A viral 23-second video that has spread rapidly across social media platforms has triggered an official police probe into allegations that a serving Trinidad and Tobago Police Service corporal assaulted a woman at her private residence in Tobago West. According to senior law enforcement officials, the recording first came into police possession last Saturday, immediately prompting the opening of a formal investigation into the disturbing incident.
The footage, which has shocked local communities after being shared widely online, captures the uniformed officer repeatedly striking the woman. Visual evidence shows the victim attempting to protect herself from the blows, which land across her head and face, including a clear slap caught on camera. Both parties left the location of the altercation after the incident, which is confirmed to have taken place on April 12 at the woman’s home in the Tobago West district.
Assistant Commissioner of Police Rishi Singh, in an official interview with local outlet the Express, confirmed that investigators are moving forward with the case, but clarified that progress in the probe is partially contingent on cooperation from the victim. “A final resolution to this incident is not solely within the control of the police,” Singh explained. “The victim must first formally submit a statement to investigators to move the process forward. We have also informed her that she can access specialized support from the TTPS’ dedicated Victims and Support unit if she needs assistance.”
The Express also reached out to Ishmael Pitt, the head of the Police Social and Welfare Association, the representative body for police officers in the region, for comment on the allegations. Pitt confirmed that he had reviewed the viral footage firsthand, and openly acknowledged that the video documents an apparent assault against the woman.
Pitt made clear that the police union supports full compliance with local laws and a transparent, impartial investigation into the incident. “There are clear legal frameworks in place to address this kind of conduct, and we as an organization abide by all existing laws and service rules,” Pitt stated. “We stand fully behind any official investigation and whatever outcome it reaches. This matter must be handled exclusively through the proper legal channels, there is no place for extrajudicial action here.”
Pitt further emphasized that violent assault of this nature will not be tolerated within the ranks of the police service. “There are established rules and binding laws that govern the conduct of all officers, and I have full confidence that the investigation will be carried out thoroughly,” he added. “Any person found responsible for misconduct must be held accountable for their actions. This kind of behavior cannot be condoned under any circumstances.”