Carib Scope

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  • State Department reward for information on the terrorist groups «Viv Ansanm and Gran Grif»

    State Department reward for information on the terrorist groups «Viv Ansanm and Gran Grif»

    In a significant escalation of its counterterrorism efforts, the United States Department of State has announced a substantial financial incentive targeting Haiti’s most notorious criminal syndicates. Through its Rewards for Justice (RFJ) program, the U.S. government is offering up to $3 million, plus potential relocation assistance, for intelligence that leads to the disruption of the financial infrastructures of “Viv Ansanm” and “Gran Grif.” Both organizations were formally designated as Foreign Terrorist Organizations (FTOs) in May 2025, placing them in the same category as global terrorist networks.

    The alliance known as Viv Ansanm emerged in September 2023 from a merger of Haiti’s two dominant gang coalitions, G-9 and G-Pép, which operate primarily in the capital, Port-au-Prince. This group has been implicated in a sustained campaign of extreme violence targeting critical national infrastructure, including government buildings, prisons, police stations, hospitals, and the international airport. Their orchestrated terror tactics were a principal factor in the forced resignation of Prime Minister Ariel Henry in April 2024. The organization sustains its operations through systematic extortion, kidnappings for ransom, and arms trafficking, and has been directly involved in mass atrocities, including the murder and rape of civilians, sometimes targeting American citizens. The group is also known for the forcible recruitment of minors.

    Conversely, Gran Grif represents the paramount criminal force in Haiti’s Artibonite department. Originally formed around 2016 by former legislator Prophane Victor as a private militia to secure his political power, the group evolved into a full-fledged terrorist organization. It has conducted brazen attacks against the Haitian National Police and the United Nations-backed Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission, including a February 2025 assault that resulted in the death of a Kenyan officer. Gran Grif’s reign of terror encompasses kidnapping, murder, sexual violence against women and children, forced child recruitment, mass abductions, and the looting of crops and livestock—actions that prompted formal accusations of human rights abuses from the United Nations in 2023.

    The RFJ program is specifically soliciting information that can uncover the economic lifeblood of these groups. This includes intelligence on their owned or controlled businesses, bank accounts, and investments; financial contributions from donors and facilitators; transactions by financial institutions that benefit the groups; front companies acting on their behalf; details of ransom schemes; and information on the transfer of funds, arms, ammunition, and drones.

    The FTO and Specially Designated Global Terrorist (SDGT) designations under U.S. law have severe legal ramifications. All U.S.-based assets of these groups are frozen, and American persons are prohibited from engaging in any transactions with them. Knowingly providing material support or resources to these entities is a criminal offense, subjecting violators to significant sanctions.

    The Rewards for Justice program, established in 1984, has a proven track record, having disbursed over $250 million to more than 125 individuals worldwide for information that has preempted threats to U.S. national security. Confidential tips regarding Viv Ansanm and Gran Grif can be submitted via encrypted messaging services, including Signal, WhatsApp, and Telegram.

  • PAS Cargo launches new logistics, off-site commercial GRA customs facilities

    PAS Cargo launches new logistics, off-site commercial GRA customs facilities

    In a significant development for Guyana’s trade infrastructure, Florida-based PAS Cargo USA has inaugurated groundbreaking logistics and customs facilities at its East Bank Demerara location, promising to transform the nation’s cargo clearance processes. Sector leaders unanimously hailed the March 25, 2026 opening as a solution to longstanding congestion issues that have plagued Guyana’s supply chain operations.

    Colin Moore, President of the Guyana Customs House Brokers and Clerks Association, characterized the new facility as addressing “one of the biggest nightmares” in cargo clearance. “Especially in Guyana, we have a system here where there is a lot of congestion and this because we’re a small country, we are now developing,” Moore stated during the official launch at Georgetown Marriott Hotel. He emphasized that brokers typically achieve satisfaction when processing cargo within 30 minutes—a benchmark PAS Cargo has consistently met.

    The facility represents Guyana’s first approved offsite commercial customs facility by the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA), featuring state-of-the-art racking systems that enable rapid cargo location and retrieval, contrasting sharply with previous one-week waiting periods. Moore particularly praised the adequate accommodations provided for customs officers, addressing a critical operational concern.

