One arrested after police-involved shooting in Santa Cruz

One man has been arrested and a cache of illegal ammunition and cannabis seized following a police-involved shooting in the North Eastern Division last night.

Reports indicate officers were on mobile patrol around 10:45 pm on Sunday 28 June 2026 when they received information about a suspicious vehicle in the Pax Vale, Santa Cruz district. Upon arrival, officers observed the vehicle which allegedly sped off prompting a pursuit with sirens and emergency lights activated.

During the chase the vehicle was intercepted along Positive Street where an armed occupant reportedly exited the rear and fired two shots at the police vehicle. In accordance with the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service Use of Force Policy an officer returned fire in the direction of the assailant who fled into an empty parcel of land and escaped.

Officers then approached the abandoned vehicle and detained the driver without further incident.

A search of the vehicle uncovered 146 cannabis plants packed in three cardboard boxes located in the trunk.

Investigators also discovered a Glock pistol fitted with two magazines containing 34 rounds of 9mm ammunition. Police confirmed that the detained suspect produced a Firearm User’s Licence booklet for the weapon.

Further enquiries led officers to the suspect’s home where a quantity of ammunition not listed in the FUL booklet was allegedly found. An additional quantity of cannabis was also seized during the search.

Police say investigations are ongoing as they continue to determine the identity and whereabouts of the armed occupant who escaped the scene as well as the full extent of the alleged criminal activity connected to the seized items.

Authorities reiterated their commitment to tackling firearms and narcotics trafficking across the division noting that patrols and intelligence-led operations will continue. They also urged members of the public to report suspicious activity as investigations progress. Police said updates will be provided as more information becomes available including the status of the escaped suspect and any additional charges that may arise from forensic analysis of the seized items and recovered firearms evidence.

No further details have been released by police at this time officially stated.