Weapons not welcome in Carnival

Senior Reporter

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Homeland Security Minister Roger Alexander has issued a stern warning to the public, emphasising that weapons have no place in Trinidad and Tobago’s Carnival celebrations and that anyone found in possession will face serious consequences.

Speaking with Guardian Media during the Children’s Carnival parade and treat along the Eastern Main Road, Tunapuna, yesterday, Alexander said that bringing weapons to Carnival events signals trouble.

He urged revellers, particularly during J’Ouvert, to come with good intentions and leave weapons at home.

“Having a good time, ‘wining,’ jumping, hugging people—sometimes from different countries—what does that have to do with weaponry? So, what is your intention to come with a weapon? Come with your ‘wining’ bone ready and like yourself. Don’t come to cause violence. We are on display for the world to see, and it’s just a few trying to disrupt others,” he said.

Alexander also reminded the public that anyone arrested during Carnival will have to wait until Ash Wednesday to appear in court, potentially affecting their bail.

“The choice is yours … it’s either you come and have a good time or sit and wait for your next court date,” he said.

Commenting on the turnout at the Children’s Carnival treat, Alexander expressed satisfaction, highlighting that providing a secure environment for vendors and the public encourages greater participation.

Assistant Commissioner of Police Garvin Henry, who oversees the North-West area covering the Western and Port-of-Spain Divisions, reinforced Alexander’s warning. He said revellers found with weapons would be arrested, and officers would accept no excuses.

Over the years, police have confiscated numerous weapons from people arriving in maxi taxis at City Gate in Port-of-Spain early on Carnival Monday.

Henry noted that officers from multiple divisions, including tactical units like the Inter-Agency Task Force and the Guard and Emergency Branch, would be on duty to handle troublemakers.

“Checks will be conducted not only on J’Ouvert morning but throughout Carnival, targeting individuals in possession of items unrelated to revelling. Persons with these items will likely find themselves arrested and removed from the festivities. There is zero tolerance for bringing weapons into the city, which can only be intended to harm others,” he said.

Henry also reminded the public that the ban on glass bottles remains in effect. “Only licensed vendors may possess glass bottles during trade, but drinks must be exchanged in non-glass receptacles.”

He further warned that criminals may attempt to exploit the festivities to target rivals, noting that police remain vigilant and prepared nationwide to maintain public safety.