28 held in police/army raid

The raid started at about 3am and saw police executing search warrants in some instances.

During the nine-hour exercise, 28 people were arrested and two kilograms of marijuana seized.

The exercise was ordered by Acting Police Commissioner Stephen Williams after an upsurge in shootings in the area.

The team was led by ACP Crime Irwin Hackshaw, Senior Superintendent Radcliffe Boxhill, ASP Ajith Persad and Inspectors Henry Dan and Prescott.

Despite the bad weather, several houses were searched with the assistance of dogs.

Although no guns or ammunition were found, residents welcomed the presence of police and soldiers.

They claimed gang members had taken over some parts of Petit Valley and their community was no longer considered safe.

The police promised the residents that they will maintain a heavy presence in the community.

Those arrested were detained for robberies, rapes and other serious offences. They are expected to appear before a Port-of-Spain magistrate on Tuesday.