There will be no curfew during the newly announced State of Emergency.

Acting Attorney General Stuart Young also told a media conference today that there will be no restrictions on public meetings, gatherings and marches.

According to Mr Young, the decision to declare the SoE was taken by the National Security Council early this morning, after receiving information from the TTPS.

This relates to concerns about possible reprisals following a quintuple murder in Laventille last night.

These homicides are believed to be a reprisal for another murder outside the Besson Street Police Station on Saturday afternoon.

Under the SoE, police officers will be able to search public and private premises without a warrant.

They will also be able to stop and search any vessel, vehicle or individual, whether in a public space or not.

Individuals can be arrested on suspicion of involvement in illegal activities, with bail provisions to be suspended under the regulations.

According to Mr Young, members of the Defence Force will be given the powers of arrest, as they will operate under similar regulations to the TTPS.

So, how long will the SoE last?

The Constitution states that a Proclamation made in accordance with Section 8 shall remain in force for 15 days.

Mr. Young said the Parliament will meet within 15 days to discuss any continuation.

He added that the SoE will be monitored on a daily basis – if it needs to be lifted before the constitutional period, that will be done.

Meanwhile, when asked about the Prime Minister’s absence, Mr Young said the Minister of National Security and Attorney General would be the most relevant authorities to speak on this matter.

SOME CITIZENS CONCERNED

A number of citizens have since expressed concerns about possible abuse of the extended powers for law enforcement officials.

Some are also concerned that criminals may look to exploit the situation, especially as it relates to officers not needing a warrant to enter a premises.

103.1FM News unsuccessfully attempted to contact Police Commissioner Erla Christopher.

We were later told by a TTPS official that meetings were being held, with communication to later be made to the public.

This story has been updated.