Police in Dominica arrest several opposition supporters following protest

Police in Dominica have arrested several individuals following protest actions which took place in the capital city of Roseau last week.

Among those arrested were Former MP of Salisbury Hector “Spags” John and Former MP of Roseau North Daniel “Danny” Lugay.

The others arrested include Paula Celestine, Samuel Durand, JnoBaptiste “Balo” Charles, Bernard Moreau, Imran Joseph, Siri Defoe, Clementina Mitchel and Moses Prosper.

John, Charles and Durand appeared before a magistrate court earlier this week where they were charged with unlawfully riotously and tumultuously assembling together to the disturbance of the public peace.

This charge falls under the Public Order Act and carries a penalty of up to five years in prison. They are scheduled to return to court on June 25, 2025 to defend the charges.

Bail was set at $30,000 for both John and Charles, all of whom had their sureties accepted by the court. However, Durand who was similarly charged, was denied bail and remanded in custody at the State prison.

His lawyers have said that they will appeal the matter in the High Court.

The protest, which took place on March 19, escalated into a confrontation with police, resulting in the use of tear gas and rock bullets, injuring several participants.