‘All eyes on Carnival criminals’

At a press conference called yesterday, Paul said the three Sky Watch units, two blimps, closed circuit TVs and other surveillance equipment will be used on Carnival Monday and Tuesday as part of the police’s effort to maintain law and order during the reign of the Merry Monarch.

The closed circuit TVs have already been installed in Port-of-Spain and San Fernando, the CoP said.

In a joint press briefing with head of the Special Anti- Crime Unit (SAUTT) Brig Peter Joseph, Chief of Defence Staff Brigadier Ancil Antoine and Deputy Police Commissioner Glen Roach, Paul assured the public that officers will be "out in large numbers" on foot and in mobile patrols.

He said manpower will be boosted with assistance from the Defence Force and SAUTT.

Special patrols will be carried out in areas not usually patrolled to ensure that attention is paid to homes while people are out enjoying themselves for Carnival.

"We will be giving the people the type of policing needed and I want to reiterate that we will ensure persons bent on creating problems will be dealt with in a particular manner," Paul said.

He added that the intention is to ensure the revellers and onlookers (including tourists) enjoy a crime-free Carnival. Paul also revealed that parking restrictions will be enforced in the city and he advised the public that flouting these traffic restrictions will not be tolerated. Taxi stands will also be shifted to the outskirts of the city to accommodate revellers.

Paul also advised parents to ensure their children are well taken care of during visits to Carnival venues. Centres will be set up at police posts and the Woodbrook Police Station to accommodate lost children.