Restaurants and casinos in the Port-of-Spain area of Trinidad and Tobago have been shut down by health inspectors due to violations of public health regulations. As the Christmas season approaches, officials are taking steps to improve the safety and attractiveness of the city for visitors and shoppers. During an inspection conducted between 6 pm on Friday and 1 am on Saturday, a total of eight restaurants in the Broadway, Charlotte Street, and Independence Square areas were examined. Out of these, three were found to be breaching health regulations. Two casinos in Charlotte Street and Independence Square were also ordered to close, while the Customs and Excise Division seized several cases of mixed drinks and rum from a business operating on the Brian Lara Promenade.
The operation was led by the Port-of-Spain Criminal Investigation Department (CID) Operations Team, who worked in collaboration with other agencies. As a result, 11 Spanish-speaking and three Chinese immigrants were arrested for illegally entering Trinidad and Tobago. Immigration officials confirmed that one of the Chinese nationals had previously been deported from the country for illegal entry.
Superintendent Anderson Pariman of the T&T Police Service (TTPS) stated that the crackdown on criminal activity is part of their effort to create safe spaces for law-abiding citizens. He emphasized that similar operations will be conducted in the lead-up to the Christmas season. Regarding the closure of the three restaurants, Pariman explained that health inspectors discovered unsanitary conditions in their kitchen areas, leading to the shutdown. These establishments will be reinspected later in the week. As for the casinos, they were closed because they did not have the necessary gaming licenses. They will need to rectify their business status with the Board of Inland Revenue before resuming operations.
In terms of security measures, Pariman mentioned that the CID has already started targeting criminals involved in snatchings in Port-of-Spain. He stated that uniformed and plain-clothes officers are monitoring the areas where these criminals operate. Going forward, the TTPS intends to continue its efforts to ensure the safety of citizens.
The coordinated effort involving multiple agencies reflects the determination to address crime and illicit activities in Port-of-Spain. The inspection and closure of restaurants and casinos that fail to adhere to health and licensing regulations are part of a broader initiative to create a more secure and attractive environment for residents and tourists alike. By cracking down on violations and illegal activities, authorities aim to enhance the overall appeal of the city and provide a safer experience for everyone.
