Investigation into Karimbaksh’s rape allegations underway- Minister Walrond

October 2 2026

An official investigation has commenced into allegations of rape, sexual assault and death threats made against Deputy Commissioner of Police and Head of the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU), Fizal Karimbaksh, by a serving female Police Inspector.

Minister of Home Affairs Oneidge Walrond confirmed that the Inspector has provided a statement and that a team has been established to investigate the allegations.

Minister Walrond made the disclosure while appearing on the Starting Point podcast, explaining that investigators are expected to obtain statements from relevant persons, including Karimbaksh, before a formal confrontation is held.

She said the investigation will ultimately determine whether criminal or disciplinary action should follow.

Walrond also expressed the view that Karimbaksh should be placed on administrative leave while the investigation is ongoing.

“It is my view, and I hold a strong view, that he should be sent on administrative leave pending the investigation.”

Despite the minister’s position, Karimbaksh remains on duty at SOCU.

Walrond acknowledged that the absence of a currently constituted Police Service Commission has complicated the question of who has the authority to place the senior officer on administrative leave.

She said the issue would have to be discussed between herself and the Commissioner of Police, while noting that the Police Service Commission would be the body responsible for determining whether Karimbaksh should be sent on leave.

The minister said a confrontation with Karimbaksh would form part of the investigative process, after which a decision would be made on the outcome.