Immigration Minister Distances Antigua from Rowley Airport Controversy
Immigration Minister Sir Steadroy Benjamin has moved to distance Antigua from the controversial airport incident involving former Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Dr. Keith Rowley, insisting the country bears no responsibility for the detention.
“I have been informed by immigration authorities that no such thing came from immigration,” Benjamin stated to Observer Media.
The minister further emphasized Antigua’s neutral stance, telling the Trinidad Daily Express that “Antigua and Barbuda has no difficulty with Mr Rowley and would do nothing to prevent his free movement from Antigua to any other jurisdiction.”
Benjamin attributed the incident to routine processing delays rather than any deliberate action by local authorities, stating that “from my information, his processing was delayed.”
The controversy erupted after Rowley revealed during a Monday press conference at his private residence that he had been detained for questioning at V.C. Bird International Airport.
The former prime minister described the experience as humiliating, claiming he was flagged as a criminal suspect after his name allegedly appeared on an Interpol watch list while traveling to neighbouring Montserrat.
Adding to the confusion, the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) issued a statement Monday denying any involvement in placing Rowley’s name on an Interpol watch list.
This story was first published by Antigua News on : antigua.news/2025/07/25/immigration-minister-distances-antigua-from-rowley-airport-controversy. © 2025 Antigua News. Republication without permission is not allowed.
About the author
The Editorial Staff refers to all reporters employed by Antigua.news. When an article is not an original creation of Antigua.news—such as when it is based on a press release, other media articles, letters to the editor, or court decisions—one of our staff members is responsible for overseeing its publication.
Read our editorial standards and corrections policy. Spotted an error? Contact the newsroom.
More from Antigua and Barbuda
View section
Emergency Response Teams to Stage Mass Casualty Drill at Scotts Hill Ahead of CHOGM
Emergency personnel will simulate a serious vehicle crash to test hospital readiness, while a separate evacuation exercise is planned for the CHOGM opening ceremony venue.
By Cory Wayland
Karim Edwards’ Trial Over Fatal Friars Hill Road Crash Postponed Until December
More than four years after the collision that claimed the life of medical student Kenneth Mathew and left Priyanjana Das with life-altering injuries, the accused driver is still awaiting trial.
By Cory Wayland
Jury Rejects Self-Defence Claim And Finds Kareem Simon Guilty Of Dennis Edwards’ Murder
Jury rejects Simon’s self-defence claim after video footage reveals details of the fatal confrontation on Lower All Saints Road.
By Cory Wayland
Tourism Ministry and ABTA Working with Bert Kirchner on Proposed Louis Tomlinson Campaign
Minister Michael Freeland has held talks on the project, which aims to turn international exposure into visitor interest and bookings.
By Shermain Bique-Charles
Comments (2)
Apex Jones July 25, 2025, 6:22 PM
Gweneth July 25, 2025, 7:46 PM