Trinidad and Tobago struggles with rising gang numbers amid data discrepancies and arrests

Trinidad and Tobago is facing a significant challenge with a growing number of active gangs, a situation brought into sharp focus by recent parliamentary discussions and arrests. While the existence of criminal gangs is not new, their numbers and methods appear to be evolving rapidly.

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More than 180 gangs operating in T&T.

A UK-issued "Country Policy and Information Note" identified over 180 gangs operating in Trinidad and Tobago. This figure is slightly higher than recent local reports, which cited statistics from the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service's (TTPS) 2023 Crime and Problem Analysis Branch indicating approximately 148 active gangs. The discrepancy in data collection is noted as an immediate problem that needs addressing.

The issue gained further traction following the arrest of businessman Dominic Hadeed, his wife, and her aunt, related to an alleged conspiracy to commit murder. This action, taken under a Preventative Detention Order, occurred just days after local news highlighted the UK report on gangs.

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Roughly 148 active gangs in T&T.

While the current administration under Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar is credited with taking direct action, the article contrasts this with past approaches. It references former Prime Minister Patrick Manning's vague "big fish" and "Mr Big" labels from 2005, used to describe masterminds behind crime. The current Prime Minister has consistently claimed that the PNM party is financed by the local drug mafia and is attempting to undermine anti-trafficking efforts, a claim echoed by the current Attorney General.

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The PNM, a party long suspected of being financed by the local drug mafia, is overtly attempting to undermine efforts to stop drug, arms and human trafficking into our country.

The article stresses that beyond the numbers, the focus must shift to direct interventions and understanding the root causes of gang proliferation. It suggests that studying why gang activity has reached this stage and exploring long-term solutions are crucial steps. The UK report, intended for immigration officials, needs to be interpreted locally to guide effective action rather than just reporting on the issue.

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Certain gangs funded the PNM.