Fear is spreading across the Eastern Caribbean fishing community after a U.S. military strike destroyed a small vessel at sea on February 13, leaving three people dead.
U.S. Southern Command says the action was part of a counter-narcotics operation targeting what it described as traffickers. But in Saint Lucia and nearby islands, fishermen say the incident has created deep anxiety — with many now worried about being mistaken for drug boats while working traditional fishing grounds.
Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre confirmed that lives were lost and said authorities are still verifying details, including whether any Saint Lucians were among those killed.
Fishing leaders across the region are now calling for clearer safeguards, better communication, and stronger coordination to ensure legitimate fishermen are not caught in anti-drug operations at sea.
The incident comes amid an intensified U.S. maritime crackdown in Caribbean waters — raising broader questions about safety, transparency, and sovereignty in a region where the sea remains both a livelihood and a lifeline.
Advertise with the mоѕt vіѕіtеd nеwѕ ѕіtе іn Antigua!
We offer fully customizable and flexible digital marketing packages.
Contact us at [email protected]
You know, we are where we are today because of our leaders failure to meet with the US regime in a cordial and respectful way and speak to them about the issues that are confronting our fisherfolks throughout the region. The lives and livelihoods of our fisherfolks are at risk as many are now scared to even venture out to sea. Our leaders just sit in the comfort of their offices and watch fisherfolks bread and butter get blasted away by US dynamite with no question, investigation, discussion or inquiry.
Who will bring these murderers to justice. It is time for the rest of the world to stand up against them. They may be mighty and powerful, but remember David took down Goliath.
Where are our CARICOM Leaders. Why has CARICOM not held an emergency meeting and delivered a collective protest to the USA. That it is un-acceptable for our citizens to become targets of missile strikes without any proof being supplied to the governments of CARICOM. The USA has really become a ROGUE Country. They do what they feel like without regards for any international law and no one can hold them to account.