The safety of sea bathers along the island’s coastlines is a pressing issue that must be addressed immediately. The dangers posed by high currents in certain areas remain inadequately communicated, as warning signs are insufficiently visible.
Recent reports highlight a troubling and significant increase in drowning incidents along the island’s coastlines. Both young bathers and older individuals have tragically lost their lives due to strong currents, whether swimming alone or with companions.
Immediate action is essential to address this alarming trend and ensure the safety of all beachgoers.
On Sunday, December 21, at approximately 4:05 p.m., officers from the Police Marine Unit in Vieux Fort and the Criminal Investigations Department, Southern Division, initiated an investigation into the suspected drowning at Il Pirata Beach.
The victim has been identified as Gillian Garib, a thirty-seven (37)-year-old resident of Augier, Vieux Fort. A post-mortem examination is scheduled for a later date.
It is imperative to launch a comprehensive public campaign focused on water safety. Clear identification of designated swimming and recreational areas, along with appropriate signage for danger zones and hazardous areas, is crucial.
Drowning incidents in Saint Lucia over the past year (late 2024-late 2025) include fatalities at Il Pirata Beach, Bexon River, Cas en Bas (Five Dollar Beach), and a cruise ship passenger near Anse Cochon, alongside several other reported incidents and searches, highlighting risks from beach/river conditions, fishing activities, and even tourism, with police actively investigating these suspected drownings, often involving young individuals.
Key Incidents (Late 2024 – Late 2025)
– December 2025 (Il Pirata Beach): A 37-year-old man died in a suspected drowning near Vieux Fort.
– October 2025 (Marisule Beach): Police searched for a 20-year-old man who went missing after kayaking capsized; his body was later found.
– September 2025 (Cas en Bas): A 20-year-old fisherman died after his vessel overturned while drawing nets offshore.
– September 2025 (Rivière Dorée): A 51-year-old man died in a suspected drowning in Choiseul.
– August 2025 (Bexon River): A 43-year-old man, Wilter Joseph, died in a suspected drowning near Crownlands.
– December 2024 (Anse Cochon): A cruise ship passenger drowned near this location.
Context & Trends
– Varied Locations: Incidents occurred in rivers, beaches, and offshore areas, involving locals and tourists.
– Activities Involved: Kayaking, fishing, swimming, and even general beach visits led to tragedies.
– Police Involvement: The Royal Saint Lucia Police Force (RSLPF) consistently investigates these cases, often involving the Marine Unit and forensic examinations.
These incidents underscore ongoing concerns about water safety in Saint Lucia, prompting police warnings and investigations into causes, from dangerous currents to equipment failure.
The police urge anyone with information regarding this latest incident to contact the Vieux Fort Police Station at 456-3905, report anonymously by dialing 555 (the Crime Hotline), or utilize the RSLPF Crime Hotline Application available on the Google Play Store.
Your cooperation is essential in enhancing community safety.