The Ministry of Health has imposed sweeping restrictions on Dr Griffin Benjamin, head of the ClareVue Psychiatric Hospital, ordering him not to leave Antigua and Barbuda and suspending him from all official duties.

In a letter from the Permanent Secretary, Dr Benjamin was directed to remain within the state’s borders unless granted prior written approval to travel. He must also hand over all institutional property, including keys and records, and is barred from entering government health facilities or accessing official systems.

The action follows a complaint concerning the confinement of an American University of Antigua (AUA) student at ClareVue in August, as well as what officials described as “other serious concerns” about his conduct.

The ministry stressed that the suspension is a precautionary measure. “This is a fact-finding process … and does not represent a finding of wrongdoing,” the letter stated.

Dr Benjamin, who took charge of ClareVue nine months ago, told reporters he is ready to resume his work of reforming the troubled institution. He said he informed his clinical team as soon as he received the suspension letter and is now on leave.

“For now, I’m enjoying some time off, but I stand ready to continue the much-needed transformation of ClareVue,” he said.

The restrictions have left ClareVue without its appointed leader at a time when the facility continues to face scrutiny over standards of care. Officials have not confirmed who will oversee operations during the inquiry or how long the restrictions will remain in force.