Carib Scope

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  • Sturge warns against flying drones near airports

    Sturge warns against flying drones near airports

    The Ministry of National Security of Trinidad and Tobago has raised serious concerns regarding unauthorized drone operations within restricted airspace surrounding the nation’s primary aviation hubs. Defence Minister Wayne Sturge issued an official statement on December 24, confirming these activities occurred in close proximity to both Piarco International Airport in Trinidad and ANR Robinson International Airport in Tobago.

    According to ministry investigations, these drones were operated within a five-kilometer radius of both airports, deliberately violating established security perimeters. Minister Sturge emphasized that beyond the obvious aviation hazards, the intentional capture and dissemination of military installation footage represents a direct threat to national security. “Such actions expose our citizenry to entities that might exploit this information to our detriment,” Sturge stated.

    Authorities have launched comprehensive investigations to identify those responsible for the illegal drone surveillance. The minister warned that persistent unlawful operations would trigger necessary government interventions, including potential measures under the current state of emergency initially declared in July and extended through October for an additional three-month period.

    This security development coincides with the recent installation of advanced G/ATOR radar technology at ANR Robinson International Airport by US Marines in November. Developed by Northrop Grumman, this sophisticated radar system specializes in detecting unmanned aerial systems, cruise missiles, and various airborne threats.

    Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar initially remained discreet about the radar deployment but subsequently acknowledged its role in combating drug trafficking activities. When questioned about support infrastructure surrounding the radar installation, the Prime Minister displayed visible frustration with what she termed ‘nonsensical inquiries’.

    These security enhancements align with Trinidad and Tobago’s approval for US military aircraft transit through national airports, described by the Foreign and Caricom Affairs Ministry as logistical support operations for replenishment and personnel rotations.

    The strategic partnerships unfold against the backdrop of the recently published US National Security Strategy 2025, which emphasizes strengthened hemispheric cooperation for migration control, drug interdiction, and enhanced regional stability.

    At a recent political gathering, Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar vehemently defended her administration’s security cooperation with the United States, cautioning that criticism could jeopardize the US visa status of approximately 350,000 Trinbagonians. She asserted that the United States remains Trinidad and Tobago’s sole viable partner for national protection against external threats, citing their superior resources and capabilities.

    Minister Sturge has consistently supported the Prime Minister’s position, maintaining that Trinidad and Tobago will not serve as a military launchpad for attacks against other nations. However, the minister has declined parliamentary inquiries from opposition members regarding specific security arrangements, citing potential compromise to public interests.

  • Police urge motorists to exercise vigilance in management and safekeeping of vehicles

    Police urge motorists to exercise vigilance in management and safekeeping of vehicles

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Jamaican law enforcement authorities have issued a stark advisory to vehicle owners, emphasizing critical security lapses that criminals are exploiting across the nation. Dr. Gary McKenzie, Assistant Commissioner of the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF), highlighted alarming trends in vehicle-related crimes during a recent briefing.

    McKenzie, who oversees the Strategic Operations Portfolio and Public Safety and Traffic Enforcement Branch, identified irresponsible vehicle lending as a primary concern. He revealed that numerous owners lend automobiles to unvetted individuals without verifying driver’s license credentials or borrower reliability. These negligently loaned vehicles frequently become instruments in illegal activities, including unauthorized taxi operations and rental scams.

    The senior police official further cautioned against improper vehicle handling at service facilities. Many Jamaicans leave cars at wash stations or garages without explicit instructions prohibiting movement, creating opportunities for key duplication and alarm system tampering. McKenzie specifically warned that organized criminals are capitalizing on these security gaps to steal vehicles through sophisticated methods.

    In a disturbing development, authorities have uncovered fraudulent sales operations where thieves advertise non-existent vehicles online, then steal matching models to fulfill purchase agreements. This sophisticated scheme has contributed significantly to Jamaica’s auto theft epidemic.

    In response, the JCF’s Counter-Terrorism and Organised Crime Division has intensified operations against automotive crime networks. Acting Senior Superintendent Victor Barrett confirmed targeted investigations into suspected criminal rings and complicit car marts, with several perpetrators already under police surveillance.

  • PLP to re-nominate Petty for North Eleuthera seat

    PLP to re-nominate Petty for North Eleuthera seat

    The Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) has officially confirmed the re-nomination of incumbent MP Sylvanus Petty as its candidate for North Eleuthera in the upcoming general election. This decision concludes a competitive selection process that saw two other aspirants—Harbour Island entrepreneur Joseph John ‘JJ’ Percentie and Oscar McPhee—formally notified of their unsuccessful bids.

