标签: Antigua and Barbuda

安提瓜和巴布达

  • Elohim Bloodman Charged for Attempted Armed Robbery

    Elohim Bloodman Charged for Attempted Armed Robbery

    In a recent development in Antigua and Barbuda, 19-year-old Elohim Bloodman from Perry Bay has been formally charged by the Royal Police Force in connection with an attempted armed robbery. The incident, which occurred on October 6, 2025, involved Bloodman allegedly arming himself with a firearm and assaulting a woman with the intent to rob her at a local convenience store. Following the issuance of a wanted bulletin, Bloodman surrendered himself to the authorities. He now faces charges of Assault with Intent to Rob and Attempting to Use a Firearm in Furtherance of an Offence. The Police Administration has praised the swift response of the officers involved and reiterated its zero-tolerance policy towards the unlawful possession or use of firearms. Bloodman is expected to appear in court to answer to the charges. The case highlights the ongoing efforts by law enforcement to combat violent crime and ensure public safety in the region.

  • Troy Mathew Charged for Larceny

    Troy Mathew Charged for Larceny

    In a recent development, the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda has formally charged Troy Mathew of Cooks Hill in connection with a significant case of larceny. The incident, which occurred on September 11, 2025, involved the theft of a blue power washer valued at $4,495.00 E.C. from Lower Tanner Street. Following a thorough investigation, Mathew was apprehended and taken into custody. He is now set to face court proceedings to address the charges brought against him. The police have seized this opportunity to remind the public that purchasing suspected stolen property is a criminal offense. Authorities are urging community members to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities promptly to help maintain public safety and order.

  • Jahfari Harper Charged in Connection with Multiple Larcenies

    Jahfari Harper Charged in Connection with Multiple Larcenies

    In a significant development, the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda has arrested and charged 30-year-old Jahfari Harper from Gray’s Farm in connection with two separate larceny incidents. The charges stem from alleged thefts that occurred on September 18, 2025. In the first incident, Harper is accused of stealing two backpacks containing valuable personal items, including an Antigua and Barbuda passport, a birth certificate, a cheque book, a social security card, a power bank, two bunches of keys, and an undisclosed amount of cash. The second incident involves the theft of a Louis Vuitton handbag, purse, and pouch, along with multiple identification cards, tools, and another undisclosed sum of money. Harper is set to appear in court to face these charges. The Police Administration has reiterated its call for the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities promptly to the nearest police station or by calling 911. This case highlights ongoing efforts by law enforcement to combat theft and ensure public safety in the region.

  • LETTER: 15 Officers with guns stormed my neighbours house over a credit card investigation

    LETTER: 15 Officers with guns stormed my neighbours house over a credit card investigation

    In a scathing letter to the editor, a resident of Barnes Hill, Antigua, has voiced deep concerns over the conduct of the local police force, describing their actions as alarming and disproportionate. The writer, identified as D. Darius, recounted a disturbing incident that unfolded early Saturday morning when approximately 13 to 15 armed officers in six police vehicles surrounded a neighbor’s home. The operation, which initially led residents to fear a violent crime, was later revealed to be in response to an alleged credit card scam—a relatively minor offense. The resident expressed outrage at the excessive use of force and resources, questioning the priorities of a police force grappling with more serious crimes such as armed robberies, murders, and unsolved disappearances. The letter also highlighted broader issues of corruption and lack of accountability within the force, citing the recent killing of an 18-year-old by police as evidence of systemic dysfunction. The writer warned that without significant reform, the country’s law enforcement system risks further deterioration. The letter concluded with a call for legal action against the Attorney General, the government, and the police, urging a cleanup of the force to restore public trust.

  • Antigua and Barbuda to Lead Crucial Global Climate Science Negotiations

    Antigua and Barbuda to Lead Crucial Global Climate Science Negotiations

    Antigua and Barbuda is poised to play a pivotal role in global climate diplomacy as Arry Simon, a senior official from the Department of Environment, has been appointed to lead the Alliance of Small Island States (AOSIS) and CARICOM in high-stakes science negotiations. These discussions will take place at the 63rd Session of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC-63) in Lima, Peru, and during the 30th Conference of the Parties (COP30) in Belém, Brazil. The talks are expected to shape the next decade of global climate action, with a focus on aligning the IPCC’s Seventh Assessment Report (AR7) with the Second Global Stocktake (GST2) under the Paris Agreement. However, this alignment has faced resistance from several major carbon-emitting nations. Simon, a seasoned negotiator with extensive experience in UNFCCC processes, emphasized the challenges ahead. ‘We are entering a critical phase where evidence-based policymaking is under scrutiny,’ he stated. ‘Our role as Small Island Developing States is to defend the integrity of science and ensure global climate ambition is grounded in the best available evidence.’ Observers highlight that these negotiations will determine how scientific findings are integrated into future climate targets, financing frameworks, and adaptation strategies. For vulnerable island nations like Antigua and Barbuda, the outcomes are of existential importance. Under Simon’s leadership, the AOSIS Science delegation will advocate for the independence and continuity of the IPCC process while ensuring the next assessment cycle delivers timely, policy-relevant insights to guide the implementation of the Paris Agreement. As the world approaches COP30, a landmark event marking the midpoint to 2030, the alignment of science and policy will be crucial in determining whether global efforts to limit warming to 1.5°C remain on track.

