Trinidad and Tobago’s Defence Minister Wayne Sturge has warned revellers to avoid using sex toys in public and to refrain from engaging in indecent behaviour during Carnival festivities next week, cautioning that offenders will face legal consequences.

The minister’s comments follow videos of female masqueraders from Tribe revealing that they received a sex toy commonly referred to as a “rose” in their goodie bags.

There has been speculation about the symbolism of the item given that Carnival is taking place alongside Valentine’s Day.

Archbishop of Port of Spain Jason Gordon was among those who condemned the band for the unconventional gift to masqueraders.

During his homily at Mass at Archbishop’s Chapel on February 9, Gordon said Tribe had gone “too far”.

He said he might approach the government to have it take action.

“Just as I’ve asked the government to regulate social media for the sake of our children, if Tribe cannot pull back on its own, I think the government will have to regulate it. #Tribegonetoofar,” he said.

“Our country is not for sale, and our young people are not for sale. We the good citizens of this beautiful country have to start putting guard rails for our children.”

Speaking at a press conference on January 13, Sturge said authorities have noted information circulating on social media about the gift and urged participants to leave the items at home and not use them in public spaces.

He warned that surveillance systems, including CCTV cameras, private security cameras and recordings from mobile phones, increase the likelihood of offenders being identified and prosecuted.

“We ask that you leave the toys and the devices at home and you can use them in the quietude of your home. Please do not use them in any public space. If you are caught, because there’s CCTV, there’s private cameras from people’s buildings, there’s an abundance of cell phones. If you are caught, you will be made an example of,” Sturge said, adding that law enforcement and the courts are prepared to address breaches.

The Defence Minister also raised concerns about reports in recent years of individuals engaging in sexual acts in public during festivities.

He stressed that such behaviour is illegal and would attract penalties under existing laws.

Sturge said persons found engaging in copulation or serious acts of indecency in public could face criminal charges, while also cautioning about reputational damage and the impact on families and children who may witness such behaviour.

The potential prison sentence could vary based on the individual and their criminal background, the minister added.

He also encouraged revellers to conduct themselves responsibly and respect public spaces, warning that poor decisions could lead to long-term personal consequences, including the contraction of sexually transmitted infections.

Meanwhile, Culture Minister Michelle Benjamin echoed Sturge’s comments, saying everyone should enjoy themselves in a responsible and respectful manner.

“Because you have received something does not mean you have to use it,” she said.

Benjamin also urged women not to take decisions that could cause them physical and reputational harm.