Tobago has always been a safe haven for tourists compared to Trinidad, but in recent months a number of violent incidents have damaged that image of it being the perfect idyll.
The island’s unique, indigenous heritage, picturesque beaches and renowned historic landmarks have made it an ideal destination for visitors, both domestic and internationally. But that reputation is being threatened by an upsurge in murders and other violent crimes, which Tobago has never experienced before.
On July 8, three men were gunned down in Black Rock while playing a card game outside a shop along the main road. A fourth died at the Scarborough General Hospital the following day. The killings, since the start of the year, pushed Tobago’s murder toll to 16. The island recorded 14 murders in 2023. Police believe the majority of the murders are gang-related. The escalating violence is damaging the local economy and concerning small businesses.
The Tobago Business Chamber hopes that aspects of the crime plan announced at the July 9 National Security Council meeting at the Central Administrative Services – Tobago will work for Tobagonians. The alarming rise in criminality in both islands has caused the US and Canadian governments to issue travel warnings for anyone intending to travel to the twin-island republic.
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