In a strongly worded public statement released on Monday, September 14, 2026, the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda has drawn a firm line against the growing trend of open firearm display and the glorification of gun culture, particularly among the nation’s young people.
Police administration officials have condemned this lawless, deviant behavior in unambiguous terms, warning that authorities will not treat such actions lightly. In a reassurance to the public, the force confirmed that it is deploying all available resources and legal tools to root out this troubling trend, emphasizing that any individual found to have committed criminal offenses related to illegal firearms will face full investigation and prosecution when sufficient evidence is gathered.
Police Commissioner Everton Jeffers made a direct appeal to the country’s youth, urging them to reject the dangerous narrative that frames illegal gun ownership and public display as a marker of status, power, or social acceptance. Commissioner Jeffers stressed that this reckless behavior puts innocent lives at unnecessary risk and fosters a culture of violence that has no place in Antigua and Barbuda’s society. “We will continue to use every lawful means available to identify those involved, recover illegal firearms, and hold offenders accountable,” Jeffers said.
Beyond law enforcement action, the police administration is calling on collective societal action to address the issue at its root. Parents, guardians, educators, community leaders, and all responsible residents are being asked to publicly condemn gun glorification and actively guide young people away from criminal activity and harmful associations that can destroy lives, fracture families, and destabilize local communities.
The public is also being urged to take an active role in combating illegal firearm activity by not ignoring any information — including photos, videos, and messages — that points to the possession, movement, concealment, or use of illegal guns. Authorities emphasize that any such information must be reported to police immediately to prevent potential violence.
Members of the public with information about illegal firearms, ammunition, or any suspicious criminal activity can submit tips through multiple channels: contact the Criminal Investigations Department at 462-3913 or 462-3914, reach Crimestoppers anonymously at 800-TIPS (8477), or visit the nearest local police station to share information directly.