The Barbados Police Service and the Barbados Defence Force have unveiled an extensive joint security operation for the climax of the 2026 Crop Over Festival, promising heightened surveillance, increased patrols and rapid response teams to help ensure public safety during Foreday Mornin’ Jam and Grand Kadooment.
The security arrangements were outlined during a briefing on Friday, where law enforcement officials detailed plans to manage large crowds, traffic and emergency responses for the festival’s two biggest events.
Some of the officers at Friday’s meeting. (Photo Credit: TBPS)
Commissioner of Police Sonia Boyce, Special Adviser to the Commissioner Senior Superintendent Wayne Archer, Deputy Chief of Staff of the Barbados Defence Force Captain (Naval) Mark Peterson and Staff Officer Operations and Training Jamal Samrodia led the briefing.
In a statement shared late Friday, officials said the joint operation will feature drone and CCTV surveillance, high visibility patrols, checkpoint screening, traffic diversions and road closures, crowd monitoring, rapid-response teams, medical support and evacuation arrangements.
Barbados Defence Force personnel will provide tactical support to the Police Tactical Response Unit as part of the operation.
Authorities said special attention would be given to Eagle Hall Junction, Black Rock Main Road and Holders Land, areas that have historically required increased monitoring during Grand Kadooment.
Crowd encroachment along the parade route remains among the key concerns.
Security personnel have also been reminded to facilitate access for residents and business owners along the route who have been issued passes, while exercising discretion where appropriate.
Thirty-two bands are registered to participate in Foreday Mornin’ Jam on Saturday, August 1. The event will begin at Queen’s Park and end on the Mighty Grynner Highway.
Nineteen bands are registered for Grand Kadooment on Monday, August 3. The parade will begin in the area of the Helipad and also end on the Mighty Grynner Highway, with the largest band expected to comprise about 2 200 revellers.
Police and Defence Force officials urged the public to cooperate with security personnel, obey traffic directions, diversions and road closures, arrive early where possible and report any suspicious activity as authorities work to ensure a safe, orderly and enjoyable climax to the Crop Over Festival.
(PR/BT)
