Commissioner of Police Erla Harewood Christopher says drugs, guns, and gangs are fuelling violent crimes in Trinidad and Tobago
Port of Spain, Trinidad & Tobago – July 9, 2025 – Today, Commissioner of Police Erla Harewood-Christopher assured the nation that despite the recent upsurge in violent crime across Trinidad and Tobago, the police have the crime situation under control.
During a TTPS media briefing, the top COP acknowledged that the prevalence of drugs, gangs, and guns is a primary challenge. ACP Criminal Division, Vena Butler, further revealed that 59% of murders in 2024 thus far are gang-related, highlighting the significant impact of organized crime.
While the ultimate goal of the TTPS is the complete dismantling of gangs within the country, Butler stated that in the short term, they will continue to disrupt all gang-related activities. The TTPS is also adopting a proactive approach through its Community Policing Unit, focusing on engagement and prevention.
The TTPS believes that turning people away from crime is their fundamental responsibility, indicating a dual strategy of both enforcement and community-level intervention to address the nation’s crime challenges.
