PM Increased US Support Contributing To Crime Reduction
Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar SC says increased support from the United States has helped Trinidad and Tobago’s protective services contribute to a reported fall in serious crime.
She said the government remains committed to ensuring that no one is placed above the law because of wealth, status, or where they live.
The statement comes amid continuing concern over crime and a debate about international support for local law enforcement.
In a social media post, the Prime Minister noted that serious crime has declined by 15% in 2026, following what she described as increased American support for local law enforcement.
« Since the increase in American support to our protective services began last year, we have witnessed a heightened unease and furor among those who have built their wealth and social status by upholding illegality and criminality to benefit their friends, families, and financiers while simultaneously destroying the prosperity and happiness of law-abiding citizens. »
She said despite significant pressure, officers across the Police Service, Defence Force, Strategic Services Agency and Prison Service have continued their duties and expressed confidence in the heads of those agencies, including the Commissioner of Police, the SSA Director, the Chief of Defence Staff and the Prison Commissioner.
« Despite the attacks from criminal entities through their agents in the legal fraternity, business community, mainstream and social media to incite hatred against our protective services, the men and women of the police, defence forces, SSA and prison service through great efforts and personal sacrifices managed to bring down serious crimes by 15 percent in 2026. »
The Prime Minister assured the public that the government will continue working with international partners to tackle organised criminal networks while maintaining a professional and lawful approach.
« Exterminating the evil local drug mafia which has entrenched itself across all classes of our society is not a job for weak men and women. We are committed to seeing this mission through along with our international partners professionally and fairly. For too long this country has accepted a tiered justice system in which different rules, conditions, and treatment apply to persons and groups in society based on income levels, ethnicity, where they live, and who they fund. »
