Opposition Leader to Face Police Questions This Morning Over Arson in Morris Bay

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Opposition Leader to Face Police Questions This Morning Over Arson in Morris Bay
Opposition Leader Jamale Pringle

Police have formally asked Opposition Leader Jamale Pringle to present himself for questioning at 10 a.m. today, Boxing Day, in relation to their investigation into the destruction of Antigua Public Utilities Authority (APUA) telecommunications equipment at Morris Bay, Old Road.

Opposition Leader to Face Police Questions This Morning Over Arson in Morris Bay
Destroyed APUA project materials at Morris Bay in Old Road

Damage to the materials disrupted preparatory work on the subsea cable project, drawing widespread attention and prompting a police investigation. Authorities have clarified that a summons for questioning does not equate to an arrest at this stage.

Under Antigua and Barbuda’s Constitution, anyone taken into custody must be brought before a court within 48 hours, excluding Sundays and public holidays. With Boxing Day itself a public holiday and the following weekend, observers are concerned that any potential detention could extend into next week.

Pringle, speaking to Antigua.news described the situation as politically motivated, asserting that the decision to summon him is part of a broader campaign to target opposition figures rather than a neutral law-enforcement action.

The United Progressive Party (UPP) has likewise criticised the handling of the matter, saying the developments risk deepening political divides and eroding public confidence if perceived as partisan. He is also the MP for All Saints East and St Luke.

This story was first published by Antigua News on : antigua.news/2025/12/26/opposition-leader-to-face-police-questions-this-morning-over-arson-in-morris-bay. © 2025 Antigua News. Republication without permission is not allowed.

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Shermain Bique-Charles

About the author

Shermain Bique-Charles is an accomplished journalist with over 24 years of dynamic experience in the industry. Renowned for her exceptional storytelling and investigative skills, she has garnered numerous awards that highlight her commitment to journalistic integrity and excellence. Her work not only informs but also inspires, making her a respected voice in the field.

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Comments (19)

  • Respect December 26, 2025, 9:40 AM

    No one is above the law! I thought the UPP who is demanding accountability would also make themselves accountable! If Mr Pringle was a part of the crime, then the police must take action.
    Reply
  • Mr Henry December 26, 2025, 9:42 AM

    Let the chips fall whenever they land!
    Reply
    • Frank December 26, 2025, 7:40 PM

      Okay, the equipment was damaged. The MP was taken in for questioning. What is he accused of? Did he damaged the equipment? Did he order someone to destroy the equipment? Does he know who damaged the equipment? Did he fail yo prevent someone from damaging the equipment? Unless thr authorities can answer these questions in the affirmative, it is a political witch hunt!
      Reply
  • John Public December 26, 2025, 9:45 AM

    This is why Harold Lovell should be the leader of the UPP. He would never be involved with such a criminal action that destroys public property.
    Reply
  • Juju Bee December 26, 2025, 9:47 AM

    He may not have been directly involved but they did it in retaliation to the incident involving him and DCA
    Reply
  • Faithful National December 26, 2025, 9:49 AM

    The tax payers of Antigua and Barbuda are the ones who lose! This willful destruction of Public Property demands not only answers, but bringing the persons responsible to justice! I don’t care who it is! They must pay for this serious public crime!
    Reply
  • Frqnk December 26, 2025, 9:57 AM

    Brother Pringle is the best choice to be leader of the UPP. You ABLP supporters stop this nonsense about the failed and defeated Harold Lovell becoming leader. And for the record if Lovell was leader worse would have occurred! Mr Pringle cannot be held accountable for what his supporters did!
    Reply
    • Amethisyah December 26, 2025, 10:12 AM

      The police to question the leader of the opposition, due to a radio comment by Gaston Brown! Not because there is any evidence pointing to Mr Pringle. This clearly shows Antigua is a police state and the commissioner is a stooge, who does not deserve to be in such an important position.
      Reply
  • Lucky Dubie December 26, 2025, 9:59 AM

    Just a diversion because he is not putting the vehicle gate to rest.
    Reply
  • Justice December 26, 2025, 10:01 AM

    You all are missing the point! Knowing about a committed crime or supporting the criminal activities is as bad as committing the crime. This is not about political parties. It is about upholding the law!
    Reply
    • Bobbler December 26, 2025, 6:41 PM

      Judgment will fall on everyone who does things and hide behind power. If Pringle guilty God knows and if the PM incite police then God know too
      Leave people to God
      Reply
  • Faithful National #1 December 26, 2025, 10:29 AM

    And why not? Pringle is NOT above the law! He broke the law in the first instance by illegally erecting his tent on public property. Then he criminally refused the OBEY the cautions of the DCA! Then he showed up on site amidst his rebellious incorrigible thugs daring the law enforcers to do their work. Of course haul his tail in for questioning! He is not even a recognized statesman yet, and just look at his conduct! Unfit for leadership of my beautiful country. He can lead the UPP clowns all he wants. He’s certainly NOT ready for Prime Time!
    Reply
  • Rage! December 26, 2025, 11:29 AM

    Police need to stop allowing themselves to be used by the Clown
    Reply
  • Supporter December 26, 2025, 11:46 AM

    If nothing comes out of the Vehicle Gate scandal then nothing will and should come out from this
    Reply
  • AM December 26, 2025, 12:05 PM

    Stand Firm, Honourable Pringle Stand firm, for storms will rise
    and shadows may gather against your name.
    But truth walks with those who dare
    to speak when others fear the flame. They may push you to silence,
    yet your voice was never bought.
    The weight of justice lifts you up,
    your courage forged by every thought. Let every step remind you
    that leadership is not comfort
    it is fire, it is grit,
    it is rising when the ground falls out beneath you. Hold your chin to the wind,
    for history honours those who refused to bow.
    You are not just one man standing
    a people stand behind you now. So press on through doubt and pressure,
    let conviction be your shield.
    A warrior does not retreat —
    he plants his banner in the field. Whatever battles lie ahead,
    remember this truth unshaken:
    Greatness is carved from struggle,
    and no voice of the people can be taken. Stand firm, Honourable Pringle
    your fight is not in vain.
    For every effort to silence you
    only strengthens your name.
    Reply
  • Waol December 26, 2025, 12:56 PM

    So, Mr. Preacherman, false prophet, you couldn’t find a better day to question the man.
    Reply
  • Veli December 26, 2025, 1:11 PM

    So one budget rebuttal have the PM so frightened.that didn’t bun us…it bun youl
    Reply
  • Concerned Antiguan December 26, 2025, 5:02 PM

    To sit down in parliament and talk about comrad. This is like cain and abel. Joseph and his brothers. Thats wicked and deep down we freaking know it.
    Reply
  • Informed citizen December 27, 2025, 1:26 AM

    Interesting timing… let’s see if the law is applied fairly or if this is political maneuvering
    Reply

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