Carib Scope

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  • Woman Reports EC$1,800 Phone Theft, Later Targeted in Ransom Demand

    Woman Reports EC$1,800 Phone Theft, Later Targeted in Ransom Demand

    A troubling incident involving theft and digital extortion has emerged, highlighting the vulnerabilities individuals face with lost personal technology. According to police reports, a woman recently filed a complaint regarding a missing premium smartphone valued at approximately EC$1,800 (Eastern Caribbean dollars). The device is believed to have fallen from her possession during a nighttime excursion.

    The situation took a sinister turn several days post-incident when the victim received an unsolicited communication through a messaging application. An unidentified individual, purportedly in possession of the missing device, contacted the woman and made explicit demands for financial compensation in exchange for its return. This attempt to leverage the lost property for monetary gain has transformed a simple case of lost property into a potential criminal extortion scheme.

    Law enforcement authorities have confirmed they are actively investigating the matter as suspected theft followed by attempted extortion. Police officials have provided appropriate guidance to the complainant regarding safety protocols and legal recourse in such circumstances. The investigation remains ongoing as authorities work to identify the individual behind the extortion attempt and recover the stolen property. This case serves as a cautionary reminder about the importance of securing personal belongings and the potential digital risks associated with lost mobile devices containing sensitive personal information.

  • Rolle and Bowleg are early considerations for new Bimini and Berry Islands seat

    Rolle and Bowleg are early considerations for new Bimini and Berry Islands seat

    Political interest is intensifying around the recently established Bimini and Berry Islands electoral constituency, with early speculation centering on two prominent figures as potential contenders. Senator Randy Rolle of the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP), whose family has deep ancestral connections to Bimini, and former Free National Movement (FNM) Member of Parliament Carlton Bowleg are emerging as frontrunners in the developing political race.

    Local Bimini resident Natasha Bullard Hamilton is also under consideration as a potential PLP candidate, adding further dimension to the emerging electoral landscape. The PLP’s Bimini branch chairperson Kitty Saunders has publicly endorsed Senator Rolle, characterizing him as the most qualified representative for the island community. Saunders emphasized Bimini’s longstanding advocacy for independent constituency status and stressed the necessity for leadership that comprehends the unique cultural fabric and developmental trajectory of the islands.

    “Senator Randy Rolle Jr embodies the authentic spirit of our community,” Saunders stated. “He has demonstrated courageous leadership, genuine humility, and an unwavering dedication to public service.”

    Meanwhile, Mr. Bowleg, who has already received official ratification for North Andros and the Berry Islands, indicated he would continue his work within the constituency while seeking divine guidance regarding his political future. The former MP revealed he maintains strong connections with residents across both Bimini and the Berry Islands, communities he considers home after years of service.

    Reflecting on his tenure as a customs officer, Bowleg highlighted his history of community engagement: “The people of Bimini embraced me as one of their own, and I’ve consistently worked to give back to the island. I’ve maintained the same commitment in North Andros.” Regarding the Berry Islands, he described residents as resilient and authentic people whom he considers extended family.

    The newly formed constituency, which features 2,253 registered voters, was established following recommendations from the Constituency Boundaries Commission, signaling a significant restructuring of electoral representation in the region.

  • Grief resurfaces for widower after latest PMH neglect claims

    Grief resurfaces for widower after latest PMH neglect claims

    A fresh wave of outrage has hit Princess Margaret Hospital (PMH) in The Bahamas following the death of Clanesha Adderley, with her family alleging severe medical neglect. The case has drawn striking parallels to another tragic incident from nearly two years ago, revealing what appears to be a persistent pattern of systemic failure within the nation’s public healthcare system.

    Jerad Darville, who lost his 33-year-old wife Kenise at PMH in January 2023, stated that the allegations surrounding Ms. Adderley’s death have reopened deep emotional wounds. The circumstances are eerily familiar: Ms. Adderley was found cold and unresponsive in a hospital ward on November 14, with staff allegedly unaware of her passing. Her family reports that in her final hours, she repeatedly struggled to get attention from medical personnel and even instructed relatives to contact a lawyer to sue the hospital.

    This narrative mirrors Kenise Darville’s experience, who days before her death posted a viral Facebook video detailing what she described as negligence and substandard care at PMH. The video has since garnered over 240,000 views and sparked national calls for healthcare reform.

