Persons are being urged to call the police if they believe a child is at risk and endangered.

This comes as the Gender and Child Affairs Division noted recent public concern regarding the visibility of children on the streets.

It says on December 20th a meeting was held involving a number of stakeholders, including the TTPS, the Children’s Authority and the Immigration Division.

The Division says the issues raised included children accompanying persons begging on the street, or children being made to engage in such activities.

It reminds that it is an offence for any person placing themselves on any street to beg or to cause, procure or encourage a child to do so.

It also warns that such actions can lead to offenders being fined or imprisoned.

The Division went on to say, “A child found to be begging, receiving alms or loitering for the purpose of begging or receiving alms is a major concern to the Children’s Authority of Trinidad and Tobago and the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service. In such instances, any member of the public believing that a child is at risk and endangered in this way are strongly advised to bring this matter to the attention of the Authority or the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service. Members of the public are also strongly advised to exercise restraint and to desist from exposing children to danger and any forms of abuse.”

Reports of child abuse and endangerment can be reported to the TTPS (999), the Children’s Authority of Trinidad and Tobago Hotline (996 or 800-2014)or the Enforcement Unit – Immigration Division (investigations.pos@gov.tt).