    The party’s candidate committee conducted interviews with all hopefuls several weeks prior to making this determination. According to insider information, the PLP intends to ratify additional candidates across other constituencies early next year.

    Despite his disappointment, Mr. Percentie publicly pledged his continued support for both Mr. Petty and the party. ‘With Mr. Petty now securing the nomination as the incumbent, I remain a committed PLP member and will provide any requested assistance,’ he stated. Percentie further emphasized the northern region’s significance and expressed confidence in the Chester Cooper-Davis administration’s ongoing development initiatives.

    Mr. Petty’s political journey has been marked by notable fluctuations. Initially elected under the PLP banner in 2021, he subsequently announced he would not seek re-nomination, citing personal reasons including the need to prioritize family commitments. However, he consistently maintained his party allegiance and previously expressed aspirations for the nation’s highest office.

    His return to the political arena has generated mixed reactions within both party circles and the North Eleuthera constituency. Earlier this year, numerous voters voiced frustrations to media outlets regarding perceived inadequate representation, with several explicitly opposing Petty’s potential candidacy. Residents highlighted persistent challenges with essential services—including unreliable water supply, electricity interruptions, and inconsistent internet connectivity—describing these conditions as the most severe in decades.

    In October, Mr. Petty acknowledged these constituent concerns while affirming the government’s commitment to addressing infrastructure deficiencies. ‘We will secure the same level of support as in the previous election,’ he asserted confidently. ‘Substantial work lies ahead, but we will vigorously advocate for the people of North Eleuthera who recognize they have a dedicated fighter in their corner.’

  • Shoppers urged to exercise caution for a safer Christmas season

    Shoppers urged to exercise caution for a safer Christmas season

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Jamaican law enforcement authorities have launched a comprehensive public safety initiative ahead of the Christmas holidays, emphasizing enhanced security measures for financial transactions and child protection in crowded spaces. The advisory comes from top-ranking police officials including Assistant Commissioner Dr. Gary McKenzie and Senior Superintendent Dahlia Garrick during a recent Jamaica Information Service forum. The initiative addresses growing concerns about criminal activities during peak shopping periods. Dr. McKenzie, overseeing the JCF’s Strategic Operations and Public Safety Branch, strongly advocated for electronic payment methods as a primary defense against theft. “We actively encourage citizens to utilize cards, wire transfers, and digital transaction platforms whenever feasible. Cash transactions inherently increase personal vulnerability, particularly when handled publicly,” he cautioned. The security experts specifically warned against discussing financial arrangements in public or via mobile devices, noting that such conversations potentially attract criminal attention. “Publicly announcing bank withdrawals or monetary meetings essentially invites potential theft,” McKenzie emphasized. Simultaneously, SSP Garrick highlighted the critical importance of structured planning for family shopping excursions. She recommended maintaining visual contact with children at all times and implementing standard safety protocols similar to school preparation guidelines. The security official further advised discreet handling of purchases, suggesting secured storage in vehicles and avoiding isolated areas. Garrick particularly emphasized collective shopping with companions and staying within well-lit, frequently traveled routes. Additionally, the police addressed the proliferation of seasonal scams, urging citizens to exercise heightened skepticism toward offers appearing excessively favorable. “When deals seem implausibly advantageous, they typically are. Rely on established businesses that provide consumer recourse mechanisms,” Garrick stated. The advisory specifically extended to displaced children integrating into new household arrangements, stressing the necessity of updating safety education regarding personal information sharing and stranger interaction. Both officials unanimously emphasized that strategic planning, sustained awareness, and informed judgment constitute fundamental components for ensuring holiday security.

  • Sister calls for charges after hit-and-run death

    Sister calls for charges after hit-and-run death

    The grieving family of Patrick Vernal Gibson, a 63-year-old retired customs officer killed in a devastating hit-and-run incident, is urgently calling for criminal charges against the driver responsible for his death. The tragedy occurred on December 9 at the intersection of East Street and Andros Avenue, where Gibson was struck by a vehicle traveling at high speed while crossing the road after visiting a convenience store.

    According to police reports, the motorist dragged Gibson several feet before abandoning both the scene and the vehicle—a Honda Accord—which remained pinned on top of the victim. His sister, Rosemary Thompson, emotionally asserted that her brother might have survived had the driver not fled. ‘If he had stayed,’ she explained, ‘he could have reversed the car instead of leaving it crushing him. My brother might have been in the hospital today, not the morgue.’

    Thompson discovered news of the accident online while in Florida, though she had been in The Bahamas on the night of the incident. Despite reassurances from acquaintances that the victim was not her brother, she received official confirmation of his death from police just one day later—cutting her trip short.

