2 SRPs held, then released

However, after the witness failed to cooperate with investigators, the SRPs were released from custody at 6 pm on Saturday.

At about 9 pm on Friday, the constables were on mobile patrol in the Diego Martin area when they stopped a 19-year-old man who allegedly committed a traffic offence.

It is alleged the constables demanded $4,000 from the teenager, to avoid being charged.

The teen made arrangements with a male relative to pay the money and on Friday night the constables were told to meet the person with the money at a certain location in Diego Martin.

Newsday understands that police were contacted and told of the transaction that was about to take place.

The man was told to place specific, identifiable markings on the money before giving it to the two SRPs. When the two officers arrived and were handed the money, police officers who were in hiding, moved in and arrested the officers.

The SRPs Friday night at a cell in St James Police Station.

On Saturday afternoon, the witnesses - the teen and the man who handed over the money to the SRPs - both filed a statement saying they wanted no further police action against the SRPs.

This led to the SRPs being released from custody.

Sources said that a charge of wasteful employment of police time is being considered against the two civilians.

A report on the incident is expected to be forwarded to Acting Commissioner of Police Stephen Williams for a determination on whether further action is warranted against the two SRPs.