J’Ouvert bands on guard for security threats

A NUMBER of J’Ouvert bandleaders have briefed their security personnel on the recent terror threat and are taking extra precautions due to the general crime situation.

Last week, US soldiers reportedly worked with local law enforcement on anti-terror raids following a tip off of a plan to bomb the US Embassy between Carnival Monday and Tuesday. Several men were also arrested last week in relation to threats to disrupt Carnival.

Sally Hospedales, one of the bandleaders of J’Ouvert band Cocoa Devils, told Newsday their security has been briefed of the information regarding the alleged attacks.

“There is nothing more we can do in terms hiring extra security. We have maxed out the security numbers we have.”

She said they are always very security conscious and have always have ample security in band, even more than what is needed. She reported they have outer and inner cordons, bouncers and section leaders. Hospedales said they plan their routes as safe as possible and stay out of Port of Spain but go Woodbrook, St Clair and St James.

She pointed out that it is difficult to detect people on J’Ouvert morning and they do not search people when they come into the band.

“(With the threat) we have to be on guard. The security has been briefed and is more aware.”

James Caesar, bandleader of We Love J’Ouvert, said they would be taking extra security precautions with the terror threat.

“We have beefed up security to reassure people. We have one (security) for every ten patrons.”

He said the security have been briefed on the terror threat as well.

“Just be alert and look for things out of place. Though the nature of J’Ouvert makes that harder to do than in the day.”

He explained over the past few years they have a secure venue where spend most of J’Ouvert. He reported they go on the road for two hours - staying away from Port of Spain - and then they return to party at the venue.

A bandleader from the band Nasty Devils said they have security and are “Good to go.”