National

Barbers Assaulted in Viral Video Speak Out

NASSAU, BAHAMAS – “They were like assassins,” – the description coming from one of the men allegedly assaulted by immigration officers in a video that has since gone viral.

Published

2 years ago

February 13, 2023

Berthony McDermott

NASSAU, BAHAMAS – “They were like assassins,” – the description coming from one of the men allegedly assaulted by immigration officers in a video that has since gone viral.

The incident which was caught on a barbershop camera has Wilford Senatus and Gary Philius feeling frightened.

The men, who are both barbers at Adams Barbershop, say they started their Saturday like any other, unaware it would take a turn for the worse.

“Immigration came but we had already gone outside. They asked us if we had papers. We said yes and showed them our papers,” he tells Our News.

But after the men left, they returned, and according to Senatus, that’s when things got physical.

“When they came, they met us inside and they slapped us. They didn’t ask questions; they just beat us.”

Senatus explains he and others from another Haitian community were bused to the Detention Center, and he was released around noon, the same day.

“What took place happened, I would say is a despicable act. They were like assassins. I think anyone who sees a video like this, whether they’re Haitian or whatever nationality – once they see the way things were done will be disturbed when they see it. The video is a strong point to give us justice.”

The shop’s owner feels both men were targeted, as the officers had no interaction with any of the other people in the barbershop. Now she’s concerned it will hurt her bottom line.

We reached out to Immigration Minister Keith Bell for comment, but he did not respond up to the news time.