Benjamin: Gun Violence Must End as Security Chiefs Head to Emergency Crime Meeting
National Security Minister Sir Steadroy Benjamin says the recent string of gun-related incidents in Antigua and Barbuda must come to an end, as senior representatives of the country’s security agencies prepare to meet Monday to consider measures to tackle rising crime.
“We want to address this matter in a serious way as we cannot afford to have criminals disrupt the lives of ordinary citizens, nor must we allow them to tarnish Antigua and Barbuda’s reputation as a safe destination to travel and to do business,” Sir Steadroy said.
Representatives from the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda, Immigration Department, Customs and Excise Division and the Office of National Drug and Money Laundering Control Policy (ONDCP) are expected to participate in the high-level discussions.
The meeting was summoned by Prime Minister Gaston Browne, who chairs the Cabinet, amid growing concern over a recent series of shootings, several of which are believed to be gang-related.
Browne announced the meeting during his Browne and Browne Show on Saturday while discussing crime and the shooting near the West Bus Station last week, which left two young men injured.
According to Sir Steadroy, the objective is to bring the country’s security agencies together to reach broad agreement on measures that can be implemented to confront the problem.
This story was first published by Antigua News on : antigua.news/2026/08/10/benjamin-gun-violence-must-end-as-security-chiefs-head-to-emergency-crime-meeting. © 2026 Antigua News. Republication without permission is not allowed.

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.
Read our editorial standards and corrections policy. Spotted an error? Contact the newsroom.
More from Antigua and Barbuda
View section
Multimillion-Dollar Potters Transformation to Deliver Major Sporting and Community Hub
Renamed Harrison Potters Sports Centre will feature an Olympic-sized pool, expanded sporting facilities and new opportunities for students, athletes and small businesses.
By Shermain Bique-Charles
Commonwealth Countries Offered Space-Based Data Storage Under New SMI and Lonestar Partnership
Announced during CHOGM 2026 in Antigua and Barbuda, the collaboration will explore storing important records in orbit, with a commitment to provide one terabyte of data storage to each Commonwealth country.
By Cory Wayland
Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell Secures Historic Second Term as NDC Wins 14 of Grenada’s 15 Seats
The National Democratic Congress expands its parliamentary majority from nine to 14 seats, leaving the opposition New National Party with just one constituency.
By Cory Wayland
Jennings Residents Benefit from Free Eye Screenings and Reading Glasses Under Prime Minister’s Vision Initiative
The community-based programme is providing free vision screenings and reading glasses to qualifying residents, with services continuing until Friday, November 6.
By Cory Wayland
Comments (4)
Essy August 10, 2026, 8:28 AM
#CrimeBoss August 10, 2026, 9:29 AM
Apex Jones August 10, 2026, 3:23 PM
Ash August 11, 2026, 12:14 PM