Carib Scope

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  • Victoria Deonarine’s record dive moves freediving into national spotlight

    Victoria Deonarine’s record dive moves freediving into national spotlight

    The sport of freediving in Trinidad and Tobago stands poised for transformative development following a pivotal meeting between national record-holder Victoria Deonarine and Minister of Sport and Youth Affairs Phillip Watts. The December 9 discussion at the ministry’s offices marked a potential turning point for the previously niche activity, now positioned for recognition as an official national discipline.

    The 18-year-old Williamsville student, accompanied by coaches Saif Mohammed and Danielle Bachew, detailed her recent athletic breakthrough at the Blue Element competition in Dominica. On November 21, Deonarine shattered her own national record by achieving a remarkable 45-meter dive, capturing ministerial attention and sparking institutional interest.

    Minister Watts, having monitored Deonarine’s performance during the international event, initiated the post-competition meeting where he committed substantive support for her international competitive aspirations. This institutional endorsement represents a significant advancement for both the young athlete’s career and the sport’s development within the Caribbean nation.

    Deonarine described the challenges previously facing freediving enthusiasts, including inadequate funding structures, underdeveloped club infrastructure, and limited training facilities. Her earlier application for Elite Athlete Assistance failed to materialize, forcing reliance on community donations from friends, family, and strangers to finance her Dominica participation.

    Training limitations further complicated her preparation. Requests to utilize the National Aquatics Centre proved unsuccessful, while corporate facilities required club affiliations impossible for unrecognized sports. Deonarine consequently conducts most depth training in northwestern peninsula waters capable of accommodating 40-plus meter dives, with alternative sites in Las Cuevas and Speyside, Tobago proving logistically impractical for regular training.

    The ministerial recognition effectively addresses these systemic barriers. Deonarine emphasized how this support “could make it a lot easier for me to compete in future competitions” while acknowledging Watts’ recognition of her “potential to be on that same level as international competitors.”

    Beyond personal athletic ambitions, Deonarine envisions broader developmental impacts. “This meeting basically takes one step to make the sport into a club or a community,” she noted, expressing particular enthusiasm about “the growth that the sport’s getting” through institutional validation.

    The St Stephen’s College student maintains ambitious objectives extending beyond national records to international competition and inspirational representation. “When people see TT athletes in these competitions,” she affirmed, “it means a lot for TT.” With ministerial support now secured, Trinidad and Tobago’s freediving community anticipates accelerated development and competitive emergence on the global stage.

  • Santa Cruz ‘sky juice’ vendor enjoying the fruits of his labour

    Santa Cruz ‘sky juice’ vendor enjoying the fruits of his labour

    KINGSTON, Jamaica—A St. Elizabeth resident has discovered unexpected entrepreneurial success through a refreshing beverage business after several previous ventures failed to thrive. Junior Nelson, who previously worked in construction and operated an unprofitable hotdog stand, has now found his niche selling ‘sky juice’—a popular Jamaican treat consisting of crushed shaved ice flavored with syrup or fruit juice.

    Nelson’s business transformation came as a response to both economic necessity and environmental conditions. His hotdog stand in Santa Cruz struggled to generate sufficient income, prompting him to explore alternative opportunities. The recent Hurricane Melissa, which brought intense heat to the region, created ideal market conditions for chilled beverages as residents sought relief from the sweltering temperatures.

    Now operating for three to four months, Nelson’s sky juice enterprise has become a sustainable livelihood. He offers two flavors—fruit punch and pineapple—priced at 250 Jamaican dollars per cup. The entrepreneur attributes his success not only to market demand but to his customer service approach, emphasizing the importance of treating people with respect while conducting business in public spaces.

    Nelson expressed satisfaction with his current occupation, noting that his product provides refreshment to community members navigating sun-scorched Santa Cruz. His story represents a case study in adaptive entrepreneurship and resilience, demonstrating how local business owners can pivot to meet evolving community needs amid challenging economic and environmental circumstances.

  • Jahmiel releases ‘Don’t Miss Me Now’

    Jahmiel releases ‘Don’t Miss Me Now’

    Dancehall artist Jahmiel has unveiled a poignant new single titled ‘Don’t Miss Me Now,’ featured on the collaborative ‘Mix Feelings’ riddim produced by Flip Money Records and VX Records. The track appears on a compilation released approximately one month ago under the creative direction of renowned producer and performer Flippa Moggela (also known as Flippa Mafia).

