UK report reveals over 180 gangs operating in T&T
A newly released United Kingdom Government assessment has painted a sobering picture of the extent of gang activity in Trinidad and Tobago, estimating that more than 180 gangs operate across the country and linking organized criminal groups to roughly one-third of all murders. The report, published this month by UK Visas and Immigration as part of its Country Policy and Information Note series, provides one of the most comprehensive recent international assessments of gangs in Trinidad and Tobago. While designed primarily to assist British officials in evaluating asylum applications, the document offers an extensive examination of the country's criminal landscape and the challenges facing law enforcement agencies.
According to the report, criminal gangs remain heavily concentrated in economically disadvantaged urban communities, particularly in and around Port of Spain and along the East-West Corridor. However, the document notes that gang-related violence has also spread into other areas, extending southward towards Chaguanas and San Fernando and increasingly affecting Tobago. The assessment estimates that approximately 186 gangs were operating in Trinidad and Tobago as of 2023, with a combined membership of around 1,750 individuals. Among the most influential groups identified are the Muslims and Rasta City gangs, which reportedly serve as major power centers around which smaller gangs often align.
The report further notes that individuals who refuse to join gangs, attempt to leave gang life, or openly challenge gang authority can become targets for violence. Family members of gang-affiliated persons, as well as police officers, prison officers, members of the judiciary and prosecutors, were also identified as potential targets.Although the UK assessment acknowledges that Trinidad and Tobago possesses anti-gang legislation and specialised police units dedicated to combating organised crime, it raises concerns about the capacity of law enforcement agencies to effectively contain the threat.