Visitors advised: Security good for tt carnival

In its security intelligence report issued yesterday, the British Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) advised British citizens that while they should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks and rising levels of violent crime, TT is a safe destination and there is no evidence of a terrorist presence in TT.

Apart from its longstanding advice for British nationals visiting to exercise the necessary precautions where crime is concerned, the FCO’s only warning was for its citizens not to stay in villas in South-west Tobago (particularly around the Mount Irvine Golf Club) where "law enforcement is weak."

The US State Department reiterated its advice to American citizens visiting TT to exercise caution where crime and indiscriminate global terrorist attacks are concerned. The State Department said while non-violent demonstrations occur occasionally, "widespread civil disorder is not considered a threat."

The Australian Foreign Affairs Ministry joined its American and British counterparts in not issuing a travel advisory against TT despite observing continuing increases in violent crimes. The Australian government advised its citizens who choose to visit TT to continue to exercise caution and monitor developments which could affect their security. While noting that four explosions occurred in Port-of-Spain last year, there is no evidence of a terrorist presence in TT and there was a need to be aware of the global risk of terrorism; the Australian government advised its citizens visiting TT that "further bombings cannot be ruled out."

The Canadian Foreign Affairs Ministry also noted increasing levels of crime in TT, but has not advised its citizens against visiting this country. The Canadian government advised its citizens visiting TT to continue to exercise caution and good judgment, noting that an increase in petty crimes is normal during the Carnival period. The CIA said the Government is continuing to cope with the levels of crime in TT, there is no evidence of a terrorist presence in this country and TT remains "an excellent investment site for international business."