Memorial boat returned to West End grave site shortly after being reported stolen

The Royal Anguilla Police Force received a report that the white, grey and yellow boat with red lettering was missing at about 7.47am on Thursday, 23 July.

After the incident was shared on social media, it prompted an outpouring of responses and messages from members of the public expressing outrage.

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Just before 10am, a social media video showed the boat had been returned to the cemetery and placed upside down just feet away from the grave site.

Following inquiries from Anguilla Focus, police said the boat was found “sometime after the initial report was received” and investigations into the incident are continuing.

Albert Hughes was a respected Anguillian politician, statesman and legendary icon in Anguilla’s national sport of boat racing.

He served as an elected representative and founder associated with the Anguilla United Movement, passing away in December 2016 at the age of 82.

Hughes is honoured annually through the Albert Hughes Memorial A Class boat race, a major Father’s Day event on the island’s calendar.

Anyone with information can call police on 911, (264) 497-2333 or 497-5333, or leave an anonymous message, video or photo at secureaxa.com

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