This week in Trinidad and Tobago
This week in Trinidad and Tobago, public frustration mounted over Republic Bank's significant fee increases, prompting intervention from Central Bank Governor Larry Howai. Politically, the Parliament saw walkouts and debates over accountability, with calls for Senator Faris Al-Rawi's removal. Meanwhile, police operations addressed crime, eliminating a gang linked to numerous home invasions and confronting suspects in other incidents.
About Trinidad and Tobago
Trinidad and Tobago, a vibrant twin-island nation in the southern Caribbean, is globally recognized as the birthplace of the steelpan and limbo, and for its spectacular Carnival celebrations. Its robust economy, among the wealthiest in the Caribbean, is primarily fueled by extensive oil and natural gas reserves. The country also boasts exceptional biodiversity and unique natural wonders, all within a dynamic environment supported by a free and diverse press.
Visiting Trinidad and Tobago
Media landscape
Trinidad and Tobago maintains a free press environment, characterized by diverse media outlets that provide extensive national and regional news coverage. The landscape includes several daily newspapers, television stations, and growing digital platforms.
To gain a comprehensive understanding, seek out outlets that offer both national news and distinct local perspectives from both Trinidad and Tobago.
The Naming of Kaisoca Soccer
- The article discusses comments made on a radio program about the state of football. - Administrators, coaches, and the public shared their views on football's condition. - The author initially dismi…
Short-term gains, long-term risks: Trinidad and Tobago's economic balancing act
- The Trinidad and Tobago government faces the challenge of balancing immediate political realities with long-term economic sustainability. - One year into its term, the administration has taken decis…
Rumors of Cancellation Threaten National Primary Schools Track and Field Championships
- The National Primary Schools Track and Field Championships and 3k Road Race 2026 are reportedly facing cancellation. - This potential cancellation follows a rumor that has caused concern among those…
Motherhood is beautiful...and hard
- Mother's Day, celebrated on the second Sunday in May, is often idealized in media, highlighting happiness and overlooking challenges. - The reality of motherhood is complex, with varying experiences…
Longdenville seeing real improvements
- Residents of Longdenville, Trinidad, are expressing gratitude for recent improvements in public utilities and infrastructure. - Specific upgrades include consistent water pressure, reliable househol…
Debra Boucaud Mason: Still On Stage and Loving It!
- Debra Boucaud Mason, a 63-year-old actress, continues to bring animated energy to her theatre roles, a trait that extends to her off-stage personality. - Having been involved in theatre since 1984, …
Motherhood Unfiltered
- The article explores the less-discussed aspects of motherhood, moving beyond the idealized image of superwomen. - It questions what mothers wish were discussed more honestly and what has surprised t…
Justice Minister: Prison recidivism data is 'scary'
- Justice Minister Devesh Maharaj described data from the police and prison service as "scary." - The data indicates that over half of individuals released from prison re-offend. - This suggests a sig…
Three New Nurses Walk Off Job Citing Poor Conditions
- Three newly hired registered nurses have resigned from the North Central Regional Health Authority in Trinidad and Tobago. - They cited poor working conditions, including being expected to work beyo…
Residents wanted ZOSO in Belmont, says Alexander
- Homeland Security Minister Roger Alexander stated that Belmont residents desired the implementation of Zones of Special Operations (ZOSO). - He responded to questions about citizen safety and the st…
PM: Crime would be worse without state of emergency
- Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar stated that crime in Trinidad and Tobago would be worse without the state of emergency. - Her comments followed a triple murder in Belmont, where a two-year-old…
Mom critical after deadly ambush kills husband, son
- A mother remains in critical condition after a fatal ambush in Belmont, Trinidad, which killed her husband, their two-year-old son, and a family friend. - The family was en route to the child's dayc…
PM: India delivered on promises
- Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar stated that India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi ensured India honored its commitments to Trinidad and Tobago. - These commitments have benefited the people of …
Thieves raid stolen vehicles compound in Port of Spain, damage multiple cars
- A group of men broke into a stolen vehicles compound in Sea Lots, Port of Spain, early Friday morning. - The intruders damaged over a dozen impounded vehicles before fleeing when an alarm was raised…
India minister begins two-day visit
- India's Minister of External Affairs, Dr. Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, is on a two-day visit to Trinidad and Tobago to solidify bilateral agreements. - The visit includes handing over laptops, launching…
Opposition MPs call for ministers to resign
- Opposition MPs are demanding the resignations of the Minister of Defence and Minister of Homeland Security following a triple murder in Belmont that included a two-year-old child. - The opposition c…
TRAFFIC CHAOS
- A ruptured Water and Sewerage Authority (WASA) transmission line caused a significant traffic pile-up on the Beetham Highway. - The burst main led to large volumes of water gushing onto the roadway,…
Alexander vows action against killers
- Trinidad and Tobago's Minister of Homeland Security, Roger Alexander, vows to address gang-related murders. - He criticized the opposition for their past handling of crime and their calls for his re…
Dad, toddler among 3 shot dead in ambush: mom injured
- A father, his two-year-old son, and another man were killed in a shooting in Belmont, Trinidad and Tobago. - The victims' mother and wife, who was also shot, is in critical condition. - Police are i…
RBL pauses fee hike after pushback
- Republic Bank Ltd. has paused planned fee increases set to take effect May 1, following public outcry and discussions with the Central Bank. - The bank acknowledged customer concerns and confusion r…
Parkites Whip Preysal in Festival Opener
- Defending champions Queen's Park Cricket Club began their T20 Festival campaign with a victory over Preysal Sports. - The match was decided by 29 runs using the Duckworth/Lewis/Stern (DLS) method. -…
From Shared Journeys to a Shared Future: Renewed Engagement with Trinidad and Tobago
- The author returned to Trinidad and Tobago less than a year after a previous prime ministerial visit. - This visit aims to advance shared journeys and build a shared future between the nations. - Th…
Republic Bank's Fee Hikes Hit Customers Hard Amidst Record Profits
- Republic Bank has announced significant fee increases effective May 1, impacting everyday banking and small businesses. - The fee hikes include higher charges for bank cheques, NSF fees, overdrafts,…
Dentist Ordered to Repay $125,000 Loan After High Court Ruling
- A dentist in Debe has been ordered by the High Court to repay $125,000 after guaranteeing a loan for her former partner. - The judge ruled the dentist fully understood the financial arrangement and …
Central Bank Governor in Talks with Republic Bank Over Fee Hikes
- Central Bank Governor Larry Howai is in talks with Republic Bank regarding its recent fee increases. - Republic Bank has indicated it will review its fee structure to balance its earnings with custo…
Trainees Face Widespread Bullying and Sexual Harassment
- Bullying and sexual harassment are significant problems for On the Job Training (OJT) employees in workplaces. - A psychologist was brought in to address these issues, handling approximately 50 repo…
Howai: We hear public frustration over bank fees
- The Central Bank of Trinidad and Tobago is engaging Republic Bank directly regarding recent fee increases. - Governor Larry Howai acknowledged public frustration and stated the bank's commitment to …
$350 Million Paid Out to T&TEC Employees in Outstanding Dues
- Trinidad and Tobago Electricity Commission (T&TEC) employees have received nearly $350 million in outstanding payments, including Cost of Living Allowance (COLA). - Minister of Public Utilities Barr…
NP to THA: $50m to link fuel lines to new terminal
- Connecting fuel lines to the new ANR Robinson International Airport terminal will cost $50 million, according to the National Petroleum Company Ltd (NP). - The new terminal was built without a fuell…
Analysts Call for Al-Rawi's Removal Amidst Senate Committee Referral
- Political analysts suggest Opposition Senator Faris Al-Rawi should be removed from the Senate bench, while Janelle John-Bates's situation is debated. - Both senators were referred to the Privileges …
