A hard lockdown is in effect across sections of St. John's today as the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda carries out a major security simulation exercise in preparation for the 2026 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM). According to Antigua.news, the operation imposes strict restrictions on vehicular and pedestrian movement within a designated red zone in the capital.
The exercise began at 6:00 a.m. and will remain in effect until 12:00 noon. During that time, no vehicles will be permitted to access the eastern side of Corn Alley, and entry to several government offices and surrounding compounds has been suspended until the lockdown is lifted.
The restricted area encompasses a broad range of public institutions, including the Antigua Public Utilities Authority (APUA), the Medical Benefits Scheme, the Statistics Department, Social Security, PDV Caribe, the Treasury Department, the Civil Registry, Government House, and several other government-affiliated facilities.
Police have advised that employees, customers, and members of the public will not be permitted to enter any of the affected facilities before midday. Authorities are encouraging agencies and businesses within the zone to make the necessary operational adjustments for the duration of the exercise.
Motorists and pedestrians travelling through St. John's are urged to avoid the restricted area where possible and to use alternative routes to minimise delays.
The simulation forms part of broader preparations for CHOGM 2026, when Antigua and Barbuda will host heads of government and delegates from across the Commonwealth. Authorities say the exercise is designed to assess operational readiness, inter-agency coordination, and emergency response capabilities ahead of the high-profile international summit.
