The police are searching for Orden David and his vehicle, Inspector Thomas says

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File photo of Orden “Passo” David who has been missing since January 31.
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By Kisean Joseph

[email protected]

The Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda (RPFAB) has deployed drones and K-9 units as they conducted extensive ground searches in their ongoing efforts to locate Orden “Passo” David, who disappeared a week ago today after leaving a casino in St John’s.

“This matter is being given the same attention as anyone else that would have gone missing,” said Police PRO Inspector Frankie Thomas, who detailed the last known movements of David on the night of his disappearance.

According to surveillance footage, David was last seen leaving a casino on Market Street between 11:30pm and midnight on Saturday.

“He was seen leaving the casino all by himself, got into his vehicle,” Inspector Thomas explained. The footage tracked David’s vehicle as it travelled down Tanner Street, made a turn near the former Edris clothing store, and proceeded up Nevis Street before disappearing from view near the Corn Alley area.

The simultaneous disappearance of both David and his vehicle has particularly troubled investigators. “I find it rather mysterious and we find it rather strange that we are unable up to this point to locate the vehicle,” Thomas said, noting that in previous cases, missing vehicles were eventually found, even in cases involving foul play.

Search efforts have concentrated on the eastern end of the island, with teams working through the night. “A team of officers comprised of the canine unit and the drones’ pilot, as well as men and women were carrying out foot patrol,” Inspector Thomas said. However, he declined to disclose specific details about intelligence received, citing the ongoing nature of the investigation.

The case has highlighted broader concerns about missing persons in Antigua and Barbuda. “It is a very frustrating and mind-boggling situation as to how one can just left home and cannot be seen over this prolonged period of time,” Thomas said, emphasizing the particular challenge of such disappearances in a nation of just 108 square miles “where everyone knows everyone”.

Inspector Thomas sought to reassure David’s family and the public that they are utilizing all available resources in the search. “We are doing everything that we humanly and possibly can to bring some level of closure to this matter,” he stated. “… We are concerned just as any other person.”

While acknowledging the family’s anxiety and potential feelings of hopelessness, Thomas maintained an optimistic outlook. “We are still open-minded that he will be found alive, the vehicle and himself,” he said while urging the public to remain vigilant and patient as the investigation continues.

The case has been added to those of other ongoing investigations for missing persons, including that of Donna Marie Christian, who was reported missing late last year.

Thomas assured that these cases remain “[on the] front burner on our agenda”, and has pledged to continue searches until evidence is found to determine the fate of the missing individuals or “bring closure to the family”.

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