Carib Scope

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  • Citizens’ group optimistic but cautious about EMA curbing Carnival noise

    Citizens’ group optimistic but cautious about EMA curbing Carnival noise

    Environmental regulators in Trinidad and Tobago have unveiled a four-point strategy to address persistent noise pollution concerns during Carnival celebrations, drawing measured approval from community advocates who remain skeptical about implementation effectiveness.

    The Environmental Management Authority (EMA) announced enhanced oversight protocols on January 15, including mandatory publication of noise variation notices on its official website, requirement for event organizers to submit detailed proximity maps identifying residential areas, special protection measures for noise-sensitive zones like hospitals, and targeted monitoring of venues with previous noise complaints.

    Lindy-Ann Bachoo, Vice President of Citizens Against Noise Pollution (CANPTT), acknowledged the proposals as a positive initial step while expressing significant reservations about enforcement mechanisms. Her primary concern centers on the apparent reliance on self-regulation by event promoters, a approach she characterizes as historically ineffective.

    “Who is verifying pre-event preparations and post-compliance?” Bachoo questioned during her dialogue with Newsday. “These noise mitigation plans may appear comprehensive on paper, but without rigorous onsite verification, they remain theoretical promises.”

    The advocacy leader specifically challenged the practicality of promoter-operated complaint hotlines, noting: “When residents experience excessive noise and receive no response from event lines, or obtain merely conciliatory assurances without actual intervention, the system fails its fundamental purpose.”

    Bachoo highlighted critical gaps in the proposed framework, particularly the absence of clearly defined penalties for violations and no established protocol for repeat offenders. She further questioned whether the EMA possesses adequate staffing capacity for meaningful enforcement, referencing previous congressional testimony where officials acknowledged operating with approximately one-third of their required personnel.

    The longstanding tension between cultural celebration and community welfare remains evident in Bachoo’s concluding remarks: “When profitability takes precedence over people’s wellbeing, and promoters demonstrate indifference to how their operations affect surrounding communities, regulatory intentions must translate into actionable enforcement.”

  • Antigua and Barbuda gov’t denies outbreak of dengue

    Antigua and Barbuda gov’t denies outbreak of dengue

    ST JOHN’S, Antigua – Health authorities in Antigua and Barbuda have officially refuted circulating concerns about a potential dengue fever outbreak, confirming that epidemiological indicators remain within normal parameters. Health Minister Sir Molwyn Joseph presented comprehensive surveillance data to the Cabinet during its weekly session, demonstrating that mosquito-borne illnesses are maintaining expected baseline levels nationwide.

    Communications Director Maurice Merchant delivered the ministerial update, stating that current laboratory-confirmed data shows no unusual patterns in dengue or other arboviral diseases. This announcement comes in response to growing public anxiety fueled by anecdotal reports of increased dengue-like symptoms and alleged rises in hospital visits for suspected cases.

    Despite claims from some residents about potential underreporting – including one individual recovering from dengue who reported multiple similar cases in their community – official statistics reveal a consistent downward trend. Epidemiological records show just two confirmed dengue cases in 2022, followed by a significant spike to 106 cases in 2023. This number substantially decreased to 18 cases in 2024 and further dropped to 11 cases in 2025. Notably, no laboratory-confirmed dengue cases have been recorded thus far in 2026.

    The health ministry’s surveillance extends beyond dengue to include other mosquito-borne illnesses. Zika virus recorded only two confirmed cases last year with no infections detected in 2022-2024 or the current year. Similarly, chikungunya, Oropouche fever, and yellow fever have maintained zero laboratory-confirmed cases from 2020 through present.

    Cabinet officials concluded that arboviral activity remains ‘low and controlled’ with no evidence of sustained transmission or outbreak conditions. The Ministry of Health maintains active surveillance systems designed for early detection and rapid response should disease patterns change. Merchant assured residents that the public would receive immediate notification if surveillance data indicates any elevated risk, emphasizing there is currently no cause for alarm.

  • Haiti’s security forces target Barbecue’s ‘stronghold’ in operation

    Haiti’s security forces target Barbecue’s ‘stronghold’ in operation

    Haitian security forces launched a coordinated assault this week on the fortified headquarters of notorious gang leader Jimmy ‘Barbecue’ Cherizier in Port-au-Prince’s Delmas 6 district. The operation, conducted jointly by the Haitian National Police (PNH), Armed Forces of Haiti (FAD’H), and specialized Gang Suppression Force (GSF), targeted the core operational base of Cherizier’s ‘Viv Ansanm’ armed coalition.

