News
Jamaal Watts. –
NATIONAL Security Minister Fitzgerald Hinds has condemned the recent tragic death of Jamaal Watts and assured that measures will continue to be implemented to safeguard employees, patients and visitors in Trinidad and Tobago’s health institutions. He said this murderous incident is now under active police investigation.
Watts, 33, was killed near the St James Medical Complex on September 4. Around 10.30 am he was cutting grass on a football field behind the hospital’s administration building when he was ambushed and shot multiple times. He was taken to the hospital’s accident and emergency department, where he was pronounced dead.
In a release on September 5, Hinds called for united community efforts to combat gun violence in TT.
He said this killing took place on the compound of a public hospital, traumatising the workers of that institution in the same way as on June 3 at the Port of Spain General Hospital.
Hinds said his ministry will collaborate with the Health Ministry to provide support, including activities designed to bring relief to all at these institutions.
“This tragic event underscores the urgent need for a continued co-ordinated response to the pervasive issue of gun violence. The government has recognised violence as a public health emergency and remains committed to supporting the police service and other law enforcement agencies in their efforts to combat crime.”
The minister said the government supports a wide range of civil society and community-based activities.
“(These are) inclusive of a wide range of opportunities for the training and development of the nation’s youth. All of this with a clear understanding, that tackling crime requires more than just law enforcement; it necessitates active involvement from all segments of the society.”
In the release, Hinds said he was concerned about a recent unfounded and libellous accusation, via a circulated social media post, about this matter. He said he wished to clarify he had no connection withWatts’ employment at the North West Regional Health Authority.
“Despite this erroneous claim, the minister records his respect for the employment and lawful earnings of the deceased, particularly the choice of the deceased to have engaged in lawful work, rather than succumb to criminal conduct and the earnings therefrom.”
Hinds urged citizens to support all ongoing initiatives to remove illegal firearms from communities and to participate in local crime prevention efforts.
“The minister, the government and the entire nation extend heartfelt condolences to Mr Watts’ family. Let us unite in our resolve to enhance public safety and build a secure TT.”
