Police and licensing officers in Tobago conducted roadblocks across the island on July 29 in an effort to make the area safer. Despite causing some inconvenience to commuters who were delayed for hours, the police were able to randomly check vehicles for drugs, guns, and ammunition. Licensing officers were also conducting checks at strategic points, issuing tickets for violations.
Sen Supt Rodhill Kirk urged the public to bear with the inconvenience, emphasizing that the police need the community’s support to eradicate crime and criminality. He pointed out that the joint exercise between the TTPS and Licensing Authority was focused on law enforcement and enforcing regulations on the road.
During a radio interview on the Tobago Updates morning show, police road safety co-ordinator Brent Batson explained that the police’s role is to enforce laws on the roads and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements. Despite acknowledging the high cost of tickets, Batson emphasized that warnings were given before issuing fines, and certain violations cannot be overlooked.
Kirk highlighted the success of these initiatives in fighting crime, noting that recent shootings in Tobago involved high-powered weapons carried in vehicles. He praised the retrieval of firearms and ammunition during road exercises, emphasizing the importance of catching repeat offenders who contribute to criminal activity.
In an update on a recent shooting incident in Scarborough, Kirk reported the victim’s condition as stable and mentioned that an arrest was imminent. Additionally, the police recovered a pistol and ammunition through intelligence-led policing efforts. There is a focus on targeting priority offenders and cracking down on illegal activities in and around Scarborough.
Kirk urged the public to assist in addressing illegal vending and congregations in hot spots, emphasizing the police’s commitment to maintaining safety and security in the area. Overall, the joint efforts between police and licensing officers aim to create a safer environment for everyone in Tobago.
