The Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) says a combination of intelligence gathering, technology and Preventive Detention Orders (PDOs) has contributed to the dismantling of five gangs in the Northern Division.
At a TTPS Media Briefing on Wednesday, the TTPS revealed that the number of active gangs fell from 16 to 11 over the past year.
Senior Superintendent of the Northern Division, Sherma Maynard-Wilson, noted that the TTPS is employing an intelligence-led strategy to dismantle criminal gangs, utilising a range of investigative tools, including PDOs available under the current State of Emergency.
She said these targeted efforts have resulted in a reduction in gang activity across the Division.
“We have seen, because of some of the various strategies that have been implemented, a reduction in that, and also a reduction in the number of active gangs that have been existing in the Northern Division, based on intelligence. And I’m saying that because our intelligence is showing, while previously there may have been about 16 recorded, we now have about 11.”
She highlighted the role of community engagement in the Division’s crime-fighting efforts.
“I can say this to you: the presence of the police is one thing, but I also talk about the initiative that we implemented there and the relationship that has been developed over a period of time. And I can’t overemphasise that because of what is happening now, persons are willing to communicate with the police and to share information.”
Superintendent Maynard-Wilson further revealed that seven individuals have been charged with gang-related offences under the Anti-Gang Act within the last 12 months.
She is encouraging citizens to continue working closely with the Police Service by sharing information that can assist in the ongoing effort to dismantle criminal networks.