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Choc Branch Heist at 1st National Bank Leads to Arrest of Two Suspects Facing Multiple Charges
Castries, Saint Lucia – The Royal Saint Lucia Police Force (RSLPF) has charged two male suspects in connection with the brazen robbery at the 1st National Bank’s Choc Branch on August 28, 2024. The incident, which rocked the Castries community, saw the suspects engaging in kidnapping and conspiracy to commit robbery.
The two individuals, Corneil St. Louis of Darling Road, Castries, and Joel Phulgence of Barre St. Joseph, now face multiple charges. St. Louis has been charged with three counts of Aiding and Abetting Kidnapping and one count of Conspiracy to Commit Robbery. Phulgence faces similar charges, including Robbery, three counts of Aiding and Abetting Kidnapping, and one count of Conspiracy to Commit Robbery.
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of 03Disturbing Details Emerge
Newly surfaced information has added a troubling layer to the case. Joel Phulgence, once employed at the Customs and Excise Department, was reportedly dismissed for stealing government revenue amounting to thousands of dollars. His connections run deep within political circles, particularly as a known ally of Ernest Hilaire, the current Minister for the Citizenship by Investment Program (CIP). Hilaire has faced scrutiny over multiple scandals involving the disappearance of CIP funds and shady dealings during his tenure as British High Commissioner to the UK.
Phulgence’s ties to Hilaire reportedly allowed him to secure lucrative government contracts in the Marigot community, raising concerns about preferential treatment. Sources say this connection could be another chapter in what some call a saga of corruption. As the old saying goes, “Birds of a feather flock together.”
02
of 03A Third Individual Involved?
Sources have also indicated that police initially detained three individuals in connection with the robbery, including a bank employee and the brother of Enzra the Fun Machine, a popular local singer known for his strong support of the Saint Lucia Labour Party. It is alleged that the third individual was the getaway driver in the heist, but investigations are still ongoing to determine the full extent of his involvement.
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of 03RSLPF’s Pledge
Despite the complex web of political and personal connections, the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force remains committed to delivering justice. “All resources will be expended to ensure that perpetrators of crime are brought to justice and that citizen security is restored,” the RSLPF said in a statement.
Authorities continue to urge anyone with additional information about criminal activities to contact the nearest police station or utilize the Crime Hotline 555 or the Crime Hotline App available on Google Play.
