Prime Minister Gaston Browne says he has been told that a recent shooting involving two young men was an act of reprisal for a stabbing during J’ouvert celebrations.

Browne made the disclosure during the opening minutes of the Browne and Browne Show while discussing incidents of violence surrounding the Carnival season.

He said tensions remain between two groups of young people despite efforts to steer some of those involved away from violence and into more productive activities.

Browne appealed directly for an end to the conflict, warning that continued retaliation could have serious consequences.

“We call upon them to keep the peace and not to be involved in any acts of violence,” Browne said.

The prime minister said both young men who were shot are known to him and are employed at the Public Works Department. He said efforts had been made to assist them through education and employment.

Browne also expressed concern that the latest shooting could itself provoke another retaliatory attack.

“I’m hoping there’ll be no reprisal from that shooting,” he said, warning against a continuing cycle of violence.

He appealed to others in the community to engage the young people involved and help defuse the tensions, saying continued violence would be harmful to them, their families and the country.

This article was originally published by Antigua News Room. Read the original article here: VIDEO: PM Browne Says West Bus Station Shooting Was Apparent Reprisal For J'ouvert Stabbing.