Erla Harewood-Christopher, Commissioner of Police in Trinidad, has raised concerns about the potential public safety risks posed by “gel blaster” toy guns, as well as the possession of imitation firearms and other projectile-based items.
In a statement, she emphasized that while gel blasters are marketed as toys, models that closely resemble real firearms are prohibited. She warned that the indiscriminate use of these devices, particularly in public spaces or towards unsuspecting individuals, is dangerous and poses a significant threat to public safety.
She reminds the public that “using any item, whether real or imitation, to threaten, intimidate, or harm others constitutes a criminal offence under the laws of Trinidad and Tobago.
“If sufficient evidence exists proving that individuals are engaged in such acts, they may face severe legal repercussions, including criminal charges. Officers have been alerted to this danger, and are mandated to act decisively.”
She said she is urging members of the public to exercise responsibility and restraint when handling any item that projects objects or mimics the appearance of a weapon.
“Parents and guardians are also encouraged to supervise minors and educate them on the potential consequences of misusing these devices. While fun and play are important aspects of childhood, they must always be accompanied by a sense of responsibility and awareness of potential risks,” Harewood-Christopher added.
“I am deeply disappointed by the outcome, where, once again, this small nation has seen frequent killings, resulting in over 600 deaths for the second consecutive year due to widespread violence,” Rowley stated in a message shared on social media.
Law enforcement authorities acknowledge that guns are the preferred weapon used in committing the murders in the twin-island republic.
![Pinterest](https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https://www.caribbeannationalweekly.com/news/caribbean-news/trinidads-police-commissioner-warns-public-against-the-use-of-toy-guns-that-resemble-real-firearms/&media=https://www.caribbeannationalweekly.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/toy_gun_2_cropped.jpg&description=The Commissioner of Police in Trinidad, has raised concerns about the potential public safety risks posed by "gel blaster" toy guns){kind=link}