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Recent excavation efforts at the Booby Alley site have unearthed human bones, prompting authorities to investigate the situation thoroughly.
Prime Minister Gaston Browne, the parliamentary representative for the area, shared this information. He assured the public that there was no cause for alarm, as the relevant authorities were actively addressing the discovery.
During a Saturday radio program, PM Browne provided some historical context about the site, revealing that local knowledge suggests a significant ceremony took place approximately 250 years ago.
Over time, however, the area transitioned into a residential neighborhood. The Prime Minister noted that although the discovery of bones at this location is not unprecedented—previous findings have occurred in the same area—they had not been reported during the current construction activities.
He elaborated on the broader context, explaining that the unearthing of human remains during construction projects is a phenomenon not unique to Antigua and Barbuda; it has been observed in other regions of the world as well. In such circumstances, it is standard practice to relocate the bones to an alternate burial site, thereby ensuring that they are treated with respect.
To confirm the nature of the bones found, PM Browne reported that law enforcement was called in to ascertain whether the remains belonged to anyone who had died recently and were buried there.
In addition, local archaeologist Dr. Reginald Murphy was consulted regarding the find. Initial assessments suggest that the bones belonged to an individual who passed away over two centuries ago.
Importantly, PM Browne noted that this incident marks the first time human bones have been uncovered since the Chinese government initiated a major housing development project at the Booby Alley site a few weeks ago.
This development is intended to provide housing for residents of the Point area, and construction work is reportedly continuing as authorities address the implications of this unexpected discovery.
If this is something that usually happens then why must it be in the news? It’s just here to take up extra space and what not. Who said this may not be remains of a person who went missing as well. Oh do we think? Why is a burial site being made into a residential area. No wonder dung dey stay so
I will never live on a burial site. That area belongs to the dead, not the living. That is why laws are in place: we can not bury our loved ones in our backyard, and adesignated areas on the island are marked out to bury the dead. Let the dead continue to rest in peace. Next, Gaston will excavate the public cemetery for a housing project.