ST. JOHN’S, Antigua — Authorities in St. Kitts and Nevis are conducting an investigation into the unsettling finding of at least 19 bodies that were discovered floating in the sea.

On Wednesday, at approximately 11:30 a.m., the coast guard of St. Kitts and Nevis responded to an alert regarding a drifting vessel off the shores of Nevis. Upon arrival, they found a partially submerged fishing boat that contained decomposed human remains. The vessel has since been towed to St. Kitts where law enforcement and medical personnel have launched a thorough investigation into this tragic incident.

According to Police Commissioner James Sutton, this fishing vessel, which is atypical for the Caribbean region, is believed to have originated from the waters off the West African coast. The authorities are working to confirm the exact number of remains found and to identify the deceased. The advanced decomposition of the bodies is complicating these efforts, making it increasingly challenging for officials to gather vital information regarding the identities of the victims.

This incident marks a rare and tragic occurrence in the history of the twin-island country, highlighting the serious humanitarian and safety concerns of mariners in these waters.