Carib Scope

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  • Family begs accused to say where alleged murder victim’s body is

    Family begs accused to say where alleged murder victim’s body is

    In a deeply emotional scene outside the Serious Offences Court on Thursday, accused murderer Joelah Hepburn, also known as Jolan Hepburn, remained silent as grieving family members of Lyda Adams desperately pleaded for information about the whereabouts of her body. The 36-year-old victim, who was six months pregnant and mother to a 9-year-old boy, disappeared on November 8 after leaving her Barrouallie home stating she was going to see a doctor.

    CCTV evidence later placed Adams disembarking from a ferry in Bequia around 8:56 a.m. on the day of her disappearance, where Hepburn, a resident of Byera, was known to work. Despite the absence of a recovered body, authorities have proceeded with murder charges against Hepburn, citing sufficient evidence for the prosecution.

    The court proceedings revealed tense moments as family members confronted Hepburn upon his arrival under heavy police guard. Female relatives shouted emotional appeals, including ‘Please let us know where Sherika is. We need Sherika to bury,’ while the victim’s mother, Viola Adams, broke down in tears. Family members noted that Hepburn attempted to conceal his face as he entered the courtroom.

    Chief Magistrate Colin John formally read the murder charge to Hepburn, who appeared without legal representation as his lawyer, Michael Wyllie, was attending another court matter. The magistrate explained that the absence of counsel would not affect the proceedings since Hepburn could not enter a plea at this preliminary stage and bail was not an option.

    Prosecutor Inspector Renrick Cato requested a two-month adjournment to allow investigators to complete their case files. However, Magistrate John scheduled the next hearing for January 12, 2026, for a status update while remanding Hepburn in prison until his next appearance.

    Meanwhile, outside the courtroom, Viola Adams pleaded with detectives to continue searching for her daughter’s remains, stating that closure would only come with recovery of the body, ‘even if it’s her bones.’ Detective Corporal 502 Millington of the Major Crimes Unit is leading the ongoing investigation.

  • Cuba receives diploma for Cuban Son on UNESCO’s Heritage List

    Cuba receives diploma for Cuban Son on UNESCO’s Heritage List

    In a significant cultural milestone, the traditional Cuban Son music has been formally inscribed on UNESCO’s prestigious Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The official designation occurred during the 20th session of UNESCO’s Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage, currently convening in New Delhi, India.

    The ceremonial presentation was conducted by Fumiko Ohinata, Director of the Secretariat of the 2003 UNESCO Convention, who presented the official diploma to Cuban representatives accompanied by Maiky Díaz, First Secretary of the Cuban Embassy in India. This recognition serves as international acknowledgment of Cuban Son as both a vital cultural expression and fundamental component of national identity for the Cuban people.

    The UNESCO designation underscores the Cuban government’s ongoing commitment to preserving and protecting the traditional art forms that constitute the cultural roots of the Caribbean nation. The inclusion on this prestigious list highlights the global significance of Cuban Son while reinforcing preservation efforts for future generations.

    Following the announcement, Sonia Pérez, President of Cuba’s National Council for Cultural Heritage, characterized the recognition as a cause for national celebration. She described the UNESCO designation as a well-deserved tribute to the creativity, cultural richness, and inherent joy embodied in the Cuban musical tradition, representing the artistic spirit of the entire nation.

  • Syria receives grant from Japan to support social reintegration

    Syria receives grant from Japan to support social reintegration

    In a significant humanitarian gesture, Japan has formalized a substantial financial contribution to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) operation in Syria. The agreement was signed in Damascus by Akihiro Tsuji, Chargé d’Affaires of the Japanese Embassy, and Gonzalo Vargas Llosa, UNHCR Representative in Syria.

  • Minister Calls for Regulations Requiring Access to Private CCTV Footage in Criminal Investigations

    Minister Calls for Regulations Requiring Access to Private CCTV Footage in Criminal Investigations

    In a significant policy announcement during the Budget Debate, IT Minister Melford Nicholas revealed the government’s intention to establish new regulatory measures requiring private CCTV system operators to surrender footage to law enforcement agencies during criminal investigations. The minister emphasized that the proliferation of community-operated surveillance networks has created an essential crime-fighting resource that currently operates outside legal frameworks.

    Nicholas pointed to communities like Pigeon Point that have independently installed camera systems to enhance neighborhood security, acknowledging their value in monitoring suspicious activities while highlighting a critical legal gap. When criminal investigations require access to this privately-held footage, authorities currently lack clear legal authority to obtain it consistently.

    The proposed regulations would create a legal obligation for private CCTV operators to provide recorded footage upon official request in criminal matters. Nicholas stressed that all surveillance resources—whether state-operated or privately installed—must contribute to national crime detection and prosecution efforts without procedural obstacles.

    This initiative connects to the ongoing expansion of the government’s official CCTV platform, which has already proven instrumental in helping the Criminal Investigations Department identify suspects and support prosecutions. With an additional 200 cameras approved for installation, the national system expects enhanced coverage and improved investigative capabilities.

