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Police need community involvement to combat crime

In a recent interview, Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Wayne Mystar shared insights on crime, policing strategies, and community relations in the South-Central Division, covering areas from Kearney Bridge to Icacos.

ACP Mystar, who oversees the Central, Southern, and Southwestern divisions, explained his executive role as “a supervisor for the three divisional commanders to ensure that things are going as they should” to maintain safety and security.

ACP Mystar spoke extensively on the issue of home invasions, a growing concern among both residents and business owners in his jurisdiction. Recognising the anxiety that these incidents instilled, ACP Mystar detailed a proactive, multi-layered approach to crime prevention. He emphasised that while increased police patrols were a key component, community members could play an active role in their own safety by adopting the principles of “deterring, detecting, and defending.”

He encouraged residents to reinforce their homes and business premises, creating what he described as a “fortress-like” appearance that could deter potential intruders.

This could be achieved through practical measures such as installing visible security cameras, having robust fencing or gates, and even utilising guard dogs to discourage criminal activity.

“Criminals are lazy,” he explained, pointing out that they tend to seek out “easy targets” and are less likely to target properties that appear well-secured or have additional security layers.

In expanding on the “detecting” phase, ACP Mystar advised citizens to stay vigilant and to instal devices such as motion sensors, alarm systems, and bright exterior lighting that could alert them to suspicious activity near their property. The aim, he noted, was to make criminals aware that they were being watched or recorded, which could dissuade them from attempting a break-in.

The “defending” aspect, ACP Mystar explained, focused on what residents could do in the event of a home invasion despite all security precautions. He stressed the importance of prioritising personal safety over material possessions, advising people not to resist but rather to comply if they found themselves directly confronted by intruders.

Observing distinct features of the intruders, he said, could later aid the police in identifying suspects. ACP Mystar also reassured the community that the police would continue to refine their own strategies alongside these community-led safety measures, aiming to create a safer environment for everyone.

When asked about criminal impersonation, particularly cases where assailants disguise themselves as police officers, ACP Mystar offered guidance. He advised citizens to exercise their right to request identification from anyone claiming to be a police officer, adding that “all police officers… must have their badges displayed to the public.”

ACP Mystar encouraged individuals to observe distinguishing features in case of any forced entry, stating, “Relax and comply if necessary; resisting could escalate violence.”

 

We need eyes everywhere

ACP Mystar expressed deep concern over the troubling homicide rates, noting that T&T had already surpassed 500 recorded murders with projections suggesting the number could exceed 600 by the end of the year.

Describing the grim figures as “not good news for us,” ACP Mystar admitted the challenge facing law enforcement in curbing the escalation of violence. He emphasised that addressing such levels of crime required more than police intervention alone; it called for a united effort from the public as well.

He stressed the value of residents looking out for suspicious activity and reporting incidents promptly to the authorities.

“We need eyes everywhere,” he stated, underscoring how community awareness could provide critical leads in ongoing investigations and help prevent further violent acts.

ACP Mystar also called on citizens to share any relevant information about criminal activity, even if anonymously, reminding them that the police relied on these insights to track and apprehend dangerous individuals.

ACP Mystar acknowledged the erosion of public trust in the police service, especially following incidents of police involvement in kidnappings and other crimes.

He asked the public to “not give up on the TTPS,” asserting that while the service has “bad apples,” rogue officers face strict disciplinary actions.

“We are the only organisation that prosecutes our own personnel,” he said, adding that robust community partnerships and consistent dialogue would help restore trust.

ACP Mystar introduced recent changes aimed at improving police-citizen relations. To address long-standing complaints about police service, he revealed that a new “customer service policy apparatus” had been introduced in police stations.

Citizens now encounter a customer service representative upon entering a station, aiming to provide “that wow experience,” according to ACP Mystar. He also highlighted the importance of follow-ups on reported incidents, ensuring that officers consistently engage with the community beyond the initial response.

Finally, ACP Mystar addressed the high-profile case of a reported bullying incident that tragically ended in the victim’s suicide. He indicated that the investigation was progressing, and he anticipated receiving the file imminently, after which it would be submitted to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) for further advice. He noted that an inquest might be ordered by the DPP to determine the circumstances of the death.

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