The TTPS has disclosed that one hundred and ten persons have been arrested over the last eight months in connection with reports of ‘home invasions’, as investigators continue to intensify efforts to restore safety and security across the country.

According to the TTPS, the arrests are a direct result of the strategies adopted by Commissioner of Police Erla Christopher and the Executive of the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) to address reports of robberies, house breakings, burglaries and other gang-related offences.

As a result, during the period January to July 2023, a reduction in serious crimes across the 10 policing divisions was recorded, compared to the same period in 2022.

Among those strategies which are proving successful, is the creation of a team, comprising officers of the Western Divison Criminal Investigations Department and Gang Unit, the Port of Spain Division and Northern Division Gang Units, as well as officers from the Southern, Central and South Western Divisions, led by ACP Criminal Division, Kent Ghisyawan.

This team is actively utilising intelligence-led policing, which is data-driven and bolstered with timely crime analysis from the Crime and Problem Analysis Branch (CAPA) to guide the deployment of resources where they are needed the most.

Increased Active Directed patrols and visibility in communities and business areas are also serving as critical deterrents to criminal activities.

None of these strategies will be successful however, without the partnership and cooperation of citizens who provide the police with information on crime in their communities via their Community Watch Groups, Station Council meetings and by calling 999 and Crime Stoppers at 800-TIPS.

Meanwhile, citizens are reminded that the Firearms Act, Chapter 16:01, Section 6 (1), states, ‘a person may have in his possession a firearm or ammunition only if he holds a Firearm User’s Licence (FUL) with respect to such firearm or ammunition’.

Section 6 (3) of the Act states ‘any person who contravenes any of the provisions of this section is liable in the case of – (a) an offence under subsection (1) – (i) on summary conviction to a fine of $15,000 and to imprisonment for eight years; or (ii) on conviction on indictment to imprisonment for 15 years.’

FUL holders are therefore urged to follow the provisions of the law at all times as it relates to the possession and discharge of firearms. Section 11 (1) of the Act states, ‘a person who discharges a firearm or ammunition on or within forty meters of any public road or in any public place, is liable on summary conviction to a fine of $15,000, except where he does so – (a) in the lawful protection of his person or property or of the person or property of some other
person.

Citizens can use the following home safety tips to secure their homes, properties and possessions:

Illuminate or eliminate all areas around your house where an intruder can hide or gain access.

– All exterior doors should be solid and made from materials such as fibreglass or solid wood. For maximum security, all doors should be windowless.
– Install deadbolt locks.
– Secure gates after you use them.
– Add security cameras around your home.
– Keep emergency numbers – 999, 555 and your district police station on speed dial.