Trinidad and Tobago imposed a new state of emergency Tuesday, just weeks after the previous one expired, as authorities battle persistent violent crime. Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar cited credible threats against law enforcement in reimposing the emergency powers, which allow warrantless arrests and searches.

This marks roughly the 10th month in 14 that the nation has operated under emergency measures. The country has recorded 63 killings this year, nearly matching last year's toll for the same period. The National Security Council warned that ongoing gang-related shootings threaten public safety if unchecked.

The emergency declaration threatens the tourism sector, a critical revenue source for the twin-island nation. Reginald Mac Lean, president of the Tobago Hotel and Tourism Association, said the timing is particularly damaging given global instability from conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East. The government has not announced curfew plans, and the initial 15-day measure could be extended.