MATT Condemns Firebombing of Journalist’s Vehicle in Tobago; Police Investigate Possible Press Freedom Attack

The Media Association of Trinidad and Tobago (MATT) has condemned an overnight attack on the home of TV6 journalist Elizabeth Williams in Tobago, during which attempts were made to set her vehicle on fire. The incident, which occurred shortly after 2:00 a.m., was met with quick action by Williams and her daughter, who managed to extinguish the flames before the fire could spread. No injuries were reported, and MATT expressed relief that both were safe while extending its support to the journalist and her family.

The Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) responded to the scene, processed the evidence, and has since launched an investigation into the attack. MATT is calling on law enforcement to conduct a swift, thorough, and transparent inquiry to identify those responsible and determine what motivated the firebombing.

At this stage, MATT noted that there is no evidence directly linking the incident to Williams’ work as a journalist. However, the association emphasized that such a possibility cannot be ruled out. It urged investigators to pursue every possible lead, warning that any connection to press freedom would carry serious implications for the media landscape in Trinidad and Tobago.

The attack comes amid growing concerns about the environment in which journalists operate. MATT referenced the 2026 World Press Freedom Index published by Reporters Without Borders (RSF), which showed Trinidad and Tobago falling 13 places to 32nd out of 180 countries—a decline that underscores the need for vigilance and protection of journalistic integrity.