The government said that equipment for its previously announced island-wide closed-circuit television surveillance system has already been shipped and is expected to arrive within the next 30 days, with full deployment across 43 strategic locations anticipated within two months of installation commencing.
Cabinet was advised of the development at its meeting Wednesday, with Director General for Communications in the Prime Minister’s Office, Maurice Merchant, confirming that installation is scheduled to begin immediately upon the equipment’s arrival.
“A total of 43 strategic locations across Antigua and Barbuda have been identified for the installation of these high-definition surveillance cameras,” Merchant said.
Director General of Communications in the Prime Minister’s Office, Maurice Merchant (screenshot of state media)
The identified sites include major public spaces, commercial areas, and critical tourist corridors, among them Fort James and Bay Street, which Merchant described as thoroughfares frequented by visitors making their way to the beach.
The targeted placement of cameras is intended to enhance crime detection and deterrence, improve public order management, and support law enforcement operations.
Merchant said the network would significantly strengthen the operational capacity of the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda, enabling real-time monitoring and more rapid response to incidents.
“The system will also serve as an important tool in combating muggings, theft, and a number of other petty crimes, particularly in areas frequented by residents and visitors,” he said.
The new system is expected to complement surveillance capabilities already in place. Merchant noted that the Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force currently operates technology at its security facility capable of identifying individuals and monitoring vessel movements around the island.
“They can spot boats entering and exiting the harbours in English Harbour and identify individuals coming off those ships,” he said, adding that the incoming CCTV network will build on those existing capabilities.
