A reported audio recording allegedly featuring comments from the current Commissioner of Police in Trinidad and Tobago has sparked a sharp public exchange with former Commissioner Gary Griffith, raising questions about political neutrality, policing performance, and the conduct of senior law enforcement officials.

In the audio transcript attributed to Commissioner Alister Guevarro, he addresses criticism from a former office holder, stating that he has chosen not to respond to repeated attacks but is doing so due to media queries. He asserts that he has maintained a non-political stance, emphasizing that he has never voted in an election and has no affiliation with any political party.

The Commissioner strongly rejects suggestions of political bias, stating that his loyalty is to the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago rather than any political organization. He also criticizes the former Commissioner, accusing him of projecting political ambitions onto others and repeatedly seeking public office without success.

In his remarks, the Commissioner references alleged financial and administrative issues within the police service under the previous leadership, including claims of significant debt, audit findings between 2017 and 2021, and ongoing court matters involving officers linked to past units. He further suggests that past administrative decisions contributed to legal challenges and hindered internal promotions.

Highlighting his own tenure, the Commissioner points to a reported reduction in homicide rates, stating that Trinidad and Tobago recorded its lowest annual homicide figures since 2011. He also cites data suggesting a significant percentage reduction in homicides globally and references low crime figures during the 2026 Carnival season. He attributes these outcomes to intelligence-led policing, accountability, and community partnerships within the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service.

He concludes by stating that he will not engage further in public disputes, emphasizing a focus on public safety, institutional integrity, and operational results.

Gary Griffith’s Response

Former Commissioner Gary Griffith responded by questioning the authenticity of the audio, suggesting that it may have been generated using artificial intelligence. He described it as highly unlikely that a sitting Commissioner of Police would make such remarks, characterizing them—if genuine—as reckless, immature, and politically compromising.

Griffith argued that any political commentary by the Commissioner would undermine the neutrality expected of the office and suggested that such conduct could warrant removal. He further criticized the current Commissioner’s understanding of political history, noting that losing electoral deposits is not uncommon and citing historical examples of political figures who faced similar outcomes before later achieving high office.

He also challenged claims made in the audio regarding his own tenure, rejecting allegations of mismanagement and financial debt. Griffith asserted that during his time as Commissioner, he introduced numerous reforms and initiatives, including the re-establishment of specialized units, operational command systems, GPS tracking for police vehicles, and technology-driven policing strategies.

According to Griffith, these measures contributed to improvements in response times, crime reduction, and operational efficiency. He contrasted this with the current administration, alleging that no significant new programs or technologies have been implemented under the present leadership.

Griffith further disputed claims about public trust in the police service, suggesting that confidence levels were significantly higher during his tenure compared to current figures. He also challenged statements regarding procurement, particularly the cost of body cameras, insisting that reported figures were inaccurate and calling for documentary evidence to support such claims.

In closing, Griffith reiterated that he hopes the audio is not genuine, expressing concern over what he described as a petty and overly sensitive approach to leadership if it is authentic. He urged a focus on professional policing, institutional development, and national security priorities rather than personal or political disputes.

Broader Context

The exchange highlights ongoing tensions between past and present leadership within Trinidad and Tobago’s police service, touching on issues of governance, transparency, crime statistics, and the politicization of law enforcement. It also reflects broader public interest in accountability and the performance of national security institutions amid evolving crime challenges.

By Aurax News Desk