TTPS defends body-worn camera initiative amid scrutiny of police shootings

The Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) on Monday defended its efforts to introduce body-worn cameras (BWCs), insisting that it fully supports the technology and is actively moving forward with plans to equip officers as part of a broader modernization drive.

In a statement, the TTPS said it remains committed to embracing technology, innovation and international best practices, describing body-worn cameras as a critical tool for improving professionalism, accountability, transparency and public trust in policing.

“BWCs provide an objective and impartial record of police-public interactions, ensuring that incidents are accurately documented and that engagements are conducted in accordance with established policies, procedures and legal standards,” the TTPS said.

The statement comes amid continuing public debate over police accountability following the January 20 fatal shooting of 31-year-old Joshua Samaroo.

Video footage of the incident appeared to show Samaroo with his hands raised when officers opened fire.

Following the shooting, Samaroo's common-law wife, Kaia Sealy, was charged with three counts of shooting with intent to cause grievous bodily harm against police officers, manslaughter, possession of a firearm, possession of ammunition, possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life, and discharging a firearm within 40 meters of a public place.

Police allege that Sealy, who was shot multiple times during the incident and left paralyzed, unlawfully caused Samaroo's death.

The issue of body-worn cameras has also gained prominence amid a rise in police-involved killings. According to available figures, 20 people have been killed by police so far this year, including 14 during the ongoing state of emergency, which took effect on March 3.

Former police commissioner Gary Griffith has repeatedly called for the introduction of body-worn cameras, arguing that their absence has fueled uncertainty and speculation surrounding fatal police encounters.

While expressing support for officers who act within the law and established use-of-force policies, Griffith has maintained that body-worn cameras would provide greater clarity and accountability in controversial incidents.

Responding to the criticism, the TTPS emphasized that it recognizes the significant advantages associated with the technology.

Among the benefits identified by the police service are increased transparency and accountability, stronger evidential support for investigations and court proceedings, protection for officers against false allegations and complaints, and encouragement of professional conduct during interactions between police and the public.

The TTPS also said body-worn cameras are important for strengthening public confidence in law enforcement.

“Given these well-established benefits, it is important to emphasize that the TTPS is not opposed to the use of Body-Worn Cameras. On the contrary, the organization fully embraces this technology as an essential component of modern, professional policing and remains firmly committed to its implementation,” the statement said.

The police service said it is currently advancing efforts to procure and deploy the devices throughout the organization and is moving urgently to ensure officers are properly equipped.

However, it noted that implementation requires careful planning and compliance with procurement regulations, policy development, data management protocols, officer training requirements, privacy safeguards and legislative obligations.

“These measures are necessary to ensure that Body-Worn Camera technology is utilized effectively, responsibly, and in a manner that serves the best interests of both the public and the organization,” the TTPS said.

As part of the procurement process, the police service has issued an Expression of Interest (EOI) inviting qualified firms to submit proposals to supply, deliver and commission body-worn camera systems.

The TTPS said the deadline for submissions is July 22, 2026. Following that phase, shortlisted firms will be invited to participate in the formal bidding process under the Public Procurement and Disposal of Public Property Act.

According to the TTPS, the introduction of body-worn cameras forms part of a wider transformation agenda aimed at creating a more transparent, accountable, professional and technology-driven police service.

“As the organization continues to modernize its operations, BWCs will serve as a valuable tool in enhancing service delivery, strengthening public confidence and reinforcing the highest standards of policing,” the TTPS said.

The police service added that it remains accountable to the people of Trinidad and Tobago and will continue to provide updates as the initiative progresses.