Public Utilities Minister, Barry Padarath, is currently under enhanced security protection following a statement by a detained suspect alleging a plot to assassinate him. The suspect, held for unrelated matters at the Carenage Police Station, claimed that he was approached with the proposition during a meeting in November 2025.
The suspect alleges that instead of the employment he sought at a business establishment in McBean, he was offered TT$250,000 to carry out the murder of Minister Padarath. This proposition did not only involve money but also promised to provide firearms, vehicles, logistical support, and detailed information on the minister’s movements.
Further into the conversation, the suspect claimed he was given TT$3,000. However, these allegations have not yet been proven in court, and no findings of guilt have been made in relation to the claims contained in the statement.
In light of these reported threats, Minister Padarath’s security detail has been significantly strengthened. Officers from the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service Special Branch are now providing close-protection duties while investigations into the allegations continue.
As of yet, authorities have not publicly announced any charges relating to the alleged murder-for-hire plot. The investigation remains ongoing, and the suspect’s statement is being thoroughly examined.
