T&T soldiers under probe for Tobago robbery

(Trinidad Express) Seven soldiers accused of robbery and assault in Tobago are under investigation, according to the Regiment’s public affairs officer Sgt Joachim Hernandez.

Hernandez held a press briefing at Camp Signal Hill, Tobago to respond to reports of robberies in Tobago committed by persons dressed in camouflage wear made in early February. From the investigation there is sufficient grounds, reasonable grounds to suspect involvement, however, no one has been charged at this point in time,” Hernandez said.

Hernandez said the Defence Force continues to conduct its own investigation into the matter, and admitted that some army officials have been sent back to Trinidad after being questioned. He said none of the suspects have been suspended from duty.

The findings of the investigation were sent to the Defence Force legal officer for his attention, Hernandez said.

“It is a sad day when persons in uniform are accused of committing offences against the very persons, whom they have sworn to protect and serve,” he said.

He said, however, the public can be rest assured that the Regiment was taking some corrective action in moving forward, as the organisation subscribes to due process of the law.

We are resilient in our resolve to combat any acts that may be committed by persons of the force and to ensure that these matters are resolved in the shortest possible time,” he said

The Regiment launched an investigation after reports of robbery and common assault were made by several men on February 11. The men claimed they were beaten and robbed by men wearing camouflage uniforms in the villages of Mt St George, Lambeau and Bethel in Tobago.

Acting Inspector Sterling Roberts, who is assisting in the investigations of the matter, said yesterday the case was at a delicate stage and no information could be disclosed.