The Government is moving to strengthen security operations across Antigua and Barbuda by placing soldiers on joint patrols with police officers amid concerns about gun violence, robberies and repeat offenders.

Prime Minister Gaston Browne said he directed the Commissioner of Police and the Chief of Defence Staff to begin deploying Defence Force personnel alongside the police this week.

The joint operation is expected to increase the number of armed security personnel patrolling communities and other targeted areas.

Browne said a more visible and forceful law-enforcement presence is needed, arguing that officers and soldiers must have the appropriate equipment to respond to criminals armed with high-powered weapons.

He said security personnel have the Government’s backing when using lawful and proportionate force to protect themselves and members of the public.

The Prime Minister also urged police intelligence units to expand their work in communities and appealed to residents to report individuals involved in criminal activity.

He reminded the public that Crime Stoppers offers rewards of up to EC$5,000 for information that leads to the recovery of an illegal firearm. No conviction is necessary for a payment, provided the tip results in a weapon being taken off the streets.

Browne said information may be submitted anonymously and that the identities of tipsters are protected.

Police officials have identified repeat offending as a continuing challenge and stressed that public assistance is essential to solving shootings, robberies and firearm-related crimes.

Browne also called for closer monitoring of former offenders, particularly people previously convicted of gun offences, as part of efforts to prevent further criminal activity.

This article was originally published by Antigua News Room. Read the original article here: Police and Defence Force to Expand Armed Patrols Amid Crime Concerns.