In a recent incident that has sparked concern among residents, five teenagers, one as young as 13 years old, have been arrested for allegedly attempting to assault an employee of a popular resort in Dickenson Bay.
The teenagers, believed to have ties to a local gang associated with a string of violent incidents involving youth, were apprehended following a report of the assault attempt last Wednesday. The group consists of two 17-year-olds, a 16-year-old, and two younger individuals aged 14 and 13. Due to legal constraints, their identities have not been disclosed to the public.
The teenagers were found in the vicinity of the Dickenson Bay resort and were arrested on suspicion of firearm possession. Four police officers were dispatched to the scene in response to the reported assault, which occurred shortly before 5pm.
During a subsequent search of the beach and nearby bush areas, law enforcement officials discovered a modified flare gun, ammunition, and a knapsack containing clothing and footwear concealed under a tree, hidden by a black hoodie.
All five teenagers, along with the confiscated items, were taken to St John’s Police Station for further investigation. Inspector Frankie Thomas, a police spokesperson, confirmed that the probe is ongoing.
The incident has reignited concerns about the escalating violence among the youth, a problem that has troubled Antiguan residents for the past two years. In an effort to address this issue, a conflict resolution program was recently launched at the University of the West Indies’ Five Islands campus.
The pilot program, aimed at curbing youth violence, is scheduled to begin at Ottos Comprehensive School and TN Kirnon Primary School before being extended to other educational institutions across Antigua.
Residents are hopeful that these initiatives will help alleviate the issue of youth violence and create a safer community for all.
