Augustus: Let Govt deny police hit squad

Opposition Sena-tor Roy Augustus wants Minister of National Security Martin Joseph to respond to allegations that a police hit squad is in operation. The charge has been made by angry Carenage residents after police officers of the Western Division Task Force last week shot dead 18-year-old Sherman Monsegue who, contrary to police reports, residents insist was unarmed. Expressing concern over calls made for a return of the controversial Police Service Flying Squad, Augustus demanded to know if the police at present were using suspect methods. Recalling the residents’ charges, he said, “I hope the Minister of National Security will deny the existence of a death squad in the Police Service. There seems to be some evidence of it.”

He hoped police officers would not abuse their authority to wipe out young boys who were already wiping out themselves. “Is the Government allowing this?” he wondered. “Please ensure that we do not have that kind of squad operating in this country.” If such a squad exists, he said, after they had wiped out all the criminals who would be their next target. “If anyone on that side (ie Government) is giving free rein to a death squad operating, stop it! Stop it now! It is illegal.” Noting several serious incidents involving the police, he said, “ All these incidents, I’m not hearing of any serious inquiries.” The Government must deal with any rogues in the Police Service so the police could retain the confidence of the public. “If the Government doesn’t know what to do, move over and let us do it,” he quipped.