Ministry of Education Pleads for Safe Return of Missing Teenager
St. Kitts, Basseterre
The Ministry of Education is making a plea for the safe return of Leanna Napoleon, a Basseterre High School student who has been missing for over two weeks. Officials in the ministry are distressed and concerned about the teenager’s disappearance, stating that the unresolved issue sends a bad message about the area.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Education Shawn Richards said in a press conference that officials in the ministry are disturbed by the teen’s disappearance after sitting only one exam. "It is very alarming for me that a young lady could go missing in the federation," he said. "I have been praying for her well-being and safe return, and I am hoping that she would be located very soon."
The Missing Teenager
Richards made a passionate appeal to those who have information in locating Napoleon to pass it on to the authorities, as well as calling on individuals to desist in speculation and gossip. "It only serves to increase the distress of the relatives and friends of Leanna and it also serves to frustrate the efforts of the authorities in their investigations," Richards said.
The Investigation
According to Lyndita Powell, officer of the Special Victims Unit, the teen was last seen with her brother, who is among three who are considered "persons of interest" in the disappearance. Powell said there are no positive leads. "So far we have conducted about five major searches in areas that Leanna might have been seen," Powell said. "Unfortunately, to date, we have no concrete evidence; however, we have three persons of interest in police custody and one of them is her brother."
Impact on the Community
The disappearance has had a significant impact on the community, with students and teachers at Basseterre High School struggling to come to terms with the situation. Principal Maurice Benjamin said that the students of fifth form are very troubled at this time. "At the school, we did a special assembly for her. We prayed for her and we ask all students to keep her in their prayers," he said.
Conclusion
The Ministry of Education is urging anyone with information about Leanna’s disappearance to come forward and assist the authorities in their investigation. The community is rallying around the family and friends of Leanna, praying for her safe return.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the current status of the investigation?
The investigation is ongoing, with no new leads reported. - Who is the main suspect in the disappearance?
The brother of the missing teenager is one of the three persons of interest in the disappearance. - What is the reaction of the community to Leanna’s disappearance?
The community is shocked and saddened by the disappearance, with many rallying around the family and friends of Leanna to pray for her safe return.
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