Commissioner of Police Allister Guevarro has praised the decisive and courageous response of an off-duty officer who disrupted a robbery in progress and helped prevent further harm to civilians this morning in Port of Spain.
Around 10:35am today, Thursday 24th July, 2025, officers received reports of an armed robbery in progress at the 7-11 Sports Bar, located at the corner of Charlotte Street and Independence Square. Port of Spain Task Force (POSTF) units swiftly responded and apprehended two suspects on site. One additional suspect, who was found nursing gunshot injuries, was transported to the Port of Spain General Hospital (POSGH) under police escort.
Preliminary investigations have revealed that an off-duty police officer was walking along Independence Square, Port-of-Spain when he was alerted by public cries for help. Recognising the urgency, he took a tactical position and observed a suspect fleeing with a box. With commanding clarity, the officer identified himself as a police officer and ordered the suspect to stop. His vigilance continued as another suspect attempted escape, and in the process reaching for what resembled a firearm. In accordance with the TTPS Use of Force Policy, the off-duty officer discharged his firearm, incapacitating the armed suspect and recovering a revolver at the scene.
This incident showcases the professionalism and situational awareness that TTPS officers, both on-duty or off-duty, bring to every moment. The officer’s bravery and precision under pressure reflects the very ethos of this institution: Protect and Serve with P.R.I.D.E.
Immediately following the incident, COP Guevarro again renewed his call to the individuals still clinging to illegal firearms and criminal lifestyles, saying: “Today was not a victory for bravado, it was a stark reminder of consequences.” The TTPS urges all persons involved in illicit activities to put down their firearms as they will not be able to terrorize the public without facing the consequences of their actions. The TTPS remains steadfast in its commitment to dismantle criminal networks and will meet any threat to public safety with proportional response and lawful determination.
“Hand in your weapons and walk away from crime. Choose a path of integrity and peace while the door to rehabilitation is open, but time is of the essence”.
The COP also extended his gratitude to all responding units for their coordinated effort and presence at the scene.