Vulnerabilities to Organized Crime in Antigua and Barbuda: A Comprehensive Report

Introduction

The report highlights the vulnerabilities of Antigua and Barbuda to organized crime, while also acknowledging the efforts made by the government to address these issues.

Key Findings

Financial Crimes

As a significant offshore center, Antigua and Barbuda is vulnerable to financial crimes such as Ponzi schemes.
Despite limited evidence linking these activities to local or international organized crime, there is still a risk of financial exploitation.

Criminal Actors

Foreign actors, including Guatemalans, Jamaicans, and Guyanese, are allegedly involved in:
- Cocaine and cannabis trafficking operations
- Human trafficking
- Other illicit activities
Local criminal networks primarily engage in petty crimes like theft and home invasions but are increasingly involved in more serious offenses.

Leadership and Governance

The current government takes a strong stance against organized crime, with positive public sentiment and a democratic process free from criminal influence.
However, low-level corruption continues to undermine government capacity.

Criminal Justice and Security

Despite an independent judiciary, inadequacies in the judicial process have created distrust.
The prison is overcrowded, leading to high levels of corruption among guards.

Economic and Financial Environment

Antigua and Barbuda is a known tax haven, with efforts made to enact new legislation to combat money laundering and comply with international standards.

Positive steps have been taken to increase victim support, including:
- Training law enforcement officers in preventing human trafficking
- Increasing investigations into human trafficking

Conclusion

While there are vulnerabilities to organized crime, the report suggests that the government of Antigua and Barbuda is taking steps to address these issues, with a focus on combating financial crimes, strengthening criminal justice and security, and protecting victims.