    The family is now grappling not only with profound loss but also with unresolved questions regarding the driver’s swift release from custody. Although a suspect was detained for two days, he was released following legal intervention. Authorities indicated that the case must first go before a Coroner’s Court before any charges are filed.

    Gibson, described as a sweet and loving man who was unmarried and childless, had shared a home with Thompson for nearly a decade. His other sister, Theresa Capron, traveled from Grand Bahama to New Providence following the incident, noting the profound impact of his death on their close-knit family. Both sisters highlighted Gibson’s cheerful nature and his quiet contributions to household chores and family life.

    As the holiday season approaches, the family acknowledges that their celebratory plans have been shattered. Thompson solemnly stated, ‘We had plans, but I don’t see myself celebrating.’ They remain resolved in their pursuit of justice and accountability for Gibson’s untimely and tragic death.

  • Aviation ambulances arrive for Family Islands

    Aviation ambulances arrive for Family Islands

    The Bahamas has achieved a significant milestone in emergency medical infrastructure with the arrival of the first six specialized aviation ambulances in New Providence. This delivery marks the initial phase of a comprehensive initiative that will ultimately see approximately 50 such vehicles deployed across the archipelago.

    The groundbreaking initiative stems from a strategic Heads of Agreement between the Bahamian government and the Bahamas Aviation Climate and Severe Weather Network (BACSWN). Through BACSWN’s alliance with Response Plus Medical (RPM), the Middle East’s premier pre-hospital care and emergency medical services provider, these advanced medical transport vehicles are being introduced to address critical gaps in the nation’s emergency response capabilities.

    Initial deployments will prioritize Cat Island, San Salvador, and the MICAL islands, representing a transformative step in healthcare accessibility for remote communities. Each ambulance will be equipped with state-of-the-art medical technology and enhanced safety features specifically designed for aviation operations and challenging island terrain.

    Robert Dupuch-Carron, founder of BACSWN, confirmed the timely delivery, stating: “We committed to having these assets operational before Christmas, and through the exceptional support of Dr. Shamsheer Vayalil of Burjeel Holdings and Dr. Rohil Raghavan of RPM, we have fulfilled that promise.”

    This ambulance deployment coincides with BACSWN’s parallel mission to establish the Caribbean’s inaugural NextGen Meteorological Watch Office. This advanced facility will feature real-time flight tracking capabilities, coordinated emergency response systems, and comprehensive meteorological monitoring across the nation’s 173,000 square miles of airspace.

    The integrated initiative directly supports The Bahamas’ compliance with international aviation safety standards under the Chicago Convention and International Civil Aviation Organization requirements, ensuring safer commercial, cargo, and private aircraft operations within sovereign airspace.

  • Milton Blake joins forces with Luciano for ‘It nuh Over Yet’

    Milton Blake joins forces with Luciano for ‘It nuh Over Yet’

    After more than two decades of friendship, roots reggae artists Milton Blake and Luciano have finally unveiled their first musical collaboration. Originally recorded in 2016, the long-awaited track ‘It Nuh Over Yet’ has now been released to the public, marking a significant milestone in both artists’ careers.

    The inspirational anthem, written and produced by Cleveland-based Blake, carries a powerful message of resilience and perseverance that both artists have personally embodied throughout their musical journeys. Blake emphasized the song’s core philosophy: ‘The message is about staying strong, you know? Resilient. Whenever trials or a slow period comes my way it makes me push harder. I will never give up.’

    The release comes through Blake’s Lion and Lioness Productionz label and follows the vinyl reissue of his third album, ‘Temporary Obstacle,’ which occurred just two months prior.

    The musical partnership between Blake (from Clarendon) and Luciano (from Manchester) dates back to the early 1990s when both were establishing themselves during roots reggae’s significant resurgence. Their paths converged professionally when both became part of producer Philip ‘Fatis’ Burrell’s influential Xterminator label roster, alongside notable artists including Sizzla, Mikey General, and Jesse Jendah.

    Beyond this collaboration, Blake has maintained an active presence in the reggae scene, particularly in Cleveland where he has become a central figure. Shortly after relocating to the city, he began working with the River Nile Band, performing extensively across multiple cities including Cincinnati, Chicago, New York, and Connecticut.

  • Southern California braces for devastating Christmas storm

    Southern California braces for devastating Christmas storm

    LOS ANGELES — An intense atmospheric river storm system, colloquially termed ‘the Pineapple Express,’ is currently battering Southern California with unprecedented rainfall, prompting urgent flash flood warnings across the region. This powerful weather phenomenon, channeling substantial moisture from Hawaiian tropics to the West Coast, represents one of the most severe Christmas-period storms in recent history.

