Crime in Trinidad and Tobago: A Call to Action for 2025

Let’s Talk About Crime in Trinidad and Tobago: Where We’ve Been and Where We’re Heading

Hey there, let’s talk about something on everyone’s mind—crime in Trinidad and Tobago. This year, we’ve hit a tragic and unprecedented milestone: 614 murders with just a few days left in 2024. That’s a big jump from 577 murders in 2023, which itself was a shocking number. This isn’t just a statistic; it’s a wake-up call. Every number represents someone’s loved one—someone whose life was cut short in a way that no one should ever have to endure.
So, how did we get here? And, more importantly, how do we move forward as a nation? Let’s break it down together, starting with what’s been happening and then diving into some ideas to turn things around.

What’s Going On with Crime in T&T?
First, we need to understand the situation. This year, we’ve seen an increase in violent crimes across the board. Mass shootings are becoming more common, and what’s worrying is how these incidents are no longer confined to certain “hotspots.” Crime is spreading to areas that were once considered relatively safe. And here’s the most heartbreaking part: young men aged 16 to 29 are disproportionately involved—both as victims and perpetrators.
Prime Minister Dr. Keith Rowley has called this situation “totally unacceptable,” I think we can all agree with him. The Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) is under immense pressure. Commissioner Erla Harewood-Christopher calls for more community involvement. She’s urging citizens to step up and work with law enforcement to tackle this crisis. But is that enough? Clearly, we need to do more.

What the Experts Are Saying
Now, let’s take a step back and hear from the experts. Criminologists like Dr. Wendell Wallace and Dr. Randy Seepersad have been sounding the alarm. They’re saying that we’re not just dealing with a policing problem—it’s a deeper issue that touches on poverty, education, and social inequality.
Dr. Wallace has pointed out that we’re on track for an even higher toll if nothing changes. Meanwhile, Dr. Seepersad is frustrated that we haven’t implemented some of the crime-fighting technologies and strategies that are readily available. And then there’s Gary Griffith, the former police commissioner, who believes that some of his past policies—like increased visibility of law enforcement—could make a difference if reinstated.

How Do We Fix This?
Okay, let’s shift gears and talk about solutions. Because while the situation is dire, it’s not hopeless. Here’s what I think can be done—and I’d love to hear your thoughts, too.
Step 1: Make Law Enforcement More Effective
First things first, we need a police service that’s equipped to handle modern challenges. That means:
– Better Training: Police officers need ongoing training in forensic techniques, intelligence gathering, and even community engagement.
– Smarter Policing: Let’s use technology to our advantage. Predictive policing, surveillance systems, and better data analysis can help us identify crime trends before they escalate.
– Transparency: People need to trust the police. Independent oversight can ensure officers are held accountable and that misconduct is addressed swiftly.

Step 2: Get Serious About Gun Control
We can’t ignore the role of illegal firearms in this crisis. Guns are flooding into Trinidad and Tobago at an alarming rate, fueling the wave of violence, and it’s clear that stricter border controls are essential to stem this tide. All arms of national security—Customs, the Coast Guard, Immigration, and other agencies—must collaborate effectively, rather than placing the entire burden on the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS). This is a national security issue, not just a policing problem. Additionally, we need to stop focusing on legally owned firearms, as they are not the ones being used in homicides. Diverting attention to law-abiding gun owners wastes critical resources that could be better used to target illegal arms smuggling and distribution networks, which are at the heart of this crisis.

Step 3: Address Root Causes
Here’s the thing: you can’t just police your way out of a crime wave. We need to address the underlying issues that push people toward criminal behaviour in the first place.
– Youth Programs: Let’s give young people alternatives to a life of crime. Skills training, mentorship programs, and job creation initiatives can make a huge difference.
– Community Investment: High-crime areas often lack basic infrastructure and opportunities. By improving schools, healthcare, and public spaces, we can create environments where people thrive instead of just surviving.

Step 4: Involve the Community
This is where you and I come in. Crime isn’t just the government’s problem; it’s everyone’s problem. Here are some ways citizens can make a difference:
– Speak Up: If you see something suspicious, report it. Anonymous tip lines exist for a reason.
– Get Involved: Join or start a neighbourhood watch group. A strong community presence can deter crime.
– Support Each Other: Sometimes, preventing crime is as simple as being a good neighbour. Check in on people who might be vulnerable and offer help where you can.

Step 5: Work with International Partners
Crime doesn’t stop at national borders, nor should our efforts to combat it. Collaborating with other countries can help us tackle issues like gun smuggling and human trafficking. Plus, we can learn from nations that have successfully reduced their crime rates.

Where Do We Go From Here?
So, what’s the takeaway? If we want to change things, it will take all of us—government leaders, law enforcement, community groups, and everyday citizens—working together. We need to hold our leaders accountable, push for meaningful reforms, and do our part to create safer neighbourhoods.
I know this isn’t an easy topic, and there are no quick fixes. But I truly believe that if we start implementing some of these strategies, we can begin to turn the tide. What are your thoughts? Do you think these solutions are practical, or do you have other ideas? Let’s keep this conversation going because solving this crisis starts with all of us.