The ongoing dispute at MovieTowne took a dramatic turn today when security hired by the Port of Spain Infrastructure Company (POSINCO) threatened to use force against Trinbago Commercial Development Company Limited (TCDC) security personnel if they attempted to close the administrative office doors.
The conflict arose after staff tried to close the door, but POSINCO security insisted it remain open. According to MovieTowne officials, POSINCO security even used a piece of cardboard to keep the door ajar, preventing it from being locked.
The situation escalated just before 11 a.m. when TCDC Chairman Derek Chin arrived with his security team. Chin questioned the actions of POSINCO’s security, calling them “unlawful.”
In video footage of the altercation, a POSINCO security officer is heard saying, “I don’t care! The point is I have a job to do.” The officer further stated, “You tell me you want to close the door. I am telling you no!”
A TCDC Telecom Security officer responded, saying, “They can’t be threatening us with firearms.” Chin also pointed out in the video that his officers were unarmed. Another clip showed the piece of cardboard used to prevent the door from closing.
Eventually, Chin instructed his security to leave the POSINCO officers alone and leave the door open.
According to a MovieTowne manager, most of the administrative staff are women, and the daily presence of POSINCO security has been intimidating.
“They are engaging in bullying tactics and intimidating my staff by stationing two large men outside our premises. The court order does not grant them any access to our administration building, yet they are attempting to force us to leave our door open,” the manager said. “We question why they are insisting on having our office door open and what their intentions are. They are further escalating the situation by threatening to use force if we do not comply with their demands.”
The root of the conflict is a legal dispute between POSINCO and TCDC over $10 million in rent that POSINCO claims is owed by TCDC. TCDC, however, disputes this amount, stating they rejected a valuation report by G.A. Farrell & Associates, which they believe is flawed and caused them to overpay rent.
Earlier this week, POSINCO issued a statement declaring that, after two unsuccessful injunctions filed by TCDC’s attorneys, it retains its right of possession of the facility in accordance with the Deed of Lease.
“Since 2021, POSINCO has made every effort to bring this matter to an amicable resolution, in the hope that the matter would not reach the Courts. However, no payments were made by TCDC toward its rent. In the interest of its stakeholders and business, POSINCO was left with no choice but to take action,” the release stated.
POSINCO emphasized that it has complied with the High Court order issued on August 26, 2024, which directs POSINCO not to interfere with MovieTowne’s operations or those of its tenants while the substantive matter between POSINCO and TCDC is ongoing.
In response, TCDC accused POSINCO of releasing misleading and disingenuous statements.
“TCDC has observed ongoing efforts by the Port and its Chairman to mischaracterize the interim Order issued by the Court. As the Architect, Builder, and Operator of MovieTowne, the premier family destination, TCDC remains in legal and operational control of the facility. We are committed to upholding the rights and interests of all employees, tenants, and other stakeholders, and we will continue to safeguard these rights in accordance with the rule of law,” TCDC stated.
According to MovieTowne officials, POSINCO continues to breach the court order by interfering with their operations.
The matter is currently before the courts.
This draft removes the mention of the Express and keeps the key details. Let me know if you need any further edits!