At least 98 per cent of the CCTV cameras in Tobago are in operation, National Security Minister retired Major General Edmund Dillon disclosed on Monday.

Dillon met with Chief Secretary Orville London at the Administrative Complex in Calder Hall, to discuss 16 urgent security issues. Following the meeting, the Minister said more cameras have recently been installed on the island to monitor criminal activity. Dillon explained that police had identified the sites where the cameras were installed.

London said the Minister confirmed the cameras are being utilised.

“[Minister Dillon] did give me the assurance that contrary to some concerns that were raised, the majority of CCTV Cameras in Tobago are functioning properly and are being monitored consistently.”

He said consideration is being given for additional cameras in tourist areas. London has suggested that CCTV cameras be placed near beaches and other areas frequented by the public and visitors.

He called on hoteliers and other businesses in the tourism sector to assist in the fight against crime by installing cameras to monitor their properties. He added that their cameras will be connected to the national grid and private citizens can also have cameras installed on their property.

London said: “We have a situation where the security services are willing to have a collaborative approach, where business firms and even individuals can put up CCTV Cameras and ways found to link everything into the particular system.”

Dillon was speaking at a media briefing after his courtesy call on Chief Secretary Orville, Tobago on Monday.