LISTEN: Government to allocate $1 million for new validation officers to tackle Customs theft
Prime Minister Gaston Browne has announced that the government will allocate $1 million in next year’s national budget to recruit and train private citizens as validation officers to strengthen oversight and curb theft within the Customs Department.
The move comes amid what Browne described as “endemic corruption and widespread leakage” within the system, which he said has cost the country millions in lost revenue and undermined public trust.
Under the new initiative, independent validation officers will be stationed to spot-check containers and monitor import verification procedures, ensuring that goods cleared at the ports are accurately declared and assessed.
The officers will not be regular public servants but specially contracted civilians.
This story was first published by Antigua News on : antigua.news/2025/10/21/listen-government-to-allocate-1-million-for-new-validation-officers-to-tackle-customs-theft. © 2025 Antigua News. Republication without permission is not allowed.

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Comments (8)
Yanick October 21, 2025, 3:36 PM
NotaBot October 21, 2025, 3:38 PM
Concerned Antiguan October 21, 2025, 4:24 PM
Juju Bee October 21, 2025, 4:36 PM
Watching@ October 21, 2025, 7:35 PM
You have no credibility, sir,and now that you’re neck deep in “vehicle gate,” you think you can talk your way out of it.
Pay attention folks. He promised security cameras; where are they? YIDA was supposed to bring millions; economic powerhouse; just give me a break with this clown.
Most of the entities involved fall under you. You can’t feign ignorance here. Wheel and come again.
Lena October 21, 2025, 9:23 PM
Anonymous October 22, 2025, 8:48 AM
Anonymous October 22, 2025, 11:57 AM