TTPS sorry…CoP feels ‘betrayed’ after two officers charged with murder
Senior Reporter
anna-lisa.paul@guardian.co.tt
Senior police officers yesterday apologised to the nation and the family of Sachel Kungebeharry, for what they termed a “betrayal” by those who had sworn to protect and serve citizens.
Kungebeharry, a businessman, was kidnapped and found murdered last week. Two police officers appeared in court charged in connection with the crimes yesterday.
During a media briefing at the Police Administration Building, Port-of-Spain, the media was told Commissioner of Police Erla Harewood-Christopher strongly condemned the alleged actions of the two officers.
While the CoP was absent, Public Information Officer, Insp Michelle Lewis, conveyed a strongly-worded message on her behalf.
The CoP was quoted as saying, “The TTPS is deeply distressed and disappointed following the events that led to the arrest and formal charges brought against two officers.”
She said the actions of the lawmen were “in direct opposition to the core values and tenets of the TTPS. This behaviour constitutes an act of betrayal and will not be tolerated.”
Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP), Investigations and Intelligence, Suzette Martin, described the incident as both “tragic and sobering.”
Addressing reporters, Martin lamented the circumstances that had led to the kidnapping and subsequent murder of Kungebeharry.
Martin acknowledged, “Many of you are feeling hurt, angry and perhaps a deep sense of betrayal. I share in that pain.”
She said local authorities were being assisted by external security agencies as the investigation continued.
Martin referred to the charging of the officers as a dark day for the country, as well as for all who wear the badge.
A sombre Martin declared, “This is not just a betrayal of the victims and their families, it is a betrayal of the trust that you, the public, have placed in the TTPS.”
However, she urged the public not to lose hope.
“The actions of a few officers have shaken the foundation of trust, and that is essential for us who serve and protect this community.”
Martin also said the decision to charge the officers was both legal and moral, and a testimony of the TTPS’ commitment to the rule of law and the values they swore to uphold.
The Commissioner, in her statement, added, “We will continue to hold our officers to the highest standards of conduct, and any breach of duty will be met with swift and decisive action. I reiterate that no officer is above the law, and those who engage in criminal activities will face the full consequences of their actions.”
She assured the vast majority of officers of the TTPS were honest, dedicated, hard-working, and remained committed to upholding the law.
She added that rogue officers will be sent packing.
“The misconduct of a few will not be allowed to overshadow the dedication of the many. As Commissioner, I am intent on purging the Service of all rogue elements within our ranks.”
Martin added, “We are committed to taking concrete steps towards reform, transparency and building relationships with every community. I will ensure that accountability measures are strengthened, not just in response to this tragedy but as a long-term commitment to the public good.”
This, she explained, includes reviewing recruitment processes, along with existing training and other internal systems to prevent this type of crime from occurring again.
Meanwhile, Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP), Criminal, Curt Simon, noted, “These officers were so reckless in their crime bid that they used a marked police vehicle to carry out this heinous crime of kidnapping and murder.”
He echoed the CoP and Martin’s assurances that any officer who contravenes the law would face the consequences. He urged citizens with information about officers engaged in criminal activities to report them so they can address the issues.
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