Security is being stepped up at several of the country’s most visited beaches after a series of robberies involving tourists, prompting the Ministry of Tourism to launch an expanded safety plan for the peak winter season.
The ministry has confirmed that 10 specially commissioned constables are now assigned to work alongside the police force in areas such as Fryes Beach, Heritage Quay and other high-traffic coastal sites. The officers, who have full arrest powers, are tasked with increasing visibility, responding quickly to suspicious activity and helping deter opportunistic crime.
Officials say patrols will be more frequent throughout the day, particularly in locations where visitors tend to congregate. The deployment is intended to reinforce the government’s wider message that Antigua and Barbuda remains a safe and welcoming destination.
Alongside the additional personnel, the ministry has begun installing upgraded surveillance infrastructure. Three new towers equipped for CCTV coverage are already in place, with more expected in the coming weeks. The monitoring network will extend across selected beach corridors, providing round-the-clock observation of high-risk areas.
Authorities say the surveillance expansion is meant to eliminate blind spots that are difficult to cover with foot patrols alone and to support investigations when incidents occur.
Tourism officials describe the initiative as part of a broader security strategy aimed at protecting the country’s tourism product during its busiest months. The measures follow a recent uptick in beach-related robberies that has heightened concern among visitors and local vendors.
