Carib Scope

作者： admin

  • Teacher jailed in US for conspiring to provide guns to Trinidad-based gang

    Teacher jailed in US for conspiring to provide guns to Trinidad-based gang

    A 47-year-old Florida educator has been sentenced to federal prison for her role in an international weapons smuggling operation targeting Trinidad and Tobago. United States District Judge William Jung delivered the sentence of one year and one day imprisonment to Shannon Nicole Samlalsingh, following her June 2025 guilty plea to conspiracy charges involving false statements to firearm dealers.

    Court documents reveal that Samlalsingh, formerly employed as a high school teacher in Hillsborough County, systematically purchased seven firearms under false pretenses. She completed mandatory Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) documentation falsely claiming the weapons were for personal use, while actually transferring them to members of a Trinidad-based transnational criminal organization.

    The sophisticated smuggling operation unraveled in April 2022 when Trinidad and Tobago authorities intercepted a suspicious shipment at Piarco International Airport. Concealed within two punching bags were numerous weapons including eleven 9mm pistols, revolvers, a semi-automatic shotgun, and substantial ammunition. Forensic analysis confirmed Samlalsingh had purchased four of the confiscated firearms: a SAR-9 9mm pistol, Ruger-9 pistol, and two Taurus models.

    Judge Jung’s sentence included mandatory forfeiture of all firearms acquired through the criminal scheme. The complex international investigation involved Homeland Security Investigations, including their Caribbean Attaché office, ATF agents, and collaborative support from Trinidad and Tobago Police Service alongside multiple U.S. law enforcement agencies.

  • Fitz-Henley tasks G2K with budget communication

    Fitz-Henley tasks G2K with budget communication

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Senior Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) official Abka Fitz-Henley has called upon the party’s young professional arm, Generation 2000 (G2K), to actively educate citizens about the national budget currently under parliamentary debate. Addressing the G2K Portmore Chapter at the Youth Innovation Centre in Edgewater, Fitz-Henley emphasized the budget’s presentation during exceptionally difficult circumstances.

    The JLP Communication Taskforce Chairman highlighted the dual challenges of Hurricane Melissa’s devastation, which wiped out over 50% of Jamaica’s GDP, and ongoing global economic uncertainties. “This budget has been meticulously crafted and is now being debated at perhaps one of the most challenging periods in our nation’s recent history,” Fitz-Henley stated.

    He urged G2K members to adopt a sensitive communication approach: “Now is the time for G2K not to be boastful in its utterances but to be mindful of the hardships affecting segments of our population while explaining the budget’s provisions.”

    Fitz-Henley also cautioned against distractions from opposition tactics, noting: “The Opposition remains in apparent shock over their electoral defeat. Some had already been preparing to access the spoils of political office before the election, which explains their current desperation for power.”

    Additionally, he encouraged G2K to help maintain the spirit of unity that emerged during Hurricane Melissa’s aftermath. “As I toured affected areas, I witnessed remarkable camaraderie where communities supported neighbors during disaster. We must extend this collaborative spirit across society as we navigate ongoing challenges,” Fitz-Henley concluded.

  • War in the Middle East: latest developments

    War in the Middle East: latest developments

    The Middle East conflict entered a perilous new phase on Monday as Israel launched extensive aerial strikes against multiple Iranian cities, including Tehran, Shiraz, and Tabriz. This escalation marks a significant intensification of the US-Israeli military campaign against the Islamic Republic, now entering its third week.

    According to an AFP journalist, explosions rocked central Tehran amid the offensive. In response, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi declared Tehran’s readiness to pursue the conflict “as far as necessary,” warning that Israel and the United States were dealing with “a nation that does not hesitate to defend itself.”

    The strategic Strait of Hormuz emerged as a critical flashpoint, with international efforts underway to secure the vital waterway. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer revealed that London was collaborating with allies to develop a “viable” plan to reopen the shipping lane, while emphasizing Britain would not be “drawn into the wider war.” Simultaneously, EU foreign ministers contemplated extending the bloc’s Red Sea naval mission to address the Hormuz crisis.

    Germany distanced itself from the conflict, with Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s spokesman stating the war had “nothing to do with NATO” and emphasizing that “NATO is an alliance for the defence of territory” without mandate for deployment in the current situation.

    Maritime monitors reported a significant development as the Aframax tanker Karachi became the first non-Iranian vessel to transit the Strait of Hormuz with its automatic identification system activated, suggesting possible negotiated safe passage arrangements for select shipments.

    The Israeli military announced expanding operations against Hezbollah, initiating “limited and targeted ground operations” against the group’s strongholds in southern Lebanon through its 91st division.

