A Ukrainian aircraft transporting explosives destined for Libya was briefly detained in Trinidad and Tobago before receiving clearance to continue its journey, local officials confirmed on Friday.
Incident Details
The plane, which originated from the Bahamas, landed on Thursday at Piarco International Airport in Port of Spain for refueling. It was scheduled to proceed to Libya via Cape Verde, which prompted police scrutiny.
According to a statement from the Airports Authority of Trinidad and Tobago (AATT), upon arrival, immigration officers discovered that the aircraft was carrying explosives that had not been declared in line with established international aviation and security protocols.
The AATT clarified that no fault was found with the pilot or crew. Consequently, authorization was granted, and the aircraft along with its crew were allowed to depart Trinidad and Tobago.
Context
Trinidad and Tobago, a small English-speaking archipelago located about ten kilometers off the Venezuelan coast, is renowned for its carnival and beaches but also serves as a known hub for drug trafficking. Since 2021, the country has declared a state of emergency four times due to crime.
