US Issues Level 3 Travel Warning For Trinidad and Tobago

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News Americas, New York, NY, March 25, 2025: The United States has issued a Level 3 travel advisory for Trinidad and Tobago, urging Americans to reconsider travel to the twin-island republic due to escalating crime and a temporary nationwide State of Emergency.

The updated advisory, released via the U.S. Department of State, cites serious risks from violent crime, as well as increased threats of terrorism and kidnapping. The move comes as the Government of Trinidad and Tobago, (GOTT) extended its nationwide State of Emergency, (SOE) until April 2025, following a surge in criminal activity that authorities say poses a threat to public safety.

The SOE, which began on December 30, 2024, grants the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service enhanced powers, including the authority to arrest individuals suspected of illegal activity without immediate charges and conduct searches of public and private properties. Bail for those suspected of crimes has also been suspended. The nation’s Defense Force is operating under similar regulations, though, as of now, no curfews or restrictions on public gatherings have been enacted.

U.S. officials also warned that certain areas in the capital, Port of Spain, are off-limits to U.S. government employees due to safety concerns. These include Laventille, Beetham, Sea Lots, Cocorite, and parts of Queen’s Park Savannah. Additional areas such as downtown Port of Spain, Fort George, and all beaches are deemed high-risk after dark.

The advisory further highlights the frequency of violent crimes such as murder, robbery, sexual assault, and home invasions, with many incidents linked to ongoing gang and narcotics activity. U.S. nationals, including a legal permanent resident, have been among recent victims of kidnapping.

Additionally, the advisory warns of the potential for terrorist activity targeting public and tourist spaces including airports, hotels, markets, government buildings, places of worship, and large-scale events.

Travelers who choose to visit Trinidad and Tobago despite the advisory are encouraged to enroll in the U.S. State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for real-time updates and emergency support.

For more information and ongoing updates, visitors are advised to consult the U.S. Department of State’s country information page for Trinidad and Tobago.

Over $38K Raised to Support Guyanese ‘Melly Mel’ Ahead of Immigration Hearing

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News Americas, New York, NY, March 25, 2025: Over US$38,000 has been raised to support the legal defense of Guyana-born social media activist Melissa ‘Melly Mel’ Atwell, who is set to appear before a U.S. immigration judge on March 28, 2025, for the first hearing in her case.

Guyana born US-based influencer Melly Mel is now in US ICE custody in Louisiana.

A check of her GoFundMe page titled “Help Melissa Atwell Defend Democracy” shows a total of US$38,550 raised toward her US$100,000 goal, with 518 donations received to date. The largest single contribution – US$2,200 in total – was made by a supporter identified as Dexter McLennon through two contributions.

Atwell is scheduled to appear virtually before Judge Richard C. Jacobs at 8:30 AM, according to official U.S. immigration court records. While her court appearance was previously reported for June 25, updated records confirm the hearing will take place this Friday.

The outspoken activist, known for her critical commentary on social media regarding governance and alleged corruption in Guyana, was reportedly detained by U.S. Homeland Security officials last week. She is currently being held in a federal immigration facility in Louisiana, allegedly in connection with immigration-related issues.

Guyana’s Minister of Legal Affairs and Attorney General, Anil Nandlall, addressed public speculation about the government’s involvement, firmly denying that Guyana played any role in Atwell’s arrest. Speaking during his weekly program “Issues in the News,” Nandlall acknowledged serving Atwell with a libel suit in the past but maintained that her current detention is under the jurisdiction of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

“For the avoidance of doubt, the Government of Guyana did not arrest Melissa Atwell, the Government of Guyana is not detaining Melissa Atwell,” Nandlall emphasized, noting that ICE typically handles enforcement and investigation of immigration violations.

Supporters of Atwell in the Guyanese diaspora have staged protests, claiming political persecution, and are calling for her release. Despite the controversy, Atwell’s legal team and backers appear determined to mount a strong defense as she faces upcoming legal proceedings.

Buju Banton To Headline Tobago’s Biggest-Ever Easter Festival

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News Americas, New York, NY, March 28, 2025: The island of Tobago is set to take center stage this Easter weekend, hosting what is being hailed as the biggest concert the island has ever seen, headlined by none other than reggae icon Buju Banton.