    The emotionally resonant composition forms part of a strategic curation that brings together several prominent dancehall talents, including Chronic Law, Nhance, Tishaine, and Flippa Moggela himself. According to Moggela, the project specifically sought out lyrical specialists to ensure depth and connectivity in the musical offerings.

    ‘This compilation demanded exceptional songwriting prowess,’ Moggela explained. ‘I intentionally selected artists who would dedicate time to crafting meaningful content. Jahmiel’s contribution particularly stands out for its melodic sophistication and emotional depth, exploring the complexities of romantic relationships—a thematic area I believe deserves more attention within contemporary dancehall.’

    The producer emphasized his commitment to providing each track with substantial promotional support, noting the project’s significant mainstream potential. Moggela’s own collaboration with Lawboss addresses reality-based themes, while other artists on the riddim have contributed distinctive topical perspectives.

    Jahmiel, celebrated for previous hits including ‘Gain The World,’ ‘U Me Luv,’ ‘Strongest Soldiers,’ and ‘Where Were You,’ continues to demonstrate his artistic versatility with this latest release. ‘Don’t Miss Me Now’ is now available across all major digital streaming platforms.

  • Augustine proud of ‘reversal’ of Tobago murder rate

    Augustine proud of ‘reversal’ of Tobago murder rate

    In a recent political address, Tobago House of Assembly (THA) Chief Secretary Farley Augustine declared significant progress in combating the island’s crime epidemic under his Tobago People’s Party (TPP) administration. Speaking at a December 11th party gathering in Patience Hill, Augustine acknowledged the troubling legacy of 2023 recording 24 homicides—the highest in Tobago’s modern history—followed by 14 murders the previous year.

    Augustine emphasized that despite constitutional limitations placing national security under central government jurisdiction, the THA implemented independent strategies that have dramatically reduced violent crime. “We have successfully reversed the alarming murder trend through strategic investments in youth development and security infrastructure,” Augustine stated, contrasting Tobago’s improved statistics with other Trinidadian regions.

    The Chief Secretary revealed that Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar has endorsed his proposal for establishing a localized police force—a radical measure Augustine deems essential for Tobago’s unique security challenges. He criticized current maritime surveillance failures, citing instances where criminals escaped via watercraft without interception by Coast Guard vessels hampered by logistical constraints.

    Augustine’s address simultaneously served as an endorsement rally for Nigel Taitt, the TPP’s prospective candidate for Patience Hill/Signal Hill district. Taitt, who previously unseated former PNM Tobago Council leader Tracy Davidson-Celestine, currently oversees Food Security, Natural Resources, and Sustainable Development portfolios.

    The political leader confidently predicted electoral victory on January 12, 2026, asserting the TPP’s governance outperforms any previous four-year PNM administration. Taitt outlined forthcoming infrastructure projects including connector bridges, road paving initiatives, community center upgrades, and recreational facility construction, positioning himself as a hands-on public servant committed to district development.

  • Dawn 7th overall at IFBB Battle of the Bay Pro Show

    Dawn 7th overall at IFBB Battle of the Bay Pro Show

    IFBB professional athlete Dawn Charlton has concluded her competitive season with a seventh-place finish at the Battle of the Bay Pro Show in Union City, California, navigating the complex and often contradictory world of bodybuilding judging. The paralegal assistant, standing 5-foot-7, competed in the masters 40-plus bikini division against a field of 15 elite competitors, with the top honors ultimately claimed by Alla Afanasyrva, Chunyan Wilburn, and Ladel Lyn Ladner.

    This event marked Charlton’s third competition this year, following a second-place result at the Daytona Pro and a fourth-place finish at the Atlantic Coast Pro in Fort Lauderdale. The California show presented a particular challenge, as Charlton received conflicting advice from judges. After her previous performance, she was instructed to appear leaner; however, at this event, the head judge advised her to present a fuller physique. Charlton described the experience as confusing, noting the highly subjective nature of the sport where different judges prioritize different attributes.

    Despite the judging complexities, Charlton emphasized the positive aspects of the competition experience, including networking opportunities and the chance to compete against top-tier athletes. She highlighted the significance of having performed before two head judges for The Olympia, the sport’s most prestigious event, increasing her visibility within the competitive circuit.

    Looking ahead, Charlton has already begun preparations for her next competition scheduled for April 2026. Her training focus will involve increasing carbohydrate intake to develop a fuller physical presentation while maintaining her dedicated vegan nutrition plan. Financial considerations remain a factor in her competitive future, as IFBB athletes typically self-fund their competition expenses without governmental support.

