Chester Sambrano
The government of Canada has issued a travel advisory informing potential visitors to T&T to exercise a high degree of caution due to violent crime.
The website, https://travel.gc.ca Home: Travel.gc.ca, the Canada government’s official one-stop shop for comprehensive international travel information, stated on March 28, that violent crime, including armed robberies, assaults, and sexual assault, occurs frequently on the island of Trinidad, especially in the capital, Port-of-Spain.
“Tourists have been targeted,” it said.
The advisory said that since 2018, incidents of kidnapping for ransom have increased. “Cruise ship passengers should be very careful when walking around the docks in Port-of-Spain. Shootings, kidnappings, and other gang- and drug-related violence also occur. There is a risk of being in the wrong place at the wrong time,” it added.
It also said petty crimes, such as pickpocketing, bag-snatching, and thefts from cars, occur.
The Canadian authorities stated that foreigners should remain highly vigilant, particularly in certain areas. It listed Laventille, Beetham Gardens, Sea Lots, Cocorite, Carenage, Morvant, Savannah Park, Fort George, La Brea (Pitch Lake), and Las Cuevas Beach.
“If possible, avoid travel outside Port-of-Spain after dark, especially along the Beetham Highway.”
The advisory also highlighted the issue of home invasions. It said home invasions are common and may turn violent.
“If you are staying in either private or commercial accommodations, be aware of your surroundings at all times and ensure that windows and doors are securely locked. Be aware that police response often takes time.”
Terrorism was also pointed out to potential visitors.
According to the advisory, there was violent crime on the island of Tobago, including assaults, sexual assaults, and armed robberies.
“Incidents against foreigners, including Canadians, have occurred. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, also occurs. Tourists have been targeted,” it said.
Guardian Media reached out to Minister of Foreign and Caricom Affairs Dr Amery Brown for comment on the latest advisory, but no response was received up until late yesterday.