    Minister Nicholas emphasized that private systems should complement rather than conflict with national surveillance networks, particularly as more communities deploy security cameras for protection. Clear regulatory guidelines would streamline cooperation between residents and law enforcement while ensuring crucial evidence remains accessible rather than withheld.

    The government’s primary objective is to maximize the effectiveness of all available surveillance resources and prevent investigations from being hampered by uncertainties regarding access to potentially vital recorded evidence.

  • WEATHER ( 6:00 AM, Dec 11): Scattered showers, small craft advisory continues

    WEATHER ( 6:00 AM, Dec 11): Scattered showers, small craft advisory continues

    Dominica is on alert as a significant high-pressure system advances toward the island, bringing with it powerful gusts and potentially hazardous conditions. The Dominica Meteorological Services has issued a warning for residents to secure all loose outdoor objects in preparation for sustained windy weather.

    The system is expected to transport considerable moisture, resulting in widespread cloud cover and intermittent scattered showers throughout the day. Maritime conditions are forecast to deteriorate, with waves building to heights of approximately 5 feet along western shores and surging to nearly 10 feet on eastern coastlines. These rough to moderate sea states have prompted officials to maintain a Small Craft Advisory, urging mariners and individuals in coastal areas to exercise extreme vigilance. Travelers using seaside roads are also advised to remain cautious due to potentially dangerous conditions.

    Authorities emphasize the importance of heeding these warnings to ensure public safety both on land and at sea. The combination of strong winds and elevated wave action poses risks to property and marine activities. The meteorological agency continues to monitor the situation closely and will provide updates as necessary.

  • Chastanet ordered to pay Frederick $60 000 in defamation case

    Chastanet ordered to pay Frederick $60 000 in defamation case

    In a significant legal ruling with political ramifications, the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court has mandated Allen Chastanet, Leader of the United Workers Party, to compensate Parliamentary Representative Richard Frederick with $60,000 in damages plus 3% pre-judgment interest. The judgment stems from a defamatory Facebook video published on May 2, 2023, in which Chastanet made serious allegations regarding Frederick’s involvement in a land sale transaction at Bananes.

    The court found that Chastanet’s statements, which accused Frederick of corruption, dishonesty, misleading Parliament, and abusing his office, lacked substantiated evidence. Judicial review of the case revealed that the opposition leader’s claims were based on assumptions rather than verifiable facts, ultimately causing significant harm to Frederick’s personal and professional reputation.

    Adding to the financial penalty, the court issued a permanent injunction prohibiting Chastanet from repeating similar defamatory allegations against Frederick concerning the land sale incident. This legal protection aims to prevent further damage to the parliamentarian’s standing.

    The case attracted substantial public attention given both figures’ prominent political roles—Frederick as former Housing Minister and Chastanet as Opposition Leader. Despite the court’s decisive ruling, Chastanet issued a press statement expressing respect for the decision while simultaneously indicating potential grounds for appeal, noting he had thus far only received the judge’s oral summary.

  • Hon. Anthony Smith Mourning the Death of His Grandmother, Genevieve “Teacher Gen” Smith

    Hon. Anthony Smith Mourning the Death of His Grandmother, Genevieve “Teacher Gen” Smith

    In a moving public tribute, All Saints West Member of Parliament Anthony Smith Jr. has commemorated the extraordinary life and legacy of his grandmother, Genevieve Smith, affectionately known across Antigua and Barbuda as ‘Teacher Gen.’ Smith’s homage paints a portrait of a woman whose existence was fundamentally shaped by profound love, selfless service, and an unwavering commitment to her community.

    Addressing his constituents and the nation, the MP confessed that language falls short in capturing the immense impact his grandmother had on him, their family, and the multitude of lives she transformed. His message underscored a deep personal and communal loss, reflecting on her unparalleled devotion.

    Teacher Gen’s remarkable contributions spanned over four decades within the education sector, where she dedicated herself to shaping young minds in the classroom. Beyond her professional calling, her nurturing spirit extended to her home, where she fostered an astounding 63 children, cementing her role as a national matriarch. Her recent passing has triggered a nationwide outpouring of grief, with condolences and tributes emerging from all corners of Potters Village, All Saints West, and the broader educational fraternity.

    In his statement, Smith expressed profound gratitude for the overwhelming support and sympathy extended to his family, acknowledging it as a testament to the vast affection and respect held for his grandmother. He concluded his emotional farewell with a promise of perpetual remembrance, vowing that her spirit would endure forever in the hearts of those she touched.

    The enduring legacy of Teacher Gen—as an inspirational educator, a compassionate caregiver, and a pillar of strength—continues to echo powerfully among the generations of families she influenced, with her grandson’s tribute highlighting the profound void left in both a family and a nation.

  • Freeland Pays Tribute to ‘Teacher Gen,’ Calling Her a Pillar of Potters Village

    Freeland Pays Tribute to ‘Teacher Gen,’ Calling Her a Pillar of Potters Village

    Senator Michael Freeland has issued a formal tribute commemorating the profound impact and enduring legacy of Genevieve Smith, affectionately known throughout the community as ‘Teacher Gen.’ Hailing from Potters Village in the St. George constituency, Smith is remembered as an iconic figure whose lifelong dedication to children’s welfare and education has left an indelible mark on the region.

