In a dramatic development following a month-long kidnapping crisis, Claribel Tardieu has been successfully rescued by Trinidad and Tobago police forces. The 47-year-old was discovered bound and blindfolded but without visible injuries during an intelligence-led operation conducted along North Coast Road, Maracas Bay between January 7-8.
The sophisticated rescue mission involved multiple elite police units working in coordination, including the Anti-Kidnapping Unit, Northern Division Gang Unit, Northern Division Task Force, and National Operations Task Force. The operation was overseen by senior police officials including ACP Smith, ACP Singh, W/Snr Supt Maynard-Wilson, Supt McKenzie and Supt Pariman.
This conclusion comes after the December 6 abduction of Claribel and her husband Derrick Tardieu, a 70-year-old former powerboat racer and businessman, from their Monos Island residence. The couple’s captivity gained public attention when kidnappers released a disturbing video showing them held at gunpoint with a grenade positioned near Derrick’s face. The captors initially demanded US$2.5 million ransom, later reducing it to $100,000.
Derrick was previously recovered on December 17 along the same North Coast Road area, with reports indicating partial ransom payments totaling $150,000 and US$5,000. Family attorney Leslie-Ann Lucky-Samaroo had previously issued statements requesting privacy and emphasizing the need for medical recovery following the traumatic experience.
Mental health professionals have highlighted the potential long-term psychological impact of such traumatic events. Psychologist Kelly McFarlane previously emphasized to Newsday that respecting victims’ boundaries and addressing their specific needs are critical components of the recovery process.
Police authorities continue their investigation into the abduction case while the reunited family focuses on recovery from their prolonged ordeal.