    Visual evidence from the raid circulated online depicts substantial explosive ordnance detonating at the location, with at least one structure completely demolished and adjacent buildings suffering collateral damage. A massive plume of smoke billowed over the capital neighborhood following the explosion. Official casualty reports remain pending as authorities continue assessing the operation’s outcomes.

    The 48-year-old Cherizier, a former police officer turned gang leader, evaded capture during the assault. His Viv Ansanm alliance controls significant portions of Haiti’s capital and stands accused of perpetrating hundreds of killings, sexual violence incidents, and sustained armed confrontations against state security forces. The coalition’s stated objective involves overthrowing the provisional government established after President Jovenel Moise’s July 2021 assassination.

    International pressure against Cherizier continues mounting, with both United Nations sanctions and a US$5 million reward from the United States Department of State for information leading to his capture. This security operation coincides with Haiti’s approaching political milestone—the February 7 expiration of the current transitional government’s mandate.

    The Caribbean Community’s Eminent Persons Group recently urged Haitian stakeholders to prioritize national patriotism during this critical juncture, emphasizing self-determination for the crisis-stricken nation facing compounded security and governance challenges.

  • Guyana’s anti-drugs agency warns of threats to minors after cannabis vape cartridges seized

    Guyana’s anti-drugs agency warns of threats to minors after cannabis vape cartridges seized

    GEORGETOWN, Guyana — Guyana’s Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU) has issued a public health alert following the seizure of multiple cannabis vape cartridges on Thursday, identifying them as a high-risk emerging threat particularly targeting minors. The agency revealed these THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) cartridges potentially contain poisonous chemical additives that pose serious health dangers.

    CANU officials emphasized that these illicit vaping products expose users to dangerously high concentrations of THC alongside unknown chemical compounds, creating significant short-term and long-term health hazards. The seizure operation uncovered multiple branded THC cannabis vapes that represent an alarming shift toward importing high-potency cannabis concentrates disguised as consumer vaping products.

    Notably, the confiscated items feature colorful, professionally printed packaging specifically designed to appeal to younger demographics, raising concerns about rapid proliferation among youth populations if circulation remains unchecked. The chemical composition and potential contaminants remain unknown, with samples currently earmarked for comprehensive laboratory analysis.

    CANU clarified that under Guyana’s Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (Control) Act, Cap 10:10, these substances remain completely illegal regardless of packaging, branding, or foreign “medical use” labels. The legislation explicitly classifies cannabis and its derivatives—including the cannabis plant, resin, extracts, tinctures, THC, and any THC-containing products—as controlled substances. This prohibition specifically encompasses live resin and THC vape oil as banned cannabis resins and extracts.

    The agency stressed that possession, trafficking, importation, or sale of these products violates Guyanese law, and the “medical use only” labels hold no legal standing within the country. None of these labels correspond to approvals from the Guyana Food and Drug Department, local licensing authorities, Guyana Forensics Laboratory testing, or any legal cannabis framework in Guyana.

    CANU’s early warning system actively monitors trends, packaging styles, chemical profiles, and trafficking patterns associated with concentrated cannabis products. Once flagged, this system generates alerts, provides guidance to frontline officers, and contributes actionable intelligence to national enforcement operations.

  • Three arrested in Trinidad after multi-million dollar drug bust

    Three arrested in Trinidad after multi-million dollar drug bust

    PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad — A significant law enforcement operation in the Beetham Gardens area has resulted in a major drug interdiction and three arrests, the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) confirmed this week. The operation, executed under the nation’s current state of emergency and its Emergency Powers Regulations of 2025, targeted a residential property suspected of narcotics trafficking. During a systematic search of the premises, conducted with the occupants present, officers uncovered a substantial cache of illicit substances. The discovery consisted of 111 multi-colored, rectangular packages, all containing high-grade cannabis. The total weight of the seized marijuana was precisely measured at 78.52 kilograms. Law enforcement officials estimated its potential market value at a staggering TT$8,617,334.44, equivalent to approximately US$1.38 million. Consequently, three individuals were taken into custody: two men, aged 45 and 32, and one woman of undisclosed age. All three suspects are slated for a court appearance to face formal charges related to the possession and intended distribution of the controlled substance. This bust represents one of the more significant seizures in recent operations, highlighting continued efforts to combat drug trafficking amidst the ongoing state of emergency.

