3 Police Units – SST, FCIU & SIC Dissolved; SP Jagai Transferred

The Police Headquarters Special Striking Team (PHQ SST) has been officially disbanded as part of a broader restructuring announced by the Alliance of Change during their electoral campaign. This significant change took place on Friday, November 15, when approximately twenty officers from the SST were reassigned to various police stations across the island.

The decision was sanctioned by the high-ranking officials at Central Barracks, now under the leadership of Rampersad Sooroojebally.

At this point, all officers who were part of the operational and intervention units of the SST have received their transfer orders, with the exception of the SST’s Inquiry Panel, continuing to oversee several ongoing investigations.

The handover of these cases to other police units is expected to occur soon.

Former SST head, Superintendent Ashik Jagai, who boasts 35 years of service, remains positive despite the recent developments.

He expressed disappointment over a campaign aimed at undermining the work of the SST, which he led alongside Assistant Commissioner of Police Dunraz Gungadin.

Jagai emphasized that their commitment to police work remains unwavering: “Those who have attempted to demonize us may not believe in the SST, but our work continues, and we will carry out our police duties,” he stated, adding, “Our morale is strong.”

The SST was established on August 3, 2022, and during its operation, it carried out significant operations across the country.

Notable actions included the arrests of Bruneau Laurette, attorney Akil Bissessur, and Vimen Sabapati, as well as major investigations such as the copper theft case and the “Moustass Leaks,” which led to the arrest of Sherry Singh.

However, the unit’s achievements were marred by serious allegations of ‘drug planting,’ casting doubts on its credibility and operational methods.

In addition to the disbanding of the SST, Rampersad Sooroojebally has also dissolved several specialized units, including the Special Supporting Unit Intelligence Cell, led by Assistant Superintendent of Police Rajkoomar Seewoo, and the Divisional Crime Intelligence Unit (DCIU) and Force Crime Intelligence Unit (FCIU), which were supervised by ASP Faraaz Mooniaruth.

This restructuring reflects a significant shift in the police force’s approach to operations and management.

Source: Defi Media