分类： society

In a recent development, law enforcement authorities have announced a notable rise in robbery arrests and convictions over the past few weeks. Despite this progress, police are urging the public to remain vigilant and actively participate in crime prevention efforts. During Thursday’s post-Cabinet press briefing, Maurice Merchant, Director General of Communications, highlighted that while robberies remain a pressing concern, the police have made significant strides in apprehending offenders. ‘With the increase in robberies, the police are also reporting an increase in convictions and the apprehension of perpetrators,’ Merchant stated. He emphasized the need for a shift in focus towards deterrence and community involvement, stating, ‘They now need to focus on prevention, not simply acting after the fact. Prevention takes the buy-in of all of us… see something, say something.’ Merchant advised residents to stay alert, particularly when conducting business or parking in isolated or poorly lit areas, as public awareness can significantly reduce opportunities for criminal activity. Authorities have also pledged to enhance collaboration with communities to bolster neighborhood watch programs and improve response times.

Minister of State for Disaster Response, Rawdon Turner, has lauded the National Office of Disaster Services (NODS) for its efficient and well-coordinated efforts before, during, and after Tropical Storm Jerry struck last week. Turner emphasized that disaster teams were fully prepared for any scenario, with shelters operational across all districts and robust inter-agency communication maintained throughout the crisis. He expressed relief that no fatalities or severe injuries were reported, highlighting the success of the response efforts. Deputy NODS Coordinator, Craig Cole, described the operation as ‘effective and timely,’ citing two successful rescues on Airport Road where floodwaters had trapped a bus and another vehicle. Additionally, the Pigotts main road was closed due to hazardous flooding caused by runoff from nearby backfilled ponds. In preparation for the storm, NODS teams cleared waterways and trimmed trees to mitigate flooding risks. However, some areas, such as Hodges Bay, still experienced flooding after a plastic barrel obstructed the main drain. The following day, six assessment teams were deployed to evaluate conditions and facilitate the swift resumption of economic activities. The National Emergency Operations Centre was activated on Thursday evening following consultations with Prime Minister Gaston Browne. Tropical Storm Jerry brought over nine inches of rain to northern Antigua and more than four inches to other regions. Rainfall data for Barbuda remains unavailable. The commendable response to the storm underscores the importance of preparedness and coordination in disaster management.

Authorities are offering a $5,000 reward for information leading to the recovery of a stolen vehicle or the arrest of the perpetrators involved in the crime. The vehicle in question is a white 2011 Honda Fit RS, bearing the license plate A71654, which was stolen at gunpoint on October 12 in the Pita Pocket, Popes Head Street area. At the time of the theft, the car contained the owner’s personal identification, cash, and bank cards, adding urgency to the investigation. Law enforcement is urging anyone with relevant information to contact the nearest police station immediately, assuring that all tips will be handled with the strictest confidentiality. The public is encouraged to share this notice widely to aid in the recovery of the vehicle and the apprehension of those responsible. Additionally, the notice includes a promotional message for advertising opportunities with the most visited news site in Antigua, offering customizable digital marketing packages. For inquiries, interested parties can reach out via email at [email protected].

In a significant move to bolster agricultural productivity, Prime Minister Browne announced the acquisition of two 20-ton trucks and an excavator for the Ministry of Agriculture. These resources are earmarked to assist farmers in constructing ponds and dams on their farms, as well as preparing sub-base layers for farm roads. This initiative aims to enhance water management and improve transportation infrastructure, crucial for the efficiency of agricultural operations. Additionally, the government plans to install solar lights on farms to facilitate night work, thereby extending the working hours and potentially increasing output. This dual approach of providing heavy machinery and renewable energy solutions underscores the government’s commitment to modernizing the agricultural sector and supporting local farmers in Antigua.

A man is currently in stable condition at Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre after being shot in the chest during an attempted robbery in the Cooks area early Saturday morning. According to authorities, the incident occurred shortly after 4 a.m. when the victim was walking to the market. A masked gunman reportedly demanded money and, without hesitation, opened fire, striking the victim in the chest. The assailant fled the scene on foot, leaving the victim critically injured. Emergency Medical Services arrived promptly and transported the victim to Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre by 4:20 a.m., where he is now under observation. Police are actively investigating the case and have urged anyone with information to contact the Criminal Investigations Department at 462-3913 or call 911. The incident has raised concerns about safety in the area, with residents calling for increased police presence. Meanwhile, the community remains hopeful for the victim’s full recovery.

The Ministry of Works in Antigua and Barbuda has announced plans to undertake three significant construction and renovation projects as part of the government’s broader initiative to modernize public infrastructure. The projects include the renovation of the All Saints Clinic, the reconstruction of the St. John’s Fire Station, and the development of the Ministry of Agriculture headquarters on Queen Elizabeth Highway. Maurice Merchant, Director General of Communications, revealed that detailed cost estimates are currently being prepared for these facilities. The St. John’s Fire Station, previously located near the Antigua Recreation Grounds, has been temporarily relocated to the Villa area adjacent to the Hell’s Gate Steel Orchestra. Merchant emphasized that these projects are in addition to the ministry’s ongoing islandwide road-building program, which continues to expand. The initiative aims to restore and enhance key community facilities, reflecting the government’s commitment to improving public infrastructure across the nation. This strategic move is expected to bolster community services, enhance safety, and support agricultural development, marking a significant step forward in the country’s infrastructural evolution.

Three individuals, Judeah Francis of Potters, Jaquan Davis of Skerritts Pasture, and Devonne Burton of Paynters, have been ordered to stand trial in the High Court for firearms and ammunition-related offenses. The trial is set to commence in January 2026, as part of the new criminal assizes. The trio was apprehended during a joint operation by the police and Defence Force on June 12, 2024, while traveling on the Sir Sydney Walling Highway. Authorities allege that they were in possession of two pistols—a black 9mm and a black Desert Eagle 41/44 magnum—along with 14 rounds of ammunition. Additionally, they are accused of attempting to use these weapons in the commission of a crime, with Francis facing an extra charge of dangerous driving. The men were detained after officers stopped a grey Toyota Vitz, where the weapons, ammunition, and masks were reportedly discovered. During the committal proceedings, prosecutors presented 14 exhibits and indicated that seven witnesses are expected to testify at the trial. All three defendants have been released on bail, granted by a High Court judge, pending the outcome of the proceedings.