A SHOOTING incident in idyllic village of Castara, Tobago, on August 19, has marred its reputation as a tranquil, family-oriented community.

And the residents are demanding swift justice.

The villagers said they are not taking the incident lightly and have vowed to protect the area from unsavoury elements.

'We have gathered here to present a united front, to highlight a grave concern that has deeply troubled us all, which is the misuse of firearms within our community,' Nikida Walker said on August 24 during a news conference at the Castara Community Centre.

She was joined by other villagers, some of whom are members of various Castara-based organisations, including the village council, Tourism Development Association and Fisherfolk Association. The leaders of several faith-based organisations were also present.

They all wore white, a colour associated with peace, in a show of solidarity.

Walker said the village was shaken by the incident, adding it was crucial that the issue be addressed 'head on.'

According to reports, the alleged offender, who has a legal firearm, shot a car after a disagreement with a man over a fencing post. Several people reportedly witnessed the incident, which occurred around 7.15pm.

The police visited the scene but residents said they have not got any update from the investigating officers.

They claimed the alleged offender is still 'walking up and down the road, scot-free.'

The villagers are urging the police to thoroughly investigate the matter.

'We have prepared letters to be submitted to the relevant authorities, including a formal letter of complaint to be delivered to the ACP Tobago Collis Hazel,' said Walker.

'These letters outline our concerns, our demands for action and our resolve to uphold the values that we find in Castara. We implore all others to take swift and decisive measures to ensure the safety of our community and hold those responsible for this misuse accountable.'

She acknowledged while there are laws governing the responsible use and ownership of firearms for security and recreational purposes, the shooting 'demonstrated a blatant disregard for these principles upon which we stand as citizens of TT.

'The actions of one individual have cast a dark shadow over our collective commitment to a peaceful way of life in Castara.'

Walker said the community believes the perpetrator used his 'legally armed status as a cover for unlawful and dangerous behaviour.'

She continued, 'But we want to send a very strong message to all persons involved in criminal activity, gun violence and all such heinous acts, that Castara is not the place for you. You are not welcomed in our community...We will not sit idly by and watch this be destroyed by the actions of one individual.'

A haven for tourists and those in search of an authentic, Tobago experience, Walker said residents have worked tirelessly to develop Castara's tourism product.

Over the years, the fishing village, situated on the north-eastern part of the island, has been honoured locally and i