A confrontation between police officers and suspected boatmen ended with dozens of shots fired into the Gulf of Paria on Monday night, as the occupants of two fishing boats evaded capture.

Police said that around 11:45 pm, officers on mobile patrol along Bayshore West observed several men unloading boxes from two boats onto a makeshift dock. Five officers approached the group. When the officers identified themselves and shouted “Police! Police!”, the men dispersed, and the boats reversed at high speed into the water.

According to police, bright flashes and explosions were seen and heard from the vessels, prompting the officers to open fire. A total of 61 rounds were discharged among five officers.