Carib Scope

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  • Ecuador and Dom Rep send votes to PL sports poll

    Ecuador and Dom Rep send votes to PL sports poll

    Prensa Latina’s esteemed annual sports survey has garnered significant participation from media organizations across Latin America, with the submission deadline set for December 22. The prestigious poll has already attracted entries from nearly 50 national and international media outlets representing multiple countries including Ecuador, Dominican Republic, Argentina, Brazil, Chile, El Salvador, Nicaragua, Panama, Mexico, Uruguay, and Venezuela.

    Ecuadorian javelin world champion Juleisy Angulo has emerged as a notable contender, receiving four votes from Radio Pichincha’s endorsement. Her performance places her third in the women’s category, trailing behind Cuban triple jumper Leyanis Pérez who leads with 30 votes, and Mexican athlete Andrea Becerra who holds second place with five votes.

    Dominican media outlet Vanguardia del Pueblo has highlighted several national athletes in their submissions. Sprinter Marileidy Paulino has garnered two votes, while Major League Baseball star Vladimir Guerrero and the baseball team Águilas Cibaeñas have received their inaugural votes in the poll.

    This year’s edition carries special historical significance as it honors two legendary figures in Latin American sports history. The poll is dedicated to commemorate the 100th birthday anniversary of Cuban revolutionary leader Fidel Castro, recognized as the architect of Cuba’s sports movement, and the fifth death anniversary of Argentine soccer icon Diego Armando Maradona, who won the Sports Poll in 1986 following his World Cup triumph.

    The Prensa Latina Sports Poll maintains a rich tradition dating back to 1964 when Cuban sprinter Enrique Figuerola became its first recipient. The awards have evolved significantly over decades, with the Best Team of the Year category introduced in 1980 and gender-separated voting implemented in 1988 to ensure equitable recognition for male and female athletes.

  • Zimbabwe Anti-Sanctions Trust stands in solidarity to Cuba

    Zimbabwe Anti-Sanctions Trust stands in solidarity to Cuba

    A Zimbabwean non-governmental organization has issued a strong statement of solidarity with the governments and peoples of Cuba and Venezuela following recent geopolitical developments in the Caribbean region. The declaration comes in response to what Cuban authorities have characterized as an unlawful U.S. military intervention against a Venezuelan commercial vessel on December 10.

    The organization, identified as ZAST, has condemned the naval operation as an act of “piracy” that constitutes a clear violation of established international maritime law. According to their analysis, this incident represents not an isolated event but rather a coordinated strategy designed to undermine Venezuela’s sovereign rights to freely trade its natural resources while simultaneously intensifying economic pressure on Cuba.

    ZAST’s statement emphasizes how such measures have exacerbated the devastating impacts of the long-standing U.S. economic blockade against Cuba, particularly affecting the national power infrastructure and the everyday lives of Cuban citizens. Drawing parallels to Zimbabwe’s own historical experiences with unilateral coercive measures, the organization positioned itself as uniquely qualified to recognize the damaging effects of economic warfare tactics.

    The African organization articulated a principled rejection of what it termed “economic strangulation,” extraterritorial coercion, and military intimidation as instruments of international policy. Their declaration emphasized that national sovereignty—whether of large or small nations—must be universally respected without exception.

    Furthermore, ZAST endorsed the Caribbean and Latin American regional commitment to peace, specifically referencing the formal designation of the region as a Zone of Peace. The organization concluded by issuing a global appeal to international institutions, multilateral organizations, and progressive movements worldwide to denounce actions that undermine international legal standards, threaten regional stability, or violate the fundamental right of nations to engage in peaceful trade.

  • Coalitieleden willen verbod op kansspelen

    Coalitieleden willen verbod op kansspelen

    In a landmark decision, Suriname’s National Assembly is poised to implement comprehensive legislation prohibiting all forms of online monetary gambling activities. The coalition government has introduced the ‘Prohibition of Online Games of Chance and Digital Gambling Prevention Act,’ marking a significant shift in the nation’s approach to digital entertainment regulation.

