Dillon: Drones, body cams against criminals

SEAN DOUGLAS

DRONES, body cams, CCTV footage and joint patrols of police and army are being used to try to stop violent crimes in this country, Minister of National Security Edmund Dillon told the Lower House last week, in reply to Couva North MP Ramona Ramdial.

He expects better crime detection with the greater use of technology, such as unmanned aerial vehicles (drones) and CCTV footage. “The use of body-worn cameras is also being piloted.”

With most killings done by firearms, he promised more focus on prosecuting and convicting this type of offender.

He disclosed the development of a Scientific Investigation Strategy between front line police offices, investigators, Forensic Science Centre and the Strategic Services Agency (SSA.) Dillon said the Organised Crime Intelligence Unit’s role is to tackle organised criminal gangs and networks.

He mentioned high-quality stop and search exercises of suspicious motor vehicle drivers and passengers. He also listed community engagement including town meetings and neighbourhood watch groups, plus the role of police youth clubs in positively engaging youngsters aged five to 25.

Dillon said the country’s current murder rate is a “cause for concern” but it “did not arise overnight.” He said a multifaceted approached is being taken against crime including all arms of his ministry, and the Judiciary. He said his ministry has increased its focus on violent criminals across TT, with a particular focus on crime hotspots.