SRP sets self on fire

A SPECIAL Reserve Policeman who is currently on suspension attempted to end his life by setting himself on fire at his Avocat home yesterday.

Police said that at 10 am, retired Sgt Gary Alexander - who re-entered the Police Service as an SRP - suffered burns to 60 percent of his body. Up to last night, he was warded in critical condition at the Burns Unit of the San Fernando General Hospital SFGH yesterday.

According to reports, Alexander, 62, who was formerly assigned to the Rapid Response Unit had an argument with a female relative at his Jebodhsingh Avenue, Avocat, Fyzabad home. Eyewitnesses said the father of two began cursing and acting in a strange manner.

He then doused himself with gasoline and also poured it inside his car. He then sat down in the car and set himself on fire. However when the heat became too much for him to bear, Alexander ran out of the burning car and eyewitnesses extinguished the flames from his body. He was taken to hospital.

Earlier this year, Alexander was suspended from active duty over a report of an attempted arson. Police colleagues said Alexander had advice and even counselling but became embittered when he was suspended.

A relative said he was not surprised at Alexander's action. "It was obvious to us that he needed help and we want to know why the Police Social and Welfare Association and his seniors in the Service did not reach out to him. There are many other officers who may be going through domestic problems but are too ashamed to ask for help. The Police Service must seek them out and counsel them," said the relative who asked not to be identified.

Yesterday, PSWA secretary ASP Anand Ramesar said that as far as he was aware, Alexander's issues were not brought to his attention at any time. He blamed the Police Service for not having an organised Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) to assist officers.