    The legislation emerges from growing concerns about the proliferation of mobile gambling services, social media betting platforms, and international gambling websites operating without regulatory oversight. Parliamentarians describe the measure as an essential intervention to protect citizens, particularly youth and socially vulnerable groups, from gambling addiction, financial exploitation, and money laundering schemes.

    Suriname’s existing gambling regulations, including the 1939 Hazard Games Act and 1960 Lottery Act, were drafted during the pre-internet era, creating substantial legal gaps that foreign and anonymous operators have exploited to target Surinamese players without restriction.

    The prohibition is absolute and applies equally to providers and participants. Surinamese citizens accessing offshore gambling platforms through VPNs, proxies, or other circumvention tools will face criminal charges. Telecommunications providers including Telesur and Digicel must implement real-time gambling traffic detection and blocking systems based on standards established by Suriname’s Telecommunication Authority (TAS).

    The law extends beyond gambling participation to encompass all promotional activities. Advertising, sponsorship arrangements, influencer marketing, and digital promotion of gambling services are strictly prohibited. Financial institutions, payment platforms, and fintech companies must decline transactions associated with digital gambling activities, with the Central Bank of Suriname developing detailed detection guidelines.

    A novel digital enforcement mechanism requires nationwide blocking orders within 24 hours of TAS identifying gambling websites, applications, or data streams. The Minister of Justice retains authority to demand additional measures, including application removal from digital marketplaces and termination of transaction pathways.

    Four institutions will share oversight responsibilities: the Gaming Control Board Suriname (coordination), Central Bank of Suriname (financial flows), TAS (technical detection and blocking), and Public Prosecution Service (criminal enforcement).

    This legislative approach aligns Suriname with international trends, referencing restrictive measures implemented in India, Trinidad & Tobago, and the Netherlands. The government emphasizes the measure’s consistency with Caribbean Financial Action Task Force recommendations and international anti-money laundering guidelines.

    Violators face severe penalties including fines up to SRD 10 million and imprisonment. Corporate entities risk minimum fines of SRD 5 million, potential temporary or permanent closure, and 50% penalty enhancements for repeat offenses. Prosecution will utilize existing procedures under the Economic Offenses Act.

    The legislation specifically exempts educational and recreational games without monetary stakes. Loot boxes are prohibited only when virtual items possess economic tradability, preventing commercial games from establishing profit-driven gambling dynamics.

    Beyond protectionist measures, the law represents a modernization of Suriname’s digital legal framework, aiming to enhance consumer protection, combat cybercrime, and strengthen national financial integrity.

  • China holds national memorial for Nanjing massacre victims

    China holds national memorial for Nanjing massacre victims

    China observed a solemn national memorial ceremony marking the anniversary of the Nanjing Massacre against a backdrop of escalating diplomatic friction with Japan. The commemorations gained heightened significance as Beijing expressed mounting concerns about what it characterizes as resurgent militaristic tendencies in its neighboring nation.

    Across the country, citizens observed moments of silence in remembrance of the victims. Urban centers fell quiet as pedestrians paused in respectful tribute, while memorial sites and museums nationwide hosted ceremonies honoring those who perished during the historical tragedy.

    The diplomatic climate between the two nations has deteriorated following recent statements by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi regarding Taiwan. Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Guo Jiakun reiterated China’s firm rejection of these remarks and emphasized growing apprehension about attempts to historically reinterpret events surrounding Japan’s wartime actions.

    Historical context remains central to the current tensions. On December 13, 1937, Japanese military forces captured Nanjing, which served as China’s capital at the time. Over the subsequent six weeks, historical records indicate that more than 300,000 Chinese civilians and disarmed soldiers lost their lives in what became known as the Nanjing Massacre.

    Despite decades having passed, the tragedy continues to profoundly impact Nanjing’s residents. The city’s academic institutions, notably Nanjing University, have pioneered peace studies initiatives aimed at fostering reconciliation. These efforts contributed to UNESCO’s designation of Nanjing as an International City of Peace, representing ongoing attempts to transform historical trauma into a message of global harmony amid contemporary diplomatic challenges.

