The incident was subsequently reported to the owners of the machinery, who then contacted the police. In a statement, the company confirmed that the excavator “had been so badly burned that it cannot be repaired” and expressed the belief that the fire was deliberately set. The owners also voiced concern about the significant financial loss suffered as a result of the incident.
Law enforcement officials have since launched a full investigation. No arrests have been made, and police say no definitive cause has yet been established.
As part of their inquiries, officers questioned Dudley, who lives in the John Hughes area and has been outspoken about mining activity in the community. Dudley told Antigua.news that he had no involvement in the destruction of the equipment.
Dudley has previously raised environmental concerns about excavation and mining operations in and around John Hughes, arguing that the activity could negatively impact the surrounding ecosystem.
Police are appealing to anyone with information that may assist the investigation to come forward.