The Local Government Councillor for Caura/Paradise/Tacarigua, is calling for the establishment of a dedicated police post in Caura Valley, home to the popular Caura River.
Speaking to TTT News, Councillor Prakash Barath cited concerns over crime and the need for rapid response in the popular tourist destination.
“We have the Municipal Police who will assist from time to time, but we’ve been speaking with the Tunapuna Police to do a police post in Caura, and for the simple reason that thousands of people visit this area.”
He emphasised the urgency of addressing security concerns in the area.
“We’ve had several break-ins. I think recently you’ve had a few incidents where I had to call the police, and you know the police quickly came up. Remember there’s a one way, one way in, one way out, and it’s a long distance from the Tunapuna Police Station. So I believe that we’ll probably need a police post, even if it’s just one vehicle, to quickly respond to some of the criminal activity that takes place in this area here.”
Councillor Barath noted that security remains a top concern, especially during peak times at the popular Caura River.
“When people see an opportunity, they may take it. They see a vehicle by itself, people go on and leave the vehicle unattended, they may try to break it in and that kind of thing. But we don’t have it in that kind of way that, you know, it’s an everyday thing, there’s no physical altercation, that kind of thing.”
The Councillor said this is a priority, given the marketable nature of Caura Valley.
“People come here with their children, they come with foreigners, they come with, you know, different aspects of life here, is affected by criminal activity. So yes, I agree that, you know, we will need that. I’m speaking to the various arms of the Protective Service to bring that relief. And I’m sure, in the not too distant future, we will see some action with respect to that.”
Mr. Barath added that plans are underway to transform Caura into a full-fledged tourist destination.
“There’s an old building there that needs to be demolished, and we’re looking at building a bed and breakfast building there that people can come and stay overnight and that kind of thing. That’s what we’re looking at for Caura.”
Despite limited resources, the Councillor said the community remains committed and determined to protect its paradise.