Antigua and Barbuda’s law enforcement authorities have declared an immediate and rigorous enforcement campaign against public smoking, with Deputy Police Commissioner Albert Wade announcing that offenders will face arrest and prosecution. The warning applies to smoking of any substance—including tobacco, cannabis, or other materials—in public areas throughout the twin-island nation.
In a formal public advisory, Wade expressed growing concern over persistent non-compliance with existing no-smoking legislation. He emphasized that the law prohibits smoking in all public spaces and applies equally to residents and visitors.
Significantly, the enforcement scope extends beyond individual smokers. Property owners, managers, or occupiers of public premises may also be held criminally liable if they knowingly permit smoking or the sale of smoking substances on their properties.
Individuals convicted of violating the public smoking ban face summary conviction fines reaching up to EC$2,000, in addition to court proceedings. Wade confirmed that police operations would visibly intensify imminently, with arrests occurring on-site for anyone caught smoking illegally.
The deputy commissioner appealed for public cooperation, stressing that the enforcement initiative aims to preserve public health, maintain social order, and ensure shared environments remain safe and respectful for all. Authorities emphasize that community compliance is crucial as nationwide enforcement efforts escalate.