Cablegate: Mini-Wave of Violent Crime Hits Antigua

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DE RUEHWN #1364 2991859
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P 261859Z OCT 07 ZDS
FM AMEMBASSY BRIDGETOWN
TO RUEHC/SECSTATE WASHDC PRIORITY 5692
INFO RUCNCOM/EC CARICOM COLLECTIVE

UNCLAS BRIDGETOWN 001364

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C O R R E C T E D C O P Y (PASS LINES)

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TAGS: KCRM ASEC CASC AC
SUBJECT: MINI-WAVE OF VIOLENT CRIME HITS ANTIGUA

1. (sbu) Our contacts confirm Antigua and Barbuda PM
Spencer has called out security forces and instituted
additional security measures in response to a recent string
of violent crimes that have shocked many in Antigua. Our
contacts in the police attribute the recent incidents - a
string of three gangland-style shootings in as many days - to
fights between drug gangs. The killings bring the total
number of slayings on the island for the year to 17 - a new
record. In the wake of the killings, Spencer announced a
10:00 p.m. curfew for minors, extended hours for local police
stations, random stops of pedestrians and motorists, and a
ban on windshield tinting. It is unclear how long such
measures will remain in place. The mini-wave of violence has
left many citizens scared and angry at the seeming inability
of the police to stop it.

2. (sbu) COMMENT: This flare-up of violence could not have
come at a more inopportune time. Antigua is preparing to
host a U.S.-organized multi-national business conference
November 8-11, which they hope will attract some 300 U.S.
entrepreneurs and a score of U.S. Congressmen, led by New
York's Charles Rangel. Reports of shooting wars between drug
gangs could seriously impact attendance at the conference.
In addition, the PM highlighted in press remarks October 26
that two of the latest victims were deportees with
pre-existing drug charges. We are checking with police
contacts to verify this. If true, we would not be surprised
to see another round of America bashing in local press as
Antiguan politicians look to pin the blame for rising drug
activity and violent crime on our returnee policy.
OURISMAN

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