  • US admiral leading US troops in Latin America steps down

    US admiral leading US troops in Latin America steps down

    In a significant shakeup within the U.S. military’s leadership structure, Admiral Alvin Holsey has been compelled to retire two years ahead of schedule from his position as head of U.S. Southern Command. The unexpected departure, confirmed by multiple defense officials, comes amid escalating tensions with Venezuela and follows a series of controversial military operations in the Caribbean region.

    Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth reportedly orchestrated the admiral’s removal due to growing frustrations with the command’s operational approach in Latin America. The leadership change occurs against the backdrop of intensified U.S. naval presence and increased strikes against suspected drug-smuggling vessels, including the recent seizure of a Venezuelan oil tanker and more than twenty deadly engagements with alleged narcotics traffickers.

    Despite speculation that Holsey opposed the aggressive tactics, the retiring admiral maintained that his decision was unrelated to operational matters. During his farewell ceremony in Miami, Holsey reflected positively on his 37-year career while emphasizing the importance of supporting democratic allies who share American values of rule of law and human rights.

    Air Force Lieutenant General Evan Pettus has assumed command temporarily as acting head. Meanwhile, sources indicate that President Trump intends to nominate Lieutenant General Frank Donovan, currently vice commander of U.S. Special Operations Command, as Holsey’s permanent replacement, pending Senate confirmation.

    This leadership transition reflects broader strategic shifts in U.S. foreign policy toward Latin America. The Trump administration has signaled a revival of the Monroe Doctrine doctrine through increased military presence, training deployments in Panama, and heightened pressure on Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, whom Washington accuses of drug trafficking.

    The administration’s aggressive stance has raised legal and ethical concerns, particularly regarding rules of engagement. The Defense Department’s Law of War Manual explicitly prohibits attacks on incapacitated or shipwrecked combatants, creating potential conflicts with the current operational approach against alleged drug cartels.

  • St Michael man fined for cannabis trafficking and importation

    St Michael man fined for cannabis trafficking and importation

    In a significant ruling at the District ‘A’ Criminal Court No. 1, a 53-year-old resident of St Michael, Barbados, has been convicted on drug-related charges. Denson Emroy Bailey, residing at #24 Tamarind Avenue on Culloden Road, entered a guilty plea before Chief Magistrate Ian Weekes during a court session held on Friday. The charges stem from his involvement in the trafficking and importation of a substantial quantity of cannabis.

    The case, investigated by the Narcotics Unit of the Barbados Police Service, centered on activities dated December 11. Law enforcement officials apprehended Bailey after uncovering approximately 3.1 kilograms of suspected cannabis in his possession. The illicit substance, with an estimated street value of $24,800, represents a significant seizure in ongoing efforts to combat narcotics distribution on the island.

    The judicial outcome resulted in a financial penalty of $6,000 imposed on Bailey. This ruling underscores the continued vigilance of Barbadian authorities against drug offenses, particularly those involving substantial quantities with considerable market value. The case highlights the operational effectiveness of specialized police units in intercepting illegal substances and bringing perpetrators to justice through the criminal court system.

  • Castle Castle Bruce man charged with dangerous driving in fatal Pottersville accident

    Castle Castle Bruce man charged with dangerous driving in fatal Pottersville accident

    A 21-year-old man from Castle Bruce has been formally charged in connection with a fatal vehicular incident that resulted in the death of a pedestrian in Pottersville. Kacey Cadette appeared at the Roseau Magistrate’s Court on December 12th, 2025, facing charges of causing death by dangerous driving following the September 9th accident.

    The tragic collision occurred at approximately 7:30 a.m. on Elliott Avenue, near the Max Mart Supermarket, when Cadette’s rented blue Suzuki Swift (registration TQ807 from C&K Rentals) struck 43-year-old Heskieth Francis, a local Pottersville resident. Preliminary reports indicate Francis was walking northbound on the western side of the roadway when the vehicle’s front left side made impact.

    Following his court appearance, Cadette was granted bail set at $35,000 with specific conditions requiring the surrender of all travel documents. The case has been formally adjourned until March 2026 as judicial proceedings continue. Legal representation for the accused is being provided by Attorney Wayne Norde, who will presumably handle the defense against the serious traffic violation charges.

