8 guns found at station

Police are investigating the discovery of eight firearms at the Belmont Police Station, found in an office that was previously locked.

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When we checked there were eight exhibit guns...connected to ongoing cases currently in process.

Assistant Commissioner of Police Richard Smith stated the firearms are believed to be court exhibits linked to ongoing criminal matters. Investigators gained access to the room after learning no one had a key, eventually obtaining one from an inspector. The office had been converted from a gym.

Smith confirmed that investigators are working to identify the complainants in the matters connected to the firearms. He dismissed circulating social media reports that a police sergeant had been detained or that officers' homes were searched, emphasizing no sergeant was a suspect and no officer was in custody. He also denied reports of a sergeant fleeing the country, clarifying the officer in question was on approved vacation leave and had permission to travel before the operation.

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This talk about a sergeant fleeing is not true.

Sources close to the investigation indicated that seven police officers were questioned and later released pending further inquiry. Officials from the Professional Standards Bureau visited the station, and the Port of Spain unit's office was searched for items of evidential value. The PSB internally investigates officers involved in criminal acts or breaches of discipline. Smith assured that appropriate action would be taken if any officer is found to have breached regulations.

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If by any stretch anything is found which goes against our regulations, then we will deal with it accordingly.