Trinidad and Tobago Declares State of Emergency to Combat Rising Crime and Violence
The government of Trinidad and Tobago has declared a state of emergency in response to a surge in murders and violent crimes, breaking records from previous years. Despite the emergency measures, there will be no curfew in place.
Why Was the Emergency Declared?
On Monday, Prime Minister Keith Rowley invoked emergency powers to address the escalating violence. These measures grant law enforcement increased authority, including the ability to search homes without warrants and detain suspects for up to 48 hours. The government’s decision aims to curb the growing wave of violent incidents in the country.
Recent weeks have been particularly grim, with multiple shooting incidents resulting in fatalities. In 2024, the country recorded 623 murders—the highest figure since 2013. With a population of 1.5 million, Trinidad and Tobago now has one of the highest murder rates in the Caribbean, trailing only Jamaica and Haiti. The region’s violence-related deaths are three times the global average. Authorities fear that gang-related violence involving dangerous weapons could further escalate.
Rising Concerns Over Gang Wars and Crime
December alone witnessed 61 murders, with incidents like a fatal shooting outside a police station last Saturday and another attack claiming five lives the previous day. The police administration has expressed concern over the increasing use of high-powered weapons in these crimes. While such weapons are not manufactured in the Caribbean, they are often smuggled from the United States.
In light of this, the government has sought assistance from the U.S. to tackle the flow of illegal firearms. The rising gang wars and violent incidents have left the administration deeply worried, prompting this strict step to restore order and ensure public safety.
