Starting next week, all visitors to the Atlin Noraldo Harrigan Parliamentary Building in The Valley will be subject to a security search.
The measure has been introduced to ensure the safety of staff and all users of the premises, a statement from senior court officials said on 11 June.
From Monday, 17 June, security staff will make sure visitors and staff are not carrying certain restricted objects into the building.
Restricted items will be confiscated and any illegal items will be reported immediately to the Royal Anguilla Police Force.
The following items are restricted:
- Any firearm, ammunition or imitation firearm of any description
- Any knife or bladed weapon of any description
- Any sharp, pointed items including scissors, screwdrivers and certain combs
- Any missile, club or item that could be used as such
- Any other offensive weapon or item deemed capable of being so used
- Any drug or prohibited items under the Drugs (Prevention of Misuse) Act
- Flammable liquids
- Pressurised containers
- Glass bottles
- Laser pointers
“We look forward to your patience and cooperation as we take the necessary measures for the wellbeing of all stakeholders,” the statement said.
It was signed by Anguilla High Court registrar Chanelle Petty Barrett, senior magistrate Keithly Benjamin, and House of Assembly clerk Lenox Proctor.
The building is home to the House of Assembly, Anguilla High Court and Magistrate’s Court and the Court Registry.
On 19 July last year, at about 10.40am, 33-year-old Randy Gumbs from Bad Cox Pond was fatally shot in a vehicle outside the building. He was due to attend court that morning.
In a joint statement on 20 July, Governor Julia Crouch and then premier Ellis Webster announced that an armed guard would be stationed outside the building when court and parliament are in session.
Anyone with information on criminal activity in Anguilla can call (264) 497-2333 or 497-5333, or leave an anonymous message, video or photo at secureaxa.com
Information from the website is stored in a secure location in California where access to it is tightly controlled.
