National Security Minister Sir Steadroy Benjamin is calling on the public to cooperate with law enforcement and comply with traffic restrictions as Antigua and Barbuda conducts a major three-day security exercise in preparation for the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM).
According to Antigua.news, the exercise runs from Wednesday, July 8 to Friday, July 10, and is designed to test the readiness of security agencies and emergency responders, while evaluating the effectiveness of operational plans ahead of the international summit scheduled for November.
Sir Steadroy warned that motorists should expect the heaviest traffic disruptions on Wednesday between 8:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m., and again on Friday from 6:00 a.m. until noon. During those windows, vehicular access will be prohibited within a designated Red Zone in St. John's, bounded by Newgate Street to the north, Corn Alley to the west, Parliament Drive to the east, and New Street to the south.
Drivers should also anticipate delays along roads leading to the American University of Antigua (AUA), hotels in the island's northern tourism corridor, and on Sir George Walter Highway, Sir Sidney Walling Highway, Old Parham Road, and Friars Hill Road.
The minister appealed to residents to remain patient and follow the directions of police officers and other security personnel throughout the drill. He stressed that the temporary inconveniences are necessary to ensure the country's preparedness for one of the region's most significant diplomatic events.
The exercise forms part of a broader series of readiness drills being conducted by the National Security Committee as Antigua and Barbuda finalizes its preparations to welcome Commonwealth leaders and delegates later this year. Authorities say the simulation will help identify operational gaps and strengthen coordination among the agencies responsible for securing the summit.
