Tobago recorded its second murder for 2024 yesterday, after Akinde Bissoon, of Sou Sou Lands, was found dead in Old Grange.
Guardian Media understands that Bissoon’s decomposing body was found around 8 am on the side of the road.
Snr Supt Rodhill Kirk told the media the body bore several marks of violence.
Kirk said, “Police are continuing its investigation and as soon as any other information comes to us, we will provide it. That is the most I can say at this point in time.”
However, sources told Guardian Media that Bissoon is known to police and had been charged in the past for illegal drug possession.
Meanwhile, investigators are yet to find a motive for the island’s first murder victim Kareem Small, of Patience Hill, who was shot dead near his home on January 2.
Yesterday, People’s National Movement (PNM) Senator Laurence Hislop raised concerns over the rising crime rates in Tobago, particularly the increasing number of murders. He said this was not a positive record for the island and called for an end to violence and the handling of illegal firearms.
“We’ve started the year with two murders, we started the year with shootings in our capital and I know for a fact that Tobagonians are not happy with the situation that we face as an island as it relates to crime,” Hislop said.
However, he made it clear the PNM was not interested in politicising the issue of crime. Instead, he said they were addressing it from a community and social impact standpoint, adding every person living on the island is affected by the crime problem.
Hislop said crime fighting should not be limited to enforcement only. He argued it required a comprehensive approach involving the whole government and community. He acknowledged the efforts of the police service in Tobago, saying he remains confident in their ability to reduce violence and gun crimes.
He emphasised that security in Tobago extended beyond policing and border control, encompassing community engagement, development, and sports. He urged the Tobago House of Assembly to take proactive steps in creating an environment that discourages criminal activities.
He said the PNM Tobago Council is willing to collaborate with various stakeholders, including citizens, NGOs, church groups and youth organisations, to combat crime in Tobago.
Hislop also delivered a heartfelt plea to the young men of Tobago, warning them of the consequences of embracing a life of violence.
“We don’t need any more bloodshed on the streets of Tobago, in the communities of Tobago. We don’t need any more gun violence. We don’t need any more chopping, no more stabbing, no fights. This is an island that is known for people who love one another. And so let’s make sure that we get back to that.”
Meanwhile, Chief Secretary Farley Augustine said his administration is working on social programmes to help in the fight with crime. He told the media he has plans to host public consultations on crime and criminality on the island.