One of two escaped prisoners who have been on the run for nearly three weeks, Antoine Joubert, died in a shooting incident at Anse Louis on Wednesday evening (September 24), police said on Thursday September 25.

The incident happened at around 7.30 p.m in an area called Dan Gravye.

Giving details about the shooting, public relations officer for the police, Mr Jean Toussaint, said Joubert was spotted by security officers on a routine patrol when he was hitch-hiking by the roadside.

"He was a bit surprised because he was apparently seeking a ride from a vehicle on patrol and when members of the security forces got out he tried to run away," Mr Toussaint said.  "Three warning shots were initially fired and the officers even warned him to stop, but he ran into the bushes and that is when the officers opened fire, aiming at the lower part of his body in an attempt to immobilise him."

Unfortunately, he said, when his body was discovered, bullet wounds were found on his upper body in addition to his legs. 

It is not clear whether the prisoner was armed during the incident.

Antoine Joubert was certified dead upon reaching the Victoria Hospital. Mr Toussaint said that an investigation would be carried out on the circumstances surrounding his death.

In the meantime, the security forces have intensified their search for the other escaped prisoner, Lambert Laurette, who is still on the run.

Mr Toussaint said the police have proof that certain people were giving assistance to the escaped prisoners. Those people have been arrested and are being questioned.

According to Mr Toussaint, the two prisoners were also involved in a series of armed robberies on the island.

Other people are also aiding the security officers in their search and with such cooperation from members of the public, Mr Toussaint said it would not be long before Laurette is captured.

Police and military personnel are continuing with their joint patrol in an effort to deter crimes and to ensure public security in the country. 

LINKS