In a significant move to bolster community safety, Sir Steadroy “Cutie” Benjamin, Attorney General and Minister of National Security, has unveiled plans to install additional street lights and ramp up police patrols across All Saints West. The announcement was made during a town hall meeting in Seaview Farm on Thursday evening, hosted by MP Hon. Anthony Smith Jr. Benjamin emphasized that the initiative responds to persistent appeals from residents and their parliamentary representative, particularly in areas like Bellevue Estate. ‘Anthony Smith has been advocating for improved lighting in Bellevue,’ Benjamin stated. ‘We are committed to installing 1,500 new lights, and I’m certain Smith will ensure his community receives its fair share.’ The initiative is part of a broader government strategy to enhance public safety through better visibility and stronger community engagement. Benjamin also pledged increased police presence in the area, urging residents to collaborate through neighborhood watch programs. ‘We’re going to fight to get more light in the area,’ he said. ‘Please organize your neighborhood watchers and ensure mutual vigilance.’ The event also featured updates from Prime Minister Gaston Browne and Health Minister Sir Molwyn Joseph on key government projects, including the planned All Saints Polyclinic and ongoing infrastructure upgrades in the constituency.
标签： Antigua and Barbuda
安提瓜和巴布达
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AG Says Antigua and Barbuda Safest in the Region
Antigua and Barbuda continues to hold its position as the safest country in the Caribbean region, according to Attorney General and Minister of National Security, Sir Steadroy “Cutie” Benjamin. Speaking at a town hall meeting in Seaview Farm on Thursday evening, Benjamin highlighted the nation’s remarkably low crime rate, attributing this achievement to robust policing efforts and strong community partnerships. The event, organized for All Saints West MP Hon. Anthony Smith Jr., drew a significant audience eager to hear updates on public safety and government initiatives. Benjamin emphasized the importance of community vigilance, urging residents to form neighborhood watch groups, remain alert, and report any suspicious activities. He also revealed plans to enhance security measures, including increased police patrols and the installation of additional streetlights in areas like Bellevue Estate to improve visibility and deter crime. The Attorney General commended MP Smith for his dedication to community development and his advocacy for youth, noting his collaborative efforts with national security officials. The town hall also featured presentations from senior Cabinet members, including Prime Minister Gaston Browne and Health Minister Sir Molwyn Joseph, who provided updates on ongoing government projects in the constituency.
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Senator Dwayne George Installs Traffic Mirror to Improve Road Safety in St. Mary’s South
In a proactive move to bolster road safety, Senator Dwayne George has installed a traffic mirror at a bustling junction in St. Mary’s South. This strategic placement aims to enhance visibility for drivers navigating the area, thereby mitigating the risk of accidents. The initiative underscores George’s unwavering dedication to safeguarding the well-being of his constituents. Speaking on the project, George emphasized the importance of collective responsibility in fostering a safer community. “This endeavor is a testament to our commitment to ensuring that both motorists and pedestrians can traverse our roads with heightened confidence and caution,” he stated. The senator also hinted at plans to implement similar safety measures across other parts of the constituency, further promoting secure and accessible roadways. George urged drivers to remain alert and considerate, reinforcing the notion that community safety is a shared endeavor.
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Another US strike in Caribbean On alleged drug-running boat kills 6
The U.S. military has escalated its campaign against drug trafficking in the Caribbean, conducting its 10th strike on a suspected drug-running vessel, as announced by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth on Friday. The operation, which resulted in six fatalities, has been linked to the Tren de Aragua gang, a criminal organization originating from a Venezuelan prison. The frequency of these strikes has increased significantly, with three carried out this week alone, compared to one every few weeks when they began in September. Notably, two of this week’s strikes occurred in the eastern Pacific Ocean, marking an expansion of the military’s operational zone. Hegseth emphasized that the latest strike took place in international waters and was the first conducted at night, signaling a more aggressive approach. He warned drug traffickers, stating, ‘If you are a narco-terrorist smuggling drugs in our hemisphere, we will treat you like we treat Al-Qaeda.’ The strikes coincide with a substantial U.S. military buildup in the Caribbean and off the coast of Venezuela, including a recent flight of supersonic heavy bombers near Venezuela. This has fueled speculation about potential U.S. intentions to oust Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, who faces narcoterrorism charges in the U.S. Venezuelan Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino has dismissed the drug-trafficking allegations as pretextual, accusing the U.S. of seeking regime change. Hegseth’s rhetoric has drawn parallels between the current crackdown on drug traffickers and the U.S. war on terrorism post-9/11. However, President Trump has denied plans to seek a formal declaration of war against cartels, instead vowing to eliminate drug smugglers. The military actions have sparked bipartisan concerns in Congress, with critics arguing they lack proper authorization and violate international law.
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LETTER: Are All Sporting Events Real Or Rigged?
The authenticity of sporting events has long been a topic of debate among fans, analysts, and stakeholders. A recent letter published in a prominent sports journal raises the provocative question: Are all sporting events real or rigged? The author delves into historical instances of match-fixing, doping scandals, and questionable officiating that have tarnished the reputation of various sports. The letter also highlights the increasing influence of financial incentives, corporate sponsorships, and gambling industries, which some argue create environments ripe for manipulation. While many sports organizations have implemented stringent regulations and monitoring systems to ensure fairness, the letter suggests that these measures may not be foolproof. The discussion extends to the psychological impact on fans, whose trust in the integrity of sports could erode if suspicions of rigging persist. Ultimately, the letter calls for greater transparency, accountability, and independent oversight to safeguard the purity of competitive sports.
