PORT-OF-SPAIN (CMC):

A heavy security presence is being planned for this month's carnival in Trinidad as law enforcement authorities seek to cut off criminality during the celebrations.

Commissioner of Police Trevor Paul has warned revellers taking part in the February 19 and 20 carnival celebrations to leave their knives, ice picks and other weapons at home or face prosecution.

He said that people will be randomly searched during J'ouvert celebrations as police and army personnel take to the streets in numbers to ensure a safe carnival.

New duties

Paul held a special meeting Friday with his senior officers in Port-of-Spain, in which he disclosed that police personnel assigned desk jobs have been re-assigned to carnival duties starting from next Saturday. Officers on leave will also be called out to work during the celebrations.

Officers will engage in foot and mobile patrols, surveillance, assisting lost children, ensuring that law and order prevails and carrying out assignments in hot spots.

The officers have also been told to pay special attention to the safety of visitors.

Traffic cops will be on duty carrying out speed traps and ensuring that motorists do not flout the traffic laws, the police commissioner said. He added that soldiers will also assist in providing the necessary security for people taking part in carnival and those looking on.