By Aabigayle McIntosh
Around 30,080 criminal cases have been officially reported to the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda this year, averaging between seven to eight incidents daily.
According to Superintendent Lisborn Michael, the second in command at the Criminal Investigation Department.
“We had 1019 Break-ins, 1017 Larceny, 70 Woundings, 383 Malicious Damage, 19 Unlawful Sexual Intercourse, 22 Shooting Incidents, 113 Robberies,” Michael shared
Certain communities, such as Villa, Point, Cashew Hill, and Grays Farm, are experiencing a notable increase in break-ins, with a daily occurrence being almost guaranteed.
The issue of unlicensed firearms remains a significant concern, with nearly 40 such weapons recovered this year, all reported as stolen by their licensed owners.
Superintendent Michael emphasized the alarming impact on young people, noting instances where individuals did not survive past the age of 20 due to the illegal use of firearms.
In addition to these challenges, there is growing apprehension about transnational crimes and various forms of criminal behavior. “Transnational crime, it is a case that you have a number of offences that are creating some problems, we are talking money laundering, human smuggling, firearms and ammunition and them we have the issued of cybercrime, illegal substances, cybercrimes which can affect commerce in any country,” Michael said.
Despite the concerning statistics, law enforcement officers have achieved success with 797 arrests recorded so far this year. The efforts of the Royal Police Force demonstrate their commitment to addressing and mitigating the various criminal challenges facing Antigua and Barbuda.
Wow, that is a large figure for a small country. I am sure all the crimes were not reported or recorded. For a population under 100,000 according to the last census, 30,080 criminal cases is too much. We need a better security crime fighting system. upgrade in the police training, more security cameras installed interior and exterior of both private homes and In the public. That figure reported out of the police department need to reduce by 80% to 90% significantly, it’s way too high. Parents training your children to be better citizens and have pride and love for their country. We are damaged the characteristics of our beloved country, Antigua and Barbuda. No country is perfect but we can reduce that crime figure i figure in 2024 and going forward.