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A 12-year-old girl, who was detained at St. John’s Police Station for several hours following a welfare check, has returned home after an incident where she allegedly bit a female officer during attempts to restrain her. The incident occurred after police visited the child’s residence late Monday night, prompted by her mother’s report of her missing. The girl had returned home shortly after midnight, but officers proceeded with the welfare check, leading to the confrontation. During the encounter, the child reportedly became aggressive, resulting in her being taken into custody and placed in a cell until late afternoon. This has sparked concerns over whether the procedures outlined in the Child Justice Act were properly followed. According to a source familiar with child-protection law, the case treads a fine line between compliance and breach. The Act mandates that a social worker from the Youth Intervention Unit must assess the child before they are brought before the Child Justice Board. However, there is no immediate indication that these steps were taken. The incident has raised significant questions about the handling of juvenile cases and the adherence to legal protocols designed to protect children in such situations.

In a recent Cabinet meeting, the Hon. Acting Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda provided an update on discussions with the Airport Taxi Association, tour operators, destination management companies, and the Antigua and Barbuda Transport Board. The focus of the meeting was on improving operating rights and service standards at V.C. Bird International Airport. To address these concerns, Cabinet has approved the formation of a Select Committee tasked with examining the issues and proposing actionable recommendations. The Committee aims to support taxi operators and related stakeholders in adopting effective regulations and innovative service practices to enhance passenger experience. The findings and recommendations of the Committee are expected to be presented to Cabinet next week. This initiative underscores the government’s commitment to improving transportation services and ensuring a seamless experience for travelers.

In response to escalating public safety concerns, the Minister responsible for Public Safety recently convened a high-level meeting with the Police High Command, the Ministry of Legal Affairs’ drafting team, and other key stakeholders. The focus of the discussion was the growing issues associated with motorised bicycles and scooters, which have been linked to increased traffic accidents and disruptions. Police reports highlight a significant rise in incidents involving these vehicles, prompting urgent action. The stakeholders are now tasked with developing comprehensive recommendations, which may include legislative measures, to address these challenges. The Minister will present these proposed actions to the Cabinet for further deliberation and approval. This initiative underscores the government’s commitment to enhancing public safety and ensuring smoother traffic flow. Meanwhile, the public is encouraged to stay informed about potential regulatory changes and safety guidelines.

In a significant move toward national beautification, the Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda has endorsed a series of initiatives aimed at enhancing the country’s natural aesthetics and fostering community engagement. Last week, the Minister for Works received commendation for spearheading efforts to plant trees along highways, a project designed to enrich the visual appeal of the nation’s roadways. Building on this momentum, the Ministry of Works and Urban Renewal has been encouraged to expand its greening initiatives, ensuring a cleaner and more picturesque environment for all citizens. In a groundbreaking decision, Cabinet approved the formation of a supervised inmate work team to contribute to roadside and community beautification efforts. This initiative not only supports environmental enhancement but also provides prisoners with opportunities for rehabilitation and skill development. Additionally, the Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force has been tasked with leading the October National Clean-Up Campaign under the theme “Love Where You Live,” further emphasizing the government’s commitment to fostering civic pride and environmental stewardship. These efforts underscore the Cabinet’s vision for a cleaner, greener, and more beautiful Antigua and Barbuda, where every citizen can take pride in their surroundings.