00:00The TTP has officially launched its new diplomatic security unit on Friday at the Sinclair Police Station.
00:06The unit, which falls under the special branch, is expected to focus on the protection of embassies,
00:12high commissions, consulates and foreign diplomatic personnel operating in Trinidad and Tobago.
00:18Commissioner of Police Alistair Guevara says the country hosts a significant diplomatic presence,
00:24requiring special security coordination and rapid response capabilities.
00:28Trinidad and Tobago host a significant diplomatic community.
00:33At present, there are 28 resident embassies and high commissions,
00:38along with two consulates general accredited to our republic.
00:43These missions represent sovereign nations,
00:47each with its own sensitivities, responsibilities and expectations of protection.
00:53Police say the unit's responsibilities will include managing demonstrations
00:58near diplomatic missions, conducting patrols and security checks,
01:02coordinating with private security providers and responding to emergencies involving diplomatic staff.
01:08The commissioner also noted that protests involving diplomatic missions have become increasingly common.
01:14Over the decades, we have witnessed numerous protest demonstrations outside of missions.
01:21Moments of tension requiring delicate negotiation and situations demanding absolute cooperation
01:30between the police, diplomats and contracted security providers.
01:36Minister of Foreign and Caricom Affairs, Sean Sobers says the establishment of the unit reinforces Trinidad and Tobago's role as
01:44a regional diplomatic harbor.
01:46The DSU represents a forward-thinking, sophisticated advancement in how our nation interacts with,
01:53protects and supports the international community.
01:56As Minister of Foreign and Caricom Affairs, I am exceptionally pleased to witness the formalization of this specialized unit.
02:05The Republic of Trinidad and Tobago has long established itself as a diplomatic capital of the Caribbean region,
02:12serving as a vibrant host to a vast network of embassies, high commissions, consulates and international organizations.
02:20Minister of Homeland Security, Roger Alexander, says government remains focused on strengthening national security operations
02:28and intelligence capabilities.
02:30This is why improving surveillance, improving operational readiness and improving the professionalism of our national security service.
02:41Security must be proactive at all times and not just proactive, organized.
02:47And security must be serious.
02:50Officials say the diplomatic security unit is expected to improve coordination between local law enforcement,
02:57regional missions and international partners operating in Trinidad and Tobago.
03:02Aksha Galston, TV6 News.
Comments