Fire damages landmark Globe City Plaza in Chase Village
- Firefighters battled a large blaze at the Globe City Plaza in Chase Village, Trinidad. - The fire, which started around 9 a.m., affected at least 15 businesses and hundreds of employees. - The Trini…
Camille Robinson-Regis Calls Government's Stance on Committees a 'Ruse' to Avoid Accountability
- Opposition MP Camille Robinson-Regis criticizes the government's actions regarding parliamentary committees as a "ruse" to avoid accountability. - The Joint Select Committee on National Security adj…
Unlocking T&T's Orange Economy potential
- Trinidad and Tobago's creative sector, known as the "orange economy," significantly contributes to GDP and employment through cultural expressions like Carnival, music, and film. - Despite its econo…
Central Bank Intervenes Over Republic Bank Fee Hikes Amid Public Concern
- The Central Bank of Trinidad and Tobago is directly engaging with Republic Bank Ltd regarding public concerns over increased banking fees. - New fees implemented by Republic Bank on May 1st have spa…
Gang Linked to 24 Home Invasions Eliminated in Police Operation
- Trinidadian police believe four men killed during an operation were part of the "Tall Boots Crew," responsible for approximately 24 home invasions. - The gang allegedly targeted homes after midnight…
'I can't take all this charge' - DUI suspect allegedly attacks officer
- A 39-year-old man faces multiple charges after allegedly assaulting a police officer in Point Fortin, Trinidad and Tobago. - The incident occurred after officers responded to a suspected drunk-drivi…
Patriots Secure Second Consecutive TTCB Title in Dramatic Finish
- Christian Thurton's two boundaries on the final two balls secured the TTCB Premiership 1 Sunday League 50-over title for Bess Motors Marchin Patriots. - The victory marks the second consecutive titl…
PNM members walk out of Parliament
- Opposition members walked out of Parliament after the Deputy House Speaker halted their protests during a debate. - The dispute centered on the inclusion of Opposition Senator Faris Al-Rawi in the d…
Rise of ‘the new poor’
- Poverty in Trinidad and Tobago is increasingly affecting working families, not just traditional vulnerable groups. - Organizations like The Children's Ark and Glimmer of Hope report seeing a rise in…
PM: Al-Rawi ‘untouchable’
- Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar claims Opposition Leader Pennelope Beckles cannot remove Senator Faris Al-Rawi. - The Prime Minister alleges Al-Rawi is protected by
Police Kill Four in Central Trinidad Home Invasion
- Police in Central Trinidad killed four suspects during a home invasion investigation, apprehending two others. - The incident began early morning when masked assailants robbed a 70-year-old farmer, …
AI, eyes and ears on you
- The author reflects on the rapid advancement of information technology and its profound impact on the world. - The article explores how IT has provided powerful tools that shape our lives and experi…
Exposure isn’t excellence
- The article questions the metric of 'exposure' as a measure of excellence, particularly in the context of large viewership numbers. - It suggests that while 55 million live viewers sounds impressive…
Police Sports Club Clinch T&T Cricket Board Premiership Two Title
- Police Sports Club defeated Alescon Comets by eight wickets to win the Trinidad and Tobago Cricket Board’s Premiership Two 50-over title. - The victory secured the championship for the Police Sports…
Nakhid Robbed After Bank Visit, Calls for Tighter Security
- United National Congress Senator David Nakhid reported being followed from a Maraval bank and subsequently robbed. - His car was broken into outside a supermarket, with money and valuables stolen du…
CARICOM Sounds Note of Caution on Regional Integrity
- CARICOM has issued a statement reminding member states to uphold regional integrity and cohesion in their external dealings. - The warning follows a complaint lodged by Guyanese President Dr. Irfaan…
Anger Over Delcy’s Brooch Sparks CARICOM Tension
- Venezuela's acting President Delcy Rodriguez sparked tension within CARICOM by wearing a brooch depicting Venezuela including Guyana's Essequibo region. - The brooch's design, which visually incorpo…
Elderly Friends Found Dead; Police Investigate Robbery After Bank Cards Used
