Flashing blue lights from police vehicles may comfort some people, but they also warn criminals, giving them time to escape.
That was one of the issues raised at a police town hall meeting at the Arima Community Centre on Monday night.
D’Abadie/O’Meara MP Lisa Morris-Julian referred to incidents where gunmen were seen crossing a river in Tumpuna and roaming through nearby streets. She said the layout of the neighbourhood allowed suspects to escape through bushes once flashing lights from police vehicles were sighted in the distance.
“On behalf of the residents we really want something done about that particular situation,” she said.
Head of the Northern Division North Snr Supt Miguel Montrichard said while the lights gave away the element of surprise, they were necessary to reassure the public.
“We have instructions from the Commissioner during lighting-up hours that the lights are to be on,” he said.
“I think we value prevention rather than cure and it’s a measure for one to ensure persons in the community see that we are around and the effect of having people being alerted that we are coming is a byproduct but you have to look at the greater good. A person might get away, but the public will feel safe.”
On the issue of police visibility, Arima MP Pennelope Beckles-Robinson said an increased police presence on Temple Street had restored a sense of security among residents.
Temple Street has been the site of several murders and shootings over the years. In April 2023, Candice Griffith and Alana Layne, were gunned down at a birthday party there and in January 2022 gunmen opened fire on several parked cars and the windows of homes.