Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves says he is confident that law enforcement agencies in St. Vincent and the Grenadines will solve the case of the shooting last  night that left five people dead, including a 13-year-old boy.

In a video statement released via state media, Dr. Gonsalves said he was addressing nationals with a heavy heart, having received the news as he arrived in Morrocco last night.

In a statement released this morning, the Police Commissioner sought to assure the public that the country is still safe despite the spate of violence and pledges a stronger police presence in the community.

Last night’s shootings brought to seven, the number of people shot and killed in St. Vincent since Tuesday.

The killings bring to 35 the number of homicides there so far this year.