CoP describes kidnappings as peculiar

WHILE not elaborating, Commissioner of  Police Trevor Paul has described the kidnappings that have taken place in TT over the last twelve months as peculiar. “Our initial investigations into the recent reports  have revealed that each of these cases has its own peculiarity on which I cannot elaborate at this time. Without compromising the integrity of the investigations I can safely state that one  was actually a murder reported as a kidnapping in order to mislead the investigators. “Most of the others are also surrounded by special circumstances  which for obvious reasons cannot be shared at this point in time”.

The CoP was making these statements at a media conference called yesterday at the police headquarters, Port-of-Spain to speak about kidnappings for the year. However despite several requests to explain what he meant by the cases having its own peculiarity or being peculiar, the CoP refused to explain. He promised to do so at a later date. He did however promise that gains made over the last few months in dealing with kidnappings will not be eroded and called on the public support in dealing with this criminal activity. “Our agencies are committed to sustaining heightened vigilance as we continue to promote an environment which is safe and secure for all our citizens.

However the public role in this fight cannot be overstated, your support is a crucial element in winning this war,” he added. The CoP also indicated that they will continue to monitor the hot spots using joint patrols, highway  patrols, assisted by special arrangements at malls and shopping areas. Coastal surveillance and the use of helicopters and other technology will also be increased. Paul also indicated that he did not feel threatened by the inclusion of Professor Stephen Mastrofski who has now come on board as an advisor to the Police Service, or with the reduction of his power to units like Special Anti-Crime  Unit of TT(SAUTT).

“I believe all the agencies have to work together to reduce crime. No one unit can do it by itself. He however refused to analyse his success over the last five months since he has been in office, stating he left that to the public who might not feel very secure now, but given time and support that will come around. The CoP also promised greater strides will be made in 2005. The figure for kidnapping for ransom stood at 28 up to December 21 compared to 50 for the same period last year. There were no figures on how many were not for ransom, or how much money was paid in ransom, or how many persons were rescued for the two periods. Promise was made that this will be revealed before the year is over.