Police intensify operations in Central Trinidad after murders of ex-officer and two women

Homeland Security Minister Roger Alexander says the TTPS is conducting targeted patrols and intelligence operations following a spate of murders in Central Trinidad.

Minister confirms stepped-up police response to Central Trinidad killings

Homeland Security Minister Roger Alexander confirmed increased Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) operations in Central Trinidad following a series of murders, while declining to say whether any arrests had been made, guardian.co.tt reports.

Alexander told Parliament that the TTPS was conducting intelligence operations, targeted patrols and investigations to identify those responsible for the killings.

Opposition Whip Marvin Gonzales had raised the issue in Parliament, citing concerns about the murders — among them the killing of a former police officer and the double murder of two women. Gonzales asked what urgent measures were being taken to protect citizens.

Alexander said he had been advised that the TTPS was pursuing several lines of action but would not reveal specific operational details.

"For operational reasons, I would not disclose specifically what the TTPS intentions are. But as soon as those persons are identified, it will be dealt with in accordance with the law," he said.

When pressed on whether anyone had been arrested in connection with the crimes, Alexander acknowledged investigators were following every lead but again declined to confirm any arrest.

Gonzales also raised concerns about an increase in robberies and home invasions, including incidents in which citizens were targeted after making large cash withdrawals from banks.

Alexander disputed the framing. "There's been no increase in robberies or home invasions. However, persons continue to seize the opportunity from time to time to relieve persons of their valuables," he said.

The minister confirmed, however, that law enforcement was actively engaging the banking sector over security risks tied to large cash withdrawals. He pointed specifically to the noise made by cash-counting and cash-dispensing machines, which he said could allow criminals nearby to estimate the amount a customer was receiving.

"If persons are smart, they're able to calculate exactly how much money someone is receiving from the machine to leave the bank," Alexander said, adding that law enforcement intended to have the issue rectified through continued engagement with the financial system.

He also urged citizens and business owners to exercise caution about sharing information regarding their banking activities — including with employees.

Source: Google News TT — Crime