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Police Probe Reported Break-In at Baptist Academy
Authorities are currently probing an alleged break-in at Baptist Academy School, which occurred late Wednesday night. The incident came to light after the school’s superintendent observed unusual activity on the premises and promptly alerted Police Headquarters. In response, a team from the Special Services Unit (SSU), alongside additional police units and constables, was swiftly deployed to the site. Upon conducting a comprehensive search of the school grounds, officers found no individuals of concern and no evidence of forced entry. Despite the absence of immediate threats, police have emphasized that investigations are ongoing to ascertain the validity of the report and to reinforce the school’s security measures. The incident has raised concerns among the local community, prompting calls for heightened vigilance and improved safety protocols in educational institutions.
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5 Televisions Stolen from Potters Primary School
Authorities are currently probing a burglary at Potters Primary School, where five televisions were reported stolen earlier this week. The incident is believed to have taken place between 4:30 p.m. on October 21 and 4:30 a.m. on October 22, 2025. School principal Ms. Athill alerted the Criminal Investigations Department (C.I.D) upon discovering the theft. Preliminary investigations reveal that unidentified intruders used a hard object to force open doors to multiple classrooms located on the western side of the school premises. The stolen televisions were then removed, and the suspects are thought to have exited through the same point of entry. Despite a thorough search of the surrounding area, the stolen items remain unrecovered. Police have interviewed several individuals but have yet to gather any significant leads. The Forensic Evidence and Recovery Unit (F.E.R.U) has been notified, and the investigation is ongoing.
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Smith Pledges to Stay Accessible as He Seeks to Represent All Saints West
ALL SAINTS WEST, Antigua — Anthony Smith, the newly endorsed candidate for the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP) in All Saints West, has made a resolute promise to remain deeply connected with the community he aspires to represent. During a town hall meeting held on Tuesday evening, Smith emphasized his unwavering dedication to fostering community engagement. He outlined plans to maintain consistent communication with residents through regular interactions and targeted outreach programs. Smith, who recently transitioned from the United Progressive Party (UPP) to the ABLP, explained that his decision was driven by a thorough evaluation of how he could most effectively serve his constituents and contribute to the nation’s advancement. The event drew a diverse crowd of residents and supporters, who voiced their concerns on pressing issues such as healthcare accessibility, crime prevention strategies, and food security measures. Smith’s commitment to addressing these challenges resonated strongly with attendees, signaling a promising start to his campaign.
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Joint work permit initiative by Antigua and Barbuda and Montserrat, includes SKN; other OECS nations invited to join
Montserrat’s Premier, Reuben Meade, has urged the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) to eliminate work permits entirely, emphasizing that this step is crucial for achieving genuine regional integration and facilitating the free movement of people within the subregion. Speaking at the 7th Ordinary Meeting of the Council of Ministers of Trade on October 16 at the View Point Hotel in Montserrat, Meade highlighted the success of an existing arrangement between Montserrat, Antigua and Barbuda, and St. Kitts and Nevis, where work permit restrictions have already been abolished. He called for this model to be expanded across all OECS member states. Meade stressed that work permits, which hinder citizens from seeking employment in neighboring islands, are outdated and counterproductive to the vision of a unified Eastern Caribbean. He argued that removing these barriers would allow professionals, laborers, and workers of all skill levels to move and work freely, fostering economic growth and unity. The OECS, founded on principles of unity and shared prosperity, established the Eastern Caribbean Economic Union in 2010 under the revised Treaty of Basseterre, with free movement as a core tenet. However, some stakeholders have raised concerns about security and labor market impacts. Meade countered these concerns by advocating for streamlined immigration systems, including the use of identification cards instead of passports and indefinite entry stamps for OECS nationals. He urged fellow leaders to take concrete steps toward implementing this vision, emphasizing that true integration requires action, not just rhetoric. A dual citizen of St. Kitts-Nevis and Montserrat echoed this sentiment, criticizing leaders for failing to translate integration discussions into tangible outcomes.
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Benjamin Urges All Saints West Residents to Form Neighbourhood Watch Groups
In a proactive move to bolster community safety, National Security Minister and Attorney General Sir Steadroy Benjamin has urged residents of All Saints West to actively participate in crime prevention by establishing neighbourhood watch groups. Speaking at a town hall meeting held at the Sea View Farm Primary School on Thursday evening, Sir Steadroy emphasized the importance of fostering stronger communication within local communities to deter criminal activities. He encouraged residents to organize themselves into neighbourhood watch groups, utilize platforms like WhatsApp for coordination, and remain vigilant for unfamiliar individuals in their areas. ‘Call your neighbour, let them know someone strange is in the neighbourhood,’ he advised. Additionally, Sir Steadroy announced plans to install additional street lights in areas such as Bellevue to enhance visibility and security. He also revealed that the government would intensify police patrols in the constituency as part of its broader strategy to improve public safety. Highlighting the government’s commitment to youth development, the minister noted that the local MP has been actively identifying young individuals with potential for educational opportunities through initiatives like UWIFIC. Sir Steadroy’s address underscored the need for collaborative efforts among citizens, law enforcement, and government agencies to build safer and more resilient communities.