  • Westmoreland residents get water, light as JPS restores electricity to Roaring River pump

    Westmoreland residents get water, light as JPS restores electricity to Roaring River pump

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Following an intensive reconstruction effort, the Jamaica Public Service Company (JPS) has successfully reinstated electrical power to the National Water Commission’s (NWC) crucial Roaring River pump station. This vital infrastructure serves numerous communities across Westmoreland, marking a significant milestone in restoring normalcy to the region.

    The re-energization process was finalized on Wednesday evening, with comprehensive system testing confirming stable power delivery to the facility. According to JPS officials, the reactivated electrical lines are now simultaneously providing electricity to both the water pump and residential JPS customers in adjacent areas including Petersfield, Waterworks, and Shrewsbury Falls.

    The extensive restoration project presented substantial engineering challenges, requiring the complete reconstruction of more than 10 miles of electrical transmission infrastructure. Crews worked from the power generation source at JPS’s Paradise substation all the way to the NWC’s Roaring River pumping facility. The monumental effort mobilized over 100 line technicians who coordinated their expertise to accelerate project completion amidst challenging conditions.

    This achievement represents a critical step in reestablishing reliable water services for Westmoreland residents who depend on the NWC’s distribution system. The simultaneous restoration of residential power to surrounding communities provides additional relief to households affected by previous service interruptions.

  • Drip Rick Vi and Byron Messia winning with melody

    Drip Rick Vi and Byron Messia winning with melody

    British dancehall sensation Drip Rick Vi is rapidly ascending as one of the genre’s most promising international talents, leveraging a series of successful singles and strategic collaborations that are expanding his reach beyond UK borders. The artist’s growing prominence stems from his partnership with Byron Messia on the track ‘NBA 2 (Killy Dem)’, which has demonstrated remarkable organic growth and chart potential.

    Drip Rick Vi attributes the collaborative success to the seamless fusion of captivating melodies and infectious rhythms that characterize the track. ‘The composition naturally invites audience participation while maintaining an exceptional flow,’ the artist explained. ‘The creative synergy was immediate and authentic, and we’re witnessing genuine organic expansion. I’m confident this track will achieve chart recognition shortly.’

    Beyond this collaboration, the UK-based performer maintains his upward trajectory with other notable releases including ‘Rule Book’ and ‘Ghetto Ute’, the latter featuring dancehall heavyweight Intence. The artist characterizes ‘Rule Book’ – the secondary single from his recently released EP ‘Vi’ – as arguably his most impactful work to date.

    ‘Rule Book transcends conventional music boundaries to serve as a philosophical compass for living,’ Drip Rick Vi elaborated. ‘This composition emerged from profound introspection and emotional authenticity, created specifically to inspire younger generations who represent our collective future.’

    The emerging dancehall star is currently dedicating his efforts to promoting his comprehensive 10-track EP ‘Vi’, which showcases his artistic evolution and establishes his distinctive position within the contemporary dancehall landscape.

  • Walker: Bahamas is a valued partner, not just another pretty island

    Walker: Bahamas is a valued partner, not just another pretty island

    Amid recent shifts in US immigration policy, American Ambassador Herschel Walker has emphatically reinforced the United States’ commitment to its strategic alliance with The Bahamas. Speaking at the 35th annual Bahamas Business Outlook held at Baha Mar, Ambassador Walker characterized the relationship as extending far beyond conventional diplomatic ties, describing The Bahamas as a “valued friend and partner” rather than merely another picturesque Caribbean destination.

    The ambassador articulated a vision of sustained bilateral cooperation focused on addressing shared challenges including narcotics trafficking, unauthorized migration, cybersecurity vulnerabilities, and supply chain disruptions. He emphasized that American engagement transcends temporary assistance, instead prioritizing long-term investments designed to foster sustainable development and economic empowerment for Bahamian citizens.

    Walker highlighted concrete examples of US-backed economic initiatives, including his recent inspection of Royal Caribbean’s $200 million Beach Club development. He additionally referenced the resumed SpaceX booster landings in Exuma Sound, suggesting this collaboration could potentially elevate The Bahamas into a significant participant within the burgeoning space economy.

