By Alicia Chamely
THE actions of an off-duty police officer who disrupted a robbery in downtown Port of Spain is being praised by Commissioner of Police (CoP) Allister Guevarro.
In a media release sent by the TTPS on Thursday, that morning around 10.35 am, officers received reports of an armed robbery in progress at the 7-11 Sports Bar, at the corner of Charlotte Street and Independence Square, Port of Spain.
According to the release, officers of the Port of Spain Task Force (POSTF) responded quickly, apprehended two suspects. A third suspect was located a short while later, nursing a bullet wound, he was sent to the Port of Spain General Hospital (POSGH).
The TTPS stated upon investigation it was discovered an off-duty officer, who was walking along Independence Square, Port of Spain, when he was altered by the cries for help.
The release stated, “Recognising the urgency, he took a tactical position and observed a suspect fleeing with a box. With commanding clarity, the officer identified himself as a police officer and ordered the suspect to stop. His vigilance continued as another suspect attempted escape, and in the process reaching for what resembled a firearm.
“In accordance with the TTPS Use of Force Policy, the off-duty officer discharged his firearm, incapacitating the armed suspect and recovering a revolver at the scene.”
It stated, “This incident showcases the professionalism and situational awareness that TTPS officers, both on-duty or off-duty, bring to every moment. The officer’s bravery and precision under pressure reflects the very ethos of this institution: Protect and Serve with P.R.I.D.E.”
CoP Guevarro, speaking directly to those who were involved in crime and illicit activity, said, “Today was not a victory for bravado, it was a stark reminder of consequences.”
He added, “Hand in your weapons and walk away from crime. Choose a path of integrity and peace while the door to rehabilitation is open, but time is of the essence”.
Guevarro praised all officers involved in the incident and reminded the public of their commitment to dismantling criminal enterprises.