    Gulf states felt the conflict’s impact directly as the UAE reported a drone attack on Fujairah’s oil infrastructure, sparking a major fire. Saudi Arabia intercepted 61 drones in its eastern region since midnight, while a missile strike in Abu Dhabi killed a Palestinian civilian.

    Despite the violence, Dubai International Airport gradually resumed operations following a suspension caused by a “drone-related incident” that ignited a fuel tank fire nearby. The Emirati defense ministry reported intercepting waves of Iranian drones and missiles without specifying locations.

    Regional diplomacy continued as Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Emirati President Mohamed bin Zayed discussed Iran’s retaliatory strikes, emphasizing “the need for immediate cessation of military escalation” and prioritizing diplomatic solutions.

    The economic ramifications intensified as Brent crude oil prices surged 3% to $106.50 per barrel amid the heightened tensions. Meanwhile, Iran’s national football team maintained plans to participate in the upcoming World Cup despite security concerns raised by former US President Donald Trump.

  • Bostwick ‘saddened’ by Minnis, says FNM faces ‘uphill fight’

    Bostwick ‘saddened’ by Minnis, says FNM faces ‘uphill fight’

    In a significant political assessment, Dame Janet Bostwick—The Bahamas’ groundbreaking first female parliamentarian—has characterized her Free National Movement (FNM) party’s path to victory in the upcoming general election as an “uphill fight.” The revered stateswoman, who shattered glass ceilings by entering Parliament in 1982 and subsequently serving as attorney general and acting prime minister, shared her candid perspectives with journalists last Friday.

    Dame Janet expressed profound disappointment regarding former Prime Minister Dr. Hubert Minnis’ decision to contest the Killarney constituency as an independent candidate following his exclusion from the FNM’s official ticket. While acknowledging his constitutional right to pursue independent candidacy, she voiced concern that this move might potentially tarnish his established political legacy. “Dr. Minnis made great contributions to our party and to the country,” she noted, adding, “I would hope that even at this stage, he may decide to take a different direction.”

    The political pioneer acknowledged existing fractures within FNM ranks, confirming the party hasn’t achieved complete unity. She revealed that a minority faction has chosen to operate outside the official party structure, though she maintained that the organization retains its core base and has simultaneously gained new supporters. Despite these internal challenges, Dame Janet expressed confidence that the party remains well-positioned to effectively contest the impending electoral battle.

    Shifting to gender representation, the celebrated trailblazer welcomed the increasing number of female candidates preparing to contest the election but emphasized the critical need for substantially improved representation in the House of Assembly. With women currently occupying fewer than 25% of parliamentary seats despite constituting approximately half of the national population, Dame Janet advocated for affirmative action measures to ensure women achieve meaningful influence in national decision-making processes.

  • No action against dog killer officer

    No action against dog killer officer

    NASSAU, BAHAMAS – National Security Minister Wayne Munroe has announced that a correctional officer involved in the fatal shooting of a family dog will face no disciplinary action after an internal investigation found no breach of firearm policies. The decision has sparked strong criticism from animal welfare advocates who characterize it as predictable institutional protectionism.

    The incident occurred on March 6 along Soldier Road during a funeral procession for retired correctional officer Andrew Sears. Video evidence circulated widely online shows correctional officers walking with leashed dogs past the property of 92-year-old Bahamian musician Duke Errol Strachan when two resident dogs began barking and approached the procession. One officer, who already had his handgun drawn, fired a single shot that killed Strachan’s three-year-old dog.

    Minister Munroe defended the investigation’s findings, stating that authorities examined all circumstances from the officer’s subjective perspective rather than through hindsight. ‘They looked at all of the facts,’ Munroe stated. ‘For instance, if you discharge a firearm where you may be in danger of causing collateral damage, that would call for discipline. Nothing that would indicate he breached any policy regarding firearm use was found.’

    Bahamas Humane Society President Kim Aranha expressed vehement opposition to the decision, calling the shooting ‘unwarranted’ and the investigation outcome predictable. ‘They’re just protecting themselves,’ Aranha stated. ‘I called it from the beginning. The man killed the dog and the dog was not attacking the man.’

    In response to Munroe’s collateral damage argument, Aranha countered: ‘To me that doesn’t fly. You’re saying that policeman could shoot at something as long as there’s nobody else around? Why was he walking around with his gun unholstered?’

    Meanwhile, the Department of Correctional Services has apologized to Strachan and committed to providing him with a new dog and financial support for its care. Prison Commissioner Doan Cleare emphasized the importance of bringing closure to the matter. Strachan expressed satisfaction with the resolution while still mourning his loss: ‘I appreciate their concern, and they came here to settle it. They’re going to find me a dog.’ The nonagenarian added that while he forgives the officer, he still considers the shooting ‘totally unnecessary.’

