July 18 Port of Spain Trinidad: The British Foreign and Commonwealth
office has issued a travel advisory warning Britons to be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks. It states that while most visits to T&T are trouble-free, Britons should
be aware that there are increasing levels of violent crime, especially shootings and kidnappings.
“British nationals have been victims of recent violent attacks
in both islands,” the advisory said, strongly recommending getting comprehensive travel and medical insurance before
travelling.
In its advisory under the sub-heading “Terrorism,” the
British government warned of attacks and mentioned the 1990 insurrection by the Jamaat al Muslimeen.
British nationals were also advised to take precautions against
theft, which the advisory said can be a problem at nights in parts of downtown Port-of-Spain and other urban areas.
“There has also been a worrying increase in robberies and
break-ins in all areas and an increase in attacks, some involving the use of firearms, at tourist sites, including Fort George,
and also at car parks of supermarkets/shopping malls around Port of Spain and other areas, and at business premises.
“In some cases, foreign nationals have been shot, including
a German national who was shot dead at his home on 18 January and a British national who was shot during a robbery at home
on 21 April, the advisory said.
Last Monday, an explosive device exploded in a dustbin on the city’s
main street, injuring 13 people, one of whom remains hospitalised.
In its advisory, dated July 15, the British Foreign Office said,
“You should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks which could be against civilian targets,
including places frequented by foreigners.”
