Government Apologizes to Family of Claudia Edwards Bethel Following Privy Council Ruling

The Government has issued an apology to the family of the late Claudia Edwards Bethel following a ruling by the Judicial Committee of the Privy Council that found the government vicariously liable for her unlawful arrest and detention.

The government acknowledged the Privy Council's decision handed down on June 11 concerning the actions of former Immigration Officer Norman Bastian.

The Privy Council ruled that the government was vicariously liable for the actions of Bastian in relation to the arrest and detention of Mrs. Bethel.

Mrs. Bethel died in 2021 after giving birth, and her case has remained a matter of significant public concern and legal scrutiny.

The government noted that upon taking office in 2021, it established a multi-agency task force to examine and address weaknesses in the oversight and accountability mechanisms governing the country's security forces.

According to the statement, the task force's work has already led to reforms and procedural changes aimed at strengthening oversight and improving accountability within the relevant agencies.

The government also announced that the Minister of State will shortly advance additional proposals for public consultation with stakeholders as part of ongoing efforts to enhance governance and oversight frameworks.

Bastian has since been retired from the public service in the public interest.

"We wish to make it clear that the Government of The Bahamas does not in any way support or condone his unlawful conduct," the statement said.