By Shenia Roberts
Journal Staff Writer

The Lyford Cay International School released a statement on Wednesday
following an investigation launched by police into a social media matter between
ninth grade students. This comes after Audrius Barzdukas, head of school at LCIS,
received a report of a concerning social media post made by an upper school
student.
Several ninth grade students engaged in a conversation over social media
platforms referencing violence and weapons. Assistant Superintendent of Police
Chaswell Hanna confirmed yesterday that the dialogue described as
“inappropriate social media banter” posed no immediate threat to students or
staff.”
ASP Hanna stated that there was no physical weapon in possession but clarified
that the alleged weapons were simply google images shared. He further explained
saying “the long and short of it is that it is just inappropriate social media banter,
some of it involving some Google search photographs of some weapons, but
there is no actual weapon. At no time did a student bring a weapon to campus or
anything of that sort”.
In addition, ASP Hanna also informed press that all involved parties are actively
aiding the police with their investigations saying “we spoke to all of the parties
concerned, school administrators, parents and the students who are the subject
of this alleged safety concern, and they are all assisting the police with this
investigation.” Subsequently, he went on to reassure staff, students and parents
that the police force Is working closely with officials to monitor the situation
Considering this event the Royal Bahamas Police Force (RBPF) advised all parents
and school administrators to monitor the activity of students on media platforms.
ASP Hanna advised both parents and staff to pay close attention to Instagram,
Snapchat and WhatsApp as these were the main platforms used.
Consequently, Audrius Barzdukas head of LCIS expressed that the school is now
making a special effort to increase security measures and provide resources. He explained that they are increasing security on the upper school campus,
monitoring socials, and making counselling services readily available.
Barzdukas says that the experience highlighted an issue we are faced with globally
with young people. However, he expressed what mattered most was the safety of
the staff and students. He concluded by reassuring the staff, students, parents
and public that “It is safe for students and teachers to be at school.” After the
RBPF completed their investigations, it was determined that there was no
imminent threat posed.