Beetham Armed GasStation
What are your thoughts about the newly renovated gas station off the Beetham Highway that has as an incentive armed guards with pump action shot guns both above and surrounding it?
You're right it... it's not a sign of things to come. It's a sign of things already here. Gas stations, especially those that open late hours (this is a 24/7 service station accessible when leaving the capital of the country) is a prime target for robberies. Beetham, especially is regarded (historically) as being a haunt for robbers and car thieves. There is definitely a need for increased security, but why suddenly re-open this gas station and put armed guards? There may be a need for the gas station for future things to come in the Beetham area. Nevertheless I agree, it is a bit disturbing to have a full tactical squad oversee you while you fill up your gas tank.
Well in case you people didn't know the Beetham is a high risk area in Trinidad and re-opening a service station there is risky but the powers that be found it a necessary one. I actually used that station not too long ago and was speaking to an attendant and he told me that most of the workers here (not the guards) are from the Beetham and that they are not just for gas but other servicing too. That stretch of highway that passes the Beetham has a history of cars breaking down from flat tires, overheating and yep you guessed it, running out of gas. He told me that since they re-opened they have helped a lot of people get their cars up and running again. One day I do hope that we will no longer need the armed guards there but if not well I know that if I will be safe in any gas..ahem. service station in Trinidad it will be that one. Bullets and gas don't mix? well last time I checked neither did bullets and flesh, you really think there is anyone foolish enough to rob that station? Even if there is such a fool, he won't reach far. The people of the Beetham are proud of that station. Visit that station and 'see' what I mean.
Name: Edson
Comments: Trinidad and Tobago has its extremes and non extremes and Port of Spain and surrounding areas take the cake. The issue of crime has to be resolved from within and resorting to extreme measures only shows the criminal elements that they are being acknowledged. Also by having armed guards on top and around the Beetham gas satiation numbs to public to this type of force creating a norm of things to come.