    Mr. Darville expressed profound disappointment with the government’s response, noting that despite personal assurances from the Prime Minister to investigate these matters, accountability remains elusive. He criticized hospital management for creating an environment where overworked, underpaid staff operate with limited resources, while senior officials avoid public scrutiny by refusing to identify medical personnel involved in controversial cases.

    In a March 2023 letter, the Public Hospitals Authority claimed Kenise Darville died from being “extremely ill” and reported no shortcomings in her care—a conclusion her husband vehemently rejects. He argues that simply building additional facilities won’t address the core issues of staff frustration and management failures that directly impact patient outcomes.

    In response to the growing public concern, Health and Wellness Minister Dr. Michael Darville has pledged that his ministry will “do everything in its power” to investigate Ms. Adderley’s death. Both cases have become emblematic of what many Bahamian families believe is a broader pattern of neglect at the nation’s leading public medical facility.

  • Deveaux confirms desire to run in Bamboo Town again

    Deveaux confirms desire to run in Bamboo Town again

    Patricia Deveaux, the current House Speaker and Member of Parliament for Bamboo Town, has officially declared her intention to seek re-election in the upcoming parliamentary race. Despite previous uncertainty about her political future, Deveaux expressed strong confidence in securing renomination from the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP), while simultaneously pledging unwavering loyalty to the party regardless of the outcome.

    The announcement comes following months of speculation about her political ambitions, which Deveaux previously dismissed as ‘political mischief.’ In an exclusive interview with The Tribune, the Bamboo Town representative asserted her deep connections to the constituency, stating: ‘I was born here. I live here. I’m still here and I ain’t going nowhere.’

    Addressing criticisms from some constituents regarding her representation, Deveaux acknowledged room for improvement while highlighting several accomplishments during her term. Infrastructure developments featured prominently in her defense, with completed road paving projects in multiple neighborhoods and park renovations at Kennedy Park and Zion Boulevard Park. The MP also emphasized the establishment of Bamboo Town’s first Urban Renewal Center on East Street South, which she credits with significantly reducing crime rates, particularly petty theft and housebreaking incidents that had previously plagued the area.

    Despite these advancements, Deveaux identified flooding as the most pressing ongoing challenge, declaring flood zone mitigation her top priority. Responding to complaints about her visibility within the constituency, she maintained that her office remains consistently accessible except during illness or official absences, describing her approach as ‘personal’ and centered on ‘servantry’ rather than photo opportunities.

    The electoral landscape in Bamboo Town appears increasingly competitive. The Free National Movement has nominated party chairman Dr. Duane Sands as their candidate, while former MP Reward Wells has also announced his candidacy, setting the stage for a closely contested battle. Deveaux remains optimistic about her prospects, citing strong relationships with local schools and community members, and asserting she has ‘done more than what I’ve seen some sitting MPs do in ten years’ despite lacking a formal ministerial portfolio.

  • Primetime owner cites uneven playing field and rising overheads as 14-year-old venue closes

    Primetime owner cites uneven playing field and rising overheads as 14-year-old venue closes

    New Providence’s nightlife landscape has undergone a significant transformation with the permanent closure of Primetime Nightclub, a dominant entertainment venue for fourteen years. Owner Lavon Rahming confirmed the establishment’s shutdown resulted from converging factors including evolving consumer preferences, escalating operational expenses, and his own recognition that the business had completed its lifecycle.

    Mr. Rahming described the closure as a difficult but necessary evolution, noting that his core customer base had gradually diminished due to natural life progression. “People change their lives, get married, and assume responsibilities,” he explained, highlighting how demographic shifts influenced his decision to ultimately rebrand.

    Rather than terminating operations entirely, Rahming is orchestrating a strategic pivot. The existing facility is currently undergoing comprehensive renovations to emerge within approximately four months as a sophisticated restaurant and lounge under an entirely new brand identity, completely disassociated from the Primetime legacy.

    Beyond personal business considerations, Rahming identified systemic challenges within Bahamas’ nightlife industry. He cited unsustainable overhead costs, inconsistent regulatory enforcement, and perceived stigmatization of nightclub operations as significant sector-wide pressures. Notably, he referenced unequal enforcement of operating hours that placed his establishment at a competitive disadvantage compared to venues permitted to operate until 4 AM.

