The Commissioner of Police highlighted the achievements of the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda (RPFAB) in 2024, while addressing ongoing challenges and outlining plans for the new year.
Speaking on state media, Commissioner Atlee Rodney, reported a relatively peaceful Christmas season, attributing this success to strategic deployment of administrative staff to support operations and traffic management.
He particularly commended his officers for their dedication throughout last year, noting their effective response to various policing challenges.
Addressing public safety concerns, Commissioner Rodney acknowledged that the 12 murders recorded in 2024 were “too many for our space”.
He claimed that many of these incidents stemmed from unresolved conflicts between acquaintances, and often involved young people.
He also called for improved conflict resolution skills and greater community involvement in preventing acts of violence.
Meanwhile, the unsolved murders of two female teenagers, Yenifer Bridge and Achazia James, remain a priority for the force.
While international assistance from Scotland Yard has been sought, the Commissioner said that such collaborations often require discretion and adherence to specific protocols.
Sixteen-year-old Bridge was found deceased near Fig Tree Drive in late July, while the 15-year-old James was found dead at Runaway Beach in early August.
A significant challenge in 2024 was a surge in robberies, particularly targeting small businesses, which created widespread fear in the community. The situation was eventually contained through a collaborative approach involving government support, church initiatives, community engagement, and enhanced police strategies, including the creation of a new unit and the deployment of drone technology.
Looking ahead to 2025, Commissioner Rodney outlined several priorities, namely continued infrastructural development to include completing the police stations in Bolans and All Saints; further technology integration in the force – particularly in surveillance capabilities; additional recruitment of personnel to strengthen operational departments; enhanced training programmes; and strengthening community partnerships.
With schools reopening on Monday, the Commissioner also assured that operational plans are in place to ensure students’ safety, including increased presence in key areas and drone surveillance to monitor gathering spots.
Regarding the upcoming by-election in St Peter, Commissioner Rodney confirmed that the RPFAB continues to coordinate with the political parties and the Antigua and Barbuda Electoral Commission to ensure peaceful proceedings.
