RBDF Team Deployed for High-Level Security Role at International Summit

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NASSAU , BAHAMAS – An elite team of Royal Bahamas Defence Force officers has been deployed to carry out high-level security operations ahead of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Antigua and Barbuda.

National Security Minister Myles Laroda says the team has been asked to assist with protecting regional leaders and securing key venues.

A summit bringing together heads of government from across the Commonwealth also brings an enormous security responsibility.

And for The Bahamas, that responsibility extends beyond its own borders.

Laroda says a team of Royal Bahamas Defence Force officers has been asked to help shoulder that responsibility in Antigua and Barbuda.

Myles Laroda – Minister of National Security

“They’re gonna be there to protect dignitaries, leaders, to protect venues, and to be a buffer with regard to security or any emergency that may arise. And so I am here with the fine team, leaders of the Defence Force, who are wishing our troops off well. It is at the request of the government of Antigua and Barbuda that we provide supplemental protection for the leaders of CARICOM.”

And this is not simply a ceremonial deployment.

The officers will be part of the security framework protecting dignitaries and safeguarding key venues, while also standing ready to respond to emergencies.

Laroda says the request from Antigua and Barbuda reflects the trust placed in The Bahamas and its Defence Force.

And this is not the first time Bahamian officers have been called upon for an international security assignment.

The RBDF has previous experience providing specialized protection during major regional gatherings, including the 2009 Summit of the Americas in Trinidad and Tobago, which was attended by then-U.S. President Barack Obama.

This time, the mission will require a particular set of skills.

RBDF Commodore Floyd Moxey says the team being deployed to Antigua includes some of the force’s specialized personnel.

Floyd Moxey – Commodore, RBDF

“Comprised of a special operations team of divers, as well as snipers. They are being deployed. They are highly trained. They are a quick reaction force, and they will give great support to the security framework for this CHOGM that is taking place in St. John’s, Antigua and Barbuda, and they are up to the task.”

But behind the training and operational responsibilities are officers who say they understand what this assignment represents for their country.

For these two officers, it’s an opportunity to carry the Bahamian flag beyond its shores and to serve with pride.

Jamal Taylor – Lieutenant, RBDF

“It feels very good, you know. It feels very good to represent a country in a positive way. Protecting the dignitaries in a different country for CHOGM, it’s a very big mission that we undertake, so we’ll make the country proud in doing so.”

Lakeira Swain – Able Woman, RBDF

“It’s an honor to be a part of this team, going to help support. This is what we do here in Nassau and throughout The Bahamas. So it’s a good feeling to get the support on a bigger platform.”

For this team, the mission is about more than helping secure a high-profile international summit.

It’s also about demonstrating The Bahamas’ contribution to regional security and the role the force plays.