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Protesters, including recently released organizers, demonstrate amid heavy police presence
๐Ÿ‡น๐Ÿ‡น Trinidad and Tobago /Crime & Justice

Protesters, including recently released organizers, demonstrate amid heavy police presence

From Trinidad Express · () English

Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Sources not specified Context piece
  • Protest organizers Alyssa Phillip and her mother were released on their own bond after being arrested during a previous demonstration.
  • Supporters gathered again near the Forensic Science Centre, Federation Park, without confrontation or arrests.
  • Police restricted access to certain areas, and officers wore caps with the "Punisher" logo, sparking discussion about the Police Commissioner's use of the emblem.

Protest organizer Alyssa Phillip and her mother, Camille Caresquero, joined supporters yesterday near the Forensic Science Centre in Federation Park, two days after their arrest during a demonstration for Kaia Sealy. Unlike the previous incident, this gathering proceeded without confrontation or arrests, despite a notable police presence.

Officers cordoned off Barbados Road, restricting access for vehicles and pedestrians. Media personnel and onlookers were instructed to stay clear of certain areas, with one officer stating he was acting on instructions and could offer no further explanation. Access was limited to residents of Federation Park.

At one point, officers moved towards the area where journalists and onlookers had gathered. Several officers were seen wearing black caps bearing the "Punisher" logo. When questioned, officers described it as "just a cap with a particular emblem on it" and declined further comment. This insignia has recently drawn public attention due to Police Commissioner Allister Guevarro's continued use of the Marvel comic character's emblem on his uniform, which he has previously defended as an award from an international operation.

just a cap with a particular emblem on it

โ€” Police officerResponding to a question about the "Punisher" logo on officers' caps.

Various police units, including the Mounted Branch, Guard and Emergency Branch, Task Force, and divisional units, were present. Deputy Commissioner Suzette Martin and Assistant Commissioner Richard Smith were observed directing officers. Police repeatedly warned protesters and media against obstructing pedestrian traffic.

As the crowd grew, demonstrators used tape to cover their mouths, symbolizing what they described as the "silencing of public voices." Messages like "silent" and "justice must be served" were displayed. Phillip arrived later, wearing a mask covered with duct tape bearing the words "cops say shhh."

cops say shhh

โ€” Alyssa PhillipWritten on duct tape covering her face mask during the protest.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Trinidad Express in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.