The Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda is seeking greater assistance from telecommunications providers to strengthen its fight against crime.

Maurice Merchant, Director General of Communication in the Prime Minister’s Office, said police believe the companies could play a larger role in supporting investigations.

“That was a matter that was discussed with the honorable Attorney General and his legal team there, to look at how best to convince, or to encourage – to persuade – telecommunication providers to provide necessary information to the police to aid them in their crime fighting efforts,” Merchant explained.

He acknowledged the sensitive nature of the issue, noting that providers also have a duty to safeguard customer privacy. “It is an area that all parties tread lightly, because the issue of privacy comes into play,” he said. “That’s why the police always encourage the general public to volunteer, to volunteer information in helping them to solve crimes.”

The push for enhanced cooperation comes as the police face public scrutiny over controversial incidents and a recent wave of violent robberies. Investigators regularly depend on timely information from the community to resolve cases, but Merchant suggested that when voluntary tips are not forthcoming, alternative avenues may have to be pursued.