As the Crump family struggles to come to terms with the murder of young Chantel Crump, the prime minister has said they will be provided with financial support.
Speaking on his radio programme on Saturday, Prime Minister Gaston Browne revealed that he was kept abreast of the kidnapping investigation every step of the way while dealing with his sick daughter and also gave instructions for members of the Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force to join the search for the late child.
Mr. Browne, who said he has known Chantel’s father, Ernest Crump, for many years, has offered condolences to the family and via telephone has committed to the family his support and that of the Government of Antigua and Barbuda, to include funeral expenses.
“I’ve indicated to him that he’ll have my personal assistance as well as that of the government to assist with all expenses associated with the burial,” the prime minister pointed out.
Additionally, the head of government pledged that the matter will continue to “occupy the attention” of his administration and all resources -internal and external -will be made available to the authorities, as they continue their investigations.
In an address to the nation on Saturday, the head of government expressed outrage at the demise of Chantel Crump and affirmed that steps will be taken to ensure such heinous crimes are not repeated.
“Let me assure everyone in our country that my administration will not rest until justice is delivered in full measure to the perpetrators. This is not only on behalf of Chantel and her family, but also to safeguard every other child- and every other person – from anyone in our society who would commit such heinous acts. We resolve that Antigua and Barbuda must be safe for all our people. It must be particularly safe for all our children. My government will vigorously investigate all who may be involved in crimes of this nature and determine their motivations.”
Prime Minister Browne informed the nation that priority will be given to improving the investigative powers of the police and enhance their capacity to solve cases of murder, including the provision of cadaver dogs to detect bodies that may be hidden.
“We will stamp out this evil that has befallen our country before it spreads any further. As a nation, we mourn Chantel Crump, and, as a nation, we must resolve – individually and collectively- to ensure that there are no further acts of this kind,” he said.
He called on citizens and residents to play their part in thwarting the plans of criminal elements by reporting suspicious activities to the police, not allowing “them to contaminate our country, harm our children, or intimidate our society”.
