The Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) has responded to a protest that took place yesterday in support of Kaia Sealy, following the announcement that there are warrants out for her arrest.

According to a statement from the TTPA, while it acknowledges the presence of individuals who assembled today and protests are not expressly prohibited under the current State of Emergency (SOE), all public gatherings must strictly comply with the Emergency Powers Regulations.

It was further noted that:

The TTPS has a statutory responsibility to maintain public safety and preserve public order. Where any gathering presents a potential risk to either, officers are duly empowered to take appropriate and proportionate action, including the lawful dispersal of such assemblies.

In this instance, officers engaged the individuals present and issued clear, lawful instructions in accordance with the Emergency Powers Regulations. The decision to disperse the gathering was based on assessed concerns relating to public safety and the maintenance of order. Members of the public are reminded that the Emergency Powers Regulations confer broad authority on law enforcement to regulate, restrict, or disperse assemblies where necessary.

Key provisions include:

The Commissioner of Police may restrict the association or communication of individuals and prohibit entry into specified areas. Any location may be designated a “protected place,” rendering unauthorized entry an offence and permitting police to search or remove persons from such areas.

Police officers are granted expanded powers to stop, search, detain, and arrest individuals without a warrant where there is reasonable suspicion that actions may be prejudicial to public safety.

Public speech, organizing, or advocacy activities connected to protests may fall within offences where such actions are deemed capable of influencing public opinion in a manner detrimental to public safety. Protest activity, particularly in the vicinity of police stations or other sensitive locations, must comply strictly with public order laws and SOE regulations.

The public is further advised that breaches of the Emergency Powers Regulations carry significant penalties, including fines of up to TT$100,000 and imprisonment for up to five (5) years. The current legal framework is established under the Emergency Powers Regulations, 2026 (Legal Notice No. 40 of 2026), enacted pursuant to the declaration of the ongoing State of Emergency.

The TTPS remains committed to balancing the constitutional rights of citizens with its duty to ensure safety, stability, and good order during this period. The Service continues to urge all persons to act responsibly, cooperate with law enforcement, and adhere to all regulations currently in force.