Chaguanas Chamber: Kidnappings deeply concerning

In a statement yesterday, President of the Chaguanas Chamber of Industry and Commerce Baldath Maharaj described the recent spate of kidnappings in central Trinidad, including the abduction of businessman Suvesh Ramnarine as “deeply concerning.”

He said while it has not yet been determined whether businessmen in Central Trinidad are being specifically targeted, the recent incidents have “created a heightened sense of vulnerability among our local business community. Many of our members are now fearful and prefer to maintain a lower profile.”

Maharaj said the use of police uniforms and blue lights by criminals is particularly alarming.

“These items, easily available for purchase, are being exploited to carry out these crimes. We have shared with the minister where these items are being sourced and the Chamber strongly believes that there should be a ban on their sale and importation,” he said, adding that making such items illegal would be an important step in limiting their use by criminals.

“Just today, I received two phone calls from Chamber members requesting information on migration options, as they fear for their lives and the safety of their families. The impact of these incidents reaches far beyond the immediate victims, creating an atmosphere of fear that can deter both local investment and broader economic activity,” Maharaj added.

He said at a meeting with the Minister in the Ministry of National Keith Scotland, the business group had stressed the urgent need for actionable solutions.

“We appreciate the presence of the protective services on the ground daily and the minister’s commitment to addressing crime by Christmas. However, we continue to emphasize the need to increase manpower and resources.”

Maharaj said Chaguanas has experienced a 50 per cent population growth over the past 12 years without an increase in police force size.

“The current manpower simply cannot keep pace with the demands of ensuring safety in the region,” he said.

While the Chamber supports all initiatives aimed at enhancing security for businesses, Maharaj said: “We believe we have moved beyond the planning stage. The minister and Police Commissioner must focus on measurable, quantitative crime-fighting solutions rather than politicising the issue.

“Crime is a tangible reality, and it needs to be addressed with tangible results.”

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