Four Trinidadian police officers have been released on bail following charges of official misconduct related to the alleged concealment of a loaded firearm. The officers—PCs Mervyn Eligon, Daawuud Mohammed, Alexsi Harripersad, and Akiel Smith—appeared before Master Delicia Bethelmy at the San Fernando High Court on Wednesday, facing accusations of conspiring to pervert the course of justice.
The case stems from an incident on December 31, 2005, when the officers conducted a late-night search at a property in South Trinidad. During the operation, authorities allege the officers discovered a firearm and ammunition concealed within a black plastic bag inside a garage storage box. Despite this discovery, the officers reportedly filed a false station diary entry indicating no illegal items were found.
According to police investigations, the officers later created another falsified report claiming they had recovered the firearm during a subsequent operation at the same location. This discrepancy triggered an internal investigation after a formal complaint was filed with the Professional Standards Bureau (PSB) on January 5.
Following consultation with Director of Public Prosecutions Roger Gaspard, SC, criminal charges were recommended. PC Eligon faces additional charges for falsely claiming he recovered the firearm. The court set bail at TT$275,000 for Eligon and TT$150,000 for each of his colleagues. The case has been adjourned until April 23 for further proceedings.
The investigation was coordinated by senior police officials including DCP Intelligence and Investigations Natasha George, with supervision from Assistant Superintendent Bacchus and other PSB members. The case highlights ongoing efforts to address police accountability and procedural integrity within Trinidad’s law enforcement system.