Families from Beetham Gardens are demanding urgent investigations into alleged police brutality and constitutional rights violations during a controversial traffic stop incident in Port of Spain. The incident, which occurred on January 17, has sparked outrage and calls for accountability within Trinidad’s law enforcement agencies.
According to eyewitness accounts and family statements, two men returning from work were subjected to violent treatment by police officers during a routine traffic stop on Piccadilly Street. The confrontation reportedly began when one officer used profane language toward the men, prompting a respectful objection about the inappropriate conduct expected from someone in uniform.
The situation escalated rapidly when officers allegedly physically assaulted both men in full public view. Witnesses described disturbing scenes where one man was beaten with a baton until the weapon bent, while another was struck with a police firearm. The elder of the two men was reportedly forced to the ground, restrained with a knee to his chest, and kicked in the head during the altercation.
Following their arrest, the detainees were transported to Besson Street Police Station where their families encountered systematic obstruction in securing their release. Despite recent legislative changes under the Administration of Justice (Indictable Proceedings) Act that explicitly grant justices of the peace authority to administer station bail, officers repeatedly denied bail access.
The case reveals concerning inconsistencies in police procedure. Although relatives were informed the men faced charges of resisting arrest, obscene language, and assault, official documentation only appeared on the Judiciary’s portal approximately 48 hours post-arrest, raising questions about procedural compliance.
Adding to the controversy, witnesses claim police officers later visited community members demanding deletion of video evidence that had circulated widely on social media platforms. Attorney Terry Boyer has formally taken representation of the affected families, preparing comprehensive complaints to both the Professional Standards Bureau and Police Complaints Authority.
The incident highlights ongoing tensions between law enforcement and communities in Trinidad, testing the implementation of recent judicial reforms designed to protect citizens’ rights during police interactions.