(Trinidad Express) Despite the arrest of the Commissioner of Police (CoP) Erla Christopher yesterday, the T&T Police Service (TTPS) remains committed to serving this country, says the TTPS.
Yesterday morning, the executive of the TTPS, led by Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Junior Benjamin, DCP Suzette Martin, and Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Richard Smith, held a press briefing at the police administration building in Port of Spain in which it was confirmed that Christopher had been arrested in connection with ongoing investigations into the illegal procurement of firearms.
This, it was explained, may constitute misbehaviour in public office.
And even as the investigations continue, the TTPS may look at other charges.
Despite the arrests of the head of the organization, both Martin and Benjamin stated that the TTPS remains committed to day-to-day operations.
“As you are aware, the Commissioner of Police Erla Harewood Christopher, has been arrested and detained, along with the ex-SSA director Roger Best over the past few days. We understand that this has raised significant public concern and we are committed to providing as much information as possible while respecting the ongoing investigation. At this time an active investigation is proceeding and I must stress that it is still in progress. We are working closely with the Director of Public Prosecutions (Roger Gaspard SC) and the relevant authorities to ensure that due process is followed and that all legal protocols are observed.
“As this investigation is still ongoing and is at a sensitive stage, we are unable to provide specific details about the nature of the arrest. It is important that we allow the investigation to unfold without interference. I ask you for your understanding and patience as we work to ensure all aspects of this matter are addressed thoroughly and fairly. I want to reassure the public that the arrest of the CoP does not affect the day to day operations of the TTPS. Our officers remain committed to serving and protecting the citizens of Trinidad and Tobago (TT) and our executive…are here with us today, and we will continue to function without disruption. We are fully operational and the safety and security of the public remains our top priority. The integrity of the TTPS as an institution remains strong and we continue to uphold the highest standard of professionalism,” Martin said.
She added that the TTPS will provide updates as appropriate, but it must be mindful of not compromising the ongoing investigations.
The senior officers also confirmed that Christopher had been kept at a police station overnight, however, they did not wish to disclose which one, noting ‘security reasons’.
It was also stated that all of Christopher’s constitutional rights as a suspect were being strictly observed.
When asked about the morale of the TTPS, and how its operations will continue without its ‘head’ Benjamin said: “The TTPS is an organization and even at this time I will not say we do not have a head. The TTPS, the layers, and structure of it is one where even at this time we have DCPs, and each DCP is given a responsibility and each of those responsibilities totally encompasses all that is needed to ensure the effective and efficient working of the TTPS. As the most senior DCP I have that (responsibility to) help give strategic direction to the TTPS at this time, and we would then await the Police Service Commission to give further direction in terms of the leadership,” Benjamin said.
It was also noted that the ACPs will be aiding with the ongoing operations of the organisation.
“The executive has met and the reason that we are all here (today) is to show that level of solidarity…that we understand that the TTPS is about giving that level of professional outlook and therefore we can assure the public in terms of the running of the TTPS,” Benjamin said.
Speaking to the media after the press conference, Martin was asked how she felt about questioning a fellow colleague.
“It is not a nice feeling,” Martin said.
