Public access to the Male Surgical Ward at Grenada’s General Hospital has been temporarily suspended, following a fatal shooting incident in the area that authorities believe is linked to gang-related violence.
The Grenadian government issued a statement declaring that, “effective immediately,” all visits to the ward have been halted as part of heightened security protocols designed to protect patients, staff, and the public.
“This proactive measure has been taken in response to recent safety concerns involving suspected gang-related activity in the vicinity of the hospital,” the statement said. “To protect patients, staff, and visitors, heightened security protocols are now in place, including increased police presence and a complete suspension of visits to the Male Surgical Ward.”
The decision comes in the wake of a shooting incident confirmed by police, which left one person dead and four others injured.
The main opposition New National Party (NNP) responded to the violence, noting in a statement, “Another life has been taken by violence. An act that once shocked our conscience now threatens to become disturbingly familiar. We empathise and extend our deepest sympathies to the individuals and families affected by this act of violence.”
As part of the new security measures, entry to the hospital may involve delays and thorough screening, including metal detector checks and bag searches for all walk-in patients and visitors. In addition, a dedicated 24-hour armed police presence has been deployed to the hospital’s Accident and Emergency Department.
Hospital officials have confirmed that alternative communication systems are being put in place so that next-of-kin can remain informed about their loved ones’ conditions, despite visitation restrictions.
“These measures are necessary to safeguard our staff, patients and visitors,” said Marva Primus-Joseph, Acting Director of Hospital Services. She added that the hospital management “understands the inconvenience this may cause and deeply appreciates the patience, cooperation, and understanding of relatives, friends, and the public.”
No timeline has been provided for when visitation to the ward will resume.
