A legal application has been filed in the High Court of Antigua and Barbuda seeking the immediate release of a soldier allegedly detained without charge by the Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force.

The case concerns Claudian Chapman, who has reportedly been held at Camp Blizard, Coolidge, since 16 May without being formally charged or presented before a commanding officer as required by law.

Chapman’s legal team is seeking a Writ of Habeas Corpus, asking the court to compel the Defence Force and the Attorney General to produce Chapman before the court and justify the legal basis for his continued imprisonment.

According to the application, the Defence Force has failed to comply with provisions under both the Defence Act and its 2012 amendment, which require that detainees be brought before their commanding officer within 48 hours, be informed of the charges against them, and that a formal investigation be launched.

The legal filing further claims that no such investigation has been initiated and no explanation has been provided for the delay, in breach of section 5 of the Constitution, which guarantees the right to personal liberty.

Chapman’s attorneys are asking the court for several orders, including a declaration that his continued detention is unlawful, an order for his immediate release, and for the state to cover the costs of the application.

The matter has been filed and awaits a hearing date before the High Court.