    The former soccer and track athlete expressed gratitude for her support system, acknowledging her American coach Paul Riveria, mentor Joel Stubbs, her mother Mavis Charlton, friend Elroy Weise, her MacFit training community, colleagues at Providence Law, and her broader network of family and friends.

  • Grand Market set for Water Square; Falmouth mayor urges orderly staging

    Grand Market set for Water Square; Falmouth mayor urges orderly staging

    FALMOUTH, Trelawny — Demonstrating resilience in the face of adversity, the historic Water Square in Falmouth will host its traditional annual Grand Market from December 24 to 28, despite ongoing recovery efforts from Hurricane Melissa. Mayor Councillor C Junior Gager made the official announcement during the monthly assembly of the Trelawny Municipal Corporation (TMC), striking a note of determined optimism.

    Mayor Gager, who also chairs the TMC, issued a concerted appeal to both vendors and attendees, emphasizing that the event requires coordinated management rather than unstructured celebration. “This is not a free-for-all,” he stated. “We are urging all participants to coordinate with the Revenue Services Department for proper tent placement and layout. Although the hurricane has shaken us, we are committed to ensuring no one feels neglected.”

    The municipal Revenue Services Department will oversee the arrangement of stalls and vending tents to maintain clear public access and prevent obstruction of key roadways in the town center. In addition to market activities, the mayor revealed plans to include live entertainment, pending authorization from local police authorities. An application has been submitted to the superintendent of police for the necessary approvals.

    Gager highlighted the psychological value of the event, noting, “We want to look merry and feel merry. This is an opportunity for our community to relieve stress and, even if briefly, shift focus away from the damages endured.”

    The timing of the Grand Market coincides with the expected arrival of cruise ships in Falmouth, offering an opportunity to showcase local culture and festivity to international visitors. The mayor expressed hope that tourists would be drawn to the vibrant atmosphere at Water Square.

    Despite the celebratory plans, Gager acknowledged the lingering hardship many residents face due to Hurricane Melissa. He extended Christmas wishes to all stakeholders while recognizing that recovery is still underway for many. Due to budget limitations, the TMC will not hold its annual staff party this year, though planned holiday treats for children and senior citizens will proceed unchanged.

  • Afreximbank donates to Hurricane Melissa recovery in Jamaica, Haiti

    Afreximbank donates to Hurricane Melissa recovery in Jamaica, Haiti

    CAIRO, Egypt – In a significant move to support post-hurricane recovery, the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) has announced a financial donation totaling US$1.1 million for the governments of Jamaica and Haiti. This commitment follows the catastrophic passage of Hurricane Melissa through the northern Caribbean in October, which caused extensive damage to these member states of the bank.

    Afreximbank President Dr. George Elombi formalized the allocation through official letters of solidarity, designating US$600,000 for Jamaica and US$500,000 for Haiti. This decision was precipitated by recent high-level discussions between Dr. Elombi and Haitian Transitional Presidential Council Chairman Laurent Saint-Cyr, as well as Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness. During these meetings, Dr. Elombi conveyed the institution’s profound condolences and reinforced its dedication to aiding the nations’ reconstruction endeavors.

    Beyond immediate financial aid, Dr. Elombi indicated that the bank plans to collaborate with national agencies to develop comprehensive country programs aimed at bolstering long-term recovery projects. The bank’s Caribbean Office, headquartered in Barbados, has been tasked with initiating dialogues with both governments to identify and implement further support mechanisms for the extensive reconstruction process.

    The destructive force of Hurricane Melissa resulted in a tragic loss of at least 45 lives in Jamaica and inflicted an estimated US$9 billion in damages across the region. Dr. Elombi emphasized the bank’s recognition of the severe impact on critical infrastructure and community livelihoods, stating, “We remain steadfast in our support for recovery and restoration efforts and in building our collective resilience against future climate shocks.

    This event occurs within the annual Caribbean hurricane season, which spans from June to November and is increasingly producing more intense storms due to climate change. Researchers have linked the exceptional severity of Hurricane Melissa, noted as one of the most powerful Atlantic storms on record, to unusually high ocean temperatures in the region this year.

    This initiative continues Afreximbank’s pattern of regional support, building on its 2024 contribution of over US$500,000 for relief efforts in Caribbean nations affected by Hurricane Beryl. The bank reaffirmed its ongoing strategy to work with regional governments to devise long-term financing solutions that enhance climate resilience, restore economic stability, and fortify essential infrastructure against future natural disasters.

