Addition police are being deployed in Tobago to help deal with the increase in violent and other serious crimes on the island.

The Police Commissioner says officers from the Guard and Emergency Branch and the Inter-Agency Task Force to enhance the Tobago division.

They will be patrolling the streets and other public spots on the island.

“On Friday 24th May, 2024, Commissioner of Police, Erla Harewood Christopher visited and held discussions with senior officers in the Tobago division. This, as a follow up to previous discussions held to address the crime situation on the island. In addressing the officers, she expressed concerns on the increase of violent and other serious crimes affecting the Tobago public and discussed with officers strategies to combat this situation.

Adopting a ‘focussed deterrence’ approach and engaging residents and other external stakeholders, were among some of the issues discussed, with a view of reducing the number of violent crimes and enhancing the quality of life for those on the island. Addressing the officers, she reminded them that proactive policing
requires a multi-pronged approach, utilising all available resources, if any gains are to be made. She advised the officers that this also demands focused leadership and commitment if this situation has to be effectively addressed.

Commissioner Christopher further said that strengthening the bonds between the public and the police is a critical component in building trust and confidence which is much needed in these circumstances. She further reminded the officers of the dynamic nature of crime and as such, as crime evolves, they need to be continuously reviewing their strategies to be on top of their game.

The COP deployed a contingent of officers from the Guard and Emergency Branch and the Inter-Agency Task Force to augment the strength of officers in the division, to maintain law and order on the island. The public would see an increased presence of police officers on the streets and other public spaces. Additionally, officers would be afforded additional training to build capacity and to equip them to better discharge their responsibilities. The COP also promised additional resources to equip officers to effectively address the crime situation on the sister island.”