During a parliamentary session marked by intense questioning, Homeland Security Minister Roger Alexander attributed Trinidad and Tobago’s current kidnapping epidemic to the previous administration’s failure to secure national borders. While avoiding direct confirmation of Venezuelan involvement in kidnapping rings, Alexander emphasized that security forces are actively dismantling criminal gangs responsible for these activities.
The parliamentary debate was triggered by Opposition MP Marvin Gonzales demanding government action against the surge in kidnappings. Minister Alexander defended current security measures, stating: ‘We inherited this crisis due to reckless border policies and registration processes. Our multi-agency approach involving Police Service, Coast Guard, Defence Force and Immigration authorities ensures such incidents won’t recur.’
This response followed Wednesday’s successful maritime rescue operation of kidnap victim Tara Poliah, which Police Commissioner Allister Guevarro hailed as a breakthrough against cross-border criminal networks. Eleven suspects, predominantly Venezuelan nationals, were apprehended in connection with this case.
Opposition MP Colm Imbert challenged Alexander to address growing concerns about Venezuelan kidnapping rings operating within Trinidad and Tobago. The minister cautiously responded that he intends to preserve police intelligence integrity while acknowledging evident patterns from recent maritime operations.
The session expanded to include community security concerns when Opposition MP Stuart Young questioned protective measures for Belmont constituents following Thursday’s fatal shooting during the state of emergency. Alexander confirmed enhanced security deployments, increased preventive detention orders, and ongoing firearm seizures throughout Port of Spain.
The minister notably revealed that 137 Belmont residents have petitioned for implementing Zones of Special Operations (ZOSO) in their area, indirectly criticizing Young’s representation. However, the Speaker blocked subsequent questions regarding canceled social programs and training initiatives in the constituency.