TREASURE BEACH, St Elizabeth — The murder of a Kenyan artist during a brazen armed robbery here on Friday has plunged this famed community tourism hub into grief and disbelief.

“Treasure Beach is a peaceful, loving set of districts that make up a community, so this murder has really taken everybody by shock. The community is really feeling it… Emotions are high and people are really hurting. These things don’t happen down here. This is a very peaceful, loving community… The whole place is really in mourning right now,” hotelier Jason Henzell told the Jamaica Observer Friday afternoon.

Police report that about 12:20 am Kenyan Mazola WA Mwashighadi was shot and injured at Billy’s Bay during a robbery. He was taken to hospital where he succumbed to his injuries. A woman was also injured during the shooting and remains hospitalised.

Henzell said Mwashighadi chose to live in Treasure Beach due to his love for art.

“It was really because of the art and he saw here as a place that celebrated him. He saw where art was needed in the area and that he could have contributed towards that art movement,” said Henzell.

He added that Mwashighadi was actively involved in an art fair during Easter in Treasure Beach.

“He was one of the main artists who displayed their art work and people met him during that time. He was known and loved, because people always want to meet the artist whose work they are buying,” said Henzell.

Plans for Treasure Beach’s artistic development have also been affected by Mwashighadi’s murder.

“He was an extremely talented artist. He was working with us to bring more art to Treasure Beach in terms of galleries and places to display art. The news of his passing… really shocked me to the core. Our condolence go out to his family and friends,” said Henzell.

The hotelier and community leader said he has been in communication with the police.

“It is a very unfortunate situation and I know for a fact that the high command of the police force are taking this loss very seriously. They vowed to do all they can to bring the perpetrators to justice,” he said.

When asked if electricity has been restored to Treasure Beach, Henzell said the Jamaica Public Service Company (JPS) has been working in the area.

“The JPS is setting up a substation down here. We are expecting power to come on this weekend,” he said, while pointing out that other relief workers are also in the area.

He said plans are now advanced to have more businesses reopened in the coming weeks in Treasure Beach as he sought to reassure residents and visitors.

“We are looking to reopen Jakes on December 18… We just have to support each other and be vigilant, but also know that we have to be united around trying to keep ourselves safe and our visitors safe as much as possible,” said Henzell.

HENZELL… emotions are high and people are really hurting Photo: Kasey Williams