Antigua St John's - Investigations into the arrest and extradition of local businessman Dante Tagliaventi continue in full force here in Antigua & Barbuda as the ONDCP seeks to determine the depth of the embattled businessman’s alleged illegal activities locally.

Caribarena.com understands that the investigation has brought at least three lawmen into focus for allegedly playing a role in the Tagliaventi enterprise in exchange for gifts and favors.

Head of the Office of National Drug and Money Laundering Policy (ONDCP) Lt. Col. Edward Croft confirmed that the investigations are indeed underway but declined to comment on the aspect of the inquiry that involves the officers.

He did not however deny that such is indeed underway.

“I can’t make a comment on it. It is not appropriate for me to make any comment on the matter at this time,” Croft said.

The ONDCP head said however that while the investigation continues from the Antigua & Barbuda end, things are happening overseas and the case is progressing.

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“We continue investigations to ascertain what transpired at this end and to hold those individuals engaged accountable,” he said, adding that since the investigation was ongoing, not much could be divulged.

At the end of the probe in Antigua “the appropriate authorities” will be advised of the findings, Croft said.

Dante Tagliaventi, a renowned businessman, was arrested in the Dominican Republic (DR) on drug charges in May.

The 53-year-old is reported to have been the subject of a sting operation organized by the United States Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA). Tagliaventi was taken into custody in Puerto Rico following an almost immediate extradition from the DR.

Tagliaventi is allegedly involved in a ring smuggling drugs from Colombia to Puerto Rico.