    Komal Singh, Chairman of the Shipping Association of Guyana (SAG), highlighted the facility’s role in addressing storage space shortages on wharves while preparing the nation for future manufacturing expansion. “We cannot wait until the time when we have excess and massive amounts of exports in place and start working then to increase our efficiency,” Singh cautioned, emphasizing the need for proactive infrastructure development to meet international standards.

    Shridat Naraine, Vice President of PAS Cargo USA, described the “first-of-a-kind” secure off-port bond facility as offering spacious vehicle maneuverability and comprehensive parking solutions. The facility addresses environmental concerns and operational inefficiencies previously experienced at Demerara River port locations, positioning the company to serve industrial, commercial, and oil gas sectors with enhanced capability. “This is a statement that Guyana deserves world-class infrastructure; a statement that local talent, innovation and vision can compete at the highest level,” Naraine asserted.

    The technological integration allows customers to seamlessly navigate documentation, customs clearance, and cargo collection within a single location, significantly streamlining supply chain operations.

    Thandi McAllister, Parliamentary Secretary in the Ministry of Public Utilities and Aviation and Guyana’s representative to the International Maritime Organisation, framed the development within broader international trade conventions. She noted that states are bound by international agreements to simplify administrative formalities in international trade, describing the facility as exemplifying “powerful synergies” between public policy and private sector innovation. McAllister hailed the project as a “landmark achievement” in national trade development that would generate increased job opportunities while addressing inconsistent and excessive port clearance processes that have historically frustrated users and hindered efficiency.

  • Public Works of Haiti strengthens its partnership with the IDB

    Public Works of Haiti strengthens its partnership with the IDB

    In a significant move to advance Haiti’s infrastructure development, Public Works Minister Engineer Joseph Almathe Pierre Louis convened a high-level virtual meeting on March 25, 2026 with Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) Representative Ms. Corinne Cathala and her technical team. The strategic session, attended by senior ministry officials including the Chief of Staff and Director General, focused on budget allocation and expediting critical infrastructure projects across the nation.

    The comprehensive agenda prioritized three crucial infrastructure domains requiring immediate financial deployment. Airport infrastructure discussions centered on completing the control tower and securing essential navigation equipment to enhance national sovereignty and air safety. Regarding road networks, progress assessments were conducted on strategic rehabilitation efforts along National Route 7 (Cayes-Jérémie), National Route 4 (Léogâne-Jacmel), and National Route 1 (Ennery-Camp Coq). Additionally, post-disaster repairs necessitated by Cyclone Melissa’s devastation were elevated to top-priority status to restore mobility in affected regions.

    A cornerstone of the meeting was the unveiling of the comprehensive Les Cayes Airport modernization program (HA-J0014), structured around three pivotal components: modernization of airport operations and services, enhancement of road access infrastructure, and institutional capacity building.

    Minister Pierre Louis emphasized the urgency of implementation, stating, ‘The population’s impatience reflects genuine pressing needs. We must synchronize our interventions with national priorities to deliver tangible and rapid outcomes.’ This collaborative session represents a transformative milestone in Haiti’s pursuit of modernization and the effective execution of the National Strategic Road Investment Plan, signaling strengthened international cooperation for infrastructure development.

  • In Cameroon, Haiti advocates for WTO reform

    In Cameroon, Haiti advocates for WTO reform

    YAOUNDÉ, CAMEROON – March 25, 2026: Haitian Minister of Trade and Industry James Monazard articulated a comprehensive vision for transforming the World Trade Organization’s multilateral system during the Ministerial Meeting of Least Developed Countries. The gathering served as a preparatory session for the WTO’s Fourteenth Ministerial Conference (MC14).

    Against a backdrop of escalating geopolitical tensions and mounting strain on multilateral frameworks, Minister Monazard presented Haiti’s official stance advocating for substantial systemic reform. He emphasized that the current international trading architecture requires significant restructuring to address persistent inequities and meet the legitimate developmental needs of emerging economies.

