Minister says no gangs at Pleasantville Secondary

  • Oct, Fri, 2024

Senior Multimedia Reporter

radhica.sookraj@guardian.co.tt

Education Minister Dr Nyan Gadsby-Dolly has firmly denied reports of gang activity at Pleasantville Secondary School, following claims by two parents that up to nine gangs are operating within the institution.

Responding to questions from Guardian Media yesterday, the minister said she has received written reports from key school officials.

“I am in possession of written reports from the principal, a school teacher (TTUTA rep at the school), and the Form One Dean, all indicating that there are no gangs of any sort operating at the school; no teachers, nor students are operating in fear, and that these allegations have no element of truth,” Gadsby-Dolly said.

Despite this, police are continuing their investigation into reports that two newly formed gangs calling themselves Camo and Guava are allegedly causing disturbances at the school.

Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Wayne Mystar, who oversees the South and Central Divisions, confirmed that he will meet with concerned parents on Saturday via Zoom, and plans to visit the school on Monday to address students’ concerns about gangs.

Clarence Mendoza, the treasurer of the school’s Parent Teachers Association (PTA), said on Wednesday that he was fearful for the safety of students, especially those in Form One. Mendoza claimed younger students are being pressured, taxed, and beaten by gang members for refusing to join. He also claimed more than 60 students are part of the gangs.

Mendoza revealed that gangs are using hairstyles and specific items like hair clips to signal affiliation.

Commenting on the claims, National Parent Teachers’ Association (NPTA) president Walter Stewart said a meeting was held with the NPTA, the Minister of National Security and TTPS Community Police head Ian Carthy.

He said discussions were ongoing with the TTPS to conduct joint lectures, walkabouts, and meetings at the school, to prevent and reduce the high levels of crime and indiscipline present both in the community and the school.

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