Police Commissioner Gary Griffith says he has taken  note of the upsurge of Virtual Carnival fetes being advertised and warns promoters that this avenue is not to be used as a cover to be turned into mass gatherings.

In a statement from the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service, Griffith said one can understand the rationale of these virtual Carnival events being planned, primarily as an avenue to provide funds for certain institutions to offset annual  expenses, inclusive of schools.

Commissioner Griffith predicted that unfortunately,  however, these events via a virtual fete, can and would be abused by some, with the Regulations being breached.

“This is where the TTPS would yet again intervene, not to be the Grim Reaper of Carnival, but merely to do our job to ensure that the Regulations are not breached and that persons act responsibly.

These virtual Carnival events, if not controlled, would yet again be a cause for the virus to spread, as some who are either irresponsible, or see an opportunity to make a profit, are planning to get unto the site of these Virtual events and set up large screens with powerful sound systems, even in their own back yards, then to have cover charges, or bring a bottle etc, and to have others view the event, and be entertained at such venues, hence turning it into a Carnival fete,” he said.

The Commissioner of Police reminded organizers and promoters of these virtual Carnival fetes of the dangers that such planned events can have, and also to those who intend to use such feeds from these virtual events to invite many others to their private premises to view and participate in watching these virtual fetes.

“Such actions would be seen as Breaches of the Public Health Ordinance Regulations, as you would be turning your private premises into a public place and the Police would act accordingly.”

Griffith reminded all that effective October 12, 2020, public gatherings up to only ten persons are allowed.