Police stations throughout Antigua and Barbuda have been ordered to operate 24 hours a day as the Government rolls out a wider package of measures targeting violent crime, youth offending and the protection of vulnerable residents.

Acting Prime Minister and Attorney General Sir Steadroy Benjamin told Cabinet that the Commissioner of Police has been advised to ensure the immediate implementation of around-the-clock operations.

The decision is intended to make police services more accessible and allow residents to report crimes or seek assistance at any hour.

Cabinet said stronger communication between communities and law-enforcement officers will be critical as the country responds to recent firearm-related incidents.

The Government also confirmed that the remaining CCTV cameras from a batch of 200 earmarked for the national surveillance network are being installed this week in targeted areas.

The cameras are expected to assist officers in preventing and detecting crime, identifying suspects and gathering evidence for investigations.

Beyond policing, Cabinet agreed that the country’s response must address the social conditions contributing to youth violence.

The Attorney General’s Chambers will review legislation dealing with the responsibility of parents for the conduct of their children, with particular attention to how the provisions can be enforced by the police.

Cabinet said parents and guardians must know what children under their care are doing and intervene when there are signs that a young person is becoming involved in dangerous or unlawful behaviour.

The review will determine whether existing laws are adequate and whether they can be applied more effectively as part of the response to youth violence and delinquency.

The Government said its approach will also include conflict-resolution programmes, positive youth engagement, family intervention and opportunities that steer young people away from criminal activity.

Cabinet stressed that police enforcement alone cannot resolve the problem, noting that families, schools, churches, community organisations and social-service agencies all have roles to play.