Government to announce new anti-crime measures

National Security Minister Martin Joseph is expected to address the nation this week on a number of drastic  anti-crime measures the Government intends to take to deal with the escalating murder rate and surge in kidnappings. Up to yesterday, 133 persons were murdered for the year and two recent kidnap victims are still in the hands of kidnappers. A Government source said yesterday that most of the measures to be introduced shortly are expected to reap the desired results. The source revealed that Government was asked to impose a limited state of emergency but rejected that suggestion because of the negative impact. The Ken Gordon Crime Committee had  recommended on June 16 that the limited state of emergency be imposed but Prime Minister Patrick Manning was against that recommendation.

The source pointed out that some of the measures may include a heavy police army presence at Nelson Street, Port-of-Spain on a round-the-clock basis,  round-the-clock foot patrols in areas known as “hot spot” crime areas, a helicopter patrol, continuous raids and searches, and roadblocks for illegal drugs, arms and ammunition. The source added that some of the measures may be met with resistance from the public but are geared towards taking away the power of the criminal elements. The measures are expected to go into effect from next Friday and will be spearheaded by Ag Police Commissioner Trevor Paul, and the Head of the Anti-Crime Unit, Brigadier Peter Joseph.

Deputy Commissioner Trevor Paul said yesterday, the police are still pursuing the fight against crime and added that apart from the anti-crime measures emphasis is being placed on intelligence gathering. He added that key information would result in the police taking the necessary action to deal effectively with the criminal elements. Paul will take over as Ag Commissioner from next Wednesday when Commissioner Everald Snaggs retires. Snaggs will celebrate his 60th birthday next Thursday.