    These reaffirmations follow the United States’ implementation of a temporary suspension on immigrant visa processing for approximately 75 nations, including The Bahamas. Importantly, this policy adjustment does not affect non-immigrant, student, or business visas for Bahamian applicants, preserving travel access under existing bilateral agreements.

    In related developments, Bahamian Foreign Affairs Minister Fred Mitchell addressed migration concerns, explicitly advising citizens residing unlawfully in the United States to regularize their status or return home. Minister Mitchell acknowledged the sovereign right of nations to establish entry requirements, provided they are implemented fairly without racial or discriminatory bias, while simultaneously emphasizing that lawful migration pathways to the US remain accessible through proper procedures.

  • Watson: I will step down as GM of ZNS if nominated

    Watson: I will step down as GM of ZNS if nominated

    In a significant political development, Clint Watson, the General Manager of ZNS and prospective candidate for the Southern Shores constituency, has publicly committed to stepping down from his current executive role should he successfully obtain the Progressive Liberal Party’s (PLP) nomination. Watson made this declaration to journalists immediately following his interview session with the PLP Candidates Committee at the party’s headquarters on Tuesday evening.

    Emphasizing his determination and preparedness for the electoral battle, Watson stated, ‘My fundamental objective is to venture out and achieve victory. I possess the requisite capabilities and strategic approach to secure a win.’ He characterized the committee interview as a constructive dialogue focused primarily on articulating his visionary roadmap for Southern Shores and addressing the critical needs of its residents.

    Reflecting on his presentation, Watson expressed strong confidence, noting, ‘I feel exceedingly positive about the proceedings. My discussion centered on a pragmatic and continuously evolving development plan for the constituency. I articulated our commitment to sustaining a legacy of renewing hope and expanding opportunities for the people of Southern Shores. Conveying this message was effortless because it reflects the tangible work we are already engaged in—it isn’t fabricated; it’s reality.’

    Watson received robust endorsement from former Tall Pines MP Leslie Miller, who was present during the media interaction. Miller lauded Watson as ‘among the most exceptional candidates within our ranks’ and emphatically declared, ‘He is the ideal representative for Southern Shores. No alternative candidate could surpass his qualifications and dedication. I will exclusively campaign for Clint Watson and no other individual.’

    This political activity occurs against a backdrop of ongoing friction within the Southern Shores PLP branch. Tensions escalated during a contentious meeting on January 5th that culminated in heated exchanges between supporters of Watson and those of his rival, Obie Roberts—the PLP’s deputy chairman and son of former party chairman Bradley Roberts. Roberts, who was also interviewed by the committee on the same evening, opted not to engage with the press.

    Amidst these internal dynamics, Watson reaffirmed his belief in unity through shared purpose. ‘When you operate with a clear sense of mission, unity naturally follows because you present a coherent plan for the people,’ he asserted, underscoring his campaign’s philosophy of collective progress over division.

  • Five schools seek back-to-back double in rural junior football

    Five schools seek back-to-back double in rural junior football

    Four Jamaican secondary institutions are poised to continue their flawless performance streaks as the Inter-Secondary Schools Sports Association (ISSA) Rural Area junior football championships progress this week. Cornwall College, Browns Town High, Bellefield High, and Manchester High have each secured decisive victories in both Under-14 and Under-16 divisions during the tournament’s opening matches, establishing early dominance in the competition.

    The tournament, traditionally held during the Christmas academic term, underwent rescheduling due to disruptions caused by Hurricane Melissa’s passage in late October. This meteorological event forced organizers to rearrange the sporting calendar, demonstrating the resilience of Jamaica’s interscholastic athletic programs despite climatic challenges.

    Cornwall College emerges as particularly formidable after delivering spectacular 8-0 triumphs in both age categories against Maldon High on Tuesday. The team now prepares to confront St James High in both divisional matches at Jarrett Park, where St James High seeks redemption after recording draws against Herbert Morrison Technical in their previous encounters.

    Meanwhile, Browns Town High, fresh from victories over Aboukir High, will challenge Ferncourt High in upcoming fixtures. Simultaneously, Bellefield High is set to compete against Alphansus Davis High, while Manchester High faces DeCarteret College in what promises to be compelling displays of youthful football talent across multiple venues.

    The rescheduled tournament highlights both the competitive spirit of Jamaica’s rural area schools and the administrative flexibility required to maintain sporting traditions amid natural disruptions, offering student-athletes continued opportunities for athletic excellence and sportsmanship development.