Antigua and Barbuda national, Denise Odelia Charles, received an enthusiastic and warm welcome when she returned to Antigua on Tuesday from Venezuela.
Prime Minister Gaston Browne and Social Improvement Minister, Rawdon Turner, were among a group of government officials and family members who turned out at the VC Bird International Airport on Tuesday to welcome her back to the country.
She was reportedly missing for a period of 32 years and 5 months. This until she made contact with PM Browne and he arranged for her to return to Antigua.
There were tears of joy during the surreal family reunion. Charles is expected to speak in detail in coming weeks about the circumstances that led to her being in Venezuela for over three decades.
The Venezuelan Government arranged for the private charter flight to transport her, as well her brother Terrence Charles and nephew Tishorn Watson, back to Antigua.
Prime Minister Browne expressed his elation at the incredible outcome of this case, and the role he and his administration were able to play in securing Charles’ return. He says this story demonstrates the importance of Antiguans and Barbudans remaining hopeful and positive.
