President of the T&T Registered Nurses Association (TTRNA) Gwendolyn Loobie-Snaggs is demanding the removal of the security firm, SWAT estate police, from the compound of the St James Medical Complex following the alleged physical and sexual assault of a nurse by a 20-year-old security guard.
The nurse told police she was about to enter her vehicle upon the completion of her shift when she was reportedly attacked by a security guard who also worked at the facility.
The incident reportedly took place around 5.30 pm on Wednesday.
Loobie-Snaggs said for far too long security has been a problem adding, “It is time that things be done. Are they going to wait until somebody is found dead?”
Loobie-Snaggs who also visited the facility yesterday said a “more competent” security firm must be put in place and urged that security officers must not only be obligated to secure plant and machinery but also look after personnel in a professional and respectful manner.
She said she also spoke to the victim who was very traumatised.
“She is a sister in the nursing fraternity and we are all very upset about what happened and we do not want such an incident happening again,” Loobie-Snaggs said.
President of the Public Services Association (PSA) Watson Duke also echoed Loobie-Snaggs' sentiments that the security firm must be removed.
Duke also claimed there were no proper screening methods for the selection of security officers saying, “These security firms are taking in anybody...any foreigner...any johnny-come-lately. We don't want any long meeting with them. Get rid of SWAT,” Duke demanded.
The incident has also created fears among staff at the facility as many of them yesterday said they were afraid for their safety.
One nurse, who did not want to be identified, said in the past items have been stolen from the facility including a television.
Another employee said the alleged rape was “bound to happen” as cries for improved security have gone unheeded for far too long.
Contacted yesterday, an official from SWAT confirmed that a complaint had been made against one of its officers and that an internal and external investigation was ongoing.
Deyalsingh concerned
Health Minister Terrence Deyalsingh, in a press release yesterday, described the incident as “unfortunate.”
He said he had spoken with staff and expressed “deep concern” and also offered his personal support.
The minister said he has also been in communication with the chairman of the North West Regional Health Authority (NWRHA), Dr Andy Bhagwandass, who gave the assurance that the authority was providing all the necessary support to the victim, family members and other members of staff.
“The NWRHA is reviewing its systems to ensure the continued safety of staff members, patients and all users of the facility, and is working closely with the Police Service to bring this matter to a quick conclusion,” Deyalsingh said.
He said he also spoke to Duke and was expected to meet with him early next week.
Regarding the removal of SWAT, Deyalsingh said the authority was conducting investigations into the matter which would include a review of the security systems.
Suspect in custody
The 20-year-old security guard held for raping a nurse at the St James Medical Complex on Wednesday is expected to appear in court on Monday.
Investigators were unable to complete an identification parade yesterday. The suspect remained detained at the St James Police Station up to late yesterday. The T&T Guardian understands that the suspect may also be placed on parades before other recent victims of rape in the division as they believe that Wednesday’s attack may not be his first.
Insp Henry Dann and WPCs Kerr and Phillip are continuing investigations.