Housing Minister David Lee has extended condolences to the family of Kwando Guillium, who was killed at East Side Plaza, Charlotte Street, Port-of-Spain on Wednesday.
The minister has also asked that the security at the mall be reviewed in a bid to strengthen it to avoid a repeat.
In a release following the killing on Wednesday, Lee expressed concern over what he described as “a tragic and senseless act of violence that has left the staff and wider community deeply shaken.”
Guillium, 34, of La Puerta, Diego Martin, worked as a cleaner at the mall, which was renamed the Port-of-Spain Shopping Complex, for the past three years.
Police said he received a call at 3.40 pm and as he emerged from the kitchen, two armed suspects opened fire on him before fleeing along George Street.
Guillium died at the scene.
The minister said, “We are devastated by this incident and grieve with the family and colleagues of Mr Guillium.”
He went on to assure, “The safety and well-being of all workers within state-managed facilities remain a top priority for this ministry.”
The mall falls under Lee’s portfolio, and he has advised staff members who need counselling to get in touch with Dr Joanne Spence, who is the head of the complex, at 624-7581, to submit that request.
Meanwhile, Lee said they were awaiting the official security report on the incident and would continue to work closely with law enforcement to ensure the safety and security of all tenants and staff operating at the mall.
Lee said, “The ministry will review the findings of the security report and take all necessary measures to strengthen safety protocols across all our facilities.” —Anna-Lisa Paul
