safety steps

𝗝𝗢𝗜𝗡 𝗢𝗨𝗥 𝗪𝗛𝗔𝗧𝗦𝗔𝗣𝗣 𝗖𝗛𝗔𝗡𝗡𝗘𝗟! 𝗖𝗟𝗜𝗖𝗞 𝗢𝗡 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗟𝗜𝗡𝗞: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaN7nmQGOj9na4QhBa12

Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force (ABDF): Exercise Stronghold officially commenced on Wednesday, 8 July 2026, bringing together personnel from the Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force, the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda, government agencies, emergency services, and private sector stakeholders in a coordinated national security exercise ahead of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) 2026.

As part of the first phase of the exercise, sections of St. John’s were placed under a temporary lockdown to assess operational readiness, test coordinated response procedures, and evaluate the security protocols required to safely host one of the region’s most significant international events.

Beginning at approximately 8:15 a.m., security personnel established controlled zones throughout the capital, resulting in temporary traffic restrictions and limited public access as the exercise unfolded.

The operation provided planners with the opportunity to evaluate command and control systems, communication networks, inter-agency coordination, and emergency response capabilities in a realistic environment.

Leading the exercise were Chief of Defence Staff, Brigadier Telbert Benjamin, and Commissioner of Police Everton Jeffers, who conducted a comprehensive walk-through of the designated operational areas while engaging with participating agencies throughout the exercise.

A key focus of the operation was the former Deluxe Cinema on High Street, currently being transformed into the National Performing Arts Centre.

The facility is expected to serve as one of the principal venues during CHOGM 2026 and was therefore central to the day’s security assessments and planning activities.

Exercise Stronghold represents a significant milestone in Antigua and Barbuda’s preparations to host the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting from 1–4 November 2026.

The exercise reinforced the nation’s commitment to delivering a safe, secure, and well-coordinated event through strong inter-agency collaboration, strategic planning, and operational excellence.

As preparations continue, additional exercises and assessments will further strengthen the country’s readiness, ensuring that Antigua and Barbuda is fully prepared to welcome Heads of Government, dignitaries, and delegates from across the Commonwealth.