Antigua and Barbuda Reaffirms Zero Tolerance on Drugs, Guns, and Criminal Networks

• The Government remains fully engaged in defending the interests of Antigua and Barbuda and its people.
• The public will continue to be kept informed as discussions progress.

2.     Cabinet held discussions on recent counter-drug efforts by the government of the United States of America in Venezuela and Caribbean waters, aimed at disrupting narcotics flows from producing countries to the south.  Cabinet voiced its concern of allegations reported in sections of the print and electronic media locally and regionally,  that governments and leaders within the Caribbean were corrupted by narco-traffickers.  They suggested that Antigua and Barbuda was a primary part of the alleged Caribbean route and that its leader is involved.

While vehemently denying the allegations, Cabinet believes its necessary to reiterate and Reaffirm its Policy Decision of Zero Tolerance on Narco-Trafficking and Criminal Activity.

The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda, chaired by Prime Minister the Honourable Gaston Browne, therefore reiterates the Government’s firm policy position on narco-trafficking and related criminal activity, and reaffirm its commitment to maintaining Antigua and Barbuda as a safe, low-crime jurisdiction.

The Cabinet reaffirmed that the Government operates a zero tolerance policy toward individuals engaged in the trafficking, sale, or distribution of illegal drugs, firearms, and other illicit substances. Cabinet emphasized that these activities threaten public safety, undermine national security, and erode social stability.

Cabinet reaffirmed the established policy measures that guide law-enforcement in Antigua and Barbuda:

1. Zero Tolerance Enforcement
   The Government will not tolerate drug dealers, traffickers, gun runners, or individuals involved in the movement and sale of illegal substances within Antigua and Barbuda.
2. Persona Non Grata and Immediate Consequences
   Individuals identified as being involved in narco-trafficking, illegal firearms, or other illicit criminal activity will be branded as persona non grata, and will be subject to the fullest extent of the law, including:
   • Deportation where applicable,
   • Incarceration where applicable, and
   • Fines and penalties upon arrest, prosecution, and conviction.
3. Strengthened Law Enforcement Action
   Cabinet has directed that law enforcement agencies must continue to do all within their lawful power to ensure Antigua and Barbuda remains a low-crime jurisdiction, and to disrupt and dismantle criminal networks operating domestically or transnationally.
4. Protection of Borders and National Security
   Cabinet reaffirmed that safeguarding Antigua and Barbuda’s borders is essential to stemming illegal activity and protecting national security. All relevant agencies are required to continue to strengthen border control operations to prevent the importation and movement of illegal drugs, firearms, and other prohibited items.

   The Cabinet expressed full confidence in the work of the country’s security and border agencies and reiterated its expectation that enforcement will be pursued vigorously and consistently, in keeping with national laws and the public interest.

   The Government of Antigua and Barbuda remains committed to ensuring safe communities, protecting law-abiding citizens, and preserving the nation’s reputation as a secure and stable destination for residents, visitors, and investors alike.

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