Canadian authorities have warned travellers to Antigua and Barbuda that smoking or vaping in public places could lead to arrest and court action, as enforcement of existing laws appears to be tightening.
In an updated travel advisory issued March 16, officials said smoking tobacco, cannabis and other controlled substances in public is illegal, and violations could result in legal penalties.
The warning follows similar guidance issued by the United Kingdom’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office on March 13.
Officials noted that visitors are required to follow local laws, and recent reports suggest police in Antigua and Barbuda have moved toward stricter enforcement of longstanding anti-smoking regulations.
The country’s Tobacco Control Act of 2018 outlines restrictions on public smoking, while a 2024 amendment to the Misuse of Drugs Act increased penalties for cannabis possession and removed provisions for issuing violation tickets.
Authorities in Antigua and Barbuda have not publicly detailed when the stricter enforcement began or how frequently penalties are being applied.
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🤣🤣🤣 wayyy!! I seeing chimneys everyday… False advertising.
Good. they must obey the laws of the land too.
“Never underestimate the power of stupid people in large groups.”
The law will only apply to black Antiguans and Barbudans. The law will never apply to the Syrians, Asians, and Caucasians.
Ok! Roll the drums!
Mr. Commissioner could you address the noise ordinance law, and enforce this as well in public spaces? It’s causing much anxiety in several residential neighborhoods; and while you’re patrolling the streets could you also give directives to your officers, to arrest the street walkers plying their trade as sex workers? This is the now budding industry and anyone can correct me, if I am wrong but isn’t prostitution illegal as well?
Since you’re cleaning house, just don’t push some of the dirt under the rug. It’s a mountain already as it is, getting ready to erupt 🌋!
Jumbee_Picknee aka Ras Smood
De’ole Dutty Peg🦶🏿 Garrate_Bastard
Vere Edwards
This is just another example of shooting yourself in the foot. We have a weed problem with the youth and now we are going after tourists for being cigarette smokers.
What is wrong with us. You can implement things in the right way. It just seems like none of our leaders have the time to really lead with common sense actions. And yes, only black people will suffer.
With the Israeli wars going on, the oil price is soaring. Plane tickets will be soon unaffordable. This year the sargassum is arriving quite early… and now this stupid law that will deter tourists even more. How much money will this cost to this island?
Smoking is bad anyway. Especially second hand Smoking. In public. Go in their room or houses
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