The Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) has reaffirmed its commitment to reducing crime and fostering stronger community partnerships.
At Monday’s Media Briefing, Deputy Commissioner of Police Operations, Junior Benjamin, emphasised the importance of collaboration between the police and the public to reclaim communities affected by criminal activities.
He said less than 1% of the population is responsible for heinous crimes and urged the remaining 99% to unite in taking back their neighbourhoods.
“We have done at least 1,617 operations. We have targeted 1,393 priority offenders, and we have conducted 9,973 searches. We have arrested 1,278 persons and from those individuals, at least 484 of those persons were charged.”
In terms of homicides, DCP Benjamin highlighted a decline, with 26 confirmed murders this year compared to 41 during the same period in 2024. He expressed optimism about further reductions, citing the success of current crime-fighting strategies.
“We have recovered at least 53 firearms thus far and 1,275 assorted ammunition was also recovered during the period. In terms of dangerous drugs, we have seized just over 157 kilogrammes of marijuana and just over 864 grammes of cocaine.”
Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Richard Smith reported on a police operation in Tabaquite, where officers were met with gunfire while attempting to arrest 40-year-old Ronnie Alexander, a suspect known for kidnapping and firearm offences. Alexander was fatally shot during the exchange.
Regarding the shooting, questions about the ongoing concerns about body camera usage during police operations were raised. ACP Smith was asked whether the officers were wearing body cams at the time.
“I cannot say whether any of them had on body cameras at that time. However, I will make that inquiry and give you our feedback.”
Meanwhile, DCP Benjamin acknowledged that not all officers are equipped with body cameras due to limited supply, with 940 cameras currently in use across Divisions. He said while body cameras enhance transparency, the TTPS follows established protocols to thoroughly investigate all police-involved shootings.
“With or without body cameras, we have ensured that whenever there’s a police shooting, there are Standard Operating Procedures that are also followed to ensure that there’s a proper investigation and a thorough investigation into each and every one of those situations.”
He assured the public that officers are encouraged to use body cameras whenever available, and that the service remains committed to integrity and accountability.