    The case highlights ongoing road safety concerns in the region and represents another tragic incident in Dominica’s traffic accident statistics. Local authorities continue to investigate the precise circumstances surrounding the collision while the judicial process takes its course.

  • Greene Says Miami Mission Reorganised After Boustany’s Departure

    Greene Says Miami Mission Reorganised After Boustany’s Departure

    Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA) has publicly confirmed a significant operational reorganization of her Miami-based field mission, following the departure of senior staff member Charles Boustany. The restructuring aims to enhance constituent services and political outreach capabilities across South Florida.

    The Miami office, established as a strategic hub for engaging with Florida’s conservative base and addressing diaspora community concerns, is undergoing what Greene describes as a ‘strategic realignment.’ This move comes amid broader Republican efforts to strengthen their presence in key demographic battlegrounds. While Greene’s statement emphasized continued commitment to Florida constituents, political analysts suggest the reorganization may reflect deeper strategic shifts within certain GOP factions.

    Boustany, a former Louisiana congressman with extensive experience in healthcare and trade policy, had been leading the Miami operations since its establishment. His departure timing and circumstances remain undisclosed, though Greene’s office characterized it as a mutually agreed transition. The congresswoman indicated that new appointments to the restructured team would be announced in coming weeks, with expectations leaning toward personnel with stronger connections to Florida’s political landscape.

    The Miami mission has historically focused on issues including Cuban-American relations, immigration policy concerns, and economic initiatives affecting Florida residents. Greene assured constituents that service continuity would be maintained throughout the transition period, with additional staff being deployed from her Georgia offices to manage interim operations.

  • Partial Road Closure Planned for Valley Road North Near Jennings Clinic on December 14

    Partial Road Closure Planned for Valley Road North Near Jennings Clinic on December 14

    Antigua and Barbuda’s Valley Road North (VRN) near Jennings Clinic will undergo partial closure on Sunday, December 14th, 2025, as part of the Second Road Infrastructure Rehabilitation Project initiated by the national government. While authorities will attempt to maintain single lane traffic through the affected section, motorists are strongly advised to utilize designated diversion routes to minimize travel disruptions.

    Southbound travelers on VRN beyond Jennings Clinic should turn right onto Monterey Road, following diversion signage to circumvent the construction zone while maintaining access to Valley Road North. Northbound vehicles heading toward destinations beyond the clinic may turn left at the junction leading to Jolly Harbour’s back entrance, similarly adhering to posted diversion guidance.

    All local businesses will maintain regular operating hours throughout the construction period. Infrastructure contractor C.O. Williams has formally apologized for anticipated inconveniences, emphasizing the long-term benefits of the roadway rehabilitation initiative. Stakeholders are encouraged to adjust travel schedules accounting for potential delays.

    For additional information and project inquiries, the public may contact the C.O. Williams Project office directly at 562-9573 during standard business hours.

  • Syrian Restaurant Owner Shot During Robbery in Pares

    Syrian Restaurant Owner Shot During Robbery in Pares

    A Syrian national, proprietor of Habile Restaurant located on Pares Main Road, is currently receiving medical treatment at Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre after sustaining gunshot wounds during an armed robbery at his establishment on Thursday evening. The violent incident occurred during late-night hours at the business premises in Pares Village, though specific details regarding the circumstances remain limited as law enforcement continues their investigation.

    Emergency response teams promptly arrived at the scene following the attack and transported the wounded restaurateur to medical facilities. Hospital authorities have maintained the victim’s condition confidential, providing no updates regarding the severity of his injuries or his current prognosis. The victim remains under professional medical supervision as he receives necessary treatment.

    Local police have initiated a comprehensive investigation into the armed robbery but have not yet made any arrests in connection with the case. Law enforcement officials have declined to disclose whether monetary assets or other valuables were stolen during the criminal act. The investigation remains active with authorities pursuing multiple leads to identify and apprehend the perpetrators responsible for this violent assault on a local business owner.