Opposition Leader Pennelope Beckles is calling on the Government to clearly state its position on body-worn cameras as Parliament debates legislation that would give police expanded search powers during special operations.
Contributing to debate on the Special Operations Bill, 2026, in the House of Representatives yesterday, Beckles said body cameras were especially important given concerns about warrantless searches.
Under the proposed legislation, police officers conducting a special operation within a closed area would be empowered to search any place or vehicle without a warrant if they have reasonable suspicion that an offence is being committed.
Beckles noted that the Attorney General and other Government members had highlighted safeguards in the bill, including parliamentary oversight and judicial scrutiny. However, she questioned whether body-worn cameras would form part of those protections.
Referring to comments made by Minister of Homeland Security Roger Alexander on the current status of body cameras, Beckles said he had indicated that the Government would “work with what we have.”
She also noted Alexander’s reference to issues involving defective cameras in 2022.
Beckles argued that the Government needed to be more direct about its policy on the use of body cameras.
“This Government should make it abundantly clear to the public what its policy is on body cameras. It is either they agree with it or they do not agree with it,” she said.
She also urged the Government to disclose whether body cameras had been ordered and what the projected cost would be.
“Tell us whether you have ordered body cameras,” she said.
Beckles said the issue of body cameras had been under discussion in Trinidad and Tobago for many years but had taken on greater significance amid the country’s crime challenges and the enhanced powers proposed under the bill.
She added that the public deserved clarity on the Government’s position, particularly since the legislation is intended to remain in force for two years under its sunset clause.
