Antigua gets funds to help in crime fight

A portion of the funds will also be used to expand government’s capabilities to operate prisons and correctional centres.

ST. JOHN’S Antigua, Friday April 27, 2012 – Antigua and Barbuda has signed a $1,555,200 agreement with the United States that would see it receiving several security-related initiatives.

That country’s Minister of National Security, Dr. Errol Cort, said the signing would go a long way in improving the country’s capacity for its security forces to manage the crime and security challenges and maintain the low crime rates.

According to reports, the agreement is designed to enhance the government’s capacity to build stronger and more reliable criminal justice institutions. These institutions include the Royal Police Force, her Majesty’s Prison and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions.

In addition, a portion of the funds will also be used to expand government’s capabilities to operate prisons and correctional centres that are safe and human, to conform with internationally accepted standards.

Dr. Cort also noted that the project will include the purchasing of equipment, training and mentoring of key law enforcement personnel.

That equipment being provided by the US will include vehicles, video interview equipment, ballistic vests, port security equipment, computer hardware, software and communications equipment.

Meanwhile, training will see personnel being trained as polygraphists, and the necessary polygraph capabilities would be provided. Click here to receive free news bulletins via email from Caribbean360. (View sample)