1 week ago
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A malfunction in the fire suppression system at the Police Administration Building on Monday afternoon caused extensive damage to several secured records, including Firearm Users Licence (FUL) files, the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) confirmed.
The incident occurred around 12:45 pm on the sixth floor of the building, following a series of power outages and fire alarm activations across multiple levels. The suppression system, intended to protect critical records in the event of a fire, instead caused flooding when a waterline ruptured, a statement by the TTPS said.
The TTPS added that the affected documents included Human Resources files, internal memos, administrative records, and FUL applications. While many physical files were destroyed, digital records of FUL applications remain on file. However, these do not include copies of the original submitted documents, as the new digital system—set for rollout in the coming weeks—was not yet in place when those applications were made.
The statement said Commissioner of Police Allister Guevarro has begun reviewing the damage and said a list of destroyed files will soon be published. Persons whose applications were affected will be asked to contact the Firearms Permit Unit to assist in reconstructing their records. For security reasons, the TTPS said it will release only FUL file numbers, not applicants’ names or addresses.
The TTPS added that digital backups exist for the HR and administrative files and assured the public that it is fast-tracking the digitisation of the FUL process to allow secure online uploads and prevent future vulnerabilities.
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