    In an official statement released this week, Senator Freeland expressed profound sorrow at her passing, emphasizing her remarkable four-decade career devoted to both educating and uplifting young minds. He particularly noted her extraordinary focus on supporting children with special needs and her parallel role as a foster parent, which exemplified her deep commitment to youth development.

    ‘Teacher Gen dedicated her entire life to nurturing young minds and uplifting our community,’ Freeland stated. ‘Her approach went far beyond conventional teaching—she genuinely believed in every child’s potential and worked tirelessly to help them realize it.’

    Smith’s influence extended well beyond academic instruction. Over her lifetime, she provided foster care for 63 children and offered guidance to countless others, establishing herself as a steadfast pillar of support for families throughout Potters Village. Freeland described her as ‘a true matriarch’ whose compassion and selfless service fundamentally shaped the community’s character.

    Among her lasting contributions is a scholarship established in her honor at Potters Primary School, which annually recognizes students who demonstrate exceptional promise and dedication. This initiative, Freeland noted, serves as a perpetual mechanism for perpetuating her vision and encouraging future generations.

    The senator extended his deepest condolences to Smith’s family, the Potters Zion Moravian Church, and all community members grieving her loss. He further pledged to continue advocating for the values she championed, specifically promising ongoing support for local schools and youth development programs aimed at carrying forward her mission.

    Concluding his tribute, Freeland reflected that Teacher Gen’s ‘light will continue to shine through the lives she touched,’ cementing her memory as a woman whose wisdom, love, and unwavering dedication helped define the spirit of Potters Village for generations to come.

  • Regering zet eerste SRD 20 miljoen in Woningbouwfonds

    Regering zet eerste SRD 20 miljoen in Woningbouwfonds

    Suriname has officially activated its National Housing Fund following a presidential decree by President Jennifer Simons, marking a significant advancement in the nation’s social development agenda. The initiative, established under the National Housing Fund Act (S.B. 2019 no. 142), became operational on December 10, 2025, with an initial capital injection of SRD 20 million.

    The fund represents the government’s central financial mechanism for affordable housing construction, renovation programs, and sustainable housing projects. Although the legislation was originally passed by the National Assembly on November 21, 2019, its implementation had been pending until now. This delay-free activation finally provides Suriname with a consolidated and sustainable financing framework for its housing sector.

    Key operational aspects of the fund include:
    – Establishment of transparent governance structures and management protocols
    – Consolidation of public and private financial resources
    – Provision of long-term financing options for housing development projects
    – Implementation of rigorous accountability measures for fund allocation and expenditure

    The initial SRD 20 million allocation serves as seed capital for a multi-year program, with a larger second infusion planned for 2026. This strategic approach aims to revitalize the national housing policy while expanding access to affordable, quality housing. Additionally, the fund will facilitate renovation of aging residential facilities and specifically target improvement of living conditions in vulnerable neighborhoods.

    Administrative responsibility has been assigned to the Minister of Finance & Planning and the Minister of Social Affairs and Public Housing. These officials will oversee the fund’s operationalization, develop implementation regulations, and ensure transparent financial management.

    This formalization represents a crucial step in modernizing Suriname’s housing policy, creating a structural investment mechanism during a period of increasing housing affordability challenges and growing renovation needs across the nation.

  • Prevo Cinemall and Waitukubuli Artist Association dream up ‘Christmas in Paradise’

    Prevo Cinemall and Waitukubuli Artist Association dream up ‘Christmas in Paradise’

    The Waitukubuli Artist Association, in partnership with The Prevo Cinemall, has transformed its acclaimed group exhibition into a seasonal spectacle titled “Christmas in Paradise.” This festive continuation builds upon the original showcase, “Paradise of Colours and Expressions,” which received overwhelming public acclaim. The reimagined exhibition now integrates the cultural warmth and rhythmic spirit of Dominican Christmas traditions within its vibrant display of artistic creativity.

    Featured artists include nationally revered figures such as Lennox Honychurch, Earl Etienne, Michael Lees, Edward Collins, and Lowell ‘OMtNI’ Royer. Their collective works blend traditional motifs with contemporary interpretations, evoking the magical atmosphere of the holiday season in paradise.

    Beyond static displays, the exhibition offers dynamic public engagements including free general admission with optional donations. Scheduled events encompass “Lyrics Under the Stars”—a musical and poetic tribute to Jimmy Cliff—children’s Christmas face painting, and educational workshops covering calligraphy and papier-mâché techniques conducted by local artisans including Jenae Bell and Margaux LaRocque. Additional highlights include portrait sketching sessions and intimate “Meet the Artist” opportunities, notably with Sandra Vivas.

    The exhibition is hosted at Prevo Cinemall’s Middle Passage venue, operating from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM, Monday through Saturday, from December 13, 2025, until January 10, 2026. Select special events require nominal fees, while general viewing remains complimentary.