Antigua and Barbuda police will intensify enforcement against the public wearing of ski masks, with officers directed to confiscate the prohibited items as authorities move to address what the government describes as a growing trend among young people.
According to Antigua News Room, Director General of Communications Maurice Merchant announced the initiative at Thursday's post-Cabinet media briefing, stating that both Cabinet and the Police Administration have grown increasingly concerned about the number of individuals — particularly youths — wearing ski masks in public despite the ban.
Merchant said the matter was raised during Wednesday's Cabinet meeting after ministers observed what appears to be an emerging fashion trend. "You would note that, as you drive through Antigua and Barbuda and you walk the streets, you would notice that there is an increase in the individuals who are wearing ski masks in Antigua and Barbuda for unknown reasons," he said. "It's probably a fashion statement by some of our young people with these ski masks."
He was clear that ski masks constitute banned apparel under the law, with narrow exceptions for workers who require them on the job. Workers in sectors such as construction may legitimately use ski masks during working hours, Merchant said, but that exemption does not extend to wearing them in public after hours.
"The Cabinet and the police wish to advise the public that they will be mounting a rigorous campaign to rid the country of what are illegal ski masks on the streets of Antigua and Barbuda," Merchant said. Officers have been instructed to remove ski masks directly from individuals found in violation. "If you have a ski mask, the police will be removing that from your person," he added.
Merchant also warned that resistance during enforcement could lead to further police action. "If you provide resistance, the law gives the police the power to take necessary actions to remove the ski mask from your person," he said.
Separately, Merchant noted that Cabinet discussions touched on a recent rise in jewellery snatching incidents. Prime Minister Gaston Browne reportedly argued that offenders should face stiffer consequences rather than what he described as a "slap on the wrist," though no specific new policy measures were announced at the briefing.
Authorities say the enforcement campaign is aimed at discouraging the use of face coverings that they believe can facilitate criminal activity, while also addressing what officials have characterised as a growing public safety concern.
