“This Event Is Going To Impact All Vendors”

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NASSAU, BAHAMAS – The usual vibrant atmosphere at Arawak Cay turned into a crime scene after a double shooting late last night, resulting in one man killed and another injured outside one of the food stalls. The shooting has rattled both patrons and business owners, including Rodney Russell, president of the Arawak Cay Fish Food Vendors Association.

Stall owner, Arawak Cay:
“This event is going to affect all of the vendors. People are going to be afraid to come out, bring their families and the rest of it. I think we need to identify what we are—are we a spot for tourists and families, or are we a spot for gangsters and strip clubs?”

Rodney Russell – President, Arawak Cay Fish Food Vendors Association:
“I would like to apologize to the Bahamian people about this incident, this unfortunate incident that took place at the fish fry last night. It is not the intentions of the business owners at the fish fry to create any problems for our people.”

The tragic event happened outside of Remelda’s Kitchen, also known as Playa’s, a popular spot in the area. Russell claims this is not his first run-in with the establishment, as he recently wrote a letter to the owners, raising concerns.

Rodney Russell – President, Arawak Cay Fish Food Vendors Association:
“I received a document from them saying that it was not them. Now, today I stand before this place where a young man has lost his life. It’s deplorable.”

Stall owner, Arawak Cay:
“I don’t know how many police were out here yesterday, but I understand it was crowded. So there should have been more police.”

Russell says safety has been a growing concern among vendors, and efforts have been made to address it, including surveillance systems throughout the area. However, with a life lost, he admits more needs to be done.

Rodney Russell – President, Arawak Cay Fish Food Vendors Association:
“I will be meeting with the responsible ministries and agencies to see how best we can secure and make Bahamians feel welcome when they come to the fish fry.”