T&T seeking UK help to probe fraud matters

PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad (CMC) — The Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) says it is seeking to contract a team of prosecutors from the United Kingdom specialising in fraud and fraud-related matters.

The TTPS said that the team will assist local investigators probing such matters as well as provide training for the legal unit and police prosecutors.

In a statement, the police said that this initiative will optimise the efficiency and effectiveness of the TTPS toward promoting public trust and confidence, noting also the implementation of a new Monitoring and Compliance Unit aimed at providing overall operational efficiency, in keeping with international professional standards.

The statement said that the unit within the Legal Department will treat with several areas, including the numerous cases of police officers not attending court, and follow up on Freedom of Information requests, ensuring the timely compliance with these requests.

It will also comprehensively trace, track and report on all court matters to ensure court orders are adhered to within the appropriate time frame, and to effectively and efficiently manage more than 180 outstanding matters regarding police promotions and sick leave.

In addition, it will help in the review of the matters of 300 police officers who are on suspension, alongside the Professional Standards Bureau, to have these officers either returned to work or sent home based on the outcomes of their outstanding matters.