St Lucia minister apologises for gay attack on tourists

St Lucia's Tourism Minister Allen Chastanet has insisted the country welcomes gay visitors, after three American men were attacked and robbed in their rented holiday home in the mountains in Soufriere.

He called the attack 'unacceptable' and has apologised to the holidaymakers.

One of the victims, Michael Baker, told reporters how he and his companion, Nick Smith, were showering when they heard their friend Todd Wiggins screaming in another part of the property. Mr Baker said he left the bathroom to find masked men beating Wiggins.

According to Mr Baker, the attackers then beat and tied up all three men.

He says the robbers made slurs against gays, white people and Americans, and threatened to kill them if they didn't leave the island.

Police say two suspects have been arrested, and three more are being sought.