PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad, CMC – Police Commissioner Erla Harewood-Christopher, says any act of violence against any member of the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) “is absolutely unacceptable and will not be taken lightly” after a police officer was shot and injured while in a marked police vehicle.
“As an organization, we may be shaken, but we remain undaunted and resolute in our mission to uphold the rule of law and protect every person resident in Trinidad and Tobago. Any attack on an officer is an attack on the very foundation on which our society stands, therefore these acts will not be tolerated and we will pursue all necessary measures to bring the perpetrators of this crime to justice.
“Those who feel emboldened to commit acts of lawlessness will feel the full force of the TTPS as we intensify our efforts against all acts of crime perpetrated against our citizens,” Christopher-Harewood said.
In her statement, the top cop said that she is “deeply disturbed” at the incident, especially as the officer was “shot and wounded while performing his duties”.
Police said that on Monday night, PC Shakala Charles was driving the vehicle in the company of other officers of the Guard and Emergency Branch (GEB) when on reaching a street in East Dry River on the outskirts of the capital, they “heard loud explosions”.
Christopher-Harewood said that on reaching the area, the officers observed a vehicle with its sliding doors opened and loud explosions were heard.
“PC Charles felt a burning sensation in his chest and on checking realized that he was shot. He was taken to a medical facility for treatment and is currently in a serious but stable condition,” Christopher-Harewood said.
She said every TTPS officer is committed to maintaining the safety, peace and security of “our beloved nation,” and stand in solidarity with Charles and his family “during this challenging time, as this situation shines the spotlight on true courage and commitment of all our officers, who daily put their lives on the line to safeguard our communities”.
The Police Commissioner expressed the “profound gratitude” of the TTPS executive to PC Charles for his service and to all members of the TTPS for their unwavering dedication.
“Your courage and selflessness do not go unnoticed, and we are committed to ensuring your safety as you continue to protect and serve with PRIDE,” she added.
Meanwhile, police said that they shot and killed a man suspected to be involved in the shooting of a police officer after he attacked a police officer with a cutlass.
They said the incident occurred on Tuesday when the police officers came under attack at Sea Lots on the outskirts of the capital.
The police said that one of the officers was confronted by a man known as ‘Johnny,’ who was armed with a cutlass.
The police said that the man chopped one of the officers “on his helmet” and the other officers, “who saw the danger posed to the life of their colleague drew their firearms and fired several shots in the direction of the assailant.
“The man then slumped to the ground and was immediately taken to the Port of Spain General Hospital for medical attention; however, he was declared dead on arrival.
“The TTPS is committed to maintaining the safety and security of our communities and all officers are thoroughly trained in de-escalation techniques to peacefully resolve conflicts. This incident highlights the challenging and dangerous situations police officers face daily. Our Use of Force Policy is designed to protect lives and ensure that officers can respond effectively to threats,” the police statement added.
About The Author
More Stories
Plans for Royalton CHIC Barbados unveiled
BMS issues Flash Flood Watch
Man dies following stabbing incident