Senior Reporter
anna-lisa.paul@guardian.co.tt
The Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) has vowed to increase its efforts to dismantle criminal gangs operating across the country—and has pledged to channel more resources towards this fight.
The promise came two days after the T&T Postal Corporation (TTPost) ordered employees to desist from wearing or using any form of numbering which could be associated with or linked to criminal gangs, as they could become targets as they go about their daily duties.
In an internal memorandum dated May 16 and signed by TTPost’s acting security manager Donna Bournes, delivery leaders and officers were advised, “With immediate effect, delivery officers are not to wear and or carry any item, clothing, shoes, caps, handbags, umbrellas or any other paraphernalia while out on delivery bearing the numbers 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9 as these numbers represent different gangs across communities namely: Tyson, Rasta City, EBG, Six, Boombay Gang and Police.
“This has become necessary due to the accelerated gang-related shootings, reprisals and other incidents within several communities. People are kindly asked to adhere to this policy to maintain their personal security and safely deliver the mail.”
A release from the TTPS Corporate Communications Unit yesterday read, “We would like to assure the business community, as well as members of the public, that we will increase our efforts and channel our resources with the aim of dismantling said gangs, who impinge on the everyday lives of citizens.”
Officials said their response would take various forms, which included “increased patrols and higher visibility in the affected communities.”
They insisted this measure would act as a deterrent to lawless conduct.
Meanwhile, the TTPS said it intended to continue dialoguing with all stakeholders to strengthen partnerships which were, “ultimately aimed at restoring a sense of security and safety to persons who live and work in these areas and throughout the country.”