The Special Operations Act has been proclaimed, establishing policing districts and new powers to combat criminality. The law also permits military assistance.
The Special Operations Act, 2026 has been officially proclaimed by President Christine Kangaloo, bringing into effect a new legislative framework for special operations aimed at combating criminality in Trinidad and Tobago. TTT News reported the proclamation on October 6.
The legislation originated as the Special Operations Bill, which was introduced in the House of Representatives on September 16, 2026. Parliament’s Bill Essentials said the legislation establishes policing districts across Trinidad and Tobago and provides for special operations to combat criminality within those districts.
The Act provides for special operations by police officers with or without assistance from the Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force. It also requires the establishment of joint protocols governing cooperation between police and Defence Force personnel, along with separate standard operating procedures for special operations and military assistance.
The legislation divides the country into seven policing districts covering the municipalities and regions, with Tobago designated as District 7. It also provides for the declaration of closed areas where public safety and peace are threatened by circumstances including violent crime, illegal weapons or gang activity.
Within a declared closed area, the legislation provides for measures including cordons, permits governing entry and exit, and curfews. Police conducting special operations may also search people, vehicles and places without a warrant where there is reasonable suspicion that an offence has been or is being committed, subject to provisions set out in the Act.
The legislation also provides for body-worn cameras during special operations in closed areas, with joint protocols governing the use and handling of recorded data. The Act contains a sunset provision under which it will cease to have effect two years after its commencement.
TTT News; Parliament of Trinidad and Tobago Bill Essentials for the Special Operations Bill, 2026.