    The closure’s impact on staff was reportedly minimized through natural attrition, as many employees had already transitioned to part-time status while pursuing other ventures during the club’s gradual decline. A limited team remains engaged during the renovation phase, with Rahming continuing to provide support where feasible.

    Despite newer venues drawing away portions of his former clientele—many operated by former Primetime promoters—Rahming maintains a philosophical perspective, viewing their success as natural industry evolution rather than direct competition. The nightclub concluded public operations with a final event last Saturday, formally ceasing operations on Monday amid preparations for its next incarnation.

  • Arrest warrant issued for Brittany Harris over libel allegations

    Arrest warrant issued for Brittany Harris over libel allegations

    A Bahamian court has issued an arrest warrant for Brittany Harris, a 34-year-old woman facing charges of intentionally libeling high-profile public figures. The case involves allegations against Energy and Transport Minister JoBeth Coleby-Davis and attorney Bjorn Ferguson.

    According to court documents, Harris stands accused of publishing a video targeting Mr. Ferguson on social media platforms in April 2024, which prosecutors claim was deliberately intended to cause public humiliation. Additionally, she allegedly shared defamatory content about Minister Coleby-Davis on Facebook in October 2024, accompanied by audio recordings purportedly meant to shame the government official.

    The legal proceedings took a significant turn when Harris failed to appear before Deputy Chief Magistrate Kara Turnquest Deveaux for a scheduled status hearing. This absence prompted Magistrate Deveaux to rule that Harris had violated her bail conditions, resulting in the immediate revocation of her bail and the issuance of an arrest warrant.

    The court’s decision carries financial implications for Harris’s sureties, who now face potential forfeiture of their $5,000 bond to the Crown. Harris had previously entered a plea of not guilty to both counts of intentional libel during December proceedings.

    The case, prosecuted by Inspector K Wilkinson, remains ongoing with trial dates set for February 24 and 25, 2026, should Harris be apprehended and brought before the court.

  • Kingston East police renew appeal for wanted man Kerrin ‘Bones’ Bailey

    Kingston East police renew appeal for wanted man Kerrin ‘Bones’ Bailey

    Jamaican authorities have escalated efforts to apprehend 30-year-old Kerrin Bailey, alias “Bones,” who remains at large following a deadly November 2025 shooting incident in St. Andrew. The Kingston East Police Division has issued a renewed public appeal for information regarding Bailey’s whereabouts, emphasizing his status as a primary person of interest in the case.

    The violent episode unfolded on November 13th at approximately 8:30 PM in the Jack Vale community of Bull Bay. Local residents reported hearing explosive gunfire originating from a residential property, prompting immediate emergency response. Law enforcement personnel arriving at the scene discovered two gunshot victims—a male and female—both suffering from critical injuries.

    Emergency medical services transported both individuals to a nearby medical facility, where 28-year-old truck operator Rai-Ronaldo Fry was declared deceased upon arrival. The female victim received urgent treatment and was admitted in stable condition, subsequently undergoing recovery procedures.

    Following comprehensive investigation, police identified Bailey as a central figure in the shooting incident and officially listed him as a wanted individual. Investigators have disclosed that Bailey’s last confirmed residence was located on Talmania Avenue in the Harbour Heights sector of Kingston 17. Surveillance operations indicate he frequently visits various locations across St. James Parish, alongside regular appearances in Bull Bay and Harbour View districts.

    Law enforcement officials are strongly urging Bailey to voluntarily surrender at the Elletson Road Police Station without further delay. The public assistance hotlines include direct connections to the Elletson Road Police Station (876-928-1261/1262), the National Intelligence Bureau (811), Crime Stop (311), and all local police precincts.

  • CTO reaffirms regional resilience and operational stability

    CTO reaffirms regional resilience and operational stability

    BRIDGETOWN, Barbados — The Caribbean Tourism Organisation (CTO), headquartered in Barbados, has issued a comprehensive statement addressing the regional impact of recent geopolitical turmoil in Venezuela and affirming the resilience of Caribbean travel infrastructure. The organization confirmed it is maintaining vigilant oversight of developments following the U.S. military intervention that resulted in the ouster of Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro, who now faces narcotics charges in a New York federal court.

  • EU countries override France to greenlight Mercosur trade deal

    EU countries override France to greenlight Mercosur trade deal

    BRUSSELS — The European Union has definitively approved a landmark trade agreement with the South American Mercosur bloc, overcoming significant internal opposition led by France. This decisive move, confirmed by diplomatic sources following a meeting of EU ambassadors, clears the path for formal signing ceremonies in Paraguay next week.

