The Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force are investigating the circumstances that led to the murder of a male victim earlier today (Wednesday 05th July 2023).
Based on preliminary information a call was placed to the Police Control Room at around 1:24 a.m. indicating that the lifeless body of a male was laying on the ground, at a location in Five Cays, Providenciales.
When officers arrived they saw the decapitated body of a male.
A few hours later, at around 7:45 a.m., officers received further information and went to an area known as Club Med in Five Cays, where they discovered the head of a male victim.
The RTCIPF can confirm the body is that of DESMOND ARTHUR.
ARTHUR, 48, aka PIE and GOMER resided in Five Cays and was last seen around 11 p.m. yesterday (Tuesday 04th July).
Specialist-trained officers of the RTCIPF are supporting his family through this traumatic loss.
Head of Crime, Safeguarding, and Public Protection Superintendent Dean Holden said: “Whilst we have no definitive motive at this time, we remain open-minded. However, a key line of inquiry is whether this could have been some form of retribution as a result of the victim’s apparent involvement in local crime.
“We are also aware of apparent footage on social media of the victim’s body. The circulation of such imagery is appalling and demonstrates a complete lack of respect for the victim’s family and friends. I am urging people not to view, share, or continue to post any material of this nature.
“Should you have any information which can assist in the advancement of this investigation, kindly contact the nearest police station , 911 or TCI Crime Stoppers at 1-800-8477 and give any information on this incident or any other illegal activity anonymously”.