- Two elderly friends, Bernard Mahabir, 71, and Kenneth Gill, 67, were found dead after going out together, with police investigating their deaths as a potential robbery. - Police suspect the men were…
PM Persad-Bissessar Warns Critics: 'Take My Eye, I Take Your Head'
- Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar marked her government's first anniversary by issuing a strong warning to critics. - In an interview, she adopted a resolute stance, stating …
Shamfa Cudjoe-Lewis Wins PNM Tobago Council Leadership
- Shamfa Cudjoe-Lewis has won the leadership of the People's National Movement (PNM) Tobago Council, defeating Kelvon Morris in an internal election. - Cudjoe-Lewis emphasized the need for unity and r…
Three Murdered in Six-Hour Span Across Trinidad
- Three murders occurred in Trinidad within a six-hour period on Sunday, with victims identified as Kevin Samuel, Keshawn Guy, and an unidentified 21-year-old man. - The first victim, Kevin Samuel, wa…
High Voter Turnout for PNM Tobago Council Race; Shamfa, Kelvon Confident
- Tobagonians participated in elections yesterday to select the next political leader of the People's National Movement (PNM) Tobago Council. - Polls were open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. - Results were not…
Rewards and Risks in Trinidad and Tobago's Alignment with the US
- Political analysts suggest Trinidad and Tobago has aligned itself with the United States, driven by security and economic interests. - This alignment may offer short-term benefits, such as access to…
Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Prays for Trump's Safety After Armed Man Charges Dinner
- Trinidad and Tobago's Prime Minister expressed prayers for Donald Trump's safety following an armed man's charge at a dinner the US President attended. - The incident occurred in Washington, DC, on …
Humble, respectful, unstoppable Pitman
- Antiguan fast bowler Kelvin Pitman is recognized for his humble demeanor off the field and his relentless dedication to cricket. - Pitman drew inspiration from his family, community, and fellow West…
The Quiet Hunger of Ackeem Auguste: A Cricketer's Life Defined by the Game
- Ackeem Auguste discovered his passion for cricket at a very young age in St. Lucia. - His father played a role in introducing him to the sport. - Cricket has become a central and defining part of hi…
Auditor General flags $36.56b in unverified tax revenue
- Trinidad and Tobago's Auditor General has issued a qualified opinion on the 2025 Public Accounts, citing significant discrepancies. - Billions in tax revenue ($36.56 billion) could not be verified d…
Killings fall, fear rises
- Trinidad and Tobago recorded 367 murders in 2025, the lowest annual figure since 2011, a significant decrease from the previous year's record high. - Firearms remain the primary weapon used in killi…
Moonilal: Young disrupting T&T’s energy future
- Energy Minister Dr. Roodal Moonilal accused Opposition MP Stuart Young of attempting to disrupt Trinidad and Tobago's energy negotiations with Venezuela. - Moonilal questioned Young's agenda during …
Better days are ahead, just hold on!
- Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar assured citizens of "better days" ahead during her government's first-year anniversary congress. - She addressed concerns about jobs, promising more than 15,000…
‘Nothing has changed’
- A shopkeeper in Trinidad and Tobago expresses disappointment with the United National Congress (UNC) government's performance in its first year, viewing it as no different from the previous People's…
Girls, 9 and 13, tied up: Doctor's family terrorised
- A family of four, including two young children, were victims of a violent home invasion in Felicity, Chaguanas. - The attackers bound, beat, and robbed the family in the early hours of Friday. - The…
3 out of 10
- Opposition Leader Pennelope Beckles has given the UNC Government a 'three out of ten' rating, citing failures in crime reduction and job creation. - Beckles criticized the government's handling of c…
Mystar tipped for top municipal police post
- Assistant Commissioner of Police Wayne Mystar is reportedly set to replace Surrendra Sagramsingh as head of the Trinidad and Tobago Municipal Police Service (TTMPS). - Sagramsingh has been sent on a…
TTPS to Seize Control of Municipal Police Weapons After Murder, Theft Ring Uncovered
- The Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) will assume control of all firearms from municipal police stations following a recommendation by the Police Commissioner. - This decision was prompted b…
