Attorney General and National Security Minister, Sir Steadroy Benjamin hails Thursday’s re-opening of the newly refurbished St. John’s Police Station as both a strategic and a symbolic milestone.
Speaking at the formal recommissioning ceremony, Sir Steadroy described the move as underscoring the government’s commitment to strengthening the operational capacity of the force.
“The completion of the refurbishing demonstrates that the government is ensuring that our officers are equipped with the tools necessary to effectively fulfill their duties. Symbolically, it reflects our nation’s unwavering resolve to uphold the rule of law, preserve peace and safeguard the security of every citizen and resident,” he remarked.
He said the project was not merely about infrastructure; it was, and is, about the men and women in uniform who work tirelessly, and often thanklessly, to protect and serve. He added that it is about giving them the tools, the resources and the environment that they need to do their jobs efficiently and with integrity.
“This facility now boasts upgraded operational spaces, improved detention and interview areas, state-of-the-art communications equipment and a more professionally designed environment for public interactions. These improvements reflect our understanding that community policing begins with mutual respect and the physical environment plays an important role in fostering that relationship,” Sir Steadroy observed.
Acting Commissioner of Police, Everton Jeffers, called on all members of this ‘noble institution’ to take great care of this facility. “Let it stand not only as a testament to our heritage but as a beacon of our commitment to service. May this station endure and serve generations of police officers to come. Let us show our appreciation to the government and people of Antigua and Barbuda by maintaining and respecting this facility with the pride it so richly deserves,” he stated.
In giving the vote of thanks, Assistant Commissioner of Police, Samuel Joseph, who has administrative oversight of the station, recalled that the refurbishing work started in September 2023 and he thanked both National Security Minister Sir Steadroy Benjamin and Works Minister, Maria Browne for their roles in bringing the project to completion. “Our minister led the fight but he could not have accomplished it without the help of his Cabinet colleagues and I want to thank the Hon. Maria Browne for using her good office in finding suitable temporary accommodation for the relocation of the St. John’s Police Station back in 2023. Madam Minister, the accommodations were quite adequate and comfortable and the men and women and I say thanks,” he stated.
Both Ministers Benjamin and Browne joined Ag Commissioner Jeffers in cutting the ribbon signaling the formal reopening of the station.
