Three Major Outbound Markets Issue Travel Warnings for Trinidad

The British, Canadian and United States governments have all issued travel advisories warning its citizens traveling to Trinidad and those already in the country to be cautious against violent attacks.

Reports are that all such travel advisories to Trinidad will remain in effect until further notice. The travel advisories have come in the wake of what the countries consider as a continuous and growing pattern of violent crimes against locals as well as foreigners.

“Violent crimes, including assault, kidnapping for ransom and murder, have involved foreign residents and tourists, including U.S. citizens. Two U.S. citizens were kidnapped during the first half of 2005. One American is still missing and the other American was released with a gunshot to the leg. Burglaries of private residences are common. Robbery is a risk, particularly in urban areas and especially near ATMs and shopping malls”. This is part of the U.S. travel advisory.

The British government says: “You should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks which could be against civilian targets, including places frequented by foreigners. An Islamist group, the Jamaat Al Muslimeen (JAM), attempted to overthrow the government by force in 1990.”

Canadian authorities have also issued their advisory saying: “Crime continues to be on the increase, particularly in Port of Spain and other urban areas. Gang-related violence, including shootings and kidnapping, occurs and can affect bystanders. Canadians should avoid Laventille and other known high-crime areas. Canadians should also exercise caution at popular tourist sites such as Fort George and La Brea (Pitch Lake), as well as at supermarket and shopping malls.