The Ministry of Education has activated its Student Support Services and Child Safeguarding Policies and Protocols at the Ianthe Pratt Primary School after a 10-year-old male student was held up and robbed of his bus fare and other valuables at gunpoint by a lone bandit yesterday, October 31.
The incident took place minutes after 3p.m., while the child was waiting for transportation to take him home.
The Ministry said it was deeply disturbed, concerned and sadden by what it described as an unfortunate incident.
“It is with great sadness and concern that we address an incident that recently occurred at the Ianthe Pratt Primary School in Providenciales. We sincerely regret to inform the community that an unfortunate incident took place on October 31st, 2023, involving a student from our primary school, a news release said.
The news release continued: “According to the preliminary investigation, it has come to our attention that a student returned to report to School Administrators of being robbed at gunpoint while standing at the bus stop outside of the school compound awaiting transport to travel home.”
The school administrators immediately contacted the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force for assistance after the report was made by the student, but when they arrived the hoodlum was long gone. The police have since launched an investigation into the incident.
“This incident has deeply impacted our students, their families, and the entire school community. The Ministry has activated its Student Support Services and Child Safeguarding policies and protocols, as our primary and immediate focus is to provide support and care to those affected. We have arranged counselling services and support systems for students, parents, and staff members who may require assistance during this difficult time. Our dedicated team of professionals will be available to address any concerns or provide guidance as needed,” the ministry further said in the news release.
It added: “The ministry is working collaboratively with the Royal Turks & Caicos Islands Police Force to ensure heightened security and to facilitate a thorough investigation.”
In the meantime, the Ministry of Education is urging calm in the community, while urging for supportive.
“We must come together as a community to address this incident responsibly and emphasize the importance of empathy, understanding, and respect for one another. We will continue to provide updates as the investigation progresses and continue to work diligently to ensure the safety and security of our students.
“Our thoughts are with the affected student, their family, and the entire school community. We appreciate the understanding and cooperation of the community as a whole, as we navigate through this unfortunate situation,” the Education Ministry said.
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