Trinidad: Man flees after being caught attempting to throw package into Port-of-Spain prison

Trinidad and Tobago: A man was spotted running from the Port-of-Spain prison on Tuesday morning after the officers caught him attempting to throw a package over the perimeter wall of the prison.

The Trinidad and Tobago Prison Service noted that the officers observed the unidentified man at around 6:45 a.m. on August 11, 2026, trying to throw the package into the prison compound near the intersection of Gordon and Pembroke streets.

According to the reports, as the officers approached the man, he immediately ran from the scene with the package still in his possession. The Prison Service said that the man was dressed in a blue top and cream-coloured long pants.

The incident has prompted the Prison Officers’ Association (POA) to renew its call for a more advanced CCTV surveillance system at the facility. As the public relations officer of Prison Officers’ Association, Kris Guerero noted that the association had been continuously calling for upgraded CCTV systems at the Port-of-Spain Prison, since the last four years.

Guerero mentioned that a modern system would help in strengthening the security inside and outside prison walls and monitor the internal movements to help officers detect suspicious activity.

He added that the updated security system will also help preserve evidence and provide intelligence for investigations.

He further highlighted that the recent incidents involving people throwing and attempting to throw contraband over the prison walls shows the critical need for better surveillance.

Guerero emphasised that CCTV cannot replace trained officers, proper staffing and intelligence-led operations, however, it can significantly enhance their effectiveness

The Prison Service warned the public about the legalities and actions that will be taken against the people who attempt to traffic prohibited articles in or out the prison premises.

The Trinidad and Tobago Prison Service wishes to remind members of the public that trafficking, or attempting to traffic, prohibited articles into or out of a prison is an offence under the Prisons Act, Chap. 13:01, as amended by the Miscellaneous Provisions (Law Enforcement Officers) Act, No. 25 of 2019, the statement noted.

They have urged the public not to attempt to smuggle prohibited articles into the prison as if anyone is caught attempting to smuggle prohibited items into a prison or correctional facility can face arrest and prosecution.

The Prison Service announced that it remains committed to preventing contraband from entering its premises and will continue working with the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service and other law-enforcement agencies.