Dear Editor,
It is becoming increasingly frustrating to witness how some members of our police force in Antigua and Barbuda conduct their “stop and search” exercises. While no one disputes the importance of law enforcement in maintaining public safety, there must be a level of common sense and consideration when these operations are carried out.
To block or delay traffic at 7:30 a.m., right when parents are trying to get their children to school and workers are rushing to reach their jobs on time, is not only inconsiderate, it’s counterproductive.
That is one of the busiest times of the day, and instead of ensuring order, these exercises end up creating chaos, unnecessary frustration, and in some cases, even aggression.
If the goal is to reduce crime or find offenders, there are smarter and more strategic ways to do so. Conducting searches during morning rush hour does not send the message of efficiency or professionalism; it sends the message of poor planning and lack of empathy for the public.
The police must remember they are here to serve and protect, not to disrupt and inconvenience. Morning traffic checkpoints should be limited to urgent operations only — for instance, if there is a high-level alert or ongoing pursuit. Otherwise, these activities should be done during off-peak hours, late evenings, or strategically at night, when they cause the least interference with the lives of law-abiding citizens.
We all want a safer Antigua and Barbuda, but safety should not come at the expense of common sense and respect for the people. I urge the Police Administration to review its procedures and apply some practical thinking. The way to build public trust is not by flexing authority, but by exercising wisdom.
Sincerely,
Frustrated Driver
So the criminals can know to do their movements during high traffic times and not off-peak times. Ok….it is done at random times during the day and usually not for long periods because people also usually send messages all over to alert others not to drive particular places when police are on the road.
If criminals know the best time to escape authority, surely that would defeat the object of stop and search.
I agree it is inconvenient, however, if someone is caught with an illegal fire arm, that could well save someone’s life.
By the time I get my first trip through those roadblocks, I’ve already lost business. Nobody minds police doing their job, but not in the middle of rush hour traffic.
Absolutely agree! These stop and searches during peak hours are madness. The roads are already congested add police checkpoints and everything grinds to a halt.
Yes! My daughter was late to school twice last week because of one of these “operations.” I left home early, but still ended up stuck for 25 minutes. It’s unfair to parents and students.
Let’s be for real right now! The police operations are to be done at anytime deemed necessary! First and foremost criminals are getting away because of people who disputes police operations or send out messages to let criminals know where the police are conducting searches.
It’s about visibility. Criminals need to see police presence. If they only operate late at night, offenders will adjust their movements accordingl
I understand the frustration, but people need to remember the police are just doing their job. When something goes wrong, everybody asks, “Where were the police?” They can’t win either way