Security: Bermuda Footballers in Trinidad
Acting Minister of National Security Michael Weeks confirmed that he has been advised on security arrangements for the Bermuda National Football team set to play in Trinidad & Tobago shortly.
The Minister said: “This is an international event and the governing body for football in the region and internationally is responsible for security. However, in light of the recent issues in Trinidad & Tobago I asked the Bermuda Football Association to assure me of the arrangements made.
“I am satisfied that the security authorities in Trinidad & Tobago have matters in hand and that every aspect of safety and security for our players will be addressed.”
“The provision of security for international games and the teams themselves is not new and every account of local conditions is taken. I expect this to be the same in Trinidad and Tobago. I wish the players well and look forward to a Bermuda victory.”
Trinidad declared a limited state of emergency after 11 people were killed over the weekend. Officials announced the 15-day state of emergency on Sunday, which includes a 9pm until 5am curfew, and grants police wider powers of arrest.
Trinidad’s Police Commissioner Dwayne Gibbs told local reporters that between 6 pm on Tuesday and 8 am yesterday there were 117 arrests, with 56 relating to gang offences and 48 relating to drug offences.
The NY Times quotes Trinidad’s foreign minister Surujrattan Rambachan as saying that the seizure two weeks ago of $22 million worth of cocaine set off the violence as gangs sought retribution for the losses.
Bermuda is scheduled to take on Trinidad on Friday, September 2nd, in Trinidad. The last time played Trinidad in a World Cup Qualifier they defeated them 2 – 1 in the first leg before going down 2 – 0 in the second leg.
Looking in the mirror, it’s looking back at me, as I look into the mirror, do I like what I see?
Best of luck to Trinidad and Tobago in its War on Drugs Crime And Violence……the scum are everywhere…I hope that our Bermy Boys have a safe and uneventful Tour while there and a safe Journey home…..Proud to be Bermudian praying for their safety……….