Police Express Regret After Dog Fatally Shot During All Saints Search

The Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda has expressed regret after an officer fatally shot a dog during the execution of a search warrant at a residential property in All Saints on Friday.

In a statement issued on Saturday, the Police Administration said the incident occurred during a joint operation at approximately 4:50 a.m. on October 16.

Officers from the Criminal Investigations Department Task Force, Special Services Unit, Gang and Guns Suppression Unit, and K-9 Unit participated in the search.

According to the police account, officers encountered several dogs, including pit bulls, a Rottweiler and a Bullmastiff, displaying aggressive behaviour as they attempted to enter the premises.

Police said officers initially employed less-lethal measures to control the situation and prevent injuries. However, one dog reportedly continued advancing aggressively, prompting an officer to discharge a firearm. The animal was fatally wounded.

The statement did not identify the breed of the dog killed, specify the less-lethal measures used or detail whether other animals sustained injuries.

“The Police Administration deeply regrets that the circumstances surrounding this operation resulted in harm to the animals, particularly the unfortunate loss of one of the dogs,” the statement said.

The force pointed to its own K-9 Unit in acknowledging the importance of dogs as working animals, companions and valued members of families.

It also stated that it does not condone unnecessary harm or cruelty to animals and remains committed to animal welfare and professionalism in carrying out its duties.

The statement did not disclose the purpose or outcome of the search, or indicate whether a review of the firearm discharge would be conducted.