BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – AUTHORITIES have launched a major investigation following the discovery of 19 bodies aboard a drifting vessel off the coast of Nevis earlier today.
According to police, identification documents found on the boat suggest the deceased may be from Mali, West Africa.
The St. Kitts and Nevis Coast Guard responded to a distress report just before midday and found the vessel adrift. Upon boarding, they discovered 13 bodies in an advanced state of decomposition. The identities of the deceased remain unknown, and it is unclear whether any children were among them.
Deputy Commissioner of Police Cromwell Henry confirmed the extent of decomposition, complicating immediate identification efforts.
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding these tragic discoveries.