Story perspectives

Trinidad and Tobago Declares State of Emergency to Combat Gang Violence

3/4/2026

Summary

Story summary

Kamla Persad-Bissessar, Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago, announced a state of emergency effective March 3, 2026, to curb gang violence.
The decision followed a National Security Council meeting noting credible threats against police and prison officers.
Persad-Bissessar emphasized zero tolerance and cited ten months of operations to sustain gains in reducing murder rates.
She warned violent gang members and their helpers would be returned to prison.

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Story summary

Kamla Persad-Bissessar, Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago, announced a state of emergency effective March 3, 2026, to curb gang violence.
The decision followed a National Security Council meeting noting credible threats against police and prison officers.
Persad-Bissessar emphasized zero tolerance and cited ten months of operations to sustain gains in reducing murder rates.
She warned violent gang members and their helpers would be returned to prison.