WHO is really running the Immigration Department -- National Security Minister Martin Joseph or Chief Immigration Officer Herman Brown?

This is the question raised after certain junior immigration officers stationed at Piarco International Airport, who took their complaint to the Ministry of National Security in the bid to have a senior officer removed.

The officers were not happy over threats of being disciplined for absenting themselves from one station and going to another in a bid to get overtime and travelling.

They were also accused of making bogus travelling claims.

Because of the stance he had taken against delinquent officers at Piarco, they “ganged up” against him and reported the matter to National Security Minister Martin Joseph.

They alleged that the senior officer was allowing Indian Guyanese nationals to enter the country without being scrutinised.

Following the complaint, the officer was immediately recalled from the airport by the Chief Immigration Officer and re-assigned for duty at the Port of Spain Office.

A replacement was sent to Piarco.

Officers also complain about favouritism in the Immigration department. They cited a case where an officer was supposed to have moved up to Immigration Officer IV and sent to act in place of another officer who went on vacation leave.

But sources said, a controversial junior officer who is described as “runaway horse” was given the nod to be in charge.

Officers are supposed to be rotated every six months but are allowed to remain in their posts up to two years.

There are reports that “King Kong” is being investigated for his role in the arrest of a Venezuelan national, who was believed to be illegal in the country.

After she was handcuffed and taken to the Immigration Department, it was discovered that she was granted residential status.

Meanwhile, officers are also questioning their Chief, Brown’s appearances at political functions saying that he would not be able to act independently and will have to bow to the dictates of the political directorate.

Brown recently attended the Golden Commemoration of the People’s National Movement (PNM) 15th Anniversary celebration in Arima which was held under the patronage of PNM MP Penelope Beckles.

He was seen rubbing shoulders with high-ranking PNM officials.

“As a senior public officer, he should keep his distance from politicians,” one officer said.