In a significant crackdown on illegal weapons, Trinidad and Tobago law enforcement authorities have successfully apprehended four individuals and confiscated a substantial arsenal during a meticulously coordinated operation in the South Western Division. The intelligence-driven raid, executed on January 21 between 5:00 AM and 9:00 AM, targeted multiple locations throughout Penal, resulting in the recovery of eight firearms and hundreds of rounds of ammunition.
The seized weapons inventory includes an AR-style rifle equipped with a loaded magazine, four shotguns, a revolver, and two pistols. Notably, one pistol was found loaded with a magazine containing 15 rounds, while another carried five rounds. The operation yielded a total of 222 rounds of assorted ammunition, with an additional 25 rounds discovered concealed within a red cigar case.
Law enforcement personnel initially detained two suspects: a 41-year-old woman from Syne Village, Penal, and a 57-year-old man residing at Moolai Trace, Penal. Subsequent operations within the district led to the apprehension of two additional individuals—a 41-year-old male from Syne Village and a 21-year-old male from San Francique.
The multi-agency operation was strategically coordinated by Deputy Commissioner of Police Suzette Martin, with Senior Superintendent Thompson providing operational leadership. The investigative team included Superintendent Jaggernath and Assistant Superintendents Corrie and Forbes, demonstrating the high-priority status of the weapons interdiction effort.
The operation featured an unprecedented collaboration between specialized units including the SWD Gang and Intelligence Unit, National Special Operations Unit, Air Support Unit, SWD Task Force, Penal CID, Penal Police Station, SWD Patrol Unit, alongside supporting elements from the Prison Service and Defence Force Operations Unit.
Authorities have confirmed that investigations remain ongoing as they continue to pursue leads related to weapons trafficking and associated criminal activities in the region.