  • Caribbean nationals detained in major coke seizure

    Caribbean nationals detained in major coke seizure

    A significant multinational law enforcement operation in the British Virgin Islands (BVI) has culminated in the arrest of six Caribbean nationals and the confiscation of a substantial cocaine shipment. The suspects, now facing serious drug trafficking charges, were apprehended following intelligence reports of suspicious maritime activities within territorial waters.

    The detained individuals have been identified as Candido Rios Quezada (St Kitts and Nevis national); Francisco Mejia Ortiz, 21; Joel Santana Santos, 39; Jermife Toribio Vasquez, 40; Cesar Diaz Abrahim, 30; and Ronald James, 49, representing both the Dominican Republic and Trinidad and Tobago. Legal proceedings have commenced against them for importation of a controlled substance and four counts of possession with intent to supply.

    Authorities revealed that the coordinated response involved multiple agencies including BVI customs, the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF), United States Customs and Border Protection, and the Caricom Joint Regional Command Centre. The operation successfully intercepted a vessel engaged in illicit trafficking, recovering 772.4 kilograms of cocaine without incident during the apprehension.

    This seizure continues a pattern of successful anti-narcotics operations in the region. In March 2024, authorities made a historic seizure of approximately 1,800 kilograms of cocaine near Hodges Creek, Tortola, followed by another significant interception of 1,440 kilograms off Virgin Gorda in June 2025.

    Acting Police Commissioner Richard Ullger praised the collaborative effort, emphasizing its impact on regional criminal networks. “This seizure demonstrates what can be achieved when law enforcement agencies work together with precision, intelligence and determination,” Ullger stated. “The removal of more than 770 kilograms of cocaine from circulation represents a major blow to organized crime.” Ullger further commended all participating officers and partner agencies for their professionalism and dedication to safeguarding the Virgin Islands. The estimated street value of the confiscated narcotics was not disclosed by authorities.

  • PBR compliance unit begins operations on December 15

    PBR compliance unit begins operations on December 15

    In a significant move to enhance traffic management and regulatory enforcement, Trinidad and Tobago’s Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation has established a specialized Traffic Warden Priority Bus Route Compliance Unit. The official inauguration ceremony took place at the ministry’s headquarters in Port of Spain, presided over by Transport Minister Eli Zakour.

    The newly formed unit, which becomes fully operational on December 15, represents a strategic initiative to address persistent traffic challenges along the critical Priority Bus Route (PBR). Minister Zakour emphasized that the unit will provide dedicated, on-the-ground monitoring and traffic management at key points throughout the route, significantly improving oversight capabilities and facilitating smoother transit operations.

    The launch event witnessed the presence of prominent officials including Permanent Secretary Nicolette Duke and retired Senior Superintendent of Police Neville ‘Toco Burroughs’ Sankar, who serves as chief traffic warden. Duke reaffirmed the indispensable role of traffic wardens in maintaining order on the nation’s roadways and pledged the ministry’s full support for the unit’s operational duties.

    The Compliance Unit will work in coordination with enforcement agencies to conduct daily monitoring operations, ensuring that access to the Priority Bus Route remains restricted to authorized vehicles only. This specialized force is expected to substantially reinforce adherence to traffic regulations and strengthen overall compliance mechanisms along this vital transportation corridor.

  • Cops seize $56m in ganja in Point Fortin

    Cops seize $56m in ganja in Point Fortin

    In a significant blow to narcotics trafficking networks, Trinidad and Tobago police authorities have intercepted approximately $56 million worth of marijuana in a remote forested area near Cap-De-Ville, Point Fortin. The operation, executed on December 11 between 4:30 PM and 8:30 PM, resulted in the confiscation of 23 substantial bales of the illicit substance.

    Commissioner of Police Allister Guevarro personally oversaw the strategic operation alongside Senior Superintendent Thompson, with coordination handled by Assistant Superintendents Forbes, Corrie, and Lewis. The multi-unit effort involved personnel from Special Branch South and the South Western Division, demonstrating coordinated law enforcement capabilities.

    Following the seizure, specialized crime scene investigators PC Telesford and PC Ramdass meticulously processed the remote location before transferring evidence to the Special Investigations Unit for comprehensive analysis and follow-up operations.

    Commissioner Guevarro emphasized the broader implications of such interventions, stating: ‘The value of these major seizures extends beyond monetary calculations to encompass the countless lives protected from narcotics devastation. While criminal networks profit from human suffering, our police service remains dedicated to dismantling their operations and stripping them of illegal revenues.’

    The Trinidad and Tobago Police Service reaffirmed its commitment to intelligence-driven anti-crime strategies targeting serious offenses and narcotics activities nationwide, signaling continued aggressive measures against organized crime syndicates.