Statement From Police Commissioner On Recent Online Threats And Incitement
The Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) said it has observed with serious concern, the recent increase in social media posts in which individuals have made threats of violence against one another, as well as threats directed at Public Officials.
In a statement issued today (Tuesday 25th November, 2025), Commissioner of Police, Allister Guevarro, said, “Let me state unequivocally: this behaviour is unlawful, dangerous, and will not be tolerated. Freedom of expression is a right, and every citizen is free to share their thoughts and opinions. However, that freedom ends where criminal conduct begins. No one has the right to incite violence, intimidate others, or use online platforms to threaten harm. Such actions undermine public safety, destabilize communities, and erode the peace and order that citizens deserve.”
The Commissioner notes that, “In accordance with paragraph 2 of the Schedule of the Emergency Powers Regulations 2025, the Minister responsible for national security is empowered to issue a Preventive Detention Order to any person, to prevent such persons from acting in a manner prejudicial to public safety. This power is activated when individuals use social media to publish posts or comments that incite violence, invite external interference, or otherwise endanger the safety and stability of the nation.”
He added, “The TTPS will take decisive action. Any individual who uses social media or any digital platform to issue threats, encourage violence, or endanger the safety of any person, including Government Officials, will face the full force of the law. Our Cyber and Social Media Unit continues to track these offences, and once evidence is gathered, offenders will be identified, located, and prosecuted.”
Commissioner Guevarro‘s statement concluded by saying, “I urge all citizens to conduct themselves responsibly online. Share your views, raise your concerns, and participate in national dialogue, but do so within the boundaries of the law. Don’t take chain up from anyone…as your words today can have you in handcuffs tomorrow. Words have consequences, and those who choose to threaten or incite violence will be held accountable. The TTPS remains committed to maintaining law, order, and public safety. We will not hesitate to act.”
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