Was the Crime Unit involved?

NATIONAL SECURITY Minister Martin Joseph yesterday questioned the accuracy of reports that a senior officer attached to the Special Anti-Crime Unit of Trinidad and Tobago was one of two persons who allegedly gave instructions to Tobago police officers to drop charges against two Barbadian fishermen who were charged with fishing illegally in local waters. “I am not aware that what is claimed is accurate,” Joseph stated. Meanwhile, Police Commissioner Everald Snaggs said the file on this matter has not been handed over to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP). “Yes, the file is still with the police and I do not wish to comment on the matter because an appropriate statement will be made by the appropriate person shortly. It is a police matter and I do not with to discuss it,” Snaggs stated.

This was confirmed by a source in the Office of the DPP who said the file has not been sent by the police but they are eagerly awaiting that report. Opposition Leader Basdeo Panday said while he could not verify the contents of that report, this issue raises the question of political interference in the operations of the Police Service. “I would ask whether such a person could give instructions without political direction,” he said.