...INFORMATION CIRCULATING ON SOCIAL MEDIA, MESSAGING APPLICATIONS, ADVISORIES, AND OTHER PLATFORMS SHOULD NOT BE TREATED AS CONFIRMED UNLESS IT HAS BEEN VERIFIED BY THE RSLPF.
The Royal Saint Lucia 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, advisories, 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 Saint Lucia Police Force received a total of eleven (11) missing persons reports. Out of these, nine (9) cases have been resolved, resulting in the safe return of the individuals involved. However, one (1) individual remains missing. James Hunter Noel, also known as “Ti Jame,” a fifty-nine (59)-year-old from Fond Joyeux, Vieux Fort, was reported missing on Wednesday, September 2, 2026.
In the case of twenty-one-year-old Merissa Auguste, 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 post-mortem examination conducted on Monday, September 14, 2026, confirmed that the cause of death was strangulation.
The Royal Saint Lucia Police Force extends its deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of Merissa Auguste. 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 by 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 Force 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 offences under the Computer Misuse Act, Chapter 8.14. Section 15(1)(c), among other provisions, addresses the use of a computer to send communications that are menacing in character with the intention of, or recklessness as to, causing 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 RSLPF thanks the public for its continued cooperation and partnership in keeping Saint Lucia safe for everyone.
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