National Security Minister Sir Steadroy Benjamin is urging the public to cooperate with law enforcement authorities and comply with traffic restrictions as Antigua and Barbuda undertakes a major three-day security exercise ahead of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM).

The exercise, which runs from Wednesday, July 8 to Friday, July 10, is part of the country’s preparations for hosting CHOGM in November. It is designed to test the readiness of security agencies and emergency responders, while evaluating the effectiveness of plans that will be used during the international summit.

Sir Steadroy said motorists should prepare for the greatest traffic disruptions on Wednesday between 8:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m. and again on Friday from 6:00 a.m. until noon.

During those periods, vehicular access will be prohibited within a designated Red Zone in St. John’s. The restricted area stretches from Newgate Street to the north, Corn Alley to the west, Parliament Drive to the east and New Street to the south.

Drivers are also being advised to expect delays along roads leading to the American University of Antigua (AUA), hotels in the island’s northern tourism corridor, as well as on Sir George Walter Highway, Sir Sidney Walling Highway, Old Parham Road and Friars Hill Road.

The minister appealed to residents to remain patient and follow the directions of police officers and other security personnel throughout the exercise, stressing that the temporary inconveniences are necessary to ensure the country’s preparedness for one of the region’s most significant diplomatic events.

The security drill forms part of a series of readiness exercises being conducted by the National Security Committee as Antigua and Barbuda finalizes plans to welcome Commonwealth leaders and delegates later this year. Authorities say the simulation will help identify any operational gaps and strengthen coordination among the agencies responsible for securing the summit.