A recently released UK assessment says more than 180 gangs are active in Trinidad and Tobago, with alleged groups such as the Muslims and Rasta City identified among the most prominent.
Published on June 5th by UK Visas and Immigration, the report says gangs are major drivers of violent crime, including murder, kidnapping, human trafficking, armed robbery and extortion.
It states that gang activity is concentrated in urban communities around Port of Spain and the East-West Corridor, and that gangs are linked to about one-third of homicides in 2025.
The report also highlights the recruitment of young people from disadvantaged communities and notes allegations that some gang leaders have influenced local government contracts.
It says the level of risk depends on a person’s location and circumstances, with those who resist or oppose gangs potentially facing serious harm.
The report adds that gangs in Trinidad and Tobago are not considered political actors.
