Cabinet has announced a nationwide crackdown on the wearing of ski masks in public, warning that police will begin actively removing the prohibited apparel from individuals found wearing them outside of legitimate work-related purposes.

Speaking at Thursday’s post-Cabinet briefing, Chief of Staff Lionel “Max” Hurst said the government has become increasingly concerned by the growing number of people—particularly young men—wearing ski masks in public.

“You would notice that there is an increase in the individuals who are wearing ski masks in Antigua and Barbuda, for unknown reasons. It’s probably a fashion statement by some of our young people,” Hurst said.

He reminded the public that ski masks are prohibited apparel under the law and said law enforcement officers have been instructed to enforce the regulations more aggressively.

“The Cabinet and the police wish to advise the public that they will be mounting a rigorous campaign to rid the country of what are illegal ski masks on the streets of Antigua and Barbuda,” he stated.

Hurst acknowledged that some workers, including those in the construction sector, may legitimately possess ski masks while carrying out their duties. However, he said that does not permit them to wear the masks in public once they have finished work.

“If you have a ski mask, the police will be removing that from your person,” he warned.

He added that anyone who resists police officers during the enforcement exercise could face further action, noting that officers have legal authority to remove the prohibited item if necessary.

The announcement forms part of a broader public safety discussion within Cabinet, which also examined the recent increase in jewellery-snatching incidents and other street crimes.

Officials say the intensified enforcement is intended to improve public security and deter criminals who often use face coverings to conceal their identities while committing offences.