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Trinidad’s Police Commissioner Arrested in Firearms Investigation
Trinidad and Tobago’s Police Commissioner, Erla Harewood-Christopher, has been arrested and detained as authorities investigate the controversial importation of two sniper rifles by the country’s Strategic Services Agency (SSA), officials confirmed on Friday.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Suzette Martin announced the arrest during a news conference, revealing that Harewood-Christopher and former SSA director Major Roger Best were taken into custody at a secret location “over the past few days.”
“We understand that this has raised significant public concern, and we are committed to providing as much information as possible while respecting the ongoing investigation,” Martin stated.
Authorities launched the probe after uncovering irregularities in the procurement of the firearms. While charges have not yet been filed, Martin indicated that potential offenses could include misbehavior in public office. She emphasized that the investigation remains active and that law enforcement is working closely with the Director of Public Prosecutions to ensure due process.
“As this matter is still at a sensitive stage, we cannot provide specific details about the nature of the arrest,” Martin said. “It is important that we allow the investigation to unfold without interference. We ask for the public’s patience and understanding as we ensure that all aspects of this case are addressed thoroughly and fairly.”
Despite the arrest of the nation’s top law enforcement official, Martin assured the public that the operations of the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) remain unaffected.
“Our officers remain dedicated to serving and protecting the citizens of Trinidad and Tobago. The police hierarchy continues to function without disruption, and our commitment to public safety remains our top priority,” she said.
The police also confirmed that Harewood-Christopher’s constitutional rights are being upheld. “We have taken proactive steps to ensure that there is no action that could compromise her welfare,” Martin added.
Harewood-Christopher has joined a short list of Trinidad and Tobago’s police commissioners who have faced criminal investigations. In 1986, former Police Commissioner Randolph Burroughs was arrested on drug smuggling charges following a government probe into the narcotics trade.
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Monéa Earns Caribbean Music Awards Nomination, Making History for the British Virgin Islands
Rising music star Monéa has just hit another major milestone—she’s been nominated for a Caribbean Music Award, officially placing her among the top breakout dancehall artists of the year. She joins a talented lineup of emerging acts, including Armanii, Malie Donn, and Lady Lava, further proving that her influence on the Caribbean music scene is only growing.
Monéa is up for Caribbean R&B Artist of the Year, competing against a strong roster of regional talent, including Barbados’ Amanda Reifer and Jamaican stars Tosh Alexander, D’yani, and Dexta Daps—whom she’s previously collaborated with. Her signature sound, which she calls “Tropikana”—a fusion of dancehall and pop—has been turning heads internationally, solidifying her status as a genre-bending force in the industry.
The Caribbean Music Awards, now in its third year, will take place over Labor Day weekend in New York. Hosted by the Caribbean Elite Group, the event honors artists, producers, and industry professionals across multiple Caribbean genres. This year’s awards feature over 150 nominees across 40+ categories, including standout artists from the U.S. Virgin Islands like Pressure, Pumpa, Th3rd, Star Martin, and Kruziano.
Fans can support Monéa by casting their votes on the Caribbean Music Awards website, with voting open until Friday, May 1.
This nomination is historic—not only for Monéa but for her home, the British Virgin Islands. She’s officially the first artist from the BVI to ever receive a nod from the Caribbean Music Awards. The recognition couldn’t come at a better time, as she gears up to drop her highly anticipated sophomore album, Tropikana Vol. 2: Mood Swings, later this summer.
“Being nominated is an incredible honor,” Monéa said. “To be recognized among such talented artists is humbling, and I’m grateful for the support of my fans and my home in the BVI.”
Two individuals were arrested in connection with a violent incident reported on November 8, 2024.
Melicia Bodkin, 30, of Huntums Ghut, was charged with wounding and damage to property on February 24, while Deschon Hodge, 31, was charged with assault occasioning actual bodily harm, being armed with an offensive weapon, and damage to property on February 26. Both have been granted bail and will appear in court in April.
Two separate stabbing incidents on Virgin Gorda last month have resulted in serious charges, including manslaughter and assault, as police continue to investigate violent crime on the island.
On March 25, Drew Farrell, 42, of The Valley, was arrested and charged with manslaughter in connection with a fatal stabbing that took place on March 20. The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) has confirmed that the investigation into the incident remains ongoing.
Just days earlier, on March 16, a 17-year-old male—also from The Valley—was arrested and charged with assault occasioning actual bodily harm following a stabbing incident reported on March 15. Due to the suspect’s age, his identity has not been released.
The RVIPF has not indicated whether the two cases are related but has reiterated its commitment to addressing violent incidents across the territory.
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