ST. JOHN’S, Antigua (January 24, 2023) — Attorney General Steadroy Benjamin, under whose portfolio Immigration falls, confirmed to Dadli Media Pop Up that when the newly constituted Cabinet meets tomorrow, he will recommend the immediate cancellation of all dealings with the entities responsible for flights transporting Africans to Antigua and Barbuda.
Benjamin said the matter, which has raised concerns about exploitation and possible human trafficking, has consumed public discussion and has been the subject of international news reports.
“My first day on the job yesterday, I investigated the matter. I will now make the recommendation to the Cabinet. We will have a thorough investigation into this matter,” Benjamin said.
“I will protect the integrity of the country as long as I am Minister of Immigration,” he added.
Last week, when pressed about the matter by reporters, Benjamin was surprised to hear of international reports that suggested the flights were used to facilitate human trafficking.
“No official complaints have been made to me in my capacity as National Security Minister. When you mentioned human trafficking, I was shocked. That’s never been brought to me by the United States, by England, by Canada. No advanced country has written to us on this matter at all. You will have speculations perhaps, but no information has come to my desk as Minister of National Security,” Benjamin said on the heels of the new cabinet being sworn in. He said it was his intent to look into the matter upon taking up his new post.
The controversial Antigua Airways had its inaugural service on November 1st, 2022 from Nigeria and has since operated several charter flights bringing dozens of Africans to the shores of Antigua & Barbuda. The Gaston Browne administration has said the air bridge was designed to stimulate trade and investment between the two countries. However many of the passengers have come into the country without accommodation and no clear plan for employment or supporting themselves, causing angst among Antiguans and Barbudans.
