The Ministry of Finance is continuing its investigation into the unauthorized purchase of government vehicles, with the Financial Secretary leading the review and efforts to recover public funds.
Director-General of Communications Maurice Merchant confirmed that the probe has already secured **EC$10 million in restitution** from one car dealership and that discussions are ongoing with other dealers to recoup additional sums.
“The Financial Secretary and her team are conducting the review into the unauthorized procurement of vehicles, and the Cabinet has been advised that the work is continuing,” Merchant said. He added that the Ministry of Finance will report its findings and recommendations directly to Cabinet once the investigation concludes.
Responding to media questions, Merchant noted that the matter is being handled internally by the Ministry of Finance and that its outcomes could inform Antigua and Barbuda’s **Financial Action Task Force (FATF)** evaluation during the 2027 site visit.
He said the government views the recovery of funds as an important indicator of sound fiscal management and accountability in advance of that review. “We anticipate some closure on recouping additional funds in the coming weeks,” Merchant added.

