Abrahams promises transparent investigation into fatal police shooting

Acting Attorney General Wilfred Abrahams is promising a transparent and thorough investigation into the fatal police shooting of Stefan Akobi Branch, as some residents of Cave Hill, St Michael, raise concerns about how the incident was handled.

Branch, 30, of Castries Road, was shot on Monday during a joint police and Barbados Defence Force patrol in the area. According to The Barbados Police Service, officers encountered a man acting suspiciously and attempted to stop him. He allegedly fled, drew a firearm during the pursuit, and engaged the officers before being shot. A firearm was reportedly recovered at the scene.

Paramedics responded but found no signs of life. Branch was later pronounced dead by a medical doctor.

The incident has stirred frustration among some residents, who believe Branch may have been unjustly targeted.

Speaking to Barbados TODAY on Tuesday, Abrahams said the investigation would be conducted with “exceptional care”, integrity and procedural rigour. 

“Where shootings involve the police, then there’s another element to the investigation,” he said. “But the investigation is going to be fully transparent and thorough, and the public is going to be advised as to the findings.”

Abrahams said that senior police officials are aware of the public’s concerns and are committed to maintaining trust through clear communication.

“Particularly where the police are involved, there’s exceptional care to dot Is and cross Ts to maintain the integrity of the investigation, to maintain the faith in the procedures of the Barbados Police Service,” he added.

The Police Service is urging anyone with information or who may have witnessed the incident to contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-8477, Police Emergency at 211, or the District ‘A’ Police Station at 430-7242 or 430-7246. (SM)