Police Confirm – By Jeressa Jeremy
Police Confirm Chantel Alert
The Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda has officially confirmed that the Chantel Alert System is now a fully instituted tool for the recovery of missing children.
Officials clarified that the system is built upon the Common Alerting Protocol (CAP), which allows for rapid digital dissemination of information.
Regarding the system’s rollout, authorities stated that the public can expect a multi-platform approach to notifications. “The information is relayed, and then it is digitally sent,” said Commissioner of Police Everton Jeffers, adding that in some instances, the alerts may also arrive as text messages.
The initiative aims to eliminate delays and mobilize the public immediately after a disappearance is verified.
Meanwhile, the police administration is addressing a growing concern regarding road safety and a lack of understanding of traffic signals.
Authorities highlighted a dangerous trend at major intersections, such as Long Street and Independence Drive, where drivers are reportedly disregarding flashing red lights.
“Both sides are flashing red, meaning both sides should take the same necessary precaution,” said Deputy Commissioner Albert Wade, who emphasized that a flashing red light must be treated as a stop signal.
“I want to appeal to the motorists to be very, very cautious and to understand that flashing red lights mean that at the junction you are to adhere to the red signal—to slow down, to stop. Do not assume that you have the right of way, because then you’re going to have collisions.”
Officials also addressed the public debate regarding the efficiency of traffic lights, noting that while some argue traffic flows better when lights are out, there is currently no data to support removing them. The department is urging motorists to remain courteous to drivers on by-roads who often face long wait times when signals are ignored.