  • Constant Spring Arcade vendors willing to pay increased fees

    Constant Spring Arcade vendors willing to pay increased fees

    In a notable shift from typical vendor-municipality dynamics, the leadership at Constant Spring Arcade has expressed conditional support for a potential increase in vendor fees. Carlene Spencer, President of the Vendors’ Association, stated that such an increase would be welcomed provided the additional revenue is directly allocated by the Kingston and St Andrew Municipal Corporation (KSAMC) toward critical infrastructure improvements at the facility.

    The endorsement came during a consultation meeting held Friday, which also served as the reopening ceremony for newly refurbished bathrooms. Spencer specifically cited these upgrades as a tangible reason for her support, noting, “I’m okay with the increase, I welcome an increase—because of changes, because we get two brand new bathrooms.” She identified running water and the development of a dedicated car park as the next essential projects to enhance vendor comfort and operational efficiency.

    Acknowledging the economic pressures of the present time, Spencer demonstrated a pragmatic understanding of the KSAMC’s financial constraints. She referenced the mayor’s point that current operational overheads at the arcade surpass the revenue collected from fees. “We can understand that… We were here preparing to hear we are going to have to pay more. As for me, I am anticipating that,” she remarked, adding a philosophical perspective: “Things and time change. So if we have to pay more, we pay more.”

    Beyond infrastructure, Spencer praised the consultative forum for providing a platform to voice concerns. She expressed profound gratitude for the bathroom renovations, describing their previous state as “deplorable” and labeling the completion of the project as genuine “progress.”

    The association president also addressed internal challenges within the vendor community. She highlighted an issue where some individuals retain shop spaces they no longer actively use due to slow sales, thereby preventing new, eager entrepreneurs from accessing prime business locations. Concluding her remarks, Spencer issued a call to action for her fellow vendors, urging them to consistently meet their rental obligations on time to ensure the arcade’s sustained viability.

  • Spanish Town Police stay positive amidst relegation battle

    Spanish Town Police stay positive amidst relegation battle

    In a tense Jamaica Premier League relegation clash, bottom-placed Spanish Town FC managed a hard-fought 0-0 draw against Tivoli Gardens FC at Royal Lakes Complex on Sunday. Despite playing against ten men for the entire second half following Tivoli midfielder Tkiven Garnett’s dismissal just before halftime, the St. Catherine-based squad couldn’t convert their numerical superiority into a winning goal.

    Head Coach O’Neil ‘Bigga’ Thompson found silver linings in the result, noting: ‘Securing a point and maintaining a clean sheet against a top-six contender provides positive momentum. While our finishing in the final third remains an area requiring improvement, the defensive organization showed significant progress.’

    The stalemate leaves Spanish Town anchored in 14th position with 19 points from 26 matches, still six points from safety with only a handful of games remaining. The debutant club has struggled throughout their inaugural JPL campaign, recording just five victories against seventeen losses.

    Contrasting perspectives emerged from the technical areas. While Thompson viewed the point as evidence of his team’s development since his late-January appointment, Tivoli Gardens’ Jerome Waite characterized the result as ‘a loss’ given his squad’s aspirations for top-six qualification. ‘When pursuing playoff positioning, these are precisely the matches we must win,’ Waite emphasized, expressing frustration over dropped points.

    The weekend’s other JPL action saw Portmore United edge Harbour View 4-2 in a high-scoring affair, while Phoenix Chapelton recorded a 2-0 victory over Dunbeholden. Cavalier SC continued their strong form with a 1-0 away win at Treasure Beach.

  • Montego Bay cool Waterhouse with 4-0 thrashing

    Montego Bay cool Waterhouse with 4-0 thrashing

    In a stunning reversal of fortune, Montego Bay United (MBU) emphatically halted a three-match winless streak with a commanding 4-0 victory against Waterhouse FC at Drewsland Stadium this Sunday. This match marked the commencement of the Jamaica Premier League’s third round and served as a powerful act of redemption for MBU, which had suffered two prior defeats this season at the hands of the same Kingston-based opponent, including a loss just six days earlier.

    The match dynamics shifted decisively in MBU’s favor as they entered halftime with a narrow 1-0 lead before unleashing a relentless offensive in the latter segment of the game, netting three additional goals within the final 23 minutes. This triumph not only terminates Waterhouse FC’s impressive eight-game unbeaten run but also solidifies MBU’s dominance at the league summit, amassing 54 points—a five-point cushion ahead of their closest rival, Mount Pleasant FA.

    Concurrent Sunday fixtures witnessed significant outcomes across the league. Mount Pleasant FA secured a 2-0 victory against Molynes United at Drax Hall, marking their first seasonal win over this opponent. Elsewhere, Portmore United emerged victorious in a high-scoring 4-2 encounter with Harbour View, while defending champions Cavalier SC narrowly defeated Treasure Beach FC 1-0. Chapelton Maroons FC claimed a 2-0 win against Dunbeholden FC, and the match between Tivoli Gardens FC and Spanish Town Police FC concluded in a goalless draw.

