Senior Political Reporter
Processes will be done for the ascribing of all items of uniforms assigned to police officers with their full names and regimental number to facilitate proper identification and tracking of such items. The T&T Police Service also plans discussions with security companies about the use of uniforms resembling that of the TTPS.
Senate Leader Dr Amery Browne gave the information in the Senate yesterday following queries by UNC Senator Wade Mark. This concerned what action is being taken by the Government to address the increase in the number of police equipment being found in the possession of criminals.
Browne cited five examinations including two audits on arms and ammunition and also on uniform items.
He said, “At the outset, it should be noted that while pieces of equipment, including items of uniform, have been discovered at crime scenes by the TTPS, bearing the word “POLICE”, or containing markings such as police emblems, not all such items are necessarily the property of the TTPS.
“Nevertheless, the Commissioner of Police has advised that the TTPS is currently taking several steps to address the issue of police equipment being found at crime scenes.”
He said these include:
(i) Thorough investigations into all cases where these items are discovered to determine the ownership and source of the items;
(ii) An audit of all arms and ammunition issued to Divisions/Branches/Sections and Units of the TTPS. Thus far, no irregularities have been identified, but the process remains ongoing;
(iii) A re-examination of the TTPS’ procurement practices as it relates to the procurement of firearms and ammunition;
(iv) A review of its Standing Orders relating to the distribution of items of uniform, as well as the development of new strategies, to ensure that police officers are compliant with the Standing Orders; properly securing their items of kit and uniform;
(v) An audit of all items of uniform issued, which is anticipated to be concluded in the near future.
Browne said, “It’s expected that any discrepancies identified by the audit, will be thoroughly investigated and forwarded to the Complaints Division for consideration and appropriate disciplinary action as necessary.”
He added, “Additionally, the Commissioner of Police has further advised that instructions have been given for the ascribing of all items of uniforms assigned to police officers, with their full name and regimental number, to facilitate proper identification and tracking of these items.
“The TTPS also plans to hold discussions with security companies, as it relates to the use of uniforms resembling that of the TTPS.”
Browne said no irregularities have been identified in the examinations, “But this process is ongoing. We can be assured if there’s any indication of irregularity or discrepancies, then further steps will be taken as contemplated.”
According to Browne, many of the items that are ascribed and bear the word “Police” did not necessarily stem from T&T’s Police Service and Mark shouldn’t assume that all of these items originate within the TTPS.
He said, “That area is the subject of investigations and audit at this time to make those determinations.”
Browne said it was difficult to give a time when the five exercises would be completed. Just by the nature of an audit into an exercise like this, he said it would be recognised that it would be impossible to put a specific time.
“We’re assured these matters are ongoing, receiving the appropriate attention, and will be concluded in the near future, that’s as specific as the Government can indicate at this time,” Browne added.