AG calls on police, IC to protect assets of Guanapo church

Attorney General Anand Ramlogan has moved swiftly to stop the removal of equipment and material from the construction site of the controversial Guanapo church linked to former Prime Minister Patrick Manning and his spiritual adviser, Rev. Juliana Pena.

On Tuesday night, Ramlogan called on the Integrity Commission and the police to move with "great dispatch" to protect the assets at the church.

The church is the subject of a police and Integrity Commission probe and Ramlogan told the Trinidad Express both the police and the commission have the power to ensure that no one tampers with evidence at the site, which could hamper the investigations.

Ramlogan said the assets may very well belong to the State and action ought to be taken to ensure the compound receives adequate protection.

Manning has always denied any connection to the church and continues to insist that no state funds have been given to build the church. The architect who designed the structure has stated in a sworn document that Manning was involved.

Rev. Pena, who is very close to Manning, has not made any comment on the matter although relatives have asked her to clear the air on the issue.