http://www.guardian.co.tt/news/cops-vow-to-deal-with-those-who-attempt-to-disrupt-carnival-festivities-6.2.2244846.496f0fa7d8 *Cops vow to deal with those who attempt to disrupt Carnival festivities* As they gear up to host the largest street festival in the world over the next four days, the T&T Police Service (TTPS) executive says it will adopt a zero-tolerance approach to crime and criminality. Saying they will be taking this approach against anyone looking to create trouble or disrupt the proceedings in any way, acting Police Commissioner Junior Benjamin yesterday warned that his officers were ready and would not hesitate to shut down any illegal activity. Speaking during a media briefing at the Police Administration Building, Port-of-Spain, Benjamin said, “We are taking an absolutely, what I call a no tolerance approach as we deal with the crime situation, both from the SoE perspective and also going into Carnival 2025.” He added, “We have deployed our resources in such a way that we will ensure that level of operational effectiveness and efficiency.” Benjamin said he met with the ten divisional commanders and they had “put all the necessary resources in place to ensure that all of our divisions are adequately staffed with resources, both human and physical resources, to deal with the Carnival 2025.” He said this was a multi-agency collaboration which required the participation of many officers. He said the TTPS will be assisted by the Transit Police Unit; traffic wardens; Municipal Police; Coast Guard; Air Guard and the Defence Force. Addressing current crime statistics, Benjamin claimed, “When we look at the crime situation, we continue to have that sense of hope that things are getting better in the midst of the challenges we are facing. We know we have seen some up-ticks.” For February, Benjamin said 27 homicides were recorded this year compared to 42 in 2024 and 42 in 2023. “Certainly, there is a decline in that regard.” With a total of 59 murders recorded for this year thus far, compared to 86 in 2024 and 103 in 2023, he said, “We can clearly state that there is a decline in the crime situation and certainly, this did not come by accident. It is the hard work, it is the strategies of the police officers and a combination of the public working with us to make this a success.” Encouraging the public to keep partnering with the police, acting Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP), Curt Simon, said the number of detention orders had risen to 38. He said, “We have seen a jump with the amount of detention orders being issued, so it means that something interesting is happening there. Earlier this week, we reported there were 28 detention orders. I can now tell you there are 38...so perhaps the economies of scale are setting in, and the police are becoming a little more specialised in this SoE.” For people who choose to visit the beaches, rivers and even go camping this long weekend, the police assured patrols will be increased at popular spots. Campers were advised to register with the local police in the districts. Gold Commander Richard Smith also appealed to persons to behave responsibly. He called on persons to designate a driver; avoid wearing excessive jewellery; refuse drinks from strangers; carefully secure personal belongings and avoid venturing into unknown areas. Asked if they had seen an influx of persons rushing to get vehicle permits yesterday, as the response had been slow earlier in the week, Smith said they had extended the closing hours of the special unit issuing the passes, from 4 pm to 6 pm. Reinforcing warnings that the police and Licensing officials had a strict enforcement policy in relation to all vehicles on the road in areas where Carnival celebrations are being held, Smith advised all owners/operators to comply. He said vehicles in and out of mas bands without permits will be taken off the streets on Monday and Tuesday. *By Anna-Lisa Paul*