标签： Trinidad and Tobago

Authorities in Trinidad and Tobago are intensifying efforts to locate 63-year-old Vishnu Lalla, who was reported kidnapped on the evening of November 8. Lalla, a resident of Dairy Lane, Windsor Park in Couva, was allegedly abducted while tending to his animals near his home. Police from the Anti-Kidnapping Unit, alongside officers from the Central Division and other units, have been mobilized in the search. The situation took a grim turn when Lalla’s van was discovered burnt along a dirt road off George Street in Esperanza Village, Couva, hours after his disappearance. A ransom demand of $100,000 has reportedly been issued for his safe return. As of November 9, Lalla’s whereabouts remain unknown. The NGO Hunters Search and Rescue Team, led by Vallence Rambharat, has also joined the search operation. Both the police and the NGO are urging anyone with information to come forward and assist the authorities in their efforts to locate the missing man.

A recent home invasion in Trinidad and Tobago has reignited a contentious debate over self-defense legislation and its societal implications. Farmer Vijay Ragoonanan and his family were brutally attacked by six armed men, leaving him injured and his sense of security shattered. The assailants, who stole phones and jewellery, appeared to act more out of intimidation than material gain. The incident has drawn attention to the country’s rising crime rates and the inadequacy of current security measures. Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, whose private residence is in the same neighbourhood, has vowed to introduce stand-your-ground legislation in Parliament. This law, rooted in the 17th-century English common law principle known as the castle doctrine, would allow homeowners to use force without the obligation to retreat. However, critics argue that such laws could exacerbate violence, citing examples from the United States where stand-your-ground statutes have been linked to increased homicides and controversial acquittals, such as the George Zimmerman case. While Mr. Ragoonanan now seeks a weapon for self-defense, concerns remain about the potential for misuse and the lack of proper training for firearm users. The debate underscores the delicate balance between protecting individuals and ensuring public safety in a society grappling with crime and uneven policing.

President Christine Kangaloo addressed the youth at the 25th Annual Model United Nations (MUN) 2025, hosted by the Rotary Club of Central Port of Spain at Cascadia Hotel, St Ann’s, on November 8. She highlighted the stark contrast between the ideals of peace and cooperation promoted by the United Nations and the divisive, often hostile discourse prevalent in Trinidad and Tobago (TT). Kangaloo described the local environment as ‘hostile,’ emphasizing the challenges young participants face in applying the pathways of peace they learn at the MUN. She noted that public discourse in TT often divides rather than unites, making it difficult for youth to foster healing and unity. Despite these challenges, Kangaloo expressed confidence in the youth’s ability to address contemporary issues incrementally. She urged them to persevere, even in the face of adversity, warning that failure to do so could risk global instability and the potential collapse of the United Nations, reminiscent of the League of Nations’ failure to prevent World War II. Kangaloo underscored the MUN’s critical role in exposing young people to diplomacy, negotiation, and collaboration, equipping them to become advocates for peace in their respective fields. This year’s MUN saw 210 participants from TT and neighboring countries, doubling the usual attendance. The program has benefited over 2,000 participants since its inception, with many alumni assuming leadership roles across the region. Kangaloo called for continued support for such initiatives, which empower youth to communicate effectively, collaborate, and contribute meaningfully to their communities and nations.