Cops on full alert for Hurricane Ivan

All police officers were yesterday put on full alert because of the storm warning issued for Trinidad and Tobago by the Met Office. Commissioner of Police Trevor Paul issued a storm alert to the officers around 2 pm yesterday, and all police stations were advised that all vehicles be fully gassed, all torchlights fitted with batteries, and supplies needed in a storm. Police officers were also advised that even those on leave would be required to report for duty. The messages were sent out to all officers on leave. Paul yesterday confirmed that the entire Police Service was put on full alert.

He added police officers would be out in full force to ensure law and order prevails, and also to assist victims of Hurricane Ivan if the Category Three storm caused any destruction in Trinidad and Tobago. Officers in Tobago were put on alert from as early as 11 am yesterday. Defence Force officers also  received similar instructions. Tobagonians were advised to secure their homes and purchase vital supplies. Fishermen were also radioed and advised to return home or seek shelter inland. Met officers issued tropical storm advisories yesterday and revealed that the hurricane was 650 km east of Tobago.