Shane Superville
Deputy Commissioner of Police Suzette Martin is under investigation, months after leading an inquiry into alleged criminal conduct by former Police Commissioner Erla Harewood-Christopher.
Police Commissioner Allister Guevarro confirmed the investigation at a media briefing on Monday at the Police Administration Building, Sackville Street, Port of Spain.
He said the allegations were linked to Martin’s involvement in the 2022 arrest of firearms dealer and trainer Brent Thomas in Barbados.
Thomas, 61, was detained while awaiting a flight to the United States and later charged with three counts of possession of firearms and four counts of possession of explosives.
According to a TTPS media release, the investigation into Martin began after Professional Standards Bureau officers conducted an audit at the business of a firearms dealer in Aranguez. They said they discovered several irregularities and later searched the dealer’s home, where they found four explosive devices and three prohibited firearms.
In April 2023, High Court judge Devindra Rampersad ruled that Thomas’ arrest—carried out by officers led by Martin—amounted to an “abduction.” The then Attorney General Reginald Armour later issued an apology to Barbadian authorities.
When asked to detail the allegations against Martin, Guevarro said: “The firearm dealer would have indicated certain acts were carried out against him and he felt this was bordering on criminal conduct.
“I would not want to pronounce on exactly what is that criminal conduct because an investigation is underway and we will be certain that the investigation when completed will uncover whatever criminal conduct exists.”
He said the TTPS remained committed to its mandate despite recent controversy involving its leadership.
Guevarro added that the decision to publicly confirm the probe into Martin showed the service’s commitment to transparency and accountability.
Martin remains in her position as Deputy Commissioner with responsibility for intelligence and investigations. She has not been suspended.
Asked whether keeping her in the post could affect the integrity of the investigation, Guevarro expressed confidence in the team led by ACP Curt Simon.
“I have every trust and faith in the investigative team that they will be able to uncover any misgivings that would have occurred or, I should say, lend to the misbelief that misgivings will occur,” he said.
Only the Police Service Commission has the authority to suspend officers, Guevarro added.