Criminal activity in Trinidad and Tobago has been and still is a controversial topic on the two islands. Gang Murders and murders have risen since 1999 to 2008 every year. Approximately 558 people were murdered in 2008, the highest number ever.
Port of Spain and its immediate environs have a higher crime rate than any other part of Trinidad. Homicides countrywide rose from fewer than 50 in the 1980s, to 97 in 1998, then to 360 in 2006 (30 murders per 100,000 persons). It rose to approximately 500 in 2008 but decreased significantly in 2010 and 2011.[1]
Many murders are drug and gang related, especially in the depressed communities of East Port of Spain. The police administration has responded by improving the working conditions of officers, increasing the use of forensic evidence and surveillance technology (CCTV cameras) as well as hiring overseas experts.[2]
Reports of kidnappings for ransom which were on the rise a few years ago have declined dramatically since 2006.[3][4] However, theft and violent crimes remain prevalent to this date, while crime and the perception of crime continues to hamper the economic prospects of the city.[5][6]
Laventille has some of the highest crime rates in Trinidad and Tobago, with drugs, gangs, and murders being the main problem in this community.
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