In a significant crackdown on illicit trade, Trinidad and Tobago police have intercepted a massive shipment of contraband goods valued at over $10 million during a coordinated operation at Carenage port. The December 16th evening operation resulted in the apprehension of 16 individuals attempting to flee the scene while offloading smuggled luxury alcohol and tobacco products from Suriname.
According to the TT Police Service (TTPS), officers from the Port of Spain Division Investigation and Operations Unit monitored a vessel docking at Shore Pier 3 around 8:15 PM. As law enforcement approached, the suspects abandoned their cargo and attempted to escape but were subsequently detained. The subsequent search revealed approximately 1,000 cases of premium vodka, 200 cases of Johnnie Walker whiskey, 200 cases of Hennessy cognac, and 1,000 cases of ATLANTA cigarettes.
The operation, supported by multiple specialized units including the Canine Division, also led to the seizure of four transport vehicles connected to the smuggling operation. Industry experts estimate the alcohol component alone at $5.4 million, with the tobacco products valued at approximately $4.8 million.
In related enforcement actions, tax authorities simultaneously targeted gaming establishments with substantial outstanding tax liabilities. Six businesses were served with gaming tax notices totaling $4.55 million in unpaid taxes, resulting in immediate shutdown orders for their gaming machines until compliance is achieved. A subsequent operation at a Members Club on Ariapita Avenue uncovered an additional $2.2 million in tax arrears, leading to one arrest for illegal gaming operations and the seizure of evidentiary materials and cash totaling $69,511.
Satesh Moonasar, President of the Bar Owners Association, commended the police actions against contraband alcohol, noting that illegal imports have undermined legitimate businesses for decades. He emphasized that association members maintain strict accounting procedures for all alcohol inventory through customs stock books, making involvement in smuggling operations both risky and contrary to their business interests.
While supporting tax enforcement efforts, Moonasar called for consistent application across all establishments to avoid perceptions of selective enforcement or victimization within the industry.