Acting Prisons Commissioner Hayden Forde has expressed support for Homeland Security Minister Roger Alexander’s proposal to deploy members of the Defence Force outside prison facilities across the country.
Forde said the initiative, if implemented, would not only enhance the safety of prison officers and the public but also assist in countering the growing threat of drones being used to smuggle contraband into correctional institutions.
“Depending on how persons are deployed, the perimeter may not just be around the prison but further afield, where persons may be operating drones, and that can be a major deterrent for drone pilots that they may not want to come close to the prisons to operate these drones.”
During an interview with Guardian Media on Monday, Homeland Security Minister Roger Alexander promised a major overhaul and reform of the prison system, including sending in the Defence Force to monitor activities inside the country’s prisons.
Prison Officers’ Association (POA) president Gerard Gordon said the proposed move to bolster personnel across prison facilities was welcomed.
“We have always craved the support of our brothers and sisters in arms. We operate behind the walls; we need the support outside the walls,” Gordon said.
Guardian Media reached out to the T&T Defence Force about the proposed move, and a subsequent statement was provided pledging support within the legal framework.
“Under the Defence Act, Chapter 14:01, the TTDF may be employed in such a capacity when directed, particularly in situations where additional security support or coordination with other civil authorities is required. In this regard, the TTDF stands ready to assist within the framework of the law, in close collaboration with the relevant ministries and agencies. Any deployment would be executed with due regard to operational oversight, discipline, and the overarching goal of preserving public safety and national stability within the remit of the law.”
Security consultant Dr Garvin Heerah also contended that the move can redound to safety benefits for prison officials and members of the wider public.
“The recent proposal by the Minister of National Security to deploy members of the Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force (TTDF) outside the nation’s prison facilities is a step in the right direction. This measure sends a strong and clear message, not only to criminal elements within and outside the prisons but also to society at large and to any rogue officers who may be undermining the integrity of the correctional system. It demonstrates that the Government is serious about reinforcing law, order, and national safety.”
Heerah also urged caution when advancing the move.
“It is therefore imperative that such operational initiatives be aligned to a clearly defined short-, medium-, and long-term strategy, outlining measurable goals and objectives. The move should not only address the immediate containment and deterrence aspects but also contribute to the institutional strengthening of the Trinidad and Tobago Prison Service.
“The minister’s observation regarding the physical condition of prison perimeters, including overgrown vegetation and other safety vulnerabilities, must be taken seriously. Perimeter management, surveillance, and access control are critical components of modern correctional security architecture.”
