Former National Security Minister Gary Griffith Discusses Police Reform, ID-Card Rollout and Future Policing Technology

The Morning Rumble broadcast on Freedom 106.5 FM opened with show's host introducing former National Security Minister and ex-Commissioner of Police Captain Gary Griffith. The conversation centered on the strategic placement of police posts, ongoing corruption within the force, and forthcoming reforms.

Griffith explained that, during his tenure, he took a hard line against officers implicated in drug-related activities, human trafficking and other illegal enterprises. Lacking sufficient evidence to prosecute senior officers, he frequently reassigned them to administrative duties away from hotspots, used GPS monitoring to limit vehicle misuse, and instituted polygraph and drug testing. Officers who refused polygraph testing were transferred, and a systematic “transfer-and-monitor” approach was employed to curtail misconduct. He noted that after his departure many of those officers reverted to former practices.

The former minister also addressed the national identity-card legislation. He argued that a universal ID card would aid police in verifying identities during roadblocks, uncover illegal immigration—estimated at over 110,000 individuals—and improve response to crime scenes. While supporting the system, Griffith cautioned against using the card as a tool to detain citizens without cause, urging flexibility in its enforcement.

Griffith outlined a $500 million national operation centre he helped establish, which would link police laptops to a comprehensive database containing personal details, criminal histories, weapon permits and outstanding warrants. This “engine room” would enable officers to retrieve critical information before entering a property, thereby enhancing officer safety and investigative efficiency.

On technology, Griffith expressed optimism about AI data-centres and modernised policing tools but warned that outdated procedures—such as manual licence checks—still hampered progress. He advocated for bullet-proof glass with windows up on police vehicles to protect officers from targeted attacks, and highlighted the need for appropriate vehicle types. While acknowledging the government’s push for electric police cars, he suggested SUVs remain essential for rugged patrol duties.

The interview also touched on the Special Operations Response Team (SORT), an elite unit Griffith formed to combat high-level crimes such as human trafficking, kidnapping and illegal weapons trade. After SORT’s successes, it transitioned into the National Operation Task Force.

Finally, Griffith recounted his refusal to arrest Prime Minister Kamala Persad-Bissessar despite political pressure, underscoring his commitment to institutional independence.

Griffith’s insights paint a picture of a police force grappling with internal corruption, technological transition, and legislative change, while striving to balance security imperatives with civil liberties.