Political scientist Dr Maukesh Basdeo says the decline in murders highlighted by Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar represents measurable progress in the country’s fight against crime.

The Prime Minister on Tuesday noted that there were 118 fewer murders between January and July 2026 compared with the same period in 2024, the previous administration’s last full year in office. She credited the Government and the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) with making progress under the State of Emergency.

In an interview with TTT News, Dr Basdeo said the figures show a decline in crime, while public perception will take time to reflect that progress.