Yahoo News Foreign Office issues update for Caribbean island and warns of ‘trick, rob, assault’ tactic
British holidaymakers visiting a Caribbean island have been warned of criminals using tactics to ‘trick, rob and assault people’. The UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office has updated its travel advice for Trinidad and Tobago and issued advice for those using dating apps on the island.
The FCDO says that visitors, especially LGBT+ travellers, should take particular care when using dating apps while in the country “especially those used by the LGBT+ community.” It said that criminals have used apps such as Grindr to “trick, rob, and assault people”.
Travellers are also warned that there is a “high level of violent crime” in Trinidad, although it is rarer in Tobago. The FCDO says: “Gang-related attacks and shootings are increasing around the city centre of Port of Spain, including Laventille, Morvant and Barataria.
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“There is a risk of armed robbery. You can reduce the risk of being targeted when on foot by: avoiding unlit areas at night and using well-populated roads and paths.”
It advises tourists to: “Stay aware of your surroundings and carry a mobile phone with roaming for use in an emergency.” It adds: “Violent criminals often carry out attacks in vehicles, ranging from the threat of violence to sexual assault and robbery, kidnapping for ransom, rape and murder.”
The FCDO urges travellers to take precautions against being targeted by:
using well-established taxi firms, recommended by locals or your hotel
being cautious about accepting lifts in a private car or ‘maxi taxi’
taking local advice to avoid areas affected by gang violence
keeping the windows closed and doors locked while driving
People are urged to take care if staying in a villa, particularly in an isolated area and to make sure it has adequate security. The FCDO warns that people withdrawing cash from an ATM need to watch out for pickpockets and muggers and travellers are urged to “keep money, valuables and passports somewhere safe, and never leave anything in an unattended vehicle.”
Regarding LGBT+ travellers in Trinidad and Tobago, the FCDO says: “Male and female same-sex sexual activity is illegal in Trinidad and Tobago. There are laws prohibiting LGBT+ individuals from entering the country. In practice, these laws are rarely enforced, and there is growing local support for LGBT+ rights. However, showing affection in public may attract negative attention.”
You can check the FCDO for the latest advice before your travel, and there’s extra guidance for LGBT+ travellers here.
