Canadian YouTuber Christopher Hughes Arrested Under Anti-Gang Act; Faces 25 Years In Jail

Pictured Above: Christopher ‘Chris Must List’ Hughes, 45. Photo Credit: Instagram.

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Canadian YouTuber, 45-year-old Christopher ‘Chris Must List’ Hughes, has been arrested under the Anti-Gang Act. Hughes, a travel vlogger, has been in Trinidad and Tobago for several weeks. His controversial, viral videos on gang culture and violence in Trinidad and Tobago feature many locals openly bearing firearms, proclaiming they are in a gang and discussing ongoing gang wars.

Hughes was arrested by Officers attached to the Special Investigations Unit (SIU) on Tuesday (28th May, 2024), after he allegedly tried to report that threats were being made against his life by two (2) “political figures” and two (2) Police Officers.

In a statement, Hughes’ lawyer, Criston Williams, said he does “not understand how the Special Investigations Unit can justify a false imprisonment scheme in which an individual is brought in to assist with enquiries and/or interviews and is not permitted to leave upon completion.” He added, “If Mr. Hughes continues to be detained, we intend to secure his release through a writ of habeas corpus.”

Speaking to Newsday this morning (Wednesday 29th May, 2024), Williams, who confirmed Hughes was still being detained, said he was unsure whether Police took the report about threats to Hughes' life, as they are “giving him a hard time.” Asked about the threats, Williams said, “Yes. He told me the threats came from two (2) political figures and two (2) Police Officers.” He added, “And then they arrested him.”

Williams said the nature of the threats was “too sensitive” to reveal.

Police are also said to be concerned that Hughes breached immigration laws by saying he was visiting as a tourist, as they consider his videos “work,” since they are monetized.

According to the Anti-Gang Act, a person who professes to be a gang leader or member to intimidate others or gain benefits, performs an act to gain gang membership or is a gang member, can face up to twenty-five (25) years in jail. Anyone who guides, instructs or finances gang members can also face the same penalty.

Investigations are continuing.

More on this as it becomes available.

​[Source: Newsday]