A loud explosion was heard around 8:00am on Tuesday 26th November 2019, at the Government Plaza Parkade, located between Edward and Richmond Streets, Port of Spain.
Members of the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service, including the Explosive Detection and Disposal Unit (EDDU) and Fire Services responded. The area was cordoned off, a search was conducted, and an electronic device was found on the western side of the building. There have been no reported injuries nor damage to property or vehicles.
The area between Independence Square North and Queen St. between Edward St. and Richmond Street remains cordoned off. Police are presently managing the flow of traffic around that area and motorists are advised to utilize alternate routes. Personnel from the EDDU attached to Special Branch are currently on the scene. Crime Scene Investigators are also actively involved in the investigation.
Commissioner of Police Gary Griffith wishes to commend the responding officers of the protective services, as all relevant protocol procedures were followed in a timely manner upon receipt of the information. Commissioner Griffith also notes the three-hour time lag between the time the explosion was heard, and the time the Parkade employees informed the emergency personnel. He advises that in such instances, always err on the side of caution and immediately inform the Emergency Services at 999, 911 or 990 or via the TTPS App, in keeping with the 4S’ -‘SEE SOMETHING SAY SOMETHING’ concept.
Corporate Communications Unit
November 26th, 2019