By FRANCIS JOSEPH
President Christine Carla Kangaloo has proclaimed the controversial Special Operations Act.
The Special Operations Bill was passed in the House of Representatives on September 23 by 23-10. But following the debate in the Senate on September 28, the vote ended 15-15. The 15 Government Senators voted yes, while the six Opposition and nine Independent Senators voted No.
It took a casting vote from Senate President Wade Mark, in the midst of an uproar, to break the tie and vote with the Government Senators. The Bill, having been passed in both Houses, was sent to the President, who signed off on it on Tuesday.
The proclamation gives the protective services enhanced powers to conduct targeted operaÂtions against violent crime, gangs and illegal weapons in designated areas.
The Act establishes seven poliÂcing districts across Trinidad and Tobago and creates the legal framework for special operations by police officers, with provision for military assistance from members of the Defence Force.
The Act empowers the Commissioner of Police to designate Heads of Special Operations in each district. The Chief of Defence Staff is also empowered to appoint Heads of Military Assistance in each district.
All police officers conducting special operations, and all members of the Defence Force providing military assistance, are to be trained in human rights, the use of force, community engagement and conflict de‑escalation.
The Act also requires the submission of monthly reports on special operations and the provision of military assistance to the Prime Minister, the Minister with responsibility for the Police Service, Roger Alexander, and the Minister with responsibility for defence, Wayne Sturge.
The Act further requires that the Prime Minister lay an annual report on special operations and the provision of military assistance before Parliament. Additionally, the Act mandates the creation of joint protocols and separate standard operating procedures to guide collaboration between police officers and members of the Defence Force in the conduct of special operations and the provision of military assistance.
