Cabinet has approved additional equipment for the police and military as Antigua and Barbuda prepares to host the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting, Director General of Communications Maurice Merchant said at the post-Cabinet news conference.

Merchant did not identify the equipment, disclose its cost or say when it would be delivered. He said the government would announce further details at a later date.

The approvals came during a Cabinet meeting at which senior police and customs officials discussed gun violence, illegal firearms and border security. Merchant said the acting prime minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to providing police, customs and other national security agencies with the equipment they need.

Cabinet directed police to intensify intelligence-led operations, maintain a stronger presence in communities and pursue people involved in criminal activity. It also called for closer scrutiny of incoming shipping containers and faster work to acquire portable scanning equipment and bring the port’s container scanner fully into operation.

Merchant said Cabinet viewed stronger border controls as an essential part of its efforts to prevent illegal firearms and ammunition from entering Antigua and Barbuda. Cabinet also approved the acquisition of detection dogs trained to find firearms, ammunition and currency at the port.

During the meeting, Cabinet extended condolences to the family of Saquania Anthony, who was killed in a shooting in Bathlodge, and expressed concern for two others injured in the attack. Merchant said the shooting reinforced the urgency of the government’s response to gun violence.

This article was originally published by Antigua News Room. Read the original article here: Antigua and Barbuda Cabinet Approves More Equipment for Police and Military Ahead of CHOGM.