Government Breaks Silence After Minister Richard Frederick Detained by Police
The Government of Saint Lucia has publicly confirmed that Housing, Local Government and Urban Renewal Minister Richard Frederick was detained for questioning by police before being released, while stressing that it will not interfere with an ongoing investigation. The confirmation comes a day after Police Commissioner Verne Garde, when pressed by reporters during a Royal […] The post Government Breaks Silence After Minister Richard Frederick Detained by Police appeared first on Saint Lucia Daily Post.
Black News 
The Government of Saint Lucia has publicly confirmed that Housing, Local Government and Urban Renewal Minister Richard Frederick was detained for questioning by police before being released, while stressing that it will not interfere with an ongoing investigation.
The confirmation comes a day after Police Commissioner Verne Garde, when pressed by reporters during a Royal Saint Lucia Police Force news conference on Thursday, July 2, declined to confirm or deny whether the minister had been arrested. The Commissioner’s refusal to directly address the matter fueled widespread public speculation before Friday’s official statement from the Office of the Prime Minister.
In its statement, which was posted on the official Government of Saint Lucia Facebook page on Friday afternoon, Government said it was notified on Thursday, July 2, that Frederick had been detained for questioning as part of an ongoing matter and was subsequently released.
The Office of the Prime Minister said that because the matter remains an active investigation, it would not comment further on issues that could prejudice or interfere with any lawful process.
“The Government reaffirms its respect for the independence of the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force and the rule of law,” the statement said.
It added that the administration remains committed to ensuring all lawful processes proceed without interference and in accordance with the Constitution and the laws of Saint Lucia.
The Government also reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, accountability and keeping the public appropriately informed as official information becomes available.
Friday’s statement marks the Government’s first official acknowledgment of the matter following intense public interest surrounding the minister’s detention.
Police have not disclosed the nature of the investigation, and no charges have been announced against Minister Frederick.
Stay with Saint Lucia Daily Post for continuing coverage of this developing story.
The post Government Breaks Silence After Minister Richard Frederick Detained by Police appeared first on Saint Lucia Daily Post.
