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SWIRLING rumours about the reason The Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force was placed on high alert prompted people to leave Port of Spain early yesterday.

Shortly after midday, schoolchildren were seen exiting the capital in the company of their parents. As far as the eye could see, a ribbon of people were awaiting transport at taxi stands, including Morvant, San Juan, San Fernando, Diego Martin and Long Circular Road, St James. Umbrellas popped up as people stood waiting impatiently for transport. Several small businesses closed early reportedly because of fear of looting and violence hitting them.

When the Express spoke to people, they said they could not put a finger on the unfolding scenario but they were “fearful,” “anxious, “stressed” and “worried.”