Police Commissioner Atlee Rodney has provided what the Cabinet said was a comprehensive overview of the crime situation in the country.

The Commissioner was invited to the Cabinet meeting along with the Top Brass of the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda (RPFAB) on Wednesday.

During the meeting, the Commissioner gave a detailed update on crimes and arrests in Antigua and Barbuda in 2023 compared to previous years.

It was reported that there has been a negligible change in petty crime between 2023 and 2022. However, there has been a small reduction in road fatalities between both years.

The Commissioner also highlighted that trained dogs are being used to catch those who attempt to import illicit drugs, firearms, and other contraband.

Additionally, the police force has eight officers trained to operate the K-9 unit.

In preparation for the United Nations Small Island Developing States Conference, to be held from May 27th to 30th, the police force is gearing up to accommodate approximately 5,000 delegates who are expected to spend almost a week in several hotels across the island.

 Furthermore, the police force is responsible for collecting revenue for various activities and has collected over EC$1 million.

The Superintendent of the Fire Department also addressed the Cabinet regarding the need for laddered trucks.

As many new buildings being constructed in Antigua and Barbuda are no longer single-storey, more laddered trucks are needed to assist with firefighting efforts.