Police are stepping up security preparations ahead of the reopening of schools in Antigua and Barbuda, with several locations already identified for particular attention.
Assistant Commissioner of Police Lisbon Michael said the force has reviewed its strategic plan to help ensure schools and surrounding areas remain safe as students return to classrooms.
Michael, who heads the Criminal Investigations Department, said police are paying particular attention to areas including the East and West Bus Stations, Heritage Quay and Clare Hall Secondary School.
“We have already reviewed our strategic plan to ensure that the various school plants are safe,” Michael said during an interview on ABS’ Antigua Barbuda Today.
He described some of the locations as “hot areas” or places that have presented problems in the past.
Police have also been in discussions with the Ministry of Education about the measures being proposed ahead of the reopening of schools.
“We have already spoken to the Ministry of Education and, of course, you know what we propose to do,” Michael said.
He did not provide specific details about the planned deployments or other security measures, but expressed optimism that the school reopening period would be relatively peaceful.
“We anticipate it is going to be pretty much quiet,” Michael said.
The preparations come as police continue broader efforts to address crime and youth violence through enforcement and intervention programmes.
Michael said the Criminal Investigations Department has a Youth Intervention Department targeting children and young people between the ages of 5 and 18, particularly those displaying concerning behavioral patterns or living in homes affected by conflict.
Police say those intervention efforts, combined with greater involvement from parents and communities, have contributed to a significant reduction in youth violence in recent years.
This article was originally published by Antigua News Room. Read the original article here: Police Step Up Security Around Schools Ahead of Reopening.