PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad – Senior Superintendent Allister Guevarro has officially been appointed Commissioner of Police (CoP)-elect for Trinidad and Tobago, following a unanimous vote by both Government and Opposition in Parliament. In a statement after his confirmation, Guevarro said he was “deeply humbled by Parliament’s confirmation” and gave thanks to God for guiding his journey.
“I am grateful to the Honorable Members of Parliament for their confidence in my leadership, and to the citizens of Trinidad and Tobago for their continued support,” said Guevarro, who currently serves in the Special Branch.
- Advertisement -
He commended the other candidates for their dedication and integrity during what he described as a transparent and rigorous selection process, saying their efforts serve as inspiration for future leaders in the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS).
Guevarro pledged to uphold the TTPS vision: “To make every place in Trinidad and Tobago safe.” He acknowledged the serious issues facing the country—including school violence, criminal activity, gang influence, firearm-related crime, and road safety—and stressed the need to rebuild public trust.
“I look forward to partnering with stakeholders across society to address these matters with integrity, transparency, and resolve,” he said.
Guevarro, 49, who will succeed acting CoP Junior Benjamin, was ranked first on the Police Service Commission’s merit list. Benjamin has led the TTPS since February following the suspension of former CoP Erla Harewood-Christopher amid an investigation into the importation of sniper rifles by the Strategic Services Agency.
A father of two and avid hunter, Guevarro hails from the remote village of Santa Maria, Moruga. He began his policing career in 1996 and was transferred to the Special Branch just two years later after demonstrating a natural aptitude for investigations.
Acting CoP Benjamin extended heartfelt congratulations and pledged his full support.
“We are here to support him and give him all that he needs to do his job successfully,” said Benjamin.
When asked about not receiving the permanent post himself, he added, “It has always been about Team TTPS. We must never fall in love with an office. I believe my life is ordered by God, and when that purpose is fulfilled, the right person is placed there.”
Former CoP Harewood-Christopher also praised Guevarro, calling him “qualified and competent” and recalling his professionalism during their time working together.
“The TTPS is well poised to benefit substantially from his leadership,” she said.
President of the TTPS Social and Welfare Association, ASP Gideon Dickson, welcomed Guevarro and committed the association’s full support.
“We, as an association, commit to supporting his strategic direction and leadership,” said Dickson, who also thanked Benjamin for his leadership during his tenure.
From a modest upbringing to the nation’s highest policing office, Guevarro’s rise reflects a journey marked by resilience, integrity, and unwavering commitment to service.
