognize the profound impact of this loss and assure the family and the wider community that the force remains committed to bringing those responsible to justice. We can confirm that two individuals are currently in police custody and are assisting the major crimes unit with its investigation. Further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses. While the police force continues its efforts to establish the full circumstances surrounding this matter, we are also concerned about the circulation of unverified information. Over the past several days, the police force has observed the circulation of unverified voice notes, false or exaggerated claims, and information attributed incorrectly to the RSLPF. Such information can cause unnecessary fear and panic. distress individuals and families, interfere with police investigations, and in some circumstances place members of the public at risk. The RSLPF therefore urges the public to exercise caution before forwarding or reposting information. If you receive information concerning an alleged crime or missing person, verify it with the police before sharing it further. If the information cannot be verified, do not circulate it. Members of the public are also strongly discouraged from confronting persons based on information received through social media or from taking matters into their own hands. Vigilante action can place innocent persons and entire communities at risk and may compromise police investigations. The police force also reminds the public that certain forms of electronic communication may constitute offenses under the computer misuse act chapter 8.14. Section 151 subsection C among other provisions addresses the use of the computer to send communications that are menacing in character with the intention of a recklessness as to cause annoyance, inconvenience, distress or anxiety. Where there is evidence of a breach of the law, the appropriate investigative and legal processes will be pursued. The RSLPF remains committed to responding to reports of crime and protecting the public. Public safety is a shared responsibility and accurate information and responsible communication are essential to that effort. Members of the public are encouraged to report genuine incidents and suspicious activity through the appropriate police channels, including the crime hotline 555 and the app. The RSLP thanks the public for its continued cooperation and partnership in keeping St. Lucia safe for everyone.