TTPS Issues Advisory Amid Looming Protests

Following the fatal police-involved shooting of Joshua Samaroo and the critical wounding of his girlfriend, Kaia Sealy in St. Augustine on 31 January 2026, public outrage has heightened. The incident has sparked national debate, with tensions further escalating after CCTV footage, seemingly showing Samaroo surrendering after a car chase and crash, surfaced. Subsequently, calls for coordinated protests outside every police station across the country have been widespread.

In response, the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) issued a public advisory on 25 March 2026, drawing attention to the strict legal framework governing demonstrations as defined in the Summary Offences Act (Chap. 11:02). The advisory emphasizes that while peaceful expression is respected, the law will be strictly enforced if demonstrations impede police work or threaten the safety of officers.

The TTPS is currently under intense scrutiny following the Samaroo shooting. The advisory is seen as an attempt to strike a balance between the public’s right to vent frustration and the need to keep the nation’s security infrastructure operational. Nevertheless, the Service has made it clear that they are prepared to use lawful dispersal methods and pursue legal action against anyone who violates the regulations.

As the 48-hour windows for various planned protests approach, the TTPS is urging the public to cooperate with law enforcement. The goal is to ensure that dissent does not descend into disorder, maintaining a balance between freedom of expression and public safety.

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