Rowley assures that there is no spy unit in TTPS reporting to PM

Prime Minister Dr. Keith Rowley addressed reports of a spy unit operating within the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS), known as the Research and Analytical Unit (RAU), which allegedly provided information leading to the suspension of SSA director Major Roger Best. Dr. Rowley denied claims that the TTPS has the capability to conduct interceptions like the SSA and clarified that interception equipment previously acquired by a former Commissioner of Police has been requested to be transferred to the SSA. He dismissed the notion that there is an SSA equivalent within the Police Service reporting to him and the Minister of National Security, stating that such claims lack evidence.

In response to reports in the Trinidad Express linking an elite hit squad within the SSA to the assassination of private contractor Andy Daniel and suspected involvement in other killings, Dr. Rowley stated that he could not verify the information but confirmed that investigations are ongoing. He emphasized the need for evidence to support such serious allegations and assured that the government is taking the reports seriously. The prime minister’s comments come amidst growing concern over the activities of covert units within law enforcement agencies in Trinidad and Tobago.

Dr. Rowley further addressed the issue of interception equipment within the Police Service, highlighting the decision to transfer the equipment to the SSA for proper monitoring and control. He reiterated the importance of ensuring that sensitive surveillance capabilities are managed appropriately to prevent misuse or unauthorized access. The prime minister’s statements reflect a commitment to transparency and accountability in the handling of intelligence-gathering tools within the country’s security apparatus.

The allegations of a spy unit operating within the TTPS and reports of an elite hit squad within the SSA have raised questions about the extent of covert activities and surveillance operations within Trinidad and Tobago’s law enforcement and security agencies. Dr. Rowley’s response underscores the need for proper oversight and regulation of intelligence-gathering activities to prevent abuse of power and protect civil liberties. The government’s actions to transfer interception equipment from the Police Service to the SSA reflect a proactive approach to preventing unauthorized access and misuse of surveillance technologies.

As investigations into the reported activities of secret units in law enforcement continue, Dr. Rowley has pledged to ensure that the truth is uncovered and appropriate actions are taken based on concrete evidence. The prime minister’s commitment to addressing concerns raised by the media and the public demonstrates a willingness to uphold the rule of law and maintain public trust in the country’s security institutions. Moving forward, it is essential for transparency, accountability, and adherence to legal procedures to guide the handling of sensitive intelligence operations in Trinidad and Tobago.