Police Boost School Presence Amid Rising Fighting, Vaping, and Marijuana Use

With the new school term set to reopen on Monday, the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service announced a coordinated deployment of officers to 51 schools across the country. The move, spearheaded by the School Policing Orientated Unit, aims to address rising concerns over fighting, vaping, and marijuana possession among students.

Deputy Commissioner Junior Benjamin told I.A.N. News that the police are “prepared for the new school year” and that this year’s strategy will emphasize building relationships with teachers, principals, parents and students. “We want to see a closer relationship,” he said, highlighting a shift toward mentorship.

Officers will act as mentors, offering guidance and creating an environment that supports learning and growth. Benjamin stressed that police should be seen not only as enforcers but as advisers who steer young people toward productive paths.

Using an intelligence‑led approach, the police will focus on areas that saw increases in fighting, vaping, and marijuana possession last year. They will also monitor behavior that violates the Ministry of Education’s code of conduct, aiming to anticipate and curb emerging trends.

Community policing will target at‑risk students, while parents are urged to monitor their children’s school attendance, homework and online activity. Students received a direct message: “Choose your friends well, be responsible, safety is your responsibility.”

Benjamin concluded that the police presence will foster a safer, bully‑free environment for children, teachers and principals alike. “We will be right there ensuring a safer and better environment for all our children,” he said.