By NALINEE SEELAL Saturday, November 28 2009

ACTING Police Commissioner James Philbert yesterday praised both local and regional law enforcement agents for the role they are playing in ensuring the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) is a success.

Philbert told Newsday that despite some minor setbacks, officers were working round the clock to make Trinidad and Tobago proud. He reminded that although a lot of attention is being focused on CHOGM, the necessary resources have been put in place to ensure that citizens are protected and criminal elements are dealt with.

He revealed that over 500 police officers from the region are in the country to assist local law enforcement during the three-day conference. Yesterday Philbert visited several of the secuity forces and commended them for their commitment and hard work.

“I commend all officers, local, foreign, members of the Defence Force, SAUTT and all the other agencies. We have started very well and we must continue working hard. Don’t become complacent, keep vigilant.

There is a lot of work to be done. It is indeed a sacrifice. The hours may be long, there may be some dissatisfaction, but as police officers we must stand fast till the end, and we must do that,” Philbert said.

The Acting Commissioner also commended Gold Commander for the Summit ACP Stephen Williams for his role in planning the security arrangements for the three-day event.

According to Philbert, all divisions in the police service are being utilised for CHOGM and they have been working closely with the Defence Force, the Special Anti Crime Unit of Trinidad and Tobago and other units within the Ministry of National Security. The regional officers numbering over 500 are expected to depart Trinidad on Tuesday.