    Haiti’s reform proposal centers on establishing a more equitable, transparent, and inclusive global trade governance model specifically designed to correct existing asymmetries. The initiative prioritizes the integration of developing nations’ interests, with particular emphasis on Least Developed Countries’ economic concerns.

    Regarding agricultural negotiations, the Haitian delegation positioned food security as a fundamental sovereignty and stability issue for vulnerable economies. Minister Monazard demanded concrete advancements proportional to contemporary global challenges in this sector.

    The Caribbean nation aligned itself with the G90 coalition’s position on special and differential treatment provisions, characterizing their adoption as crucial for LDCs’ meaningful economic integration. On fisheries subsidies, Haiti endorsed a balanced approach that reconciles marine conservation objectives with developing nations’ socioeconomic requirements.

    Beyond conventional trade matters, Haiti advocated for an expanded developmental perspective encompassing technology transfer mechanisms, reduced remittance costs, enhanced Aid for Trade programs, and improved trade-environment policy coordination.

    In his concluding remarks, Minister Monazard challenged WTO members to demonstrate genuine multilateral commitment through actionable outcomes benefiting the most vulnerable economies. He asserted that MC14’s historical significance will be measured by its capacity to deliver tangible, inclusive results that advance fair, equitable, and development-centered global trade governance.

  • PNH : Operation summary, 43 terrorists killed, weapons and ammunition seized

    PNH : Operation summary, 43 terrorists killed, weapons and ammunition seized

    In a significant escalation of its campaign against armed criminal factions, the Haitian National Police (PNH) has disclosed comprehensive operational results for the first quarter of 2026. The data, presented on March 25th, reveals a multi-departmental security initiative spanning the West, Center, and Artibonite regions.

    Law enforcement agencies executed 32 distinct tactical operations between January and March, achieving substantial breakthroughs in counter-terrorism efforts. The operations resulted in the elimination of 43 identified terrorists during armed confrontations with security forces. The seized arsenal demonstrates the sophisticated weaponry of these groups, including 46 rifles, 19 pistols, 6 surveillance drones, and 10,659 rounds of ammunition. Security personnel additionally confiscated 5 communication radios, an arsenal of Molotov cocktails, and 2 armored vehicles.

    A specialized operation codenamed “Goudougoudou,” conducted by the Central Directorate of the Judicial Police (DCPJ), yielded particularly notable results. The operation led to the judicial processing of 50 individuals (39 men and 11 women) and the dismantling of a notorious gang led by Rodolphe Louissaint, known by the alias “Chalè.” Among the operation’s critical achievements was the successful liberation of one hostage who emerged unharmed, though seven armed criminals were fatally wounded during rescue efforts.

    The DCPJ’s operation additionally uncovered significant criminal infrastructure, seizing 10 vehicles, one building, and intercepting 76 kilograms of illegal narcotics, including cocaine and marijuana. Authorities also recovered 28,090 Haitian gourdes in suspected illicit funds. In a separate development highlighting cross-institutional corruption, ten officials from the General Directorate of Immigration and Emigration were taken into custody for their alleged connections to criminal networks.

  • ONE, EU and UNFPA enhance migration data quality

    ONE, EU and UNFPA enhance migration data quality

    SANTO DOMINGO – A groundbreaking initiative to revolutionize migration statistics in the Dominican Republic has been officially unveiled. The National Statistics Office (ONE), in a strategic partnership with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and backed by financial support from the European Union, has publicly presented the outcomes of its transformative project, ‘Figures that Include’.

    This comprehensive program was specifically engineered to fortify the nation’s capacity to generate precise and reliable migration statistics by harnessing administrative records from various public institutions. The core mission involved a significant enhancement in the availability, quality, and practical application of existing data, converting raw information into standardized, comparable official statistics.

    Key project milestones included a rigorous evaluation of the quality of current administrative records, extensive documentation of statistical methodologies—with a particular emphasis on processes at the General Directorate of Migration—and the critical harmonization of all migration-related data sets to guarantee nationwide consistency and dependability.

