In a significant development for Tobago, Police Commissioner Allister Guevarro announced a remarkable 300% decline in homicides on the island. Speaking on the Tobago Updates morning show on October 10 during his first official visit, Guevarro revealed that while Tobago recorded 24 or 25 homicides at this time last year, the number has dropped to just six this year, with four of those cases already solved. Guevarro attributed this success to the strategic leadership of Tobago commanders, including ACP Oswain Subero, head of the division, Snr Supt Earl Elie, and other senior officers, who implemented a comprehensive ‘all of Tobago’ approach to crime prevention. However, he emphasized that crime-fighting is a collective responsibility and urged Tobagonians to remain vigilant and avoid becoming soft targets for criminals. Guevarro also highlighted the police’s proactive use of preventative detention powers under the ongoing state of emergency, with 79 orders executed and 46 still outstanding. Additionally, he praised the school-oriented policing initiative introduced in high-risk schools in September, noting its positive impact in reducing violence through a softer, more engaging approach, such as officers playing badminton and fixing ties with students. During his visit, Guevarro met with Tobago House of Assembly Chief Secretary Farley Augustine to discuss crime-fighting and security strategies. Guevarro’s appointment as police commissioner was unanimously approved by Parliament on June 13, and he officially assumed the role on June 18.
