Civil groups call for transparency in Samaroo shooting investigation

The Caribbean Association for Feminist Research and Action Trinidad and Tobago (CAFRA TT), alongside several organisations and individuals, has expressed deep concern over the handling of the fatal shooting of Joshua Samaroo and recent developments involving Kaia Sealy.

The group extended condolences to Samaroo’s family and loved ones, while also acknowledging the physical and emotional trauma experienced by Sealy and others affected.

In a statement, the organisations said that in January this year a police-involved shooting claimed the life of Samaroo and left Sealy partially paralysed. They noted that video footage of the incident, which has been circulated publicly, has raised serious questions about accountability, transparency and public confidence in the justice system.

They argued that where civilian injury or death occurs during police operations, there must be a heightened obligation on the State to ensure a transparent and impartial investigation capable of withstanding public scrutiny.

The statement further said that, in the absence of a clear explanation as to how Sealy—who also appears to have been shot by police—is being accused of causing Samaroo’s death, the public may reasonably suspect a cover-up.

“To avoid this conclusion and in the interest of public trust, the Police Service and/or the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions from whom the police reported that they took advice, owe the public an explanation of why she is being held accountable,” the statement said.

The organisations stressed that the justice system must operate with integrity, impartiality and sensitivity given the seriousness of the matter. They also referenced longstanding recommendations from the Police Complaints Authority, which since at least 2012 has advocated for the use of body-worn cameras to provide an objective record of police interactions.

The statement called for a series of measures, including:

• A transparent and independent investigation into the incident;
• Timely public communication explaining the basis on which charges were or are to be laid;
• Strengthening the role of the Police Complaints Authority in cases of alleged extrajudicial killings;
• Immediate protections for the rights and dignity of survivors and affected families;
• Full respect for due process and the rights of all individuals involved;
• Continued efforts to strengthen oversight, accountability and public trust in policing institutions.

The groups said ensuring accountability and adherence to due process is essential to maintaining confidence in the rule of law and democratic governance. They added that justice cannot exist where lethal force is normalised, or where grieving families are forced to fight for truth and accountability.

“At this critical time, we encourage all relevant authorities to act with fairness, transparency, and a commitment to justice in order to foster public confidence and social stability,” the statement concluded.

The statement was signed by CAFRA TT and several organisations, including The Traditional Afrikan Women’s Organisation (TAWO), the Emancipation Support Committee Trinidad and Tobago (ESCTT), The Caribbean Freedom Project, Caribbean Feminist, Trinbago for Palestine, Groundation, The Woven Foundation, Feminitt Caribbean, The Black Agenda Project, Berkeley Carnival Revolution, and Artists’ Coalition Trinidad and Tobago (ACTT).