Enterprise, Chaguanas residents want more 'confidence patrols'

ENTERPRISE, Chaguanas residents say they appreciate the walkabout in their area by senior police officials on December 2, but added that this should be done more often.

South Central Division head ACP Wayne Mystar led what he termed a "confidence patrol" in that community. He explained these patrols are meant to build public trust and confidence in the Police Service. They were launched last week in San Fernando.

“It’s generally just to meet with the public and business community to have conversations. Sometimes, you know, we get a lot of good information when we operate on the ground with members of the community.”

Mystar said while he would not divulge policing plans for the community for the Yuletide season, he intends to ensure the public understands the TTPS is committed to keeping them safe.

“In the height of the Christmas season, we've been giving a lot of safety tips. These tips will encompass a lot of different things including extortion, safety for women, and safety for children.”

Mystar assured the walkabout was not a show of force but rather an attempt to reach out to communities.

During the walkabout, the top cop interacted and engage with residents including a 13-year-old boy who is currently out of school.

Mystar directed a member of the Community Police Unit to walk the teen to his home and speak with his parents to provide guidance as to what opportunities are available to teens out of school.

“Sometimes we have to amalgamate our resources to get the better effect in managing our resources. You will see members of the Defence Force here, National Operations Task Force, the Central Division Community Policing team. So it's a combination of all resources coming together for a common purpose.”

Residents and business owners told Newsday they were pleased with the walkabout but suggested if police want to instil trust and confidence, such patrols need to become a regular fixture.

A woman selling food out of a small concrete structure at the side of the road told Newsday, “They need to do it a little more regular. That will be much appreciated. Because of the crime, I am feeling a little safer after seeing them.”

Two young men sitting under a tree also welcomed the initiative.

“Today I see something good. They should have that more often because I’m sure plenty people feeling safe right now with that walkthrough. They need to do that all over and people will be more confident in the police.”

“It will be good to see this more often, people in the community will like that,” added the other.

A supermarket owner was more sceptical saying, “This is a one-time thing. You will see them today and never see them again."