The Antigua and Barbuda Police Force has dismissed public speculation that a serial killer or organ harvesting operation may be behind the growing number of missing persons cases in the country.
Speaking at a press conference on Wednesday, Acting Commissioner of Police Everton Jeffers said there is no evidence to support such claims but assured that authorities are investigating all possibilities as they work to locate missing individuals.
“We do not have any evidence to say that we have a serial killer or that people are being killed for body parts,” Jeffers stated.
His remarks came as the police force announced a new dedicated investigative team to re-examine unsolved missing persons cases, looking for patterns and connections between the disappearances.
The press conference largely focused on the disappearance of nine-year-old Chantel Crump, who was last seen on Tuesday afternoon entering a silver vehicle near her home in Grace Farm.
Authorities said two people are being questioned in relation to the case, and efforts are underway to trace the vehicle. Police have urged the public to come forward with any information, no matter how minor, that may assist in the search.
Acting Commissioner Jeffers also noted that the force is investigating other missing persons cases, including that of Keon Richards, Donna Marie Christian, and Orden Passo David, with plans to revisit cold cases.
Concerns over the number of missing persons have led to widespread speculation about potential foul play. While dismissing claims of a serial killer or body parts trade, Jeffers acknowledged the need to examine all leads.
A newly formed investigative unit will study possible trends among missing individuals, such as common age groups, locations, or lifestyle patterns, to determine if any links exist between cases.
Authorities are calling on the public to assist with ongoing investigations by providing any relevant information.
“We need your help,” Jeffers said. “We cannot do it alone, and we are exhausting every possible resource to find Chantelle and the others who remain missing.”
Anyone with information is urged to contact the Criminal Investigation Department at 462-3913 or 3914.
Authorities say they will provide further updates as more information becomes available.