The Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) has defended its decision to deploy new mobile police units, saying they will strengthen the force’s operational reach and response to crime.
The TTPS said in a statement on Friday that mobile police units are not new to the country, but that the force has decided to procure a new generation of ‘micro-police units’ with greater capacity and technology.
According to the police service, the units can be moved throughout the country with only minimal foundation construction and can accommodate more officers and advanced technology than older models.
The TTPS said the locations for the units will be determined using data from its Crime and Problem Analysis Branch, allowing them to be strategically positioned in response to crime trends. The units will serve several functions, including community engagement and rapid response to local issues, major incident planning and coordination, and serving as forward operating bases for specialised operations.
They will also be used for on-the-ground incident command during emergencies and to support tactical deployments and crime suppression initiatives.
Commissioner of Police Allister Guevarro acknowledged criticism that followed the announcement of the strategy but said the TTPS would remain focused on its public safety responsibilities.
‘Yet it is passing strange that individuals who claim to possess security expertise fail to grasp such a basic concept, choosing instead to dismiss any and all initiatives introduced by law enforcement,’ Guevarro said.
‘The TTPS will not be distracted by such commentary. Our responsibility remains the protection of public safety, and these mobile units are a strategic tool designed to strengthen our operational reach, enhance responsiveness, and improve overall effectiveness,’ he added.
The Commissioner said the public could be assured that initiatives undertaken by the TTPS are based on data, statutory responsibility, transparency and accountability.
‘The mobile police units represent another step in building a modern, responsive and trusted Police Service,’ he said.
The TTPS said the units form part of its current anti-crime strategy.