Twelve days into the state of emergency (SoE), the police held a status update briefing on January 10 to discuss the its efforts.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Junior Benjamin expressed satisfaction with progress so far, but said more work remained.
He addressed officers who had been pulled off leave, saying they were returning at a steady pace. Benjamin highlighted the importance of officers returning, calling it an “all-hands-on-deck” approach.
While Benjamin did not provide specific figures, he said officers were being contacted through various channels and the formal request process began on January 3.
Since the SoE took effect, Benjamin said “at least” 500 individuals had been arrested and “at least” 585 priority offenders targeted.
“We have conducted 562 operations to date, involving 2,096 searches. These operations led to the seizure of at least 30 firearms, 937 rounds of ammunition and 106.7 kilogrammes of marijuana.
“We have carried out 416 traffic operations, resulting in the detection of 179 traffic offences.”
Benjamin, speaking at the Police Administration Building in Port of Spain, flanked by Insp Michelle Lewis and ACP Richard Smith, said in the past 24 hours, the police confiscated marijuana valued over $1 million. Additionally, the Tobago police division seized 11.1 kilogrammes of marijuana and a “substantial amount” was also found in the North district.
“We attribute these successes largely to the intelligence we receive from the public, and we want to take this opportunity to express our gratitude. We urge law-abiding citizens to continue providing information so that we can further disrupt the activities of those who threaten the safety and security of TT.”
Benjamin concluded by reminding citizens that, as the SoE continued, there would be increased vigilance at all police stations.
“You will see more officers on the streets, and we will be entering communities more frequently.
“The Joint Task Force, along with the Defence Force, will be joining us to ensure an even greater presence on the streets, working together to build trust and ensure safety.”
He thanked the Defence Force for its ongoing support, stressing that it was a collaborative, inter-agency effort.
“We will continue to work diligently throughout the weekend. We ask for the public’s patience as we conduct roadblocks and other operations.
“Our goal is to create a safer environment and uphold law and order in TT.”
Smith commended the officers of the Southern Division for their intelligence operations, particularly those in the Princes Town District. He said during those operations, police successfully recovered four stolen pickup trucks, which are frequently targeted in TT.
He also said the Southern Police recovered two K2700 and H100 pickup trucks, as well as two stolen cars that had been scrapped.
“These vehicles are currently at the San Fernando Police Station, and I encourage persons who have lost their vehicles to come to the station to identify them if they are theirs. Any documents you ma
