Commissioner of Police Delivers Christmas & End-of-Year Message Highlighting Progress, Partnership, and Commitment to Safer Communities

ROYAL POLICE FORCE OF ANTIGUA AND BARBUDA
Office of Strategic Communications (STRATCOM)
MEDIA RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Commissioner of Police Delivers Christmas & End-of-Year Message Highlighting Progress, Partnership, and Commitment to Safer Communities

St. John’s, Antigua and Barbuda, Tuesday, December 23, 2025

Newly appointed Commissioner of Police, Mr. Everton Jeffers, delivered his inaugural Christmas and End-of-Year Message to a large gathering of police officers at the Multipurpose Cultural Center on Monday, December 22.
During his address, he reflected on the successes, plans, and programs of the Police Administration as the organization prepares for the new year.

Commissioner Jeffers began by extending warm Christmas greetings to members of the Force and their families, while reflecting on the significance of the season as one of faith, gratitude, and renewal. He reaffirmed the Force’s unwavering commitment to service, professionalism, and strong community partnerships.

He reminded members of the organization’s Mission and Vision, emphasizing integrity, accountability, and community-oriented policing in an increasingly complex security environment marked by violent crime, illegal firearms, cyber threats, and transnational criminal activity. Despite these challenges, he noted that 2025 was a year of notable achievement and transformation.

Among the highlights were expanded training opportunities, modernized investigative processes, strengthened data-driven policing, the establishment of a Cold Case Unit, enhancements to the Drone Team, expansion of the K-9 Unit with four new dogs, and upgrades to the St. John’s Police Station.

The Fire Department also benefited from the acquisition of several new fire tenders, ongoing work at the Bolans Fire Station, and plans for the reconstruction of the St. John’s Fire Station.

Commissioner Jeffers also highlighted crime-reduction efforts that yielded measurable results, with overall crime reduced by approximately ten (10) percent, alongside increases in arrests and convictions. These achievements were attributed to proactive policing strategies and greater cooperation from the public.

While acknowledging these successes, the Commissioner expressed concern over rising youth-related crime and reaffirmed the Police Administration’s commitment to working with key stakeholders to address the issue. He commended the Youth Intervention Unit and its partners for the success of the “END IT HOW” Summer Camp, from which over fifty (50) students graduated in September.

Significant enforcement successes were also outlined. Joint operations involving the Narcotics Department, K-9 Unit, and Customs Task Force resulted in the seizure of approximately 600 pounds of cannabis valued at EC $3.5 million.

Additionally, targeted operations led to the seizure of fifty-two (52) illegal firearms and over seven hundred and seventy (770) rounds of ammunition, exceeding recoveries made during the April National Gun Amnesty. He also spoke briefly on the staging of Police Week 2025 and thanked sponsors and partners for contributing to its success.

Looking ahead to 2026, the Commissioner urged officers to prepare for increased demands, including security responsibilities for the upcoming Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM), while remaining mentally and physically prepared to deliver professional service.

He recognized officers who achieved academic success and congratulated Mrs. Louisa Benjamin-Quashie on her recent appointment as Deputy Commissioner of Police, along with several other officers who were recently promoted within the organization. He reminded them that elevation in rank carries greater responsibility and an increased dedication to duty.

The Commissioner also expressed concern for the families of missing persons and unresolved cases, reaffirming the Force’s commitment to pursuing justice and closure. He reassured families and the public that victims are not forgotten and encouraged continued patience as investigations proceed.

He further expressed gratitude to the Government of Antigua and Barbuda, the Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force, regional and international law enforcement partners, retired officers, and the public for their continued support. He also paid tribute to the families of fallen officers and thanked his predecessor, Retired Commissioner Mr. Atlee Rodney, now Deputy Director of the Regional Security System (RSS), for his years of dedicated service to the nation.

During the event, presentations were made to several officers for exemplary performance. Recognition was also given to twelve (12) fifth-form students from the Ottos Comprehensive School, who are currently assigned to the Police Force for a two-week period as part of their Business Sensitization Program.

As the nation approaches the new year, Commissioner Jeffers called on all members to recommit to the noble calling of law enforcement, uphold the public trust, and continue building safer communities through unity, faith, and partnership.

On behalf of his family, he extended best wishes to all members of the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda and the wider community for a Merry Christmas and a safe, peaceful, and prosperous New Year 2026.

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