TTPS Explains Enforcement Action Relating To Wrecking of Illegally-Parked Vehicles

The Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) is advising the public on the necessity for the wrecking (towing) of motor vehicles that are parked in contravention of the law.

In a Media Release this evening (Tuesday 13th January, 2026), the TTPS said it is “mandated to ensure public safety, the free flow of traffic, and the maintenance of law and order on the nation’s roadways. Vehicles that are parked unlawfully often pose serious risks, including obstruction to emergency vehicles, reduced visibility for motorists and pedestrians, and impediments to critical access points, such as Hospitals, Police Stations, fire routes, and residential areas.”

According to the TTPS, “Improperly parked vehicles also contribute significantly to traffic congestion and can disrupt the efficient movement of vehicular and pedestrian traffic. In many instances, these obstructions increase the likelihood of accidents and place members of the public at unnecessary risk. The wrecking of vehicles is conducted in accordance with the provisions of the Motor Vehicles and Road Traffic Act, which empowers Police Officers to remove vehicles that are parked in violation of the law, when such vehicles compromise safety, traffic flow, or public order.”

The TTPS is emphasizing that wrecking is “not intended to be punitive, but rather, a necessary enforcement measure aimed at ensuring compliance with the law and preventing repeat offences. The objective remains behavioural change and voluntary adherence to traffic regulations. The TTPS continues to appeal to motorists to park responsibly, observe all traffic signs and road markings, and remain mindful of the safety and convenience of other road users. Public co-operation is essential in creating safer roads and more orderly communities. The TTPS remains committed to serving and protecting the public and will continue to take all lawful measures necessary to ensure safety on the nation’s roadways.”

In light of the above, the TTPS notes that where it is necessary to remove a vehicle by wrecker to a designated place of safety, the Officers should:

• Make brief enquiries in the immediate vicinity in an effort to locate the driver;
• If he is not found, remove the vehicle;
• If the driver is found, prefer the relevant charge(s) against him for the offence committed and request him to remove the vehicle. However, if he refuses, impound the vehicle.

Where a vehicle has been hooked up or is in the actual process of being hooked up to a wrecker, but the vehicle has not been removed from where it was parked and the driver or person in control of the vehicle simultaneously appears and claims the vehicle, the Officer shall:

• Release the vehicle to the driver or person claiming the vehicle;
• Issue a ticket(s) for the offence(s) committed; or
• Prosecute the driver or person in charge of the vehicle for non-ticketed offence(s) committed.

The TTPS is also providing clarification to members of the public regarding the procedures associated with vehicle wrecking operations in Port-of-Spain, and the process for locating and retrieving their vehicles.

According to the TTPS, wrecking operations are conducted at the TTPS impound yard, located at South Quay, Port-of-Spain (opposite Courts). These operations take place between the hours of 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM.

Motorists seeking the release of a wrecked vehicle are required to pay a release fee of $500. Where a vehicle remains at the impound yard overnight, an overnight storage fee of $200 per day will apply. Payment is accepted in cash only.

Persons wishing to enquire whether their vehicle was wrecked are advised to contact the Port-of-Spain City Police Station at 299-0870, extension 2326.

To retrieve a vehicle, the following documents are required:

• A valid Driver’s Permit.
• Proof of Insurance.

The Media Release concluded by saying, “The TTPS encourages motorists to familiarize themselves with these procedures to facilitate a smooth and timely retrieval process.”

Please be guided accordingly.

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