Praedial Larceny squad crying for help

Speaking on the condition of anonymity, for fear of victimisation, an officer told Newsday that many of them are working on a month to month basis and often do not receive salaries on time.

He said members have been using, out-dated firearms (not maintained and no longer used by the TT Police Service), cold ammunition which has outlived its shelf life, have no radios and must rely on their private cellphones to take reports.

The unit has also been using unmarked vehicles with no lights and sirens and officers were given handed-down bullet proof vests which are, “dirty and ill-fitting.” “There is also the issue of our remuneration with that of our counterparts in other law enforcement entities, way below the salaries of other units,” the officer said.

This has resulted in several of the officers seeking a transfer from the unit, “because there nothing in place for us.” The officer added that despite requests for transfers, none has been granted since the squad’s superintendent has not done recommendation letters, requested by the office of the Adjutant Special Reserve, in order to have officers reassigned.

Some of the officers said they wish to be transferred to the office of the Adjutant Special Reserve Police, since what they are dealing with is a matter of, job security.