    Furthermore, the initiative has catalyzed the development of more sophisticated and integrated information systems. These advanced systems are poised to deliver superior measurement of migration flows and provide deeper insights into the demographics and conditions of migrant populations. This robust data infrastructure is expected to supply indispensable evidence for crafting informed and effective public policies.

    ONE Director Mildred Martínez hailed the project as a monumental leap forward in the nation’s approach to data production and utilization. The international collaborators also underscored the initiative’s profound significance. Mario Serrano of the partnering agencies highlighted that enhanced data directly translates to improved planning and policy efficacy. European Union Ambassador Raúl Fuentes Milani emphasized the project’s pivotal role in advancing evidence-based governance and tackling social vulnerabilities.

    The ‘Figures that Include’ project is meticulously aligned with both national and international frameworks, including the National Development Strategy 2030 and the global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Its execution was a coordinated effort involving major national bodies such as the Central Electoral Board, the Ministry of Interior and Police, the Ministry of Education, and the Attorney General’s Office.

  • $2.50 Diesel Price Leap Hits Every Corner of Belize

    $2.50 Diesel Price Leap Hits Every Corner of Belize

    Belize’s economy faces immediate strain following an unprecedented overnight surge in diesel fuel prices, which escalated by $2.50 per gallon. This dramatic increase compounds earlier spikes in regular and premium gasoline recorded just last week, sending shockwaves across the nation’s transportation and agricultural sectors.

    The maritime industry has responded swiftly to the economic pressure. Water taxi operators have formally petitioned the Belize Port Authority for authorization to implement emergency fuel surcharges. Caribbean Sprinter has already adjusted its pricing structure, adding a two-dollar premium to in-person ticket purchases while maintaining lower rates through its Sail Sprinter application—a strategic move implemented ahead of the anticipated Easter travel period.

    Kaylon Young, Ports Commissioner of the Belize Port Authority, emphasized the severity of the situation: “The water taxi operators we regulate are experiencing significant impacts. They’ve approached us to explore possible measures to mitigate these rising operational costs.” Young acknowledged the necessity of fuel for island transportation while suggesting any fare adjustments should remain temporary.

    Land transportation faces similar challenges. Transport Minister Dr. Louis Zabaneh confirmed the National Bus Company would initially absorb the increased diesel costs to maintain stable fares for commuters. This decision leverages the company’s economies of scale in bulk purchasing. However, fourteen independent bus operators who declined to join the national system now face mounting financial pressures without institutional support.

    The agricultural sector, particularly sugar production—Belize’s primary agricultural revenue generator—confronts severe operational challenges. Alfredo Ortega, Chairman of the Belize Sugar Cane Farmers Association, described the situation as “very tough” for farmers already struggling with harvesting costs. “This increase creates a greater burden,” Ortega stated. “We initially thought it was a joke because we’ve never witnessed a single increase of two dollars and fifty cents per gallon in many years.”

    Ortega has appealed for government intervention to provide financial relief to farmers. The price surge has been attributed to ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Persian Gulf, with officials expressing hope that resolving international conflicts would stabilize global fuel markets. Meanwhile, consumers, transporters, and producers alike await respite from the escalating economic pressure.

  • Higher Diesel, Higher Taxes? Critics Question Windfall

    Higher Diesel, Higher Taxes? Critics Question Windfall

    A dramatic overnight spike in diesel prices exceeding two dollars has triggered economic concerns across Belize, prompting scrutiny of government fuel taxation policies. As consumers rushed to fuel stations anticipating the increase, industry analysts warn the impact will extend far beyond the pump, affecting agricultural operations, transportation logistics, and construction costs that ultimately influence grocery prices and household repair expenses.

    Prime Minister John Briceño’s administration faces mounting pressure to implement fuel tax reductions amid the price surge. The government maintains it has already sacrificed significant revenue through existing tax concessions, having reduced fuel taxes by $1.25 per gallon to moderate consumer prices. The central controversy revolves around the ad valorem tax system where government revenue increases proportionally as fuel prices rise, creating a windfall effect during price spikes.

    Briceño defended the government’s position, explaining: “The tax percentage remains constant regardless of price fluctuations. We’ve implemented substantial tax reductions to cushion the impact on consumers. However, as a small nation purchasing fuel in millions rather than billions of dollars, we lack the bargaining power of larger nations to dictate pricing structures.”

