Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda Launches Development Training in Proximity Policing

St. John’s, Antigua and Barbuda – April 9, 2025 — The Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda has embarked upon a series of development training programs in Proximity Policing, reinforcing its commitment to modern, community-centered policing across the nation.

These trainings equip officers with practical tools to strengthen community relations, improve public safety, and proactively address the root causes of crime. Proximity Policing—a refined approach to Community Policing—focuses on three critical pillars: Permanence, Partnership, and Problem-Solving.

The key elements are outlined as follows:

PERMANENCE: Officers are assigned to specific geographic zones for extended periods, encouraging familiarity with residents, environments, and local issues. This includes foot patrols, mobile patrol teams, and static police posts strategically located within the communities.

PARTNERSHIP: Officers are trained to work side-by-side with residents, community groups, and local leaders to develop collaborative solutions to public safety concerns. The training also emphasizes the importance of connecting the public with available support services and resources.

PROBLEM-SOLVING: Officers learn to identify the underlying conditions that contribute to crime—such as accessible targets, ideal environments, and motivated offenders. Through community collaboration, officers will take targeted actions to reduce crime, ease fear, and combat social decay.

This initiative places officers in the heart of the communities they serve, particularly in vulnerable areas, ensuring a visible, responsive, and accessible police presence.

Acting Commissioner Everton Jeffers praised the initiative, stating:

” Proximity Policing is not just a tactic—it’s a long-term commitment to our people. This training ensures our officers are not only enforcers of the law but also trusted partners and problem-solvers in every community. We are dedicated to building lasting trust, ensuring safety, and promoting excellence in service.” It also represents a major step forward in the modernization of our policing approach. Proximity Policing is about presence—it’s about connection and collaboration, while building lasting relationships and support safer, stronger communities across Antigua and Barbuda.”

Assistant Commissioner of Police, Mr. Samuel Joseph, who heads “A” Division, is spearheading the training. Officers attached to St. Johns, Grays Farm, and Langfords Police Stations, along with officers from the Golden Grove, West Bus Station, and Heritage Quay Outposts all participated in the first session of training held at the St. Johns Police Station on Tuesday, 8 April.

Visit the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda—RPFAB Facebook page to follow updates and learn more about our community initiatives.