  • November 3rd will be a public holiday

    November 3rd will be a public holiday

    In accordance with the Public Holidays (Amendment) Act, No. 23 of 2019, the Cabinet of Antigua has officially announced that Independence Day celebrations will be rescheduled to Monday, November 3rd. This decision comes into effect as the first day of November, the original date for Independence Day, falls on a weekend this year. The Act stipulates that when November 1st lands on a Saturday or Sunday, the following Monday shall be observed as the public holiday, with all official ceremonies and festivities taking place on that day. The Cabinet has confirmed that the Independence Ceremonial Parade and the Annual Independence Food Fair will be held on November 3rd, ensuring that the nation’s anniversary of independence is celebrated with the customary grandeur and public participation. The revised calendar of events for the Independence Anniversary will reflect this adjustment, allowing citizens and visitors alike to partake in the festivities. This move underscores the government’s commitment to preserving national traditions while accommodating practical scheduling considerations.

  • Government Warns Car Dealers: Unauthorized Vehicle Sales Will Be Void

    Government Warns Car Dealers: Unauthorized Vehicle Sales Will Be Void

    The Antiguan Cabinet, under the leadership of Prime Minister Gaston Browne, has reaffirmed its stringent 2023 policy regarding the procurement of motor vehicles for government use. The policy mandates that all vehicle purchases must be explicitly authorized by a Cabinet decision. Any vehicle delivered or consigned to the government without this legal authorization will be considered null and void, absolving the government of any financial liability for associated costs or charges. Additionally, even with Cabinet approval, all purchase requests must undergo proper processing by the purchasing authority, with payment vouchers prepared and approved before vehicle delivery. This regulation applies uniformly to all vehicle suppliers and vendors, with no exceptions unless specifically approved by the Cabinet. The policy aims to ensure transparency, accountability, and fiscal responsibility in government vehicle acquisitions.

  • CABINET NOTES: Wednesday, 8 October 2025

    CABINET NOTES: Wednesday, 8 October 2025

    The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda, under the leadership of Prime Minister Gaston Browne, convened on October 8, 2025, to address several critical national issues. The meeting began with a prayer led by a pastor from the Evangelical Association, who emphasized the importance of integrity, righteousness, and ethical conduct in leadership, drawing from Psalm 15. The pastor also prayed for wisdom and thanked the government for its efforts in serving the people of Antigua and Barbuda.

    One of the key decisions reaffirmed was the 2023 policy on government motor vehicle purchases. The Cabinet reiterated that all vehicle acquisitions must be authorized by a formal Cabinet decision, with strict adherence to procurement procedures. Any unauthorized purchases will be deemed null and void, absolving the government of financial liability.

    In a strategic move to bolster the nation’s economy, the Cabinet approved a proposal to enhance collaboration with international logistics partners, Southern Air and Seven Air. This initiative aims to position Antigua as a central air and maritime logistics hub for the Eastern Caribbean and beyond. The plan includes expanding air freight, port operations, and warehousing services, with a focus on transshipment, cold storage facilities, and regional connectivity. The government will work closely with private sector stakeholders to implement these measures, which are expected to benefit local industries such as agriculture, fisheries, and manufacturing.

    Additionally, the Cabinet endorsed the suspension of the Common External Tariff (CET) on essential food items from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026. This decision, aligned with CARICOM’s recommendations, aims to alleviate the impact of rising food prices on vulnerable households. Zero-rated duties will apply to staples such as butter, potatoes, fresh fruits, cereals, cooking oils, and canned meats, ensuring affordable access to nutritious food.

    Finally, the Cabinet announced that Independence Day celebrations, including the ceremonial parade and food fair, will be held on Monday, November 3, 2025, in accordance with the Public Holidays (Amendment) Act. This adjustment ensures that the festivities align with the official public holiday schedule.

    The Cabinet’s decisions reflect the government’s commitment to economic growth, regional collaboration, and the well-being of its citizens.

  • Southern Air and Seven Air Partner with Government to Make Antigua a Regional Cargo Hub

    Southern Air and Seven Air Partner with Government to Make Antigua a Regional Cargo Hub

    The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda has greenlit a strategic initiative to enhance collaboration with international logistics giants Southern Air and Seven Air, marking a significant step in positioning the nation as a central air and maritime logistics hub for the Eastern Caribbean and beyond. This decision comes on the heels of successful charter operations between Miami and Antigua, orchestrated by the Extreme Group—an affiliate of Southern Air and Seven Air—which showcased the potential for scaling up regional logistics through expanded air freight, port operations, and warehousing services.

  • LETTER: Why Are So Many ABDF Officers Still Serving Past the Mandatory Retirement Age?

    LETTER: Why Are So Many ABDF Officers Still Serving Past the Mandatory Retirement Age?

    The Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force (ABDF) is facing mounting scrutiny over its adherence to statutory retirement age regulations. According to the law, officers must retire at specific ages: 55 for lieutenant colonels and higher ranks, 50 for majors, 47 for captains, and 45 for lieutenants and second lieutenants. These rules were established to ensure fairness, discipline, and operational efficiency within the Force. However, reports indicate that several officers continue to serve well beyond these age limits, with some in their early to mid-60s and even approaching 70. This has raised significant concerns about governance, transparency, and compliance within the ABDF. The presence of these senior officers in critical roles has led to frustration among younger, capable officers who are being sidelined, undermining succession planning and career progression. Critics argue that this situation fosters favoritism and stagnation, eroding morale and discipline within the Force. The ABDF, a respected national institution, risks losing public trust if it fails to enforce its own regulations consistently. Authorities must clarify whether exemptions have been lawfully granted or if the laws themselves require revision. Until then, the enforcement of existing regulations is crucial to maintaining the integrity and effectiveness of the ABDF.