Tobago Assembly Passes Marine Parks Bill Following Child's Death
- The Tobago House of Assembly passed the Tobago Marine Parks Bill 2026. - The bill's passage was prompted by the recent death of a child in a jet ski accident, highlighting concerns about watercraft …
FRASER BAGS SILVER AT CARIBBEAN YOUTH TABLE TENNIS CHAMPIONSHIP
- Chloe Fraser of Trinidad and Tobago won a silver medal in the girls' under-19 singles at the Caribbean Youth Table Tennis Championship. - Fraser lost the final 3-4 to Stuti Kashyap of Antigua after …
Barrackpore West Secondary Clinches SSCL Championship Division T20 Title
- Barrackpore West Secondary defeated St Anthony’s College by seven wickets to win the PowerGen Secondary Schools Cricket League Championship Division T20 title. - St Anthony’s College batted first, s…
Witco profit drops 36.3% amid illicit trade concerns
- West Indian Tobacco Company Ltd (Witco) reported a 36.3% profit decline to $109.8 million for the year ending December 31, 2025. - Managing Director Hiram Murillo cited shifts in consumer behavior t…
Valencia resident shot dead hours after couple ambushed
- Dexter Ferreira, 52, was fatally shot in Valencia, Trinidad and Tobago, while returning home after buying bread. - This killing occurred less than 48 hours after another couple was ambushed at their…
Five More Officers on Leave Amid San Fernando Police Station Security Breach Probe
- Five additional officers from the San Fernando Municipal Police Station have been placed on administrative leave as investigations into a colleague's murder and a major firearms theft intensify. - T…
Stolen Police Guns Reportedly Sold for $10,000 Each Amid Ongoing Investigation
- Investigators received credible information that some of the Glock pistols stolen from the San Fernando Municipal Police Station were sold for at least $10,000 each. - A businessman from central Tri…
ACP Sagramsingh sent on leave
- Municipal Assistant Commissioner of Police Surrendra Sagramsingh has been placed on immediate administrative leave pending an investigation into the theft of firearms and ammunition from the San Fer…
Senator swap
- Opposition Senator Janelle John-Bates has been replaced on the Public Administration and Appropriations Committee (PAAC) by Opposition Senator Vishnu Dhanpaul. - The PAAC has been investigating the …
Penny: Govt downplaying murders, Cumuto bodies
- Opposition Leader Pennelope Beckles accused the government of downplaying recent murders, including that of Corporal Anuska Eversley and nine-year-old J’Layna Armstrong, and the illegal dumping of b…
Police armoury breach ‘exposes security gaps’
- Criminologists warn that criminals may have exploited security gaps and a lack of proper inventory records at the San Fernando Municipal Police Station armoury to steal guns and ammunition. - The in…
Frustrating Finish: Red Force Championship Hopes Dashed by Dangerous Pitch Abandonment
- A West Indies Four-Day Championship match between Trinidad and Tobago Red Force and Leeward Islands Hurricanes was abandoned due to a dangerous pitch. - Trinidad and Tobago coach Rayad Emrit express…
Harpy Eagles Crush Volcanoes by an Innings in Four-Day Championship
- Guyana Harpy Eagles achieved an innings and 141-run victory against Windward Islands Volcanoes in the West Indies Four-Day Championship. - Veerasammy Permaul starred with an unbeaten 82 and took fou…
TTMPS Head Denies Breach in Station Killing, Cites Staffing Issues
- The head of the Trinidad and Tobago Municipal Police Service (TTMPS), ACP Surrendra Sagramsingh, denies any regulations were breached during a fatal incident at a police station. - A female officer …
Hungary: the tide goes out
- Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has been ousted from power following an election, with Polish PM Donald Tusk sending a congratulatory message that included a subtle anti-Russian sentiment. - O…
Caricom jurisdiction and the Brent Thomas affair
- The dispute between Trinidad and Tobago and the Caricom Secretariat regarding the Brent Thomas affair has been misdirected, conflating a law enforcement issue with Caricom's mandate. - The core of t…
CAL, Pilots Sign Collective Agreement
- Caribbean Airlines (CAL) and the Trinidad and Tobago Airline Pilots Association (TTALPA) have signed a collective agreement. - The agreement covers the period from September 1, 2020, to August 31, 2…
Mastering the art of the hustle
