623 Murders in 2024: Trinidad and Tobago's Deadly Year

Trinidad and Tobago took drastic action in the final week of 2024, declaring a state of emergency to combat a wave of gang violence that has pushed the nation's murder rate to a record-breaking 623 homicides in 2024. The move followed a bloody weekend in which gang-related shootings claimed several lives, including five victims in a single attack near Port of Spain.

New Emergency Measures

"There is no doubt in my mind that we are dealing with an epidemic," National Security Minister Fitzgerald Hinds said at a press conference, as reported by the Associated Press.

Under the emergency powers, police can search homes and detain suspects for up to 48 hours without warrants. The government refrained from imposing a curfew, but residents will notice increased patrols by police and military forces. These measures aim to curb the brazen violence carried out with high-powered assault weapons.

Acting Attorney General Stuart Young highlighted the escalating danger posed by gangs. "The criminal gangs via the use of the high-powered assault weapons and other illegal firearms in areas of Trinidad and possibly Tobago are likely to immediately increase their brazen acts of violence in reprisal shootings on a scale so extensive that it threatens persons and will endanger public safety," he warned, according to the Associated Press.

Why now?

Trinidad and Tobago already grapples with one of the highest murder rates in the Caribbean, joining Jamaica and Haiti as regional hotspots for violent crime. Much of the violence stems from gang activity and drug trafficking. In December 2024 alone, 61 homicides occurred, including a chilling shooting near a police station.

Young emphasized the role of illegal firearms in the crisis, telling reporters, "There is very little chance of survival due to the velocity and the caliber of these weapons," as reported by CNN. Many of these weapons flow into the Caribbean from the United States, a troubling trend that has prompted discussions between the two countries about controlling the trade.

Aerial view of city of Port of Spain, the capital city of Trinidad and Tobago.

Does this affect cruises?

Trinidad and Tobago isn't as popular as some Caribbean destinations like St. Maarten or Cozumel, but the ports still draw cruise ships, especially on Southern Caribbean itineraries. In January 2025, vessels like Oceania Cruises^® Sirena, Costa Fortuna, and Ritz-Carlton^® Evrima are scheduled to visit.

While the state of emergency aims to increase safety, the U.S. Department of State advises caution: Trinidad and Tobago carries a "Level 3: Reconsider Travel" warning due to crime, terrorism, and kidnapping risks. The advisory specifically urges travelers to "exercise increased caution in Trinidad and Tobago due to terrorism and kidnapping," as noted in the State Department's guidance on the travel.state.gov website.

What to do if you have travel plans

If your cruise or travel itinerary includes Trinidad and Tobago, stay informed and take proactive steps to ensure your safety:

• Check for Updates: Monitor travel advisories and updates from your cruise line or tour operator.
• Stick to Safe Areas: Avoid high-risk neighborhoods and stick to tourist areas.
• Use Trusted Transportation: Book transportation through reputable providers and avoid wandering alone.
• Stay Alert: Be mindful of your surroundings and avoid displaying valuables.

If you feel uneasy about your plans, contact your travel provider to explore alternate options or discuss rescheduling.

What does this mean for the Caribbean?

The crisis in Trinidad and Tobago highlights a larger issue of escalating crime across the Caribbean. Violent deaths in the region occur at nearly three times the global average, according to the U.S. Government Accountability Office, as reported by CNN. Tackling these issues will require cooperation among Caribbean nations and their global partners.

Trinidad and Tobago's state of emergency sends a clear signal: The government is committed to fighting this epidemic of violence. For residents and visitors alike, vigilance and preparedness are the keys to navigating these uncertain times.

References: Caribbean cruise port declares state of emergency over rising crime | State of emergency declared in Trinidad and Tobago amid exceptionally deadly year | Trinidad and Tobago enact a state of emergency in the face of gang violence | Trinidad and Tobago - Level 3: Reconsider Travel