Commissioner of Police, Allister Guevarro, says the mounting murder toll and rising crime spree impacting the country was not unexpected, given that it is happening three months after the end of this year’s State of Emergency.
“The immediate effect, as the statistics would show coming out of the State of Emergency, there was what persons have termed an ‘upsurge’. We see it as a return to normal criminality,” the top cop told Guardian Media.
The ‘upsurge’ comes as home invasion reports continue across the country.
Police Commissioner Guevarro says it is important to reduce the public’s fear of crime and to help them feel safe, given that the fear of crime can be even worse and more crippling than the crime itself.
He says he supports the government's proposed ‘stand your ground’ legislation.
“The only way we'll be able to determine if it will help or harm is after it is put into effect,” he pointed out.
“And I support it,” the Commissioner affirms. “I support any legislation that would support members of the public in protecting themselves.”
At present, Commissioner Guevarro is attempting to clear a backlog of Firearms Users Licences (FUL) applications. He says he is aware of the potential for an increase in applications once the ‘stand your ground’ law comes into effect.
“Application does not mean approval,” he advised potential FUL applicants. “Adjudication means that the persons who deserve a firearms user’s license will get a firearms user’s license. It is not like everyone can apply and get a gun.”
When the new academic year begins, CoP Guevarro's officers will have a new mandate, with roughly 40 high-risk schools having a police presence.
“The TTPS is actively engaging in the training of officers to take up those positions,” the top cop revealed. “
He added: “I’d like to reassure the public that the TTPS stands ready to take back the schools from the ‘violent elements’ that exist.”
This Friday (July 18, 2025) will mark one month since Allister Guevarro took up the post of Police Commissioner.
