Trinidad and Tobago’s Commissioner of Police Erla Harewood-Christopher has been directed to proceed on 66 days of accrued trip depart, efficient instantly, in accordance with an announcement launched Wednesday by the Ministry of Homeland Safety.
The Ministry confirmed that Appearing Commissioner Junior Benjamin, who has been within the position since February 6, 2025, will proceed to guide the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS).
“Mr. Junior Benjamin, Commissioner of Police (Ag.), was appointed to the put up of Commissioner of Police (Ag.) on February 6ᵗʰ 2025, and it’s understood that this appointment would proceed till the Ministry is suggested by the Police Service Fee of a change on this standing. The Ministry has not been suggested of a change on this standing,” the Ministry acknowledged.
The Ministry additionally assured that operations of the TTPS stay uninterrupted underneath Benjamin’s management.
Harewood-Christopher’s contract formally ends right now, at some point earlier than her 62nd birthday. Regardless of being just lately cleared of any felony wrongdoing, she has not acquired a proper letter lifting her suspension or extending her contract. The Ministry famous that she has accrued 66 days of trip depart and has been suggested to proceed on depart beginning right now.
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Her departure follows a months-long controversy surrounding the procurement of two high-powered sniper rifles by the Strategic Companies Company (SSA). Harewood-Christopher was arrested on January 30 at her workplace and suspended by the Police Service Fee (PSC) the next day. The investigation concluded when Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Roger Gaspard, SC, announced on May 10 that there was inadequate proof to put expenses.
“On this matter, on the proof, I’m of the view that there is no such thing as a reasonable prospect of a conviction for the offence of misbehaviour in public workplace or for any offence and accordingly, it might be legally unsuitable to proceed additional,” mentioned Gaspard.
The Ministry of Homeland Safety formally acknowledged Harewood-Christopher’s contributions, stating: “The Ministry recommended Mrs. Harewood-Christopher for her service spanning over 4 a long time with the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service, and mentioned her dedication and management have considerably contributed to the development of the TTPS and the enhancement of public security in our nation.”
Her appointment in 2022 was a milestone second for the TTPS and the nation. As the primary feminine Commissioner, Harewood-Christopher’s management symbolized progress in gender illustration inside nationwide safety ranks.
