Arrest and Detention of Fishermen or Vessels
When Trinidad and Tobago vessels drift into the territorial waters of other countries and are detained by the naval or coastal authorities, the Consular Division intervenes through the relevant Trinidad and Tobago Overseas Mission to secure the release of the vessels and the crew.
What to do if fisherfolk or a vessels go missing
In cases of missing fisherfolk, it is advised that you first contact the police and file a missing persons report. Listen to the advice of the police and act accordingly. If you still cannot locate the missing fisherfolk or vessel, or if you learn that the vessel has been detained in another country, please contact the Ministry of Foreign Affairs at the number below.
What information should be provided
In order to assist in locating fisherfolk or vessels, it is helpful to have the following information available:
- name of the vessel
- name of the persons on board
- fisherman's identification number (if known)
- passport number (if known)
- date and place arrested
- registration of the vessel
- circumstances under which the vessel was detained.
If the Ministry of Foreign Affairs determines that the vessel has been detained by the authorities in another country, the relevant Trinidad and Tobago Diplomatic Mission will follow the necessary procedures to secure the release of the vessel and crew and return them to Trinidad and Tobago.
Where to get more information
For further information please contact:
Ministry of Foreign Affairs
"Knowsley"
1, Queen's Park West
Port of Spain
Tel. (868) 623-4116-20
Fax. (868) 624-4220
Related Services
Arrest and Detention of Trinidad and Tobago nationals abroad
