Carib Scope

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  • Guyana to join US-led anti-narco-terrorism coalition

    Guyana to join US-led anti-narco-terrorism coalition

    In a significant move to bolster regional security cooperation, Guyana has officially committed to joining a United States-led multinational coalition against narco-terrorism. The announcement came from Prime Minister Mark Phillips during the inaugural Americas Counter Cartel Conference held at U.S. Southern Command headquarters in Doral, Florida on Thursday.

    Prime Minister Phillips, a retired Brigadier and former Head of the Guyana Defence Force, declared Guyana’s endorsement of the Joint Security Declaration adopted at the conference. “Guyana welcomes the adoption of the Joint Security Declaration of this Conference and looks forward to joining the coalition to combat narco-terrorism,” stated Phillips, emphasizing his nation’s commitment to hemispheric security partnerships.

    The high-level gathering brought together defense and security leaders from across the Caribbean, Central America, and South America, with U.S. Secretary of War Pete Hegseth hosting the proceedings. This conference sets the stage for Saturday’s planned meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump, Guyana’s President Irfaan Ali, Trinidad and Tobago’s Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, and several other Western Hemisphere leaders.

    Phillips highlighted the particular vulnerability of Guyana to transnational criminal networks due to its strategic location along crucial maritime and regional transit corridors. “These threats demand coordinated intelligence sharing, enhanced operational cooperation, and strengthened defense capabilities across the hemisphere,” he explained, noting that cartels and criminal gangs increasingly threaten regional peace, undermine rule of law, weaken institutions, and jeopardize democratic stability.

    The Prime Minister characterized the U.S.-Guyana relationship as “a strong and expanding strategic partnership built on mutual trust and robust defence and security cooperation.” This collaboration has previously included capacity building initiatives, joint military exercises, and technical engagements focused on combating narco-trafficking and other transnational crimes.

    Phillips concluded with a vision for regional cooperation that respects national sovereignty: “Through deeper cooperation and partnership, we can ensure that our hemisphere remains safe, secure, and a Zone of Peace.”

  • Edward “Scrubby” Saldano Jr. Shot Dead in Belize City

    Edward “Scrubby” Saldano Jr. Shot Dead in Belize City

    BELIZE CITY – The relentless cycle of urban violence has claimed another life as 26-year-old Edward “Scrubby” Saldano Jr. was fatally shot on Thursday afternoon while riding his bicycle near the intersection of Amara Avenue and Dean Street. This tragic incident occurred less than a month after Saldano had narrowly survived a previous shooting attempt in the same vicinity.

    According to police reports, a lone assailant approached Saldano around 12:20 PM and unleashed multiple gunshots before fleeing the scene. Law enforcement officials discovered numerous expended shells and bloodstains at the location, indicating a targeted ambush. Saldano was pronounced dead at Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital shortly thereafter.

    The victim had been recently released from police custody and maintained a documented history with law enforcement, including previous charges related to robbery, unlawful firearm discharge, and alleged gang affiliations. This violent episode represents the latest chapter in a family tragedy that began in 2022 when Saldano’s father, Edward Saldano Sr., was similarly executed by gunfire on Wilson Street.

    Assistant Superintendent of Police Stacy Smith confirmed that investigators have detained one male suspect in connection with the homicide. Surveillance footage reportedly captured the altercation between Saldano and his assailant, who was apparently known to the victim. The precise motive remains undetermined, though police are exploring potential connections to previous criminal investigations and possible gang-related tensions.

    The Saldano family has endured multiple encounters with violence. In 2025, Saldano Jr. was shot by police during an incident at Michael Finnegan Market, prompting criticism from his mother regarding law enforcement procedures. Following his father’s murder in 2022, Saldano Jr. had temporarily surrendered to authorities, expressing belief that his father had been targeted due to their familial relationship.

    This daylight shooting has intensified concerns about public safety in Belize City neighborhoods, highlighting persistent challenges in breaking patterns of retaliatory violence that continue to traumatize communities.

  • Private exam enrolment climbs as 2026 season approaches

    Private exam enrolment climbs as 2026 season approaches

    Education authorities are observing a significant shift toward independent learning patterns as private examination registrations for core academic subjects show a remarkable upward trend ahead of the 2026 testing season. Final preparations are currently underway for examinations scheduled to commence next month, with officials noting particularly substantial increases in private candidate registrations for Mathematics and English language assessments.

    Deputy Chief Education Officer Stephen Scott revealed preliminary data indicating Mathematics has attracted 608 private candidates—a striking increase of 157 students compared to 2025 figures. Similarly, English A, which focuses on grammar and language proficiency, has demonstrated considerable growth with 324 private registrations to date, substantially exceeding last year’s total of 211 examinees.

    Scott emphasized that these numbers remain fluid and subject to change due to the decentralized registration methodology. The current system operates on individual candidate submissions rather than a centralized preemptive database, creating challenges in tracking all potential examinees, particularly those who may have missed the recent registration deadline. “I cannot provide definitive numbers because we cannot determine how many prospