The matter of an alleged spy unit in the TTPS was a topic of focus in the Senate today, with questions being posed to National Security Minister Fitzgerald Hinds.

A newspaper report claimed the Research and Analytical Unit reported only to the Special

Branch and falls under Mr Hinds’ remit as National Security Minister.

Opposition Senator Jayanti Luchmedial-Ramdial questioned whether the RAU had equipment capableof conducting surveillance via CCTV and for intercepting private communications.

Mr Hinds simply stated that he was “not aware of that”.

He added that the Interception of Communications Act permits only three entities to intercept communications: the Police Commissioner, the Chief of Defence Staff and the Strategic Services Agency.

Opposition Senator Wade Mark then questioned whether the Unit reported to the National Security Minister, which Mr Hinds denied.