A BRITISH woman and man on a Caribbean cruise were recovering in hospital today after being shot by an armed robber on Barbados.
Horrified tourists rushed to the unidentified pair’s aid after hearing shots and screams in a popular tourist spot in the island’s capital, Bridgetown.
The attack shortly before 2pm on Sunday came as they strolled back to their liner after a day of sightseeing on shore.
Police said the male victim, in his 70s, was shot in the left pelvis, while the woman, in her 50s, was hit in the right thigh after the gunman grabbed her handbag.
Both were rushed by ambulance to the city’s Queen Elizabeth Hospital where they were being treated for non-life-threatening gunshot wounds last night.
Officers from the Royal Barbados Police Force said the attacker escaped with the bag and fled before cops arrived.
It is thought the robber fired after the man fought back. Both victims were “comfortable” last night.
A police spokesman said: “Two British tourists, a couple, received gunshot wounds. It appears the incident was a robbery, the female’s handbag was stolen.
“They are currently receiving medical attention but are not in a life threatening condition.
“They are talking to our detectives to assist with the investigation.”
Around 250,000 British tourists visit Barbados every year and attacks are rare, according to the Foreign and Commonwealth Office.
It’s the favourite holiday playground of a galaxy of stars including TV mogul Simon Cowell and Man United ace Wayne Rooney while singers Sir Cliff Richard, Cilla Black and TV host Gary Lineker have luxury homes there.
A spokesman for the Foreign and Commonwealth Office said: “We are aware of an incident involving two British tourists in Bridgetown, Barbados. We are providing consular assistance.”
Barbados Commissioner of Police, Darwin Dottin warned tourists were being targeted by robbers last Thursday after authorities were accused of playing down incidents to protect holiday trade.