Colonel Croft Dismisses Claims of A&B Ties to Maduro Case

Director of ONDCP Colonel Edward Croft is squashing any speculation that Antigua and Barbuda or any of its officials are implicated in the US Department of Justice indictment against the post-president, Nicolas Maduro-Moros of Venezuela.

There was some speculation in the media that several Caribbean leaders were involved. There has been no word on who they are, but Colonel Croft is clarifying that this does not include Antigua and Barbuda.

Colonel Croft was speaking at Friday’s National Security Council press conference.

“We have no information to indicate that that is so. We know that there’s quite a bit of speculation in the media, and so part of safeguarding Antigua and Barbuda’s reputation is to come and clear the air to ensure that Antigua and Barbuda, its officials and its leaders, that we have no information to indicate that anyone is involved or the country is involved in that allegation.”

“As the professional heads of the agencies responsible for national security and law enforcement, we state unequivocally that Antigua and Barbuda has worked vigorously and consistently to counter narcotics trafficking and that this sustained effort is reflected in independent international assessments that classify the country as low risk for such activity,” Col Croft stated.

According to Col Croft, based on recent analysis Antigua and Barbuda is classified as a low-risk jurisdiction.

Despite that analysis, he shared that his office and other colleagues will continue to safeguard the nation.

“Notwithstanding this positive assessment, drug trafficking, fraud and firearms related crimes remain priority concerns.

The public is assured that law enforcement, border control agencies, and the defense force remain fully engaged and vigilant to protect the nation, preserve the integrity of its financial and border systems, and contribute responsibly to regional and international security,” Col Croft added.