Many Trinidadians go about their daily lives either forgetting—or choosing to ignore—that human trafficking is a serious problem in Trinidad and Tobago. The reality, however, is far more disturbing. According to reports laid in Parliament and covered by The Trinidad & Tobago Newsday, human trafficking has been present for years, yet convictions remain shockingly rare.
Official data shows that since 2013, approximately 85 people have been charged with trafficking in persons and related offences. Despite this, only a handful of cases have ever made meaningful progress in the courts, and Trinidad and Tobago has secured just one conviction to date. Most matters have been dismissed, discharged, stalled at the Magistrates’ Court, or never reached trial at all.
The reports reveal a troubling pattern. In both 2023 and 2024, the Counter Trafficking Unit (CTU) received dozens of reports of suspected human trafficking, carried out multiple nationwide operations, and launched over 150 investigations each year. Hundreds of people were found in potentially exploitative situations. Yet only a small number of suspects were ultimately charged.
The majority of confirmed victims were Venezuelan nationals, including minors, and all were subjected to sexual exploitation rather than labour exploitation. However, it would be a mistake to believe this issue only affects migrants. Trinidadians have also been charged in these cases, which makes it clear that trafficking is not just an “outsider” problem—it is happening within our own society.
What makes the situation even more disturbing is the lack of accountability. When offenders are rarely convicted—or punished at all—it creates an environment where exploitation can continue behind closed doors. It also raises uncomfortable questions about systemic failure, and whether gaps in enforcement, prosecution, or leadership are allowing these crimes to persist. While it’s impossible to say exactly why conviction rates are so low, the outcome is undeniable: justice is not being served.
Conclusion
If Trinidad and Tobago is serious about becoming a better nation, it must first become a more humane one. That means confronting the reality of human trafficking head-on, strengthening prosecutions, protecting victims, and ensuring that those responsible face real consequences. Until we do, progress will remain an illusion—and the most vulnerable among us will continue to suffer in silence.
Source: Reporting based on information published by The Trinidad & Tobago Newsday.
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