Latest Police Recruits Urged to Uphold Integrity and National Security

In a recent event held on May 29, Minister of National Security, Fitzgerald Hinds, and Commissioner of Police, Erla Harewood-Christopher, welcomed 156 new officers into the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) during a passing-out parade at the Police Academy in St James Barracks. Minister Hinds challenged the new recruits to “rise to the challenge” of their roles in upholding public safety and national security, emphasizing the need for strength, honor, intellect, courage, and integrity in their profession.
Commissioner Harewood-Christopher highlighted the scrutiny and challenges facing the police service today, urging the new officers to conduct themselves with the utmost integrity and to make a positive difference. She emphasized the importance of exemplary conduct, wise choices regarding associations, and avoiding temptations that could compromise their reputation and integrity. Hinds also touched on the broader societal issue of youth involvement in crime, stressing the importance of family and parenting in achieving peace and justice.
The minister underscored the importance of maintaining public trust and confidence through integrity and professional competence, particularly in solving crimes. He advised the recruits to adhere strictly to the law and the constitution, using no more force than necessary.
Among the new recruits, Navin Lall Saroop shared his motivation for joining the police force, stemming from growing up in a hotspot area and his academic background in criminology and criminal justice. His mother expressed pride in her son’s decision, despite her initial apprehensions.
The ceremony was captured in photographs showing the recruits celebrating and performing drills, marking their official induction into the police force and their commitment to contributing to national security.