    MBU’s offensive prowess was on full display as Timar Lewis initiated the scoring in the 11th minute. The team’s momentum accelerated in the second half with Kimani Arbouine registering his inaugural goal for the club at the 67-minute mark. Brian Brown and Malachi Sterling further extended the lead with goals in the 74th and 83rd minutes respectively. This performance marks the fourth instance this season where MBU has scored four or more goals in a single match, elevating their league-leading goal tally to 49.

    The weekend’s results have precipitated significant shifts in the league standings. Mount Pleasant FA’s victory propelled them to second place temporarily, while Cavalier SC’s fourth consecutive win elevated them to fifth position with 42 points. These outcomes set the stage for an intensely competitive continuation of the Jamaica Premier League season.

  • Machel Montano, Muddy and more to hit the road with GenXS

    Machel Montano, Muddy and more to hit the road with GenXS

    Jamaica’s GenXS Infinit Carnival is poised to deliver an unprecedented festival experience in its fourth annual staging, featuring an electrifying lineup of Caribbean musical talent. Headlining this year’s celebrations are Grenada’s reigning Soca Monarch Muddy, Trinidadian soca legend Machel Montano, and dancehall innovator Klassik Frescobar, all set to ignite lead-up events and the grand road march scheduled for April 12.

    The festival’s directors have committed to surpassing previous editions with enhanced production values and expanded artistic participation. Kibwe McGann, a GenXS director, emphasized the event’s core philosophy: “We’re going to raise the bar as usual. It’s gonna be more excitement, and there’s gonna be more artistes on the road. Infinit is all about energy.”

    Muddy, fresh from his Grenadian victory and international breakthrough with the viral hit ‘Payroll’, expressed enthusiasm for his inaugural Jamaican appearance: “This is my first trip to Jamaica and I want to experience the energy of the people. I will be giving my best, bringing excitement and much more to the road march.”

    The carnival schedule features multiple pre-events including Cooler Babe (April 8), Touch Down at Janga’s (April 9), Friday Jam blending soca and Jamaican rhythms (April 10), Immortals J’Ouvert featuring Muddy (April 11), and the culminating road march with Machel Montano (April 12).

    Corporate Jamaica has demonstrated strong support through major partnerships. Massy Distribution, Pepsi Jamaica, KFC, and Red Stripe have all integrated with the festivities, offering consumer promotions and on-ground refreshment services. Red Stripe Brand Manager Arnaldo Martin noted: “We’ve created that experience in a can on the road to ensure you sustain vibes, energy, and excitement for the entire Carnival season.”

    Government officials have acknowledged the event’s significant economic impact. Delano Seiveright, State Minister for Industry, Investment and Commerce, commended the organizers: “The industry on a whole is critical to the Jamaican economy… It has a huge effect on the economy; the hotels benefit, the airbnb’s, restaurants, cookshops, car rental companies, and much more.”

    The media launch at Terra Nova All-Suite Hotel on March 14, 2026, set the tone for what promises to be Jamaica’s most immersive carnival experience yet, blending Grenadian jab rhythms, Trinidadian soca traditions, and distinctive Jamaican cultural elements.

  • Reggae Garden Cultural Festival already on cards for 2027

    Reggae Garden Cultural Festival already on cards for 2027

    Organizers have confirmed the return of the Reggae Garden Cultural Festival as an annual event following its acclaimed inaugural showcase on February 27th in St. Andrew. The festival, hosted at the Reggae Garden Cultural Centre in Golden Spring, successfully blended emerging talents with reggae heritage, featuring performances by artistes Akupu, Zaudim, and Zale.

    The event’s programming included a special retrospective on dub music presented by veteran audio engineer Clive ‘Dubking’ Jeffrey, offering attendees a deep dive into the genre’s historical roots. Maresha Baxter, a key organizer, reported overwhelmingly positive feedback from the audience, who praised the event’s exceptional atmosphere, musical quality, culinary offerings, and overall venue ambiance.

    Despite its success, the festival encountered logistical challenges, with significant traffic congestion causing delays and resulting in a start time past the scheduled 9:00 pm commencement. The promotional efforts were spearheaded by Baxter in collaboration with Jah Over Evil, a roots collective from Vineyard Town recognized for their instrumental role in Jamaica’s roots-reggae revival movement over the past decade.

    The organizing team also included international expertise with Maarten Hostyn, a respected reggae connoisseur from Belgium. Based on the strong public response and audience demand for an annual event, Baxter has committed to making the festival a permanent fixture on Jamaica’s cultural calendar, with the next iteration already scheduled for February 2027.