ECNETNews, March 25, 2025: The United States has issued a Level 3 travel advisory for Trinidad and Tobago, urging travelers to reconsider their plans to visit the twin-island republic due to rising crime rates and a nationwide State of Emergency.
The U.S. Department of State has updated its advisory, highlighting serious risks associated with violent crime, as well as increased threats of terrorism and kidnapping. This announcement follows the Government of Trinidad and Tobago’s decision to extend its nationwide State of Emergency until April 2025, in response to a significant uptick in criminal activity that poses risks to public safety.
Initiated on December 30, 2024, the State of Emergency provides the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service with expanded powers, including the ability to arrest individuals suspected of criminal activity without immediate charges and to search both public and private properties without prior notice. Additionally, bail has been suspended for those accused of crimes. The nation’s Defense Force is operating under similar provisions; however, no curfews or restrictions on public gatherings have been put in place at this time.
U.S. officials have also flagged certain neighborhoods in the capital, Port of Spain, as off-limits for government employees due to safety risks, including Laventille, Beetham, Sea Lots, Cocorite, and sections of Queen’s Park Savannah. Areas like downtown Port of Spain, Fort George, and all beaches are considered high-risk after dark.
The advisory points out the alarming rate of violent crimes in Trinidad and Tobago, such as murder, robbery, sexual assault, and home invasions, many of which are connected to gang and drug-related activities. Recent incidents have included the kidnapping of U.S. nationals, highlighting the safety concerns for travelers.
Moreover, there are warnings regarding potential terrorist activities targeting public and tourist hotspots, such as airports, hotels, markets, government buildings, places of worship, and large public events.
For those who plan to visit Trinidad and Tobago despite the advisory, travelers are encouraged to register with the State Department’s enrollment program for real-time updates and emergency assistance.
For the latest information and updates, visitors are recommended to check the official country information page for Trinidad and Tobago.
