Top cop mandates police officers to reduce crime

Police Commissioner Trevor Paul has given a mandate to all police officers to reduce crime, increase traffic safety and improve community relations. Paul made the disclosure at a press briefing yesterday to inform the public about the future objectives of the Police Service. He was accompanied by two deputy commissioners Oswyn Allard and Glen Roach. The Commissioner revealed that he sent out a memo to each member of the Police Service, calling on them to do their part to make the three objectives a reality. In the memo, he promised better working conditions and resources to assist them in their duties. The top cop also pledged to ensure that promotions will be based on merit performance and training will be provided for officers of all ranks.

He added that 75 cars, 25 jeeps and 25 motorcycles will be made available to the Police Service shortly, and these vehicles will be used mainly in crime hot spots. All heads of divisions were also given a directive by the police chief to take control of their respective divisions to ensure that the fight against crime was conducted on a round the clock basis. Paul said the fight against crime would continue and the public would see the results of the efforts shortly. He added that the resumption of the joint police/army patrols would also assist in the crime battle. The new Commissioner also gave an update on recent police investigations.

He said  the file on the shooting death of Morvant mother of two, Galene Bonadie, was sent to the DPP and had recommended an inquest into the matter. Paul also revealed the investigation into the release of two Barbadian fishermen by Tobago police officers was continuing. According to the commissioner, the investigators were looking at two aspects of the probe which include internal disciplinary action and criminal charges. Three officers from the Tobago Division have already been served with notices in the matter.