DNA bank, a game changer

Speaking at the launch of the Safety, Security and Sustainability (SSS) Expo and conference in Chaguanas, the Minister noted government remains concerned with the murder rate and has embarked on several strategies .

“We have hired a DNA custodian and he is setting up the management structure right now. We are engaging a provider to treat with the DNA data bank. That again will be a game changer in so far as using the DNA result in increasing the detection rate,” Dillon said. The minister added that Government is not comfortable with the detection rate figure and the DNA bank is part of an initiative to improve the rate .

The commissioner of police, supported by the strategic services agencies, is strengthening the detection rate through training and development of police officers .

“There are a number of initiatives taking place to treat with crime and criminality. It is not just a one stop shop. It is a number of initiatives both in the legislative framework and from the operational side,” Dillon assured .

The minister added that the Attorney General has a suite of legislation in terms of the rehabilitation pillar, which focuses on the prison system. The launch of the SSS expo and conference was held yesterday at Passage to Asia Restaurant at Yves Street, Chaguanas. It is a collaboration between the Chaguanas Chamber of Industry and Commerce (CCIC) and the Ministry. The initiative, which is free to members of the public, takes place from June 22 to 24 at the Outdoor Facility Divali Nagar, Chaguanas .

Speaking also at the launch was ACP Mobile Deodath Dulalchan who told the gathering that policing is not just the police business and added he welcomes the initiative. He called on the public to do their part in the fight against crime and noted that from 2008 to 2016, the country witnessed the lowest number of road fatalities .

“In 2008, we had 264 road fatalities and 2016, 135. That is almost 48 percent decrease,” he said. In terms of serious crimes, under which homicide fall, “since 2009 to last year, the amount of serious crime was almost half” .