As police arrived at the location, a number of illegal immigrants jumped from the second floor of the building in an attempt to escape. One received injuries and has been taken to hospital where he remained under police guard. Those who tried to escape were rounded up and detained.
The exercise, which was conducted between 6 p.m. and 11:30 p.m. last Saturday, targeted premises located at Malgretoute Village, Princes Town, which was reportedly being used for illegal gambling activities, including cockfighting.
Upon entry by officers, a large number of individuals attempted to flee the location, with some persons jumping from the second floor of the building. Despite these efforts, officers successfully detained several individuals, including the 44 foreign nationals, who are now being held pending further immigration inquiries.
In addition, 50 Trinidad and Tobago nationals were also detained during the exercise, their documents verified, and subsequently released.
One male foreign national was injured while attempting to escape and is currently warded under police guard at a Hospital. He is also assisting officers with ongoing investigations into alleged possession of forged documents.
The operation was coordinated by senior officers of the Southern Division and included support from multiple units, including the Central Division Task Force, Criminal Investigations Department (CID), and other supporting divisions.
Investigations are continuing.
Only last week, undocumented Venezuelans were deported from Trinidad.
PETER GREEN
