Children’s Authority, Police investigate reports of migrant children begging

The Children’s Authority of Trinidad and Tobago (CATT) has confirmed that it is working with the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) to investigate reports of migrant children being used to solicit money from the public.

The statement follows growing public concerns and viral social media posts about young children, including migrants, begging outside supermarkets and on major roadways.

In response to questions from Guardian Media, the Authority described the issue as “a matter of serious national concern.”

“More recently, there are instances of migrant children, whether or not in the company of adults, who are seen on main highways and roadways across Trinidad and Tobago, asking for ‘assistance’. This issue is engaging the attention of several agencies—Government-related and non-governmental organisations. These agencies continue to collaborate to protect children who are exposed to danger,” the Authority stated.

The Children’s Authority confirmed that it has been working with law enforcement to assess and address these reports.

“In particular, the CATT is working with the TTPS to follow up on reports where persons with children have been seen begging and to explore workable solutions to ensure that the rights of these children are protected. Specifically for migrants, the CATT must work with the TTPS and other national security agencies to ensure the children are protected,” the statement added.

The Authority acknowledged the difficulties in handling cases involving migrant families, particularly due to limited housing resources.

“The protection and preservation of the family is a critical consideration for the CATT, especially considering the Authority operates with limited physical resources where children can be housed. However, in collaboration with the TTPS, the Authority has several options open to it in addressing the situation, ranging from counselling for the families to taking legal steps to place the children in care. Naturally, the latter is not the preferred route for the Authority,” the statement explained.

The Children’s Authority is urging the public to report cases of child begging and possible exploitation to the TTPS or its hotline at 996. Additionally, it encouraged members of the public to support registered organisations that provide aid to migrant families rather than giving money directly to children on the streets.

The issue has also attracted attention from Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) South Central, Wayne Mystar, who confirmed that investigations have been launched into children being forced to sell goods or beg under unsafe and hazardous conditions around malls and supermarkets in San Fernando. He emphasised that such activities could constitute child exploitation and violations of labour laws.

“This practice exposes minors to potential exploitation, abuse, and criminal activity. It also violates existing child protection and labour laws,” Mystar said. “The TTPS will collaborate with the Children’s Authority, the Ministry of Social Development and Family Services, and other relevant agencies to conduct targeted investigations into reports of children engaging in street vending.”

Mystar urged parents and guardians to prioritise their children’s safety and warned that individuals found engaging in child labour or exploitation could face criminal charges. He also encouraged the public to report suspected cases to the police at 999 or the Children’s Authority hotline at 996.

Public outrage over the issue intensified after a social media post by Leeanna Smith described a disturbing encounter in La Romaine, where a young migrant girl was seen running dangerously through a supermarket parking lot.

Smith called on the owners of the supermarket compound to intervene, warning that the situation could lead to a tragic accident. Last year, the Children’s Authority received over 60 reports of child begging, prompting calls for stricter enforcement.