    Meteorological authorities have issued grave warnings regarding the storm’s potential for catastrophic consequences. The National Weather Service emphasized the expectation of severe and widespread flash flooding, explicitly stating that ‘lives and property are in great danger.’ Initial downpours commenced overnight Tuesday, with intensified precipitation forecast throughout Wednesday and continuing through Friday.

    The storm’s impacts are already materializing across California, with numerous reports of toppled trees and damaged power infrastructure. Particularly concerning are potential ‘debris flows’ in areas previously scarred by January’s devastating wildfires. Los Angeles County authorities have consequently advised residents to monitor weather developments closely and restrict non-essential travel.

    According to National Weather Service meteorologist Ariel Cohen, certain Southern California communities could accumulate up to 12 inches (30.5 centimeters) of rainfall—equivalent to several months’ typical precipitation. The combination of saturated soils and anticipated wind gusts reaching 55 mph (88 kph) creates conditions conducive to widespread infrastructure damage, including rockslides and mudslides, especially affecting mountainous terrain and canyon roadways.

    Emergency measures are already underway, with law enforcement agencies implementing evacuation orders for over 200 residences. Meanwhile, the Sierra Nevada range has experienced substantial snowfall, with accumulations exceeding one foot already recorded and projections indicating potential totals up to five feet before the storm system dissipates.

  • Manchester police push safety reassurance amid four murders in 48 hours

    Manchester police push safety reassurance amid four murders in 48 hours

    MANCHESTER, Jamaica — Law enforcement authorities in Manchester are actively working to reassure residents and business owners regarding community safety following a series of four homicides occurring within Mandeville and adjacent localities over a 48-hour period.

    Superintendent Carey Duncan, commanding officer of the Manchester Police Division, addressed media representatives during a community engagement walkthrough along Green Street this Wednesday. Preliminary investigative findings indicate the violent incidents appear connected to personal conflicts rather than random criminal activity targeting the general public.

    “Our assessment points toward targeted events arising from interpersonal disputes that are manifesting in specific patterns,” Superintendent Duncan explained, referencing the most recent homicide Tuesday evening in the neighboring Cedar Grove community.

    Emphasizing the police presence and commitment to public safety, Duncan stated: “This walkthrough demonstrates our solidarity with community members. We recognize the current challenges facing residents and are fully engaged in addressing these security concerns.”

    The police superintendent confirmed detectives are pursuing active investigative leads, noting: “Our intelligence operations are guiding specific investigative directions. We anticipate significant breakthroughs in these cases imminently.”

    Duncan reaffirmed his commitment to maintaining Manchester as a secure environment, particularly with approaching holiday season activities: “I previously provided assurances that Manchester would remain a safe destination for commerce and holiday gatherings throughout the Yuletide Season. That commitment stands.”

    During the Green Street operational activity, law enforcement officials detained three individuals for questioning and further processing in connection with their investigations.

    The police response follows earlier violent incidents in the parish, including a recent shooting that resulted in three casualties, one fatal, underscoring the ongoing security challenges facing the region.

  • Valsayn woman, 68, killed by boyfriend

    Valsayn woman, 68, killed by boyfriend

    A horrific domestic violence incident culminated in tragedy on Christmas Eve in Valsayn, Trinidad, when a 68-year-old woman was brutally beaten to death by her romantic partner. The fatal altercation reportedly erupted after the 60-year-old suspect accessed and examined the victim’s cellular phone.

    The deceased has been identified as Shaffina Hosein Madoo, a resident of Nanan Street in the Bamboo #1 area of Valsayn. Official reports indicate that the violent incident occurred at approximately 12:49 AM on December 24th.

    Law enforcement and emergency medical personnel responded to the family residence following distress calls from family members. Upon arrival, first responders encountered Madoo’s daughter, who revealed that she had been notified about the situation by her sister. According to initial accounts, the suspect—identified as Madoo’s boyfriend of two years—had arrived at the sister’s residence earlier that evening, where he allegedly confessed to the murder before declaring he had ingested a poisonous substance in a suicide attempt.

    When police officers entered the Valsayn residence, they discovered Madoo’s lifeless body positioned on her back. The male suspect, a resident of Barrackpore, was found collapsed on the ground adjacent to the victim, showing signs of possible poisoning. Medical personnel provided immediate emergency treatment to the suspect before transporting both individuals from the scene. The suspect remains under medical supervision while facing potential murder charges upon recovery.