By Sue-Ann Wayow
THE National Transformation Alliance (NTA) is urgently calling for a comprehensive investigation into Energy Minister Stuart Young’s recent admission that he donated a legally owned firearm to the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS).
According to NTA political leader Gary Griffith, the revelation raises several crucial points that cannot be ignored.
These include firearm disposal procedure, firearm return, weapon classification, minister’s timing and minister’s desire.
Griffith said on Monday it was vital to emphasise that individuals holding a Firearm User’s License (FUL) were not authorised to “donate” their firearms and there was a formal procedure for disposing of firearms through the use of a disposal form.
“If disposing of a firearm to the TTPS, the Service must adhere to its internal procurement policies, ensuring a regulated and transparent process,” he said.
Griffith said the act of disposing the firearm to a specific division within the TTPS, such as the Multi-Operations Purpose Unit (MOPS), was of particular concern especially as that division was responsible for Young’s continuous state-sponsored security.
He also said the term “Assault Weapon” lacks recognition in formal firearms classification as there was nothing in Trinidad and Tobago laws which classifies anything as an assault weapon.
Only law enforcement entities and personnel, not civilians like Young, can be issued automatic weapons by the Commissioner of Police.
The former police commissioner said, “Given that Minister Young acquired the FUL for this specific firearm, and less than one year after he returns it, it’s imperative that he clarifies the need for its disposal within such a short period of time. His failure to do so will leave many to speculate as to why he did not offer the public full transparency in this very serious matter.”
As a former Minister of National Security, Young expressed on many occasions his desire to enter law-enforcement as a Special Reserve Police (SRP), which was refused because he was not suitably qualified.
“Therefore the only concern any civilian should have when they receive a semi-automatic firearm is if they made alterations to turn it into an automatic weapon,” Griffith said.
He said, “In light of these critical points, the NTA urgently demands a meticulous investigation to ensure transparency and accountability. The concerns stemming from Minister Young’s alleged actions underscore the imperative to uphold proper procedures and adherence to the rule of law, specifically concerning firearm possession and disposal.
“A forensic examination and subsequent report regarding the firearm’s status must be conducted and made accessible to the public.”
Griffith’s comments come after a press briefing on Sunday by the Opposition.
Opposition Member of Parliament Dr Roodal Moonilal raised several questions for Young to answer following his admission that he did in fact donate a legal weapon to the TTPS.
