Police Commissioner Allister Guevarro has issued a stark warning to illegal quarry operators, emphasizing that those engaging in unlicensed aggregate processing and quarrying will face severe legal consequences. Speaking at the Police Training Academy in St James on November 17 during the passing-out parade of 126 new police officers, Guevarro drew a parallel between illegal quarrying and unlicensed firearm possession, stating, ‘If you do not have an FUL (firearms users’ licence), would you walk around with a firearm? No, because you will be charged with possession. Similarly, if you lack a licence for quarrying, you open yourselves to prosecution.’ He concluded with a stern admonition: ‘Do not break the law. Or the vengeance of Moko will fall on you.’
The commissioner’s remarks came in response to recent statements by the TT Aggregate Producers Alliance (TTALPA), whose members claimed they were ‘comfortable’ operating without formal licences following discussions with the Ministry of Energy. However, Minister of Homeland Security Roger Alexander denied knowledge of any such talks, asserting, ‘If a conversation was held, it would trickle down from one ministry to another. I have not heard anything, so I stand with the commissioner on this.’
This issue has gained traction following the October arrest of quarry operator Danny Guerra and several others for unlawful aggregate processing. Guerra was later released on $50,000 bail. Earlier this month, quarry operators in Turure, Sangre Grande, staged protests, alleging unfair targeting by law enforcement while other prominent operators continue to function without licences. The situation underscores the ongoing tension between regulatory enforcement and the quarrying industry.