Buju Banton performing onstage during Buju Banton’s Long Walk To Freedom New York on July 14, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by Johnny Nunez/WireImage)

Returning to Trinidad and Tobago on April 20, Buju Banton will bring his unmatched energy and musical mastery to the Easter Sunday finale of the Rhythm and Soul Festival, an event that promises to uplift and unite through music. The concert will also feature reggae greats Gramps Morgan and Wayne Wonder, adding to what organizers describe as a “generational and spiritual celebration of music.”

The Tobago Festivals Commission has revamped the Easter weekend offerings to create a dynamic experience for both locals and visitors. “Buju Banton remains an undeniable force in music. His energy is unlike any other reggae entertainer, and we’re thrilled to be hosting him this Easter,” said a spokesperson for the Commission.

Kicking off the festivities on Thursday, April 17, internationally acclaimed Nigerian gospel singer Sinach will perform in Tobago for the first time. Known for hits like “Way Maker” and “I Know Who I Am,” Sinach will be joined by top Caribbean gospel acts including Positive, Blessed Messenger, and award-winning Guyanese artist Samuel Medas, in a spiritually uplifting event titled “Melodies from Heaven.”

On Saturday, April 19, the beloved Bucco Seafood Jazz Experience adds to the musical excitement with performances by international stars Jon Secada and Brian McKnight, alongside Trinidad’s vibrant new sensation Mical Teja.

Organizers say the Rhythm and Soul Festival is more than just music—it’s a movement to elevate Tobago’s tourism product and provide economic and creative opportunities for locals. “For our people here on the island, it’s more than just entertainment; it’s employment, it’s independence, it’s developing something from scratch that we can be proud to produce annually,” the spokesperson emphasized.

With ticket sales surging and anticipation high, organizers are encouraging travelers from Trinidad and across the region to secure their plans early. “This is a weekend of music, food, peace, and positive energy like no other,” they added.

Festival passes are available now at www.islandetickets.com, and updates can be found via @tobagofestivals on Instagram and Facebook.

Haitian Roots Star Naomi Osaka Exits Miami Open After Hard-Fought Battle

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News Americas, New York, NY, March 25, 2025: Haitian roots tennis star Naomi Osaka’s inspiring Miami Open run has come to an end, with Italy’s Jasmine Paolini dashing her hopes of a deep tournament finish.

Naomi Osaka of Japan reacts against Jasmine Paolini of Italy during their match on day 7 of the Miami Open at Hard Rock Stadium on March 24, 2025 in Miami Gardens, Florida. (Photo by Rich Storry/Getty Images)

The four-time Grand Slam champion and former world number one had captivated fans in her return to the WTA 1000 event, but was edged out in a gripping Round of 16 battle at the Grandstand. Osaka took the opening set with confidence but couldn’t hold off the sixth-seeded Paolini, who rallied to a 3-6, 6-4, 6-4 victory.

Naomi Osaka of Japan returns a shot against Jasmine Paolini of Italy during their match on day 7 at Hard Rock Stadium on March 24, 2025 in Miami Gardens, Florida. (Photo by Rich Storry/Getty Images)

Osaka, 27, who has openly embraced her Haitian heritage through her father, Patrick, showcased resilience throughout her Miami Open campaign. Her third-round win over fellow rising star Hailey Baptiste saw moments of frustration, including an uncharacteristic racket throw, which Osaka later admitted left her feeling “embarrassed.” Nevertheless, she showed grace by praising Baptiste at the net before turning her attention to the next challenge.

Despite the tough loss to Paolini, Osaka remained in high spirits and shared a heartfelt message with fans via social media.

“Miami I love you so much, thank you for the energy and the memories, I’ll be back sooner than you think,” she posted on X (formerly Twitter), expressing gratitude for the support she received throughout the tournament.

Paolini, ranked world number seven, advances to face Poland’s Magda Linette in the quarter-finals, while Osaka heads home, hopeful and motivated.

Her performance in Miami marks a promising step forward in her comeback journey and serves as a beacon of pride for the Black and Caribbean immigrant communities watching her resurgence with admiration.