The TTPS and the Police Complaints Authority are investigating. The footage has prompted public concern about the use of force during pursuits and the use of body cameras.
ST. AUGUSTINE, Trinidad – A police-involved shooting captured on CCTV on Jan. 20 left courier Joshua Samaroo, 31, dead and his common-law wife, Kaia Sealy, critically injured. The Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) said it understands the public concern the footage has caused.
Samaroo and Sealy were in a white Toyota Aqua that ran off the road into a drain near Bassie Street Extension, according to the video. A marked police vehicle that had been pursuing the car, with its sirens on, stopped a few meters away. Officers got out with their firearms drawn. The driver-side window of the Aqua then went down, and what appeared to be the driver’s arms were raised and extended through it. Moments later, the officers fired several shots at the car.
The footage shows officers checking the vehicle after the shooting stopped, then placing what appeared to be the two occupants in the rear of the police vehicle. Samaroo later died in hospital. Aurax News has not independently verified the video.
In a statement posted on Facebook, the TTPS said the circumstances are the subject of an active investigation by the police and the Police Complaints Authority (PCA). It said it will not comment on specific details or draw conclusions while that process is ongoing, and that it will cooperate fully with the PCA. The statement said any loss of life during a police operation is treated with “the utmost seriousness.” On body-worn cameras, the Service said it has consistently supported technology that improves transparency, accountability and public trust. It said it will take appropriate action where necessary once the investigation produces findings. The statement was signed by Deputy Commissioner of Police (Operations) Suzette Martin.
Samaroo and Sealy have a 5-year-old son, and Samaroo had an older child from a previous relationship. Family members of both expressed outrage and said they are seeking answers. As of news time, they said no information had been given to them.
This report draws on CCTV footage, a TTPS statement and accounts from family members.