Authorities in Antigua are launching a public appeal after an overnight break-in at a popular local retail outlet, Costume Island, that left the business with significant stolen property. The incident unfolded just 10 minutes before midnight on Sunday, April 26, at the brand’s Newgate Street location, where closed-circuit security cameras captured the entire break-in sequence.
Investigators from the country’s Criminal Investigation Department (CID) have released a full detailed description of the suspect to help community members identify him. The man is believed to stand approximately 5 feet 7 inches tall, has a fair complexion and a medium body frame. One of his most distinguishing features is a visible “TRUE LOVE” tattoo inked onto his right forearm, which makes him easily recognizable to anyone who may have seen him recently.
At the time of the burglary, the suspect was dressed in a distinctive red and white ALP shirt paired with straight black trousers. He wore a red New York-branded baseball cap, black athletic tennis shoes, and a multi-colored ski mask patterned with grey, black, and white that he used to conceal his facial features from security cameras.
During the course of the break-in, the suspect made off with a haul of assorted merchandise and personal items stored at the location. Stolen property includes multiple pieces of jewellery, a range of designer sunglasses, a silver Hewlett-Packard (HP) laptop, and a number of additional small accessories that belonged to the store.
Law enforcement officials are now urging every member of the public who may have any information related to the incident, or who recognizes the suspect from his description and distinguishing features, to come forward immediately with details. Tipsters can contact the CID directly at 462-3913, or reach out to the dedicated anonymous tip line at 728-7170. Officials have also reminded the public that knowingly possessing or selling stolen goods is a serious criminal offence in Antigua, and anyone found linked to the stolen property will face criminal prosecution.