Lapses in Security: Inside the Intelligence Failures of Coup Attempts

Inquiry’s Lessons Still Relevant 36 Years After 1990 Coup

One day after Trinidad and Tobago marked the 36th anniversary of the attempted coup of July 27, 1990, the findings of the Commission of Enquiry into the insurrection continue to offer important lessons on national security, intelligence-sharing and crisis preparedness.

The Commission found that significant weaknesses in the country’s security framework contributed to the State’s vulnerability before the attempted overthrow of the democratically elected government. Among the most serious concerns identified were failures in intelligence-sharing, poor coordination between security agencies and shortcomings in strategic leadership.

According to the report, intelligence gathered by the Police Service’s Special Branch was not effectively shared with other agencies, limiting the State’s ability to identify and respond to emerging threats. The inquiry concluded that the lack of collaboration hindered a coordinated national security response.

The Commission also found that the National Security Council (NSC), which was responsible for coordinating national security policy, was effectively non-functional in the years leading up to the attempted coup. Without an active NSC, there was no central body to assess intelligence, coordinate agencies or develop a unified response to potential threats.

While the inquiry stopped short of saying the attempted coup could have been prevented, it concluded that a fully functioning national security structure may have enhanced the country’s preparedness and ability to respond.

Among its recommendations were modernising national security legislation, strengthening cooperation between intelligence and law enforcement agencies, improving emergency planning and ensuring greater accountability in the handling of intelligence.

As the nation reflects on the events of July 27, 1990, the Commission’s findings remain relevant, serving as a reminder of the importance of strong institutions, effective intelligence-sharing and coordinated leadership in protecting Trinidad and Tobago’s democratic system.