By: Paul Sarran
July 18, 2023
Crime and criminality have continued to be a major problem in Trinidad and Tobago, which casts a negative shadow over the country’s potential for development and prosperity. The country’s alarmingly high crime rates continue to be a drag on both the well-being of its residents and the expansion of the country’s economy, even though the country is both naturally stunning and culturally vibrant. My intentions are to shed light on the prevalent difficulties related to crime in Trinidad and Tobago, analyse the underlying causes of these challenges, and provide alternative remedies to create a society that is safer and more secure.
Crime Rates on the Rise: The crime rates in Trinidad and Tobago have been on an upward trajectory over the years, which has caused profound anxiety among the populations of both countries. Citizens are left in a perpetual state of fear and vulnerability as a result of the prevalence of violent crimes like homicides, armed robberies, and activities associated with gangs, which have become all too familiar in local headlines. The dismal figures are a reflection of a reality that calls for immediate attention and strong measures to put a stop to the proliferation of illegal behaviour.
Understanding the underlying causes of crime in Trinidad and Tobago is essential to the process of developing viable solutions to deal with this prevalent problem. An atmosphere that is inviting to criminal activity has been established because of the interplay of a number of socioeconomic issues, including poverty, inequality, and unemployment. Due to a lack of access to high-quality education and limited economic opportunities, a large number of people are vulnerable to the power that criminal networks wield. In addition, the illegal traffic in drugs and firearms, as well as organised criminal syndicates, have all contributed to the deterioration of the situation, making it even more difficult for law enforcement agencies and the court system.
Impact on Society: The repercussions of rampant crime reach well beyond the scope of individual victims and the families to which they belong, casting a shadow on society in Trinidad and Tobago. The prevalent fear of crime has caused public trust to diminish, which in turn has hampered economic growth and discouraged both domestic and international investment. The nation’s tourism industry, which plays an essential role in the economy, has been hit hard as a result of visitors’ concerns about the security of their upcoming trips. In addition, the expenditures associated with crime, such as greater police presence, the rising cost of healthcare, and the cost of rehabilitating criminals, create a major pressure on the resources available to the government.
Taking Action: Addressing the problem concerning crime and criminality necessitates taking a multi-pronged approach that involves coordination between government agencies, organisations of civil society, and the community at large. In order to effectively battle crime, law enforcement organisations need to be properly equipped, trained, and given the authority to do so. Increasing the skills of gathering intelligence and conducting forensic investigations can be helpful in locating criminals and ensuring that they are successfully prosecuted. Investing in social welfare programmes, job development initiatives, and educational reforms at the same time can address the underlying reasons for crime, thereby empowering individuals to make positive choices in their lives.
Participation from the community is also extremely important in the fight against crime. The encouragement of citizens to report crimes and the provision of secure channels through which they can do so can contribute to the development of a culture of accountability. The establishment of a unified front against criminal elements requires taking a number of key steps, including the promotion of community policing initiatives, the promotion of conversation, and the creation of confidence between law enforcement authorities and the community.
The fight against crime and criminality in Trinidad and Tobago is still a difficult one, and it requires an approach that is both comprehensive and collaborative. The nation needs to address the socioeconomic causes that contribute to criminal behaviour, improve its law enforcement institutions, and promote a sense of solidarity within its communities in order to ensure a better future for its population. By making investments in education, economic opportunities, and social welfare programmes, Trinidad and Tobago may pave the way for a safer, more prosperous society where its citizens can live without fear and develop their true potential. This society will allow Trinidad and Tobago to achieve its full potential.
The Current Predicament: In February of this year, Trinidad and Tobago’s first female commissioner of police, Mrs. Erla Christopher, was sworn in to begin implementing a three-month crime plan to halt the flow of unchecked crimes. Unfortunately, that expectation was not met, and the daily murder rate remains high. Additionally, former commissioners of police Gary Griffith and Randolph Burroughs were the only ones to make somewhat of a dent in the runaway crime situation in Trinidad and Tobago during their tenure, but the authorities did not even give Griffith another chance to handle the portfolio to guarantee the populace a safe haven once called Trinidad and Tobago. Despite his extensive background and impressive credentials, he has been unable to successfully fulfil his mandate due to the fact that most citizens stated that there was political interference in the selection process for commissioner of police in 2023.
The methodology for combating crime, which was utilised by both the former commissioner of police, Randolph Burroughs, and Gary Griffith, along with the implementation of enhanced processes, has the potential to be an effective crime plan for the twin island republic.
(Paul Sarran is a student pursuing a Political Science degree at the University of the West Indies OC in St. Augustine, Trinidad & Tobago.
He is currently in his final years of college and has intentions to become a political scientist or an independent senator after graduation.)
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