126 Held, 17 Firearms, 675 Rounds of Ammunition Seized During SOE Operations

With over 126 suspects arrested and seventeen (17) firearms and over 675 rounds of assorted ammunition seized since the State of Emergency (SOE) was declared on Monday 30th December, 2024, Commissioner of Police, Erla Harewood-Christopher says, “the fight is just getting started.”

In a Media Release today (Saturday 4th January, 2025), the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) said the successes are a result of 257 anti-crime operations conducted across the ten (10) Divisions of the TTPS, involving thousands of Officers from various Branches, Sections and Units, aided by personnel from the Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force and partner law-enforcement agencies.

To date, the TTPS notes that a total of 126 suspects have been arrested under the SOE Regulations, with 275 priority offenders being targeted by Officers, as a result of intelligence-led exercises.

Seventeen (17) firearms, 675 rounds of assorted ammunition and quantities of cannabis and cocaine were also seized during these extensive exercises, which included 1,011 searches.

Commissioner Harewood-Christopher noted, “The powers granted to Officers under the SOE Regulations are allowing us to push back against the proliferation of gang and gun violence in our country. We have maintained that our actions are to ensure the safety and security of all the law-abiding citizens of Trinidad and Tobago.”

She added, “I thank the tireless and dedicated Officers who have been deployed day and night to protect the citizens of this nation. Your sacrifice and that of your families are greatly appreciated at this time and the Executive of the TTPS will continue to provide the support you need to do your duties. Together, we can use this time to win the battle against the criminal elements. I therefore appeal to all citizens to work with law enforcement to bring an end to the senseless violence that causes us all so much pain.”

DCP, Operations, Junior Benjamin, added, “I wish to assure the citizens of Trinidad and Tobago that the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service is working diligently and strategically to restore safety and security across our nation. Public co-operation is vital during this period. I encourage everyone to work with us by sharing any information that may assist in apprehending offenders, locating illegal firearms or uncovering criminal activity. Your partnership is crucial, and every piece of information, no matter how small, could make a significant difference.”

Meanwhile, DCP, Intelligence and Investigations, Suzette Martin, stated, “The TTPS is committed to operating within the boundaries of the law. While we have been granted enhanced powers under the State of Emergency, these powers will not be abused. Law-abiding citizens have nothing to fear from our Officers. Our focus remains firmly on criminals, and our actions are guided by professionalism, accountability, and respect for the rights of all law-abiding citizens.”
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The COP further stated, “The Executive of the TTPS is carefully monitoring our progress during this SOE period, ensuring that all actions are taken within the law. We give all law-abiding citizens of Trinidad and Tobago the assurance that the TTPS stands committed and ready to protect your rights, while we go after the criminals who care little for your lives.”

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