Britain: TT kidnapping insignificant to Haiti’s

KIDNAPPING in Trinidad and Tobago today is insignificant compared to current kidnapping rates in its Caribbean neighbour, Haiti. This was the latest information contained in security intelligence update from the British Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO). The FCO security analysis on Haiti states: “We advise against all holiday and other non-essential travel to Haiti because of the general threat to personal security. Kidnapping of foreign nationals (for ransom money) is increasingly common. Random shootings of civilians have become more common, robbery being the usual motive. Crime is widespread and often violent. “Pickpockets and theft of valuables are commonplace. You are advised not to leave property in vehicles; travel with doors locked and windows up. Armed hold-ups of vehicles take place, even in daylight, in busy parts of Port-au-Prince. Some areas of Port-au- Prince should be avoided at all times. Security guards are recommended for long-term foreign residents.”

The FCO noted that given the current political and economic climate in Haiti, the security situation is extremely complicated, there have been several reported attacks on government facilities. Visitors to Haiti were also advised to “wherever possible travel with a reliable guide” and avoid using public transport. In stark contrast, yesterday’s FCO security analysis for TT states: “There has been a recent spate of kidnappings. These do not appear in general to be targetted at non-residents but you should be aware of the problem and take sensible precautions.” The FCO maintains that “there is no recent history of terrorism in TT” but British nationals should continue to exercise vigilance in their daily activities.