A key security legislation set for debate in Parliament tomorrow could grant Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar new powers intended to tackle crime. The Law Reform (Zones of Special Operations) (Special Security and Community Development Measures) Bill, 2026 would enable the Prime Minister to designate areas of Trinidad and Tobago as ‘Special Zones’ in response to high levels of criminal activity. In these zones, security forces would have expanded authority, including the power to conduct warrantless searches and impose curfews. The PM would also chair the National Security Council and be required to explain any such order to Parliament within 14 days. The bill is part of a shift towards a more targeted approach to crime prevention, similar to models used in countries like Jamaica. Supporters argue this could enhance public order by focusing resources on high-crime areas, while critics are concerned about potential civil liberties issues and misuse of broad powers.
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