The Top Cop is warning members of the public to exercise caution when conducting transactions through online platforms.
Speaking following a deadly encounter during an intelligence-led operation in St. Joseph on Tuesday, Police Commissioner Allister Guevarro said TTPS officers were acting on information related to a Facebook Marketplace meeting that was actually a set-up for a robbery.
Officers posed as buyers and when the suspects realised the intended victims were police officers, an exchange ensued.
Three suspects were shot, two died in hospital, one remains warded, and another suspect escaped.
Commissioner Guevarro strongly cautioned the public about the risks associated with online transactions.
“Members of the Public, I am strongly urging you to exercise caution when conducting business with anonymous individuals online, particularly through platforms such as Facebook marketplace. Criminals continue to exploit these digital spaces to entice unsuspecting citizens into dangerous situations”
Police are also appealing to anyone with information on the whereabouts of the escaped suspect to come forward, warning that harbouring the individual could result in serious legal consequences.
The Top Cop reiterated the TTPS’ commitment to confronting criminal activity while operating within the law.
“To those of you who believe that you can use online platforms to ambush our citizens or target police officers, just know that if you come to commit a violent crime, expect to meet officers who are trained, prepared and ready to act decisively and within the law. We will continue to confront criminality with lawful, measured and decisive action”