St. John's, Antigua and Barbuda — The National Security Planning Committee for the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) will conduct a three-day national security exercise, dubbed Exercise STRONGHOLD, from Wednesday, July 8 to Friday, July 10, 2026.
The Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda announced the exercise will be carried out in collaboration with several key security and emergency response agencies. It forms part of the country's ongoing preparations to host CHOGM in Antigua and Barbuda in November this year.
Exercise STRONGHOLD is designed to test and strengthen the nation's security readiness, emergency response capabilities, inter-agency coordination, and overall operational effectiveness.
Throughout the three-day period, members of the security forces and emergency services will conduct convoy movements and operational activities along several major roads and strategic locations across the island. Motorists and members of the public should expect temporary road closures, traffic diversions, and restricted access in certain areas.
Vehicular access will also be restricted within sections of the city of St. John's. The designated security zone will extend from Newgate Street in the north to New Street in the south, and from Parliament Drive in the east to Corn Alley in the west.
Pedestrian movement will likewise be regulated within designated exercise areas. Police officers and other security personnel will be strategically deployed along the routes to assist motorists, direct traffic, and ensure the safe and orderly movement of both vehicles and pedestrians.
The public is strongly encouraged to plan travel in advance and allow additional time for daily commutes during the exercise period. Motorists are asked to comply with all traffic diversions, road signs, and instructions issued by police officers and other authorised personnel.
Residents are also encouraged to monitor official media platforms for further updates and advisories leading up to and during the exercise.
The CHOGM National Security Planning Committee expressed regret for any inconvenience the temporary measures may cause, and thanked the public for its patience, understanding, and cooperation as Antigua and Barbuda continues preparations to host the important international summit.
