TOCO/Sangre Grande MP and Defence Minister Wayne Sturge has backed residents’ warnings that gangs have taken root in the serene seaside community of Rampanalgas.

In a wide-ranging exclusive interview at his Abercromby Street office on July 23, he confirmed residents’ fears that criminals were using the quiet coastal areas of north east Trinidad as a base of operations, but said the government is committed to eradicating that activity.

His statement comes as the country endures yet another state of emergency imposed after Commissioner of Police Allister Guevarro said gangleaders were working together to form “an organised syndicate” planning assassinations, robberies and kidnappings.