Two members of the Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force (RSVGPF) have died in as many days.
Corporal of Police Keith Matthews died at the Intensive Care Unit at the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital (MCMH) today (Wednesday) after suffering complications from an illness, the police force said.
iWitness News understands that Matthews has been in hospital for some time in connection with a non-communicable ailment that had seen him undergoing surgery.
Matthews enlisted in the RSVGPF on Oct. 15, 2010. At the time of his death, he was attached to the fire station at the Argyle International Airport and has also worked at the Police Garage and the Mesopotamia Police Station.
“He was a hard and dedicated worker who loyally served the organisation and the people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) for the past 10 years and 11 months,” the police force said in a press statement.
Deputy head of the Fire Brigade and officer in charge of the Argyle Fire Station, Assistant Superintendent of Police Ronald Benjamin expressed deep sadness at Matthews’ death.
Benjamin said that Matthews always exhibited a willingness to work and was a very reliable individual.
Members of the Fire Brigade are overwhelmed by the news of Matthews’ death, Benjamin said, adding that the officer will be sadly missed.
“The Commissioner of Police, Mr. Colin John and all other ranks of the Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force extend sincerest condolences to the family and friends of the late Cpl. 584 Keith Matthews and by extension the management and staff of the Fire Brigade,” the police statement said.
“To lose one officer is extremely difficult, but to lose another one in a matter of two days is very devastating.” The Commissioner encourages all police officers to be mindful of their health, especially in these challenging times,” John said.
Matthews’ death follows that of Sergeant of Police Lawrence Thomas who died on Tuesday at his home after complaining about difficulty breathing.
“Health authorities classified Thomas’ death as COVID-19 related.
“The deceased reportedly tested positive for COVID-19 on September 17, 2021 and was unvaccinated,” the police said in a press release on Tuesday.
At the time of his death, Thomas was stationed at the Calliaqua Police Station. He also worked at the Narcotics Unit, Colonarie Police Station, Sandy Bay Police Station, Central Police Station, Ottley Hall Sub-Station and the Fountain Mobile Unit.
Commissioner John said: “Police officers are on the frontlines every day dealing with reports and interacting with members of the public. It is imperative that we take every precaution necessary to protect ourselves, our families and the general public from the Coronavirus.”
In light of this development, John encouraged all police officers to strictly observe all of the protocols and recommendations against COVID-19, especially getting tested and vaccinated against the coronavirus.
Divisional Commander of the South Central Division, Superintendent of Police Trevor Bailey said Thomas “was of a quiet disposition and did his work diligently. He had an excellent working relationship with the staff at the Calliaqua Police Station and we are devastated by the news of his passing.”
May both officers RIP, also all others that have passed from COVID 19
Sad enough! Condolences to all the bereaved family, coworkers, friends, and acquaintances.
Rest comfortably until Christ returns.
It seems no one make it out alive at the MCMH especially after surgery.
Why they couldn’t fly that police out the country?
Death listed as covid related. The vaccine would not kill you but covid have certainly will Rip but this could have been avoided. Many more will fall becaue they are.stubborn.
Rest in peace junior Matthew’s condolences to the family