    After more than a quarter-century of complex negotiations, the European Commission champions this agreement as a vital strategic instrument to enhance export opportunities, revitalize struggling economic sectors, and strengthen diplomatic alliances during an era of global instability. Commission spokesperson Olof Gill emphasized the comprehensive importance of the pact, stating it represents “an essential deal, economically, politically, strategically, diplomatically, for the European Union.”

    The approval process revealed deep divisions within the Union. France, where political factions united in opposition to protect its influential agricultural industry, spearheaded resistance efforts alongside Ireland, Poland, and Hungary. Their concerns centered on potential market flooding by cheaper agricultural imports from Mercosur nations. However, these objections proved insufficient to block the agreement, particularly after Italy reversed its previous stance and offered crucial support following last-minute negotiations in December.

    This groundbreaking agreement will establish one of the world’s largest free trade zones, encompassing over 700 million consumers. It eliminates import tariffs on more than 90% of traded goods between the 27-nation EU and Mercosur members Brazil, Argentina, Paraguay, and Uruguay. EU Trade Chief Maros Sefcovic hailed the “landmark” pact as the Union’s most ambitious trade achievement, projecting annual duty savings exceeding €4 billion for European businesses while boosting exports of automobiles, machinery, and premium beverages.

    Proponents including Germany and Spain argue the agreement provides critical countermeasures against Chinese competitive pressures and U.S. tariff policies. Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva previously characterized the deal as a powerful endorsement of multilateralism in an increasingly competitive global landscape.

    To address agricultural concerns, the Commission implemented substantial safeguards, including a €6.3 billion crisis fund and mechanisms to suspend preferential tariffs during import surges. The agreement also establishes robust geographical indication protections, preventing South American producers from marketing imitation products like “Parmesao” cheese that undermine authentic European offerings such as Parmesan, Greek feta, and French champagne.

    Despite these concessions, agricultural protests erupted across Europe, with French farmers mobilizing tractors in Paris and Belgian producers blockading major highways, reflecting persistent industry anxieties about competitive disadvantages.

  • Objection, Your Honour

    Objection, Your Honour

    A significant constitutional debate has erupted within Jamaica’s legal community following controversial remarks by distinguished jurist Patrick Robinson regarding appellate court authority over judicial decisions. The former International Court of Justice judge recently advocated for eliminating what he termed “a legal oddity” – the ability of Jamaica’s Court of Appeal to overturn rulings made by the Chief Justice.

    Robinson’s position, articulated in a January 2026 Sunday Gleaner column, emerged from his analysis of Jamaica’s 2025 appellate court decision to quash a murder conviction originally presided over by Chief Justice Bryan Sykes. The appellate court had determined that Justice Sykes had “descended quite extensively into the arena” during proceedings, improperly eliciting evidence that should have remained the prosecution’s responsibility.

    In response, prominent defense attorney Peter Champagnie, King’s Counsel, has characterized Robinson’s proposal as both “a misstep” and “retrograde,” despite expressing profound respect for Robinson’s legal expertise. Champagnie maintains that appellate review of judicial decisions represents a crucial “peer review” mechanism essential to maintaining judicial integrity within democratic systems.

    The attorney specifically referenced the Judicature (Appellate Jurisdiction) Act, highlighting provisions that ensure the Court of Appeal’s independence from the Chief Justice’s office. Section 3(1)(b) stipulates that while the Chief Justice may participate in appellate panels, this requires invitation from the court president and the presence of at least four other judges.

    The controversy centers on the case of Conroy Stephenson, whose murder conviction was overturned in December 2025. Stephenson had been sentenced to 16 years imprisonment in 2019 for a fatal shooting in Seaview Gardens. The Appeal Court determined that extensive judicial intervention during witness cross-examination had denied Stephenson a fair trial, resulting in both overturned conviction and acquittal without retrial.

    Champagnie clarified that while judicial questioning during trials is permissible for clarification purposes, judges must avoid descending into the adversarial arena by conducting what effectively becomes cross-examination on behalf of either prosecution or defense. This distinction between appropriate judicial inquiry and improper advocacy forms the crux of the current legal discourse surrounding judicial conduct and appellate oversight in Jamaica’s justice system.