‘No mention of terrorist activities in TT’

THE existing travel advisory issued by the United States Government mentions no terrorist activities in Trinidad and Tobago.

While the US Department of State is concerned mainly with crime, terrorist activities do not form part of the advisory issued last November 1. However, the US issued a world wide warning on terrorism on February 6. The British issued a travel advisory dated December 6, 2002 warning its nationals that TT could be one of the countries where there may be an increased terrorist threat. But in another advisory on Wednesday, the British pointed out that there is no recent history of terrorism in TT, apart from the attempted coup by the Jamaat Al Muslimeen in 1990.

US Ambassador to TT Dr Roy Austin said recently that the US information on TT was different to the British. He did not have evidence of terrorist activities in TT. According to the US advisory, Trinidad and Tobago is considered safe. “Non-violent demonstrations occur on occasion, but civil disorder is not considered a threat. As a common sense precaution, American citizens travelling to, or residing in Trinidad and Tobago should avoid large crowds and demonstrations.” The US Embassy advised visitors to exercise caution when travelling from Piarco International Airport, especially after dark, because of incidents involving armed robbers trailing arriving passengers from the airport and then accosting them outside the gates of their residences.

The US pointed out that there is increase in crime around Christmas and Carnival. “Violent crimes, including assault, kidnapping and murder, have involved foreign residents and tourists including US citizens. Since the beginning of 2002, there has been an increase in kidnappings and ransom. While US citizens have not been targeted, at least one American citizen has fallen victim to kidnappers. “Burglaries of private residences are common. Robbery is at risk, particularly in urban areas. In some cases, robberies of Americans have turned violent after the victims resisted handing over valuables.”

The US Embassy also urged its nationals to be wary of maxi taxis. “These have been linked to petty crime and serious traffic accidents. Taxis available at the major hotels or through pre-arranged pickups are generally safe and reliable. Motor vehicle occupants should keep all windows closed and car doors locked.” The US felt that the TT police are cooperative, but they are often hampered by lack of resources. With respect to traffic safety and road conditions, the US painted a gloomy picture. Safety of public transportation — poor; urban road conditions/maint-nance — poor; rural road conditions/maintenance — poor; availability of roadside assistance — poor. The US advisory said that Americans suspected of committing crimes may be jailed until the trial date, which can be months or even years after the arrest.
 “Many of the US citizens incarcerated in Trinidad and Tobago were caught taking suitcases or packages containing drugs out of the country. Even if the package or suitcase is being carried for someone else, the traveller is liable for its contents.”