Caption: TTPS Head of Corporate Communications Joanne Archie and Police Commissioner Allister Guevarro at a press conference on Monday at the Police Administration Building, Corner of Edward and Sackville Streets, Port of Spain. AZP News/Alicia Chamely
By Alicia Chamely
THE Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) has launched an investigation into possible criminal conduct carried out by Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP), intelligence and investigations, Suzette Martin, against a firearms dealer.
This was revealed on Monday by newly minted Commissioner of Police (COP) Allister Guevarro at a press conference held at the TTPS Police Administration Building, Corner of Edward and Sackville Streets, Port of Spain.
Joined by TTPS Head of Corporate Communications Joanne Archie and Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) North/East Curt Simon, Guevarro stated that on June 18, the same day of his official appointment, he received a report from a firearms dealer, whom he did not name, alleging that certain acts carried out against him were bordering on criminal conduct.
Guevarro said he had appointed ACP Simon to lead an investigation into the report, and had assured him he would have all the resources needed for him to carry out his investigation.
Pressed as to what the allegations against Martin were, he said, “I would not want to pronounce on what is that criminal conduct because an investigation is underway and we will be certain that the investigation, when completed, will uncover whatever criminal conduct exists.”
Guevarro said Martin was still on duty.
He added that any decisions regarding the removal or suspension of officers were under the purview of the Police Service Commission (PolSC). He noted a copy of the report and the intentions of the TTPS to investigate Martin, had been sent to the PolSC.
Regarding the outcome of the investigation, Guevarro said any adjudication rested in the hands of the Department of Public Prosecutions (DPP).
Guevarro urged the public to contact Simon or his team should they have any information regarding Martin.
He said it was his intention to have this investigation run with transparency and accountability.
Simon said at the moment no timelines could be given on the investigation, but more details would be provided to the public in due course.
