By PAVEL BAILEY

Tribune Staff Reporter

pbailey@tribunemedia.net

THE Department of Immigration has launched an investigation into claims of physical abuse by a man of Haitian descent whose wherebouts remained unknown for several days following his detention for alleged immigration violations – causing tensions to flare in the local Haitian community.

Haitian-Bahamian activist and immigration consultant Louby Georges wrote in a Facebook post that the man, later identified as 31-year-old Fegens Laguerre, went to court on Tuesday to face immigration-related charges.

Mr Georges said Laguerre had been seen at hospital before being taken to court for a medical concern, yet worried relatives were unable to determine his whereabouts for days afterwards.

He described the uncertainty surrounding Laguerre’s condition as “deeply concerning,” noting that rumours had spread that Laguerre was either deported or dead during the three days after his court appearance.

Mr Georges said Laguerre’s unknown fate left many in the Haitian community feeling anxious and distressed, and that official silence only heightened fear and speculation.

He wrote that he found the situation especially troubling given past publicised incidents involving unnecessary force against Bahamians, particularly “ghetto youths” from disadvantaged areas. He urged officials to ease public doubt and provide clarity.

After what he called an anxiety-filled three-day stretch, Mr Georges said an immigration official contacted him on Friday and confirmed that Laguerre was being held at the Detention Centre. He wrote that Laguerre claimed to have suffered physical abuse while in custody.

Mr Georges said he informed Laguerre’s sister-in-law in New York, who was relieved to learn he was alive, though the family remains concerned about his health and well-being. He encouraged readers to allow due process to unfold.

McMahon Campbell, Director of Communications for Immigration, confirmed to The Tribune on Sunday that the matter is currently under investigation by the Ministry and Department of Immigration.

Mr Georges said it was the allegations of physical abuse that prompted senior immigration officials to initiate the inquiry.