Dana Malcolm
Staff Writer
#TurksandCaicos, February 9th, 2024 – Edvin Martin, Commissioner-designate will arrive in the Turks and Caicos in May, around three months after he was scheduled to take up the post because of a medical procedure resulting in the hiring of an Interim Acting Commissioner and internal shuffle.
The news came via a joint press release from the Office of the Premier and Governor on Friday February 9th; it followed a Grand Turk shooting near a school sports day which both condemned as ‘deplorable’.
No details were shared on the health of Martin, the press release only stated the officer would be delayed because of a “routine medical procedure” and resulting convalescence period.
When Martin’s appointment was announced in late 2023 several residents who researched the commissioner were concerned about his Health. The Commissioner-designate, who was previously Commissioner of Police in Grenada had reportedly taken time off for ill health but shut down speculation that it was the reason for his resignation from that post.
The unexpected turn of events has forced the governor to find a replacement in the person of Chris Eyre, former UK Chief Constable of Nottinghamshire Police.
“During his career, he has led the operational response to terrorist attacks, riots, major demonstrations, international criminal investigations and sensitive covert operations making him well placed to lead the RTCIPF during this interim period,” said the release.
In addition to Eyre, Superintendent Mat Newton will be temporarily appointed as an Assistant Commissioner of Police for the Turks and Caicos with specific responsibility for specialist tactical operations.
Despite the setback, Martin is apparently eager to arrive in the Turks and Caicos and has been having security talks with the Governor and other regional counterparts.
