Antigua and Barbuda police to introduce real-time licence plate tracking technology

The Antigua and Barbuda Police Force is poised to implement cutting-edge automated license plate recognition (ALPR) technology in 2025, marking a significant technological advancement in the nation’s law enforcement capabilities. Commissioner Everton Jeffers confirmed the deployment would transform traditional policing methodologies by enabling real-time offense identification during patrol operations.

This sophisticated surveillance system, already operational in numerous United States jurisdictions and select Caribbean territories, utilizes high-speed cameras and artificial intelligence algorithms to scan vehicle registrations instantaneously. As vehicles pass police units, the technology cross-references plates against comprehensive databases containing stolen vehicle reports and registration irregularities.

Commissioner Jeffers emphasized the strategic shift from reactive response to proactive crime prevention, stating: ‘This technological integration will fundamentally enhance our operational effectiveness in combating automotive-related criminal activities.’ The system automatically alerts officers when detecting vehicles associated with theft, fraudulent plates, or other registration discrepancies.

Law enforcement officials anticipate substantial improvements in arrest rates for vehicle crimes following implementation. The announcement arrives during heightened security preparations for seasonal crime patterns, particularly addressing concerns about increased criminal activity during Christmas and New Year celebrations. Authorities believe the technology will serve as both investigative tool and deterrent measure against transportation-related offenses.