ACP Wayne Mystar has assumed responsibility for the Municipal Police Service, following the death of Acting Corporal Anuska Eversley.
He acknowledged that the organisation is currently experiencing tension and strain, but expressed his readiness to work closely with officers and all stakeholders to reorganise the service and build a stronger, more effective police force.
“An incident like this occurring in a police environment, where there is the expectation of security and control, the expectation is preached; of course, it would affect the integrity of the organisation, the trust, the internal trust, the confidence of members of the public. So, that is what I mean — that it hits to the very core, because it’s something that’s not supposed to happen.”
He said that changes to policy, as well as on-the-ground operational protocols, will be necessary to improve efficiency.
“Well the mandate is clear, to stabilise the organisation, to restore public confidence and increase officer morale and also strengthen the operational concerns that they may experience. My job now is to execute strategies to fulfil those particular matters.”
Mr. Mystar said the investigation into the death of Corporal Eversley is now before the courts and, as such, he is unable to comment at this time. Separately, he assured members of the business community that they need not fear, emphasising that they are a key priority in efforts to improve and strengthen the organisation.
“One of the core functions of a municipal police service is to protect the state assets as it relates to cities and boroughs. So, you find that in those built up areas, you have a massive shopping area. Of course the business community is one of our main stakeholders so definitely I would be engaging with all business chambers in all the different municipalities together. I know they have concerns, I will be addressing their concerns as soon as possible. This week I intend to visit, probably twice a week, I’ll be visiting all the various municipalities, so I’ll be paying special attention to them.”
He said the tools for improvement will come from enhanced intelligence gathering and closer collaboration with the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service to develop direct, coordinated responses against individuals intent on committing crime.