PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad, CMC—The Eastern Lawyers Association (ELA) has called on the government and law enforcement agencies to strengthen protections for legal professionals and take meaningful steps to address escalating crime in the country.
The plea follows the murders of attorney-at-law Kumari Baksh and her husband, Nasheed Baksh, whose bodies were discovered at their Caratal Road, Cumuto home on January 9. That tragedy came on the heels of the killing of special prosecutor Randall Hector on December 31, 2024.
The ELA said in a statement posted on its Facebook Page that such targeted violence not only threatens individual lives but also erodes the rule of law and the core principles of justice. It added that the latest murders were a “grim reminder of the alarming surge in crime within our society” and raised significant concerns regarding the safety of legal professionals.
In addition to calling on police to pursue all leads to identify and hold accountable those responsible for the couple’s death, the ELA urged authorities to prioritize the safety of lawyers as there appeared to be a disturbing trend of violence against these professionals.
“As advocates for justice, attorneys play a crucial role in protecting the rights of all citizens. Any attack on members of the legal profession is a direct threat to the justice system and demands immediate and decisive action,” it said.
“Government and law enforcement agencies should evaluate the risks faced by legal practitioners and implement necessary security measures, especially for those involved in high-stakes or sensitive cases.”
Additionally, the ELA called for a comprehensive response to tackle the broader crime crisis. The association outlined key actions, including enhancing law enforcement capabilities, improving crime prevention strategies, and addressing the root causes of criminal behavior.
Extending condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of the murdered couple, the ELA said the tragedy underscores the urgency of collective responsibility to ensure the safety of all citizens and the integrity of the justice system.
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