Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar says the country’s security services have seized approximately TT$1 billion (US$148 million) worth of illegal drugs since the United National Congress (UNC) administration took office last year.
Persad-Bissessar made the claim as authorities reported two major cocaine seizures in September with a combined estimated street value of nearly TT$400 million. The seizures included 416.5 kilogrammes of cocaine found at a warehouse in Longdenville and another 440.2 kilogrammes intercepted by the Trinidad and Tobago Coast Guard near Huevos Island.
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In the Longdenville operation, police and Customs officers reportedly recovered 420 packages of cocaine, valued at approximately TT$193.5 million. Days later, the Coast Guard intercepted a pirogue carrying 394 packages containing about 440.2 kilogrammes of cocaine, with an estimated street value of more than TT$204.5 million. Four men were arrested in connection with the second seizure.
The Prime Minister disclosed this while outlining the Government’s plans for a revised Special Operations Bill 2026, which is intended to give law enforcement additional powers to conduct targeted operations in areas affected by violent crime, gang activity and illegal weapons. The Bill is scheduled for debate in the House of Representatives.
Persad-Bissessar said the scale of the drug shipments suggested the involvement of well-financed trafficking networks. She argued that large shipments require access to foreign currency, transportation, commercial infrastructure and international connections, and said the Government intends to pursue those who finance and facilitate the illegal trade.
She also said Trinidad and Tobago is working with the United States and other regional and international partners to combat drug trafficking, money laundering and human trafficking, while emphasizing the role of local law enforcement agencies.
The reported seizures come as the Government prepares for the scheduled end of the current State of Emergency on September 17, with officials seeking longer-term measures to address organized crime, drug trafficking and illegal firearms.
