Cops warn criminals: Don’t dare come to Port of Spain
“This is not the time for anyone contemplating crime and criminality to visit Port of Spain.”
This was the warning issued by Assistant Commissioner of Police Collis Hazel during a press conference yesterday following the launch of the “Operation Dare” Christmas 2022 anti-crime plan.
The initiative was launched yesterday morning at the Brian Lara Promenade.
Roger Alexander, Senior Superintendent of the Port of Spain Division, as well as Port of Spain Mayor Joel Martinez and Gregory Aboud, President of the Downtown Owners and Merchants Association, were in attendance.
Following the launch, Hazel told the media that this year’s plan would see officers from the Port of Spain Division maintain a 24/7 level of visibility in the capital city.
“Our goal is to ensure that citizens and visitors alike feel safe and secure in the capital city, and that they can conduct any business they have in peace and comfort.”
“To do this, we are strategically placed in terms of how we do our patrols at this time, and thus we give the assurance that this approach, which involves not only police officers from the Police Service, but also our external stakeholders, such as security personnel at the port, at T&TEC, and several security companies with whom we have all amalgamated,” Hazel said.
This combination of security personnel, he added, would ensure quick responses to any challenges encountered during this period and into the Carnival season.
“As such, I want to warn those with nefarious intentions that now is not the time for anyone contemplating crime and criminality to enter Port of Spain.” Yes, we’re being tough, but we mean what we say. So we’re asking those people not to test the strength of our fabric for God’s sake,” Hazel warned.
Keeping everyone safe
Alexander told the media that educating citizens on how to avoid becoming soft targets of crime was part of the Port of Spain Division’s crime plan.
This included officers speaking with Venezuelan citizens.
“You will see vehicles out there speaking to people in both English and Spanish, warning them to stay safe and showing them how to stay safe.” As a result, we are counting everyone.
“We didn’t just think about our citizens. But also those who are visiting here legally or otherwise. We want you to be safe once you arrive,” Alexander said.
He observed that the Division was approaching policing in an almost business-like manner.
“You know, the TTPS right now has to take an almost business-like approach.
“You (citizens) are the clients.” You are not viewed as a victim. You are the customer, and we must do whatever is necessary to satisfy you, especially since the customer is always right. That is, according to the proverb.
“But here’s what we did. We’ve taken it a step further—not only will we want to ensure that you’re correct, but there must also be satisfaction.
“Whether you are correct or incorrect, you must leave the interaction satisfied with the police and their efforts and interactions,” Alexander explained.
