PORT OF SPAIN – A notable resurgence in public confidence toward Trinidad and Tobago’s police force appears to be emerging, driven by substantial reductions in serious criminal activities and enhanced community engagement programs. The current upward trend marks a significant departure from the mere eight percent trust level recorded in the 2022 Police Service Commission survey.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (Operations) Suzette Martin reported on December 27 that numerous citizens expressed appreciation for police efforts during the recently concluded 12 Days of Christmas and Inter-Agency Christmas Caravan initiatives. According to Martin, both vendors and shoppers conveyed unprecedented feelings of security while conducting holiday purchases, with markedly fewer incidents of pickpocketing and robbery compared to previous years.
These community programs form part of the broader Operation Festive Shield strategy – an acronym representing Safety, High Visibility, Intelligence-Led Policing, Engagement, Law Enforcement and Deterrence. The comprehensive initiative commenced on December 15 and will extend through the Carnival season, concluding on February 23.
The operational success derives from multi-agency collaboration involving police, Fire Services, Defence Force, Prison Service, municipal police, and licensing department personnel. Officers disseminated safety awareness information while conducting goodwill activities nationwide, including hamper distributions, award ceremonies, and community beautification projects.
Statistical evidence supports the improved public sentiment. Police Commissioner Allister Guevarro revealed in November that homicide rates decreased by 42 percent, violent crimes dropped by 19 percent, and other serious offenses declined by 11 percent compared to the previous year. These improvements are largely attributed to the detention of 85 individuals during the state of emergency and implementation of intelligence-driven policing strategies.
DCP Administration Junior Benjamin emphasized the service’s year-long commitment to community safety, noting that every division contributed through various outreach programs. He confirmed that administrative, intelligence, and investigations personnel maintained high visibility in streets, malls, and public spaces throughout the holiday season.
The police force anticipates building upon this success throughout the upcoming Carnival celebrations and into 2026, with continued focus on evidence-based approaches and community partnership models.