Approximately 28 police officers in Tobago were recognised for their efforts in fighting crime, which led to the seizure of several illegal guns and ammunition over the past nine months.
Outgoing ACP Collis Hazel acknowledged the challenges of police work during a ceremony, saying while it may often be thankless, officers should find pride in upholding their duty to protect and serve.
Since January, Tobago police have recovered 17 firearms and 168 rounds of ammunition.
During the award ceremony at the Shaw Park Cultural Complex on Thursday, he told officers, “You have been working tremendously hard, many of you haven’t seen your families for days and nights. People do not understand the work of the police and what we go through to ensure diligence in our investigations.
“They have worked tremendously hard to ensure that these 17 firearms and 186 rounds that saved lives on the island are rewarded for their success. I commend the ladies in our service who are excelling.”
The officers received cash awards from a $20,000 fund provided by the public to the TTPS.
Outgoing Snr Supt Rodhill Kirk thanked the officers and encouraged them to remain focused.
“We get criticism in the media about the police not doing enough but it is only the persons in the fraternity will know the extent that they have gone trying to keep Tobago safe,” he said.
In his last message to Tobago police officers, Kirk lamented, “We know over the past month we have seen an upsurge in violent crime, shooting, wounding and even murders…We know the damage that could be done with firearms that were recovered. It may seem like a small dent in the crime situation, to us it’s a very big step,” he added.
Kirk took up duties in the Southern Division in Trinidad yesterday. —Elizabeth Gonzales