00:00The Commissioner of Police was arrested in connection with ongoing investigations into
00:04the illegal procurement of firearms.
00:07This, it was explained, may constitute misbehavior in public office.
00:12And even as the investigations continue, the TTPS may look at additional charges.
00:18Despite the arrests of the head of the organization, Deputy Commissioners Martin and Benjamin stated
00:24that the TTPS remains committed to day-to-day operations.
00:30As you are aware, the Commissioner of Police, Ms. Erla Harewood-Christopher, has been arrested
00:36and detained along with ex-SSA Director Roger Best over the past few days.
00:44We understand that this has raised significant public concern and we are committed to providing
00:52as much information as possible while respecting the ongoing investigation.
00:59Martin says the TTPS is working closely with the Director of Public Prosecutions, Roger
01:04Gaspard, SC, to ensure that due process is followed and that all legal protocols are
01:11observed.
01:12As this investigation is still ongoing and is at a sensitive stage, we are unable to
01:20provide specific details about the nature of the arrests.
01:25It is important that we allow the investigation to unfold without interference.
01:32But even with the Police Commissioner being the subject of an investigation, the TTPS
01:37will continue to operate effectively.
01:39I want to reassure the public that the arrest of the Commissioner of Police does not affect
01:45the day-to-day operations of the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service.
01:51Our officers remain committed to serving and protecting the citizens of Trinidad and Tobago.
01:58And the Executive, our Assistant Commissioners of Police, are also here with us today.
02:05And we will continue to function without disruption.
02:09Martin says the safety and security of the public remains the top priority of the TTPS.
02:15She added that the TTPS will provide updates as appropriate, but it must be mindful of
02:20not compromising the ongoing investigations.
02:24The senior officers also confirmed that Christopher had been kept at a police station overnight.
02:29However, they did not wish to disclose which one, noting security concerns.
02:35It was also stated that all of Christopher's constitutional rights as a suspect were being
02:39strictly observed.
02:41When asked about the morale of the TTPS and how its operations will continue without its
02:46head, DCP Benjamin explained that
02:48Even at this time, we have Deputy Commissioners of Police.
02:53Each Deputy Commissioner is given responsibility, and each of those responsibilities totally
03:01compass all that is needed to ensure the effective and efficient working of the police
03:06service.
03:08In the interim, he says that the TTPS will be awaiting the Police Service Commission
03:12to give further directions in terms of the leadership.
03:15It was also noted that the ACPs will be aiding with the ongoing operations of the organization.
03:21Speaking briefly to the media after the press conference, Martin was asked how she felt
03:26about questioning a fellow colleague.
03:28It's not a nice feeling, Martin said.
03:30Alexander Broussaul, TV6 News.
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