Tourism Ministry Deploys Special Constables with Arrest Powers to Stem Beach Robberies

The Ministry of Tourism has stepped up security enforcement across Antigua and Barbuda’s most popular beaches, deploying newly commissioned special constables with full arrest powers in response to a troubling rise in robberies targeting visitors.

Ten special constables have now been assigned to high-traffic coastal areas including Ffryes Beach, where recent incidents triggered concern among hoteliers, tour operators, and the wider tourism industry. The move marks a significant escalation in the government’s security strategy as the peak tourism season gets underway.

St. Clair Soleyn, Director of Policy and Planning in the Ministry of Tourism, confirmed to Antigua.news that the deployment is part of a coordinated effort to curb criminal activity and reassure both residents and visitors that Antigua and Barbuda’s beaches remain safe.

“These special constables work along with regular police officers and have full authority to intervene and make arrests,” Soleyn said.

“Their presence alone helps deter individuals who target tourists.”

The move comes as the government intensifies its focus on visitor safety—especially given the country’s global branding that “The beach is just the beginning.”

Tourism officials say the recent spike in beach robberies represented an unacceptable threat to the national tourism product.

In addition to boots on the sand, the Ministry is rolling out new high-quality CCTV surveillance systems across several beach corridors, giving law enforcement enhanced tools to detect suspicious activity and support investigations when incidents occur.

“As it is now, I must give kudos to the police,” Soleyn noted, pointing to the growing cooperation between tourism authorities and law enforcement.

“The cameras don’t lie—they provide evidence, and they help us track and respond quickly.”
The surveillance upgrades will be paired with increased mobile patrols, regular monitoring of beach access points, and closer coordination with businesses operating in the affected areas.

These actions form part of a wider security enhancement plan aimed at preserving Antigua and Barbuda’s reputation as a premier, safe destination—especially during its busiest period, when visitor arrivals climb sharply.

The Ministry is also working with the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda, hotel associations, and community stakeholders to develop a long-term framework for beach security, including rapid response protocols and better lighting in vulnerable areas.

With high season now underway, the government says safeguarding visitors is non-negotiable.