THE death of 12-year-old Mercedez Layne has renewed concerns about the risks facing children in Trinidad and Tobago, with criminologists warning that youth victimisation extends far beyond gang violence and reflects broader social failures.

The girl's body was discovered in a forested area in Carapal, Erin, on Sunday, a day after she was reported missing. Criminologist Akinee Harry said the tragedy underscores the need to broaden the national conversation about crime and violence.

He said violence is often framed primarily as a gang issue, but many incidents stem from interpersonal disputes, domestic instability, retaliation, negligence and the effects of violence within communities and homes.