Benjamin: Gun Violence Must End

National Security Minister Sir Steadroy Benjamin says gun violence must end in Antigua and Barbuda. He made the statement as security agencies prepare for an emergency crime meeting on Monday.

Prime Minister Gaston Browne called the meeting. It will bring together the police, Immigration Department, Customs and Excise Division, and ONDCP. Officials will discuss recent shootings and rising crime.

Several of the shootings are believed to involve gangs. Therefore, officials will consider ways to address the violence and seek agreement on possible measures.

Benjamin said criminals must not disrupt the lives of ordinary citizens. He also said crime must not hurt Antigua and Barbuda’s reputation as a safe place to travel and do business.

Meanwhile, the meeting will give security agencies a chance to discuss the recent violence. Officials will also consider steps to tackle the shootings and rising crime.

Benjamin stressed that ordinary citizens should not face disruption from criminal activity. At the same time, he warned that crime could affect how people view Antigua and Barbuda.

The police will attend Monday’s meeting with immigration and customs officials. Representatives from the ONDCP will also take part. Together, the agencies will discuss the recent shootings and wider concerns about gun violence.

Several of the shootings are believed to be gang-related. However, the agencies will focus on the wider issue and possible ways to address it.

Benjamin said the violence must stop. He also said criminals cannot be allowed to disrupt ordinary citizens or damage Antigua and Barbuda’s reputation.

The emergency meeting will bring key security agencies together to discuss the situation. Officials will also work toward an agreement on measures to tackle the recent violence.

For Benjamin, the message remains clear: gun violence must end.