More patrols in crime hot spots

National Security Minister John Sandy told reporters Wednesday government is going to increasing joint army-police patrols in crime hotspots to deal with the increase in killings in the country.

Sandy made the announcement at the post-Cabinet news conference, noting that the increase in murders is "disturbing and saddening" to the Prime Minister and her Government.

"What is even worse is that a number of our young people are being killed, and as a result, we have decided to ensure there is an increased law enforcement operation, with immediate effect," he said.

"There will be, from tonight (Wednesday), an increase in our joint patrols—police, army—in an effort to infiltrate those areas from which these homicides are being perpetrated. 

"There are other operations for specific areas that I cannot disclose at this time, but every effort is being made by our law enforcement officers to ensure that this spate of serious crime is curtailed," said Sandy.

The murder toll for the year is 176. For the same period last year it was 166.

Sandy said one part of his crime plan is an effort to bring parents closer to their children. In this context he invited all parents and their children to the Grand Stand at the Queen's Park Savannah in Port of Spain for a Father's Fair on June 16.

Sandy said there is a need to build a bond between parents and children "because we recognise that in most instances, our young people are not guided by their parents".

The event will include sports, career path planning and entertainment from top local artistes.

"It is my firm belief that once we get our family units back together, we'll get our community units back together, and then our criminal activity will subside," he said.

Attorney General Anand Ramlogan said police have formed a special unit that is focusing exclusively on gangs. 

"I understand they are piecing together the digits or puzzle that comprises the criminal landscape, in so far as the gangs are concerned...I will expect to see some better use and the benefits of the anti-gang legislation," he said.

He dismissed concerns about the legislation, saying there is "absolutely nothing wrong" with the anti-gang law. All that iss required, he said, is for police to enforce the law by intelligent policing by gathering the evidence to substantiate the offences under the legislation.

Sandy and Ramlogan assured the media that the increase in crime is not connected to dismantling and restructuring of agencies such as the Special Anti-Crime Unit of Trinidad and Tobago (SAUTT).

Sandy pointed out that there were 549 murders in 2008 while SAUTT was in operation. (Read related story: Crime stats show murders peaked during Manning PNM administration)