Trinidad and Tobago Government Adopts U.S. Terrorism Policy…

Trinidad and Tobago’s Government is adopting U.S. policy against Tren De Aragua, a Venezuelan gang, designating it as a terrorist organization. Despite a lack of evidence of their operations locally, proactive measures will be taken. Additionally, false claims regarding Venezuelan migrants voting in upcoming elections were addressed to maintain public clarity.

The Government of Trinidad and Tobago has decided to adopt the United States’ policy against the Venezuelan gang, Tren De Aragua. Prime Minister Stuart Young announced this commitment at a post-cabinet media conference, noting that the gang would be identified as a terrorist organization. This decision follows a bilateral meeting with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, where they discussed evidence pertaining to the gang’s activities.

Despite the absence of concrete evidence regarding the gang’s operations in Trinidad and Tobago, the government plans to take legal measures to classify Tren De Aragua as a terrorist group. The Prime Minister emphasized a proactive stance, stating that early identification would enable the government to respond more effectively if the gang were to arrive in the country.

Tren De Aragua originated over a decade ago from a notorious Venezuelan prison and has gained notoriety as many Venezuelans fled their homeland amidst political and economic crises. The gang is also recognized across various countries in the U.S. and Latin America, including Peru and Colombia. Former President Donald Trump classified Tren De Aragua as a terrorist organization and took steps to deport individuals allegedly associated with the gang.

In related news, during the conference, Young addressed false claims regarding the registration of Venezuelan migrants for voting in the forthcoming general election. He firmly asserted that there was no truth to the allegations of Venezuelans being registered by the Elections and Boundaries Commission to vote for the PNM party. Young explained that the migrant registration program launched in April 2019 was purely humanitarian and did not grant residency rights to registered individuals.

The Prime Minister noted that, although the government had extended the registration period for Venezuelans, those who are naturalized through marriage or other circumstances would have citizenship rights, subject to the discretion of immigration officers. He reiterated that the time spent in the migrant registration program does not contribute to residency applications.

In conclusion, the Government of Trinidad and Tobago’s adoption of U.S. policy against Tren De Aragua marks a significant move in countering potential threats from this Venezuelan gang. Additionally, the clarification regarding voter registration among Venezuelan migrants aims to dispel misinformation. The government continues to navigate the complexities surrounding immigration and humanitarian aid while ensuring national security is prioritized.

Original Source: newsday.co.tt