TSTT Compound In Beetham Set Ablaze In Arson Attack — Over $20 Million In Damages; Firefighter Hospitalized

The Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) said it has launched an investigation following a report of suspected arson at the Telecommunications Services of Trinidad and Tobago (TSTT) compound, Eastern Main Road, Beetham, where a major fire occurred last night (Saturday 24th October, 2026). Three (3) persons are currently assisting Police with their investigations into the incident.

The TTPS said the fire was reported at approximately 10:25 PM and involved telecommunications cables, including highly combustible insulated copper cable, stored within the compound.

The Trinidad and Tobago Fire Service (TTFS) responded with firefighting resources mobilized from several fire stations, supported by the Water and Sewerage Authority (WASA), the Ministry of Works and Transport and other agencies.

Police Officers secured the affected area and implemented traffic diversions to facilitate emergency operations.

At approximately 7:35 AM this morning (Sunday 25th October, 2026), the Fire Service advised that the fire had been brought under control, and efforts continue to fully extinguish it.

Preliminary estimates indicate that insulated copper cable valued at over TT $20 million was destroyed. This figure is subject to formal confirmation, and the full extent of the damage is yet to be assessed.

A firefighter is said to have sustained superficial burns and smoke inhalation and was taken to the Port-of-Spain General Hospital (POSGH) for medical treatment.

The TTPS said it "wishes the Officer a speedy recovery.”

Between 12:00 AM and 6:00 AM today, Police conducted operations in Beetham, Laventille and surrounding areas.

The exercises were led by Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) - Operations, Suzette Martin, with ground operations conducted by Superintendent Ramsook, Superintendent Cadette, Acting Assistant Superintendent Mongroo and Inspector Bethelmy.

They were supported by Officers of the Port-of-Spain Division, the Port-of-Spain Task Force, the Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF), the Transit Police, the Air Support Unit, the Guard and Emergency Branch (GEB), the K-9 Branch and the Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force (TTDF).

During the exercise, several locations, vehicles and persons were searched, and Officers engaged residents to gather information on suspicious activity in the area.

Three (3) persons are now assisting with enquiries into the matter.

Crime scene investigators have processed the scene, and CCTV footage from the surrounding area has been requested to assist the investigation.

DCP Martin stated:

“We take this incident extremely seriously. Any deliberate act that threatens lives, damages critical infrastructure or places emergency responders at risk, is unacceptable. We will pursue all available investigative avenues to establish the circumstances surrounding this incident and bring those responsible to justice.”

The TTPS added that it “wishes to reassure residents and the wider public that the matter is receiving the necessary investigative and operational attention.”

Anyone who may have witnessed suspicious activity in the vicinity of the TSTT compound on Saturday evening, or who has information which may assist the investigation, is asked to contact the Besson Street Police Station, at 623-1395 or call 555, 999 or 800-TIPS (800-8477).

All information will be treated in the strictest confidence.

The TTPS notes that it “remains committed to protecting critical infrastructure, safeguarding communities and ensuring that those responsible for criminal acts are held accountable.”

Investigations are ongoing.

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