Trinidad and Tobago is grappling with public outrage following the release of CCTV footage that contradicts official police accounts of a fatal shooting incident in St. Augustine on January 20. The video evidence shows 31-year-old Joshua Samaroo attempting to surrender before officers opened fire, resulting in his death and critical injuries to his common-law wife Kaia Sealy.
The disturbing footage captures the moment Samaroo’s vehicle crashed during a police pursuit on Bassie Street Extension. Within seconds of the collision, three officers emerged from their SUV and discharged at least 17 rounds toward the disabled vehicle. The recording clearly shows Samaroo rolling down his window and extending both hands in a surrender gesture before being struck multiple times.
Deputy Commissioner of Police Operations Suzette Martin acknowledged public concerns regarding the incident, stating the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) treats any loss of life during operations with “utmost seriousness.” The service has committed to full cooperation with the Police Complaints Authority (PCA) investigation while refraining from public commentary on active proceedings.
The PCA has seized upon this incident to renew demands for body-worn cameras, emphasizing their importance for transparency and accountability. Director David West confirmed an independent investigation would examine whether officers violated use-of-force protocols.
This shooting represents the fourth police-involved fatality in 2026, continuing a troubling three-year trend that saw fatal police shootings increase by 150% since 2023. The escalation coincides with extended states of emergency that granted expanded police powers throughout most of 2025.
The government is currently advancing the Law Reform (Zones of Special Operations) Bill through the Senate, which would maintain enhanced law enforcement capabilities through targeted operational zones rather than nationwide emergency measures. The legislation faces opposition concerns regarding potential power abuses.
As investigations proceed, the incident has sparked intense social media debate, with some citizens questioning the police narrative while others suggest the couple’s attempt to flee indicated culpability. Family members maintain neither individual was involved in criminal activities.