Police and Defence Force to Expand Armed Patrols Amid Crime Concerns

Antigua and Barbuda is expected to see an expanded police and military presence as the Government intensifies its response to gun crime, robberies and repeat offending.

Prime Minister Gaston Browne said he has instructed the Police Commissioner and the Chief of Defence Staff to deploy Defence Force personnel alongside police officers on patrol.

The expanded operation is expected to begin this week and will place additional armed law-enforcement personnel in communities and other strategic locations.

Browne said the country requires “all hands on deck” and called for more visible and assertive patrols.

He argued that police and soldiers must be properly equipped to confront criminals carrying high-powered weapons.

The Prime Minister said officers have the administration’s support when lawfully defending themselves and the public, but his comments also highlighted the need for force to remain necessary and proportionate.

Browne called on the police intelligence units to increase their work within communities and urged residents to report people involved in criminal activity.

He reminded the public that information leading to the recovery of an illegal firearm can attract a reward of up to EC$5,000 through Crime Stoppers.

A conviction is not required for the reward, he said, provided the information results in a firearm being removed from the streets.

Browne also encouraged residents to use anonymous reporting channels, saying the identities of people who provide information through the programme are protected.

During the programme, police officials acknowledged that repeat offenders remain a significant concern and said public cooperation is critical to solving robberies, shootings and firearm offences.

The Prime Minister said former offenders, particularly those previously convicted of gun crimes, should also be closely monitored to reduce the risk of further offences.