Marcelle Raises Concerns Over Warrantless Searches and 36-Hour Detention Under Special Operations Bill

Laventille West MP Kareem Marcelle has raised concerns about search, seizure and detention powers contained in the Special Operations Bill, 2026, arguing that the provisions could significantly affect people living within designated closed areas. Speaking during a PNM Opposition press conference at Balisier House, Marcelle said police operating within closed areas would have powers to enter and search premises without a warrant under circumstances provided for by the legislation. He argued that the provisions could allow entire streets and homes to be searched during special operations regardless of whether individual residents were suspected of criminal activity. Marcelle also raised concerns about the seizure of property, including vehicles and other items, during operations. Another focus of his presentation was detention. Marcelle said a person arrested under the legislation could initially be detained for up to 36 hours before being brought before the court for further proceedings. He argued that the combination of expanded search, seizure and detention powers required greater scrutiny because of their potential effect on constitutional protections. Marcelle also questioned how access to justice could operate where judicial officers themselves live within a closed area. He argued that magistrates, registrars and justices of the peace were not among the categories he identified as being specifically exempted from restrictions within closed areas. Marcelle presented a scenario in which a magistrate living within such an area could require permission to leave while an arrested person was awaiting a court appearance, arguing that the legislation should address such circumstances. The concerns form part of the PNM’s wider opposition to the Special Operations Bill, which the party has rejected in its current form.