May 15, 2025 | Port of Spain
As Erla Harewood-Christopher bows out of the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service on what marks the final day of her contract, Acting Commissioner of Police Junior Benjamin has stepped forward to confront the swirling public narrative, dismissing claims that her suspension and arrest were part of an internal coup.
“This was never a power play,” Benjamin stated emphatically in a recent media interview, referring to allegations that senior officers within the TTPS conspired to undermine Harewood-Christopher. “The investigation was done with integrity. There was no witch hunt.”
His comments come as Harewood-Christopher’s tenure ends under a cloud of controversy. On January 30, she was arrested and questioned over the allegedly unlawful acquisition of two sniper rifles for the Strategic Services Agency (SSA). Though she was never charged and later reinstated after the Director of Public Prosecutions found no basis for legal action, the optics surrounding her arrest and suspension raised eyebrows across the nation.
Benjamin made it clear that the operations, led by Deputy Commissioner Suzette Martin, were handled lawfully and transparently, with continuous consultation from the DPP. “There was no misuse of authority. The courts confirmed the legality of the actions taken,” he added.
Since stepping into the role in February following Harewood-Christopher’s suspension, Benjamin has kept a steady tone, emphasizing professionalism within the ranks. He described his personal relationship with the outgoing Commissioner as a respectful one, likening it to that of a “mother and son.” He wished her well, acknowledging her four decades of service to the nation.
Yet, even on her return to office earlier this week, Harewood-Christopher was swiftly placed on vacation leave—effectively bringing her time as top cop to a quiet close. While her attorneys continue to challenge aspects of her suspension and exit, Benjamin is focused on rebuilding public trust in the TTPS.
“The Police Service must remain above politics and personal conflict,” he noted. “Our responsibility is to the people of Trinidad and Tobago.”
As Benjamin continues to act in the role of Commissioner, the Police Service Commission is now tasked with charting a new course for leadership—one that must balance transparency, accountability, and unity within the force.