Police Shooting Survivor Kerron Alexis Detained Under Preventative Detention Order

Last week, Kerron Alexis, a survivor of a police shooting, was detained by officers under a Preventative Detention Order. The order, signed by Minister of Homeland Security Roger Alexander, has yet to be mentioned in any official Gazette publications.

Interestingly, Alexis had recently expressed support for the use of a similar order against a police officer, only days before his own detention. Alexis is well-known for his outspoken criticism of the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service, particularly officers attached to the Central Division and the Central Division’s Gang and Intelligence Unit (CDGIU). He has on multiple occasions accused members of the unit of deliberately targeting him.

In October 2023, Alexis was shot and injured during a police-involved incident in Enterprise, Chaguanas. This incident is currently under investigation by the Professional Standards Bureau and the Police Complaints Authority. The police claim that Alexis acted suspiciously and brandished a firearm during a traffic stop, which prompted officers to open fire. However, this account has been disputed by relatives and eyewitnesses who argue there was no threat to officers.

Following the shooting, Alexis shared his side of the story on social media and lodged formal complaints with the Police Complaints Authority, alleging harassment and repeated searches by officers. Alexis, also known for being the son of the late Selwyn “Robocop” Alexis, who was killed in 2016, is a widely recognized figure in the Enterprise community.

Join the Trinidad and Tobago WhatsApp update group: https://chat.whatsapp.com/DKueX7ZV35626FbOsKBt03