In solidarity with officers who have been mandated to return their tactical uniforms, Deputy Commissioner of Police Junior Benjamin says he will be wearing his khaki uniform.
On October 17, Police Commissioner Erla Harewood-Christopher ordered officers outside of four specified units to return their tactical uniforms and resume wearing the grey and blue.
Commenting on the return of the uniforms, Benjamin said, “We know that this is going to be an inconvenience but when we look at the lives that will be impacted, we recognise that this is the best thing to do at this time. I will stand with the officers in solidarity. I am putting on my uniform, I have a digital camouflage kit. I will not be even putting that on.”
He said the message is that “we are all in this together.”
On Monday, officers from the ten divisional task forces complained that the grey and blue uniforms are not user-friendly, as they do not allow for leg holsters or extra magazines for their rifles and the footwear is not suitable for rugged terrain.
A similar concern was raised last week by the TTPS’ Social and Welfare Association. In its media release, the association said the recall is an opportunity to introduce an ergonomic and contemporary uniform that is climate-friendly.
The association, noting that the issue of fake police is serious and methods to address it are needed, advocated for members of divisional task forces to be issued digital camouflage, as that will address the concerns about user-friendliness.
Benjamin said as of yesterday, no discussion was held on that matter. He said the number of tactical uniforms returned is still being matched with the number issued and promised to provide those details as soon as they are available.
In Tobago, ACP Oswain Subero said the recall went without any glitches, as only a few officers were affected. He said he did not want to divulge the strength of the Tobago Task Force, but there was strict compliance and no complaints from officers.