    Statistical data from the first two months of 2026 reveals a complex economic picture. The Statistical Institute of Belize reported modest 0.4% inflation during this period, primarily contained by declining transportation costs resulting from previously lower fuel prices. This temporary relief offset significant increases in essential categories including food and non-alcoholic beverages (up 1.2%), housing utilities (up 0.9%), and restaurant services.

    Statistician Jaime Crespo detailed the contrasting trends: “While meat, cereal products, sugar, electricity, and LPG costs showed concerning increases, transportation category decreases of 3.6% helped balance the overall inflation rate. Between January and February 2026, regular fuel prices dropped 8% per gallon, premium fuel 7.2%, and diesel 2.9% compared to the same period last year.”

    Economists now question whether the government’s $1.25 tax reduction will sufficiently mitigate the current diesel price surge, or if rising pump prices will generate increased government revenue while driving higher consumer costs across the economy.

  • Port Commissioner Says Safety First Regarding Humilde Viajero

    Port Commissioner Says Safety First Regarding Humilde Viajero

    Belizean authorities are confronting an unusual maritime security incident as the tanker Humilde Viajero remains detained in Belizean waters under mysterious circumstances. The vessel arrived without essential documentation identifying its owners, point of origin, or the precise nature of its cargo, triggering a multi-agency investigation.

    Port Commissioner Kaylon Young has clarified the division of responsibilities in handling this exceptional case. The Belize Port Authority’s primary focus remains ensuring the vessel’s structural safety and preventing any immediate navigational or environmental hazards. Meanwhile, the questionable cargo—believed to be fuel—falls under the jurisdiction of the Customs Department and the Department of the Environment (DOE).

    Commissioner Young emphasized the rarity of such an event, describing it as a significant deviation from standard port operations. “This is, in my view, a rare incident. I have not seen anything like this recently,” Young stated, noting that Belize’s port system typically maintains rigorous tracking and documentation procedures for all vessels long before they approach the nation’s shores.

    While safety repairs are conducted on the tanker, legal and regulatory questions about the illicit cargo remain pending. The incident represents a notable breach in Belize’s otherwise tightly controlled maritime borders, with multiple government agencies now working to unravel the mystery of the Humilde Viajero’s mission and contents.

  • David Gegg Launches Pre-emptive Strike on Port of Belize

    David Gegg Launches Pre-emptive Strike on Port of Belize

    A significant controversy is unfolding in Belize as the nation contemplates a monumental $450 million expansion of the Port of Belize. The proposed development, which would substantially enhance the country’s cargo and cruise capabilities, faces mounting scrutiny ahead of a critical public consultation period.

    David Gegg, the visionary behind the competing Port of Magical Belize project, has launched a preemptive critique of both the approval process and the proposed expansion’s fundamental viability. Gegg contends that the allocated three-minute speaking limit for public commentary is woefully inadequate for citizens to properly evaluate the project’s complex implications, ranging from navigational safety to environmental sustainability.

    The developer specifically highlights two primary concerns: the considerable challenge of maneuvering large cruise vessels through the narrow One Man Caye Channel, and the potential contamination risks posed by proximity to Belize City’s sewage treatment lagoon. Gegg substantiated these concerns by describing a helicopter reconnaissance mission where he demonstrated that from the perspective of a cruise ship’s bridge—approximately 200 feet above sea level—the proximity of both the Puma tank farm and wastewater facilities becomes alarmingly visible.

    After maintaining a low profile following previous contractual disagreements with the government, Gegg has reemerged with renewed determination for his Port of Magical initiative. He asserts that his project remains the only development to have secured memoranda of understanding with major cruise lines including Royal Caribbean and Carnival, though these agreements were ultimately thwarted by the government’s acquisition of the competing port site.

    Gegg has issued a direct three-point appeal to Prime Minister John Briceño: address the health hazards posed to Port Loyola residents, abandon the notion of establishing a cruise terminal within the current port’s constrained environment, and reconsider parliamentary approval for the Portico Cruise Development bill that would enable his alternative project.