While there have been instances of Venezuelan nationals involved in violent crimes there hasn’t been substantial evidence to support the existence of Venezuelan gangs - though the association of Venezuelans with local gangs is possible, said National Security Minister Stuart Young.
He gave the reply in the Senate, based on information from the Police Commissioner. He had been asked by the Opposition about reports that Venezuelan gangs have been partnering with local gangs to jointly perpetrate crimes.
“There may be Venezuelans nationals associating themselves with the criminal elements in TT but not any formal gangs from Venezuela within our borders.”
Young added, the Police Service will continue intelligence efforts to identify any organised crime groups that can be classified as “gangs” of any nationality - not only Venezuelan - operating in this country.
Young also gave an update on the security situation for mariners following the April report of an armed attack by Venezuelan assailants against the owners of a yacht sailing in local waters.
He said, “Knock on wood’, since then, so far, no other such incident has occurred with members of our yachting community.”
He said the improvement was as a result of increased security including Coast Guard patrols, radar tracking and advisories to the local yachting community.
Young added, “The Coast Guard continues providing safety and security for all mariners transiting within our maritime zones; border security in order to deter illicit and illegal activities within our maritime boundaries; and a safe environment for all mariners inclusive of local yacht owners.”
“After the unfortunate attacks on April 14, the CG met with representatives from the Yacht Services Association of TT on April 15. Safety measures were discussed and contingency plans were implemented. The CG also reminded the YSATT of its responsibility as mariners to ensure that all safety requirements are implemented and communication is maintained with the TTCG or North Post Radio in the event of any emergency.”
He said, “Additionally, the YSATT was also advised that yacht owners should be reminded of their responsibility to file Float plans. These plans include details of the yacht’s planned trip, expected ports, arrival dates/times and important information relating to the vessel, should search/rescue activities become necessary. This will assist CG in tracking the vessels as they transit our territorial waters. “
Young added, “Daily patrols have been conducted within areas which are heavily populated by yachts such as Crews Inn, San Fernando Yacht Club, Store Bay, Charlotteville Bay, Coral Cove, Power Boats, Peakes, Scotland Bay and Chacachacare. “
“Subsequent to the unfortunate incident at sea, four convoys consisting of 28 yachts were monitored and escorted into territorial waters to ensure their transit was incident free. This mission was easily facilitated as the CG was able to access the filed Float plans for the vessels.”
Young also said on one of his recent visits to Venezuela he spoke with Venezuelan navy and other officials and TT’s Coast Guard is working in tandem with their resources.