Trinidad and Tobago has declared a state of emergency in response to a recent spike in gang-related violence, triggered by a failed assassination attempt on a gang leader. The government is implementing measures to quell potential reprisal attacks and address the escalating crime rate.
The emergency declaration, announced on Monday, will authorize increased police and military presence throughout the nation. While a curfew has not been imposed, the security forces will be granted expanded powers, including the ability to conduct searches without warrants. This move aims to disrupt gang activity and maintain public safety.
Furthermore, bail will be suspended for individuals suspected of criminal activity, enabling authorities to detain suspects for up to 48 hours without formal charges. This detention period can be further extended for an additional seven days with court approval. These measures are intended to provide law enforcement with the tools to swiftly respond to and investigate crimes.
The recent escalation in violence follows a weekend of bloodshed. On Saturday, a known gang leader survived an assassination attempt, though one of his associates was killed. In a suspected retaliatory act, five men were fatally shot on Sunday evening, as reported by local media.
National Security Minister Fitzgerald Hinds has characterized the situation as an “epidemic” and the latest figures underscore the severity of the crisis. The island nation has recorded 623 homicides this year alone, with 263 of those linked to gang-related activity, signalling the depth of the security challenge.
