Families Sue US Government Over ‘Unlawful’ Military Strike Killing Two Men

Families of two Trinidadian men, Chad Joseph and Rishi Samaroo, have filed a lawsuit against the U.S. government. They allege wrongful death and extrajudicial killings after the U.S. military conducted a strike on October 14, 2022, targeting a boat believed to carry drug traffickers. The two men were reportedly returning home to Trinidad from Venezuela when the incident occurred. This case raises significant legal and ethical questions about U.S. military operations in the Caribbean.

Details of the Incident

Chad Joseph, 26, and Rishi Samaroo, 41, were both working in Venezuela prior to the incident. Joseph had been fishing and working on a farm, while Samaroo had also been employed in agriculture. Both men were planning to return to their families in Trinidad.

Timeline of Events

• September 2022: U.S. military strikes commence against alleged drug trafficking vessels in the Caribbean.
• October 12, 2022: Joseph communicates with his wife, assuring her he found a boat to return home.
• October 14, 2022: U.S. military conducts a strike on a boat believed to carry narcotics; families suspect Joseph and Samaroo were aboard.

Claims in the Lawsuit

The lawsuit argues that the military strikes were “unprecedented and manifestly unlawful.” It asserts that neither Joseph nor Samaroo had any ties to drug cartels. The families accuse the U.S. government of carrying out “premeditated and intentional killings” without just cause.

Legal Context

This action may be the first instance where a judge will examine the legality of the strikes under U.S. law. The complaint cites the Death on the High Seas Act and the Alien Tort Statute, allowing for wrongful death claims by foreign nationals. The families seek both compensatory and punitive damages for their losses.

Government’s Position

Despite the lawsuit, the U.S. administration maintains that the operations are essential for combating drug trafficking and protecting American citizens. Defense Secretary and other officials have repeatedly labeled those killed in the strikes as “narcoterrorists.” However, the evidence supporting these claims remains unsubstantiated.

Public Sentiment and Reactions

The families are represented by organizations such as the American Civil Liberties Union and the Center for Constitutional Rights. They contend that the legal framework justifying the operations lacks transparency and accountability, questioning the government’s rationale for the strikes.

Conclusion

The lawsuit filed by Joseph’s and Samaroo’s families may set a critical precedent in assessing the legality of military actions against suspected drug traffickers. It highlights the need for clear evidence and adherence to legal protocols in conducting operations abroad.