Antigua and Barbuda: 140 new police officers deployed to combat rising crime

Antigua and Barbuda: The police authorities have announced the entry of 140 new officers into the Police force to combat the rising crime rate, and enhance public safety across Antigua and Barbuda.

The Commissioner of Police Atlee Rodney made the announcement to public while highlighting the importance of this new initiative. He stated that, “We are adding new members to staff in an effort to enhance and strengthen our force and maintain a strong and visible presence throughout the country.”

“This new addition will significantly boost our ability to respond swiftly to incidents and  continue our efforts to combat and create effective measures against crime.” Rodney added. He further noted that crime prevention becomes easy and effective with an allotment of new and more staff.

Reportedly, the new staff will work to create a more sustainable and safe community for residents to live in as they will be deployed in various locations across the country. The officers will also conduct specific target operations and patrols to look for any crime in their allocated regions.

Rodney, also highlighted the substantial involvement of youth in criminal offenses, while calling it as one of the most serious issues that requires immediate attention. He mentioned the involvement of young youths aged 14 as the most crucial and serious matter of concern.

“The rise of younger individuals in criminal activities is quite disturbing, some as young as 14 are involved, making it a serious concern for law enforcement.” Rodney noted.

He further added, “it’s a societal issue that needs to be addressed collectively. When we look at the data, it is simply clear that we are dealing with an all new generation of offenders and a lot of them still in their teens.”

According to Rodney, the rise in youth crime is an outcome of various factors that push them to be offenders. He stated economic pressures, lack of opportunities, and the influence of social media as the major issues.

He also highlighted the involvement of educators, parents, community leaders, and law enforcement the most crucial one in handling the youth and paving a path for their success.

Rodney also mentioned that, “We are not just targeting the young criminals but also those who are exploiting them for criminal gain. We’re committed to disrupt these networks and will ensure that our youth have a chance for better future.”

Notably, criminal offenses are getting very common nowadays in the twin-island nation and these efforts then become important to combat such incidents.