Robbery Reported in Buckley’s Housing Development

The tranquility of the Buckleys Housing Development in Basseterre, St. Kitts, was shattered in the early hours of June 6, 2025, when Mr. Justin Merritt became the victim of a brazen robbery. Returning home from a night out at approximately 12:20 AM, Mr. Merritt was attending to his dog in his yard when he was ambushed by four masked individuals. The assailants, concealed in the shadows of nearby bushes, materialized suddenly, two at first, followed quickly by two more. All four perpetrators were dressed entirely in black, their attire consisting of long-sleeved tops, long pants, and shoes, effectively obscuring their identities under the cover of darkness. The presence of a firearm brandished by one of the men added a menacing layer to the already frightening encounter.

The robbers, having secured the element of surprise, issued a stern warning to Mr. Merritt, instructing him to remain still and refrain from any attempts to flee. Complying with their demands under duress, Mr. Merritt was then relieved of his personal belongings, including his jewelry and cell phone. The swift and calculated nature of the robbery suggests a degree of planning and familiarity with Mr. Merritt’s routine, raising questions about whether the incident was a targeted attack or a crime of opportunity. Following the robbery, the perpetrators vanished back into the night, leaving Mr. Merritt shaken but physically unharmed.

The Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force responded promptly to Mr. Merritt’s report, launching an immediate investigation into the incident. Detectives and forensic specialists are meticulously combing the crime scene for any trace evidence that could shed light on the identities of the perpetrators. The all-black attire worn by the assailants poses a significant challenge to the investigation, limiting potential eyewitness descriptions and making identification through surveillance footage more difficult. The police are also exploring the possibility that the robbers may have had prior knowledge of Mr. Merritt’s movements and possessions, suggesting a potential connection or inside information.

As the investigation progresses, the Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force is appealing to the public for assistance. They urge anyone who may have witnessed any suspicious activity in the Buckleys Housing Development area around the time of the robbery, or who possesses any information that could be relevant to the case, to come forward. Even seemingly insignificant details could prove crucial in piecing together the events of that night and bringing the perpetrators to justice. The police have established a dedicated hotline for tips and information, encouraging residents to contact the Criminal Investigation Department at 662-1140 or their nearest police station. Anonymity is assured for those who wish to remain confidential.

The robbery has understandably shaken the residents of the Buckleys Housing Development, raising concerns about safety and security within their community. The police have assured the public that they are committed to resolving this case swiftly and bringing those responsible to justice. They have also stepped up patrols in the area to provide a visible presence and deter further criminal activity. Community leaders are working alongside law enforcement to foster a sense of vigilance and encourage residents to report any suspicious behavior promptly.

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of personal safety and community awareness. Residents are encouraged to take precautions such as ensuring their properties are well-lit, installing security systems where possible, and being mindful of their surroundings, particularly when returning home late at night. The police are also recommending that residents avoid displaying expensive jewelry or carrying large sums of cash, which could make them targets for opportunistic criminals. By working together, the community and law enforcement can create a safer environment for all. The investigation remains active and ongoing, and the Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force remains dedicated to bringing closure to this case and ensuring the safety and security of the Buckleys Housing Development community.