- The article discusses the issue of stolen firearms and ammunition, referencing an African proverb about limitations and the need to act within one's sphere. - It suggests that the essence of the pro…
NAGICO boosts GSL push
- NAGICO Insurances has become an official partner of the ExxonMobil Guyana Global Super League (GSL) T20 tournament, enhancing its regional standing. - The partnership aims to elevate the tournament'…
Gayle co-owner of Euro T20 franchise
- West Indies cricket legend Chris Gayle has become a co-owner of a Glasgow-based franchise in the inaugural European T20 Premier League (ETPL). - Gayle has partnered with India-based entertainment bu…
Slain WPC Was Dedicated Mother, Efficient Worker
- Municipal police officer Corporal Anuska Eversley, 42, was killed by a gunshot wound to the neck while on duty. - She is remembered as a dedicated mother and an efficient worker by those who knew he…
Alexander: Full Confidence in TTPS to Probe WPC Killing
- Minister of Homeland Security Roger Alexander expressed full confidence in the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) to investigate the killing of a municipal police corporal and the theft of fi…
...Family’s Anguish After Cop Murdered
- Relative of Corporal Anuska Eversley expressed anguish following her murder while on duty at the San Fernando Municipal Police Station. - The attack also resulted in the theft of numerous firearms a…
PM: No Need for Curfew
- Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar stated there is "no need for any curfew" following the murder of a municipal police corporal and the theft of firearms from a station. - She characterized the i…
T&T Water Polo Teams Miss Out on CAC Games Qualification
- Trinidad and Tobago's men's and women's water polo teams failed to qualify for the CAC Games. - Both teams finished in lower placings at the qualifying tournament held in Cali, Colombia. - The women…
Paul Finishes Fourth in World Cup Sprint; T&T Cyclists Leave Hong Kong Medal-less
- Trinidad and Tobago's cyclists failed to secure any medals at the UCI Track World Cup in Hong Kong. - Nicholas Paul narrowly missed a medal, finishing fourth in the sprint event. - Paul is recognize…
Briggs calls for patience in T&T football development
- Trinidad and Tobago football official Damian Briggs advocates for patience and stability in player development. - He emphasizes that progress in the national team programs cannot be rushed. - Briggs…
Trinidad and Tobago Defend Netball Crown with Back-to-Back Titles
- Trinidad and Tobago secured their second consecutive Jean Pierre Caribbean Under-16 Netball Championship title. - The team's victory marks a significant achievement after a 21-year drought of champi…
Trinidad and Tobago Names U-19 Squad for Sunday League and T20 Festival
- A 17-man Trinidad and Tobago Under-19 squad has been announced for upcoming cricket competitions. - The squad will participate in the Premiership 1 50-over Sunday League and the T20 Festival. - The …
Retired Nurse Jessica Henry Paints a New Chapter with 3D Art
- Retired nurse Jessica Henry has found a new passion in creating unique 3D paintings, combining acrylics and papier-mâché to bring her art to life. - Henry, who taught herself to paint ten years ago,…
Giselle Laronde-West Launches Jewelry Line Inspired by T&T Culture
- Giselle Laronde-West, the 1986 Miss World, has launched a bespoke silver jewelry collection called 'Dancing in the Wind' in collaboration with designer Rhea Lee Sing. - The collection aims to reflec…
OVER 33,000 REPORTS IN 14 YEARS
- Between 2010 and 2024, Trinidad and Tobago recorded 33,489 domestic violence reports, including 443 murders and murder-suicides. - Assault by beating was the most prevalent form of reported domestic…
Smallest Triplets Ever Born in Trinidad and Tobago Discharged After NICU Stay
- The smallest triplets ever born and treated in the country have been successfully discharged from the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at Port of Spain General Hospital. - The babies, born premat…
PM: Govt and THA in talks over jet ski regulations
- Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar confirmed ongoing discussions between the Government and the Tobago House of Assembly (THA) to regulate jet skis and similar craft. - The talks follow the tragi…
Stuart: We’ll go after ‘bid rigging’
- MP Stuart Young vows legal action against alleged bid rigging and cartel-like behavior in state contract awards. - The Office of Procurement Regulation (OPR) has halted a $3.4 billion housing contra…
