Emergency Declared to Combat Crime

The Government of Trinidad and Tobago has declared a State of Emergency in response to a dangerous criminal network operating from within the prison system. This decision follows a recommendation from Police Commissioner Allister Guevarro, who highlighted credible intelligence indicating that incarcerated individuals are orchestrating attacks on senior law enforcement and judicial officials. The campaign is complex and involves multiple criminal elements that have shown a level of planning beyond conventional law enforcement’s capabilities.

A significant factor enabling this threat is the illegal trafficking of mobile phones into prisons, facilitated by compromised insiders. This allows inmates to communicate securely with outside operatives. The funding for these criminal activities reportedly stems from various violent crimes, including high-value robberies, armed home invasions, kidnapping, extortion, and the exploitation of government programs.

To address this severe threat, the State of Emergency grants law enforcement agencies the authority to take immediate action, enhance inter-agency cooperation, and access necessary resources. Notably, there is no curfew currently in place.

In an effort to dismantle the criminal network, a specialized Threat Response Group has been established, comprising different arms of the protective services. An emergency briefing held on July 17 with the Prime Minister and Attorney General led to rapid containment measures, including the relocation of high-risk inmates to disrupt their command structures.

Law enforcement has commenced targeted operations, both overt and covert, which will persist until the threat is neutralized. The Trinidad and Tobago Police Service has assured citizens of its commitment to protecting democratic institutions and public safety, urging the community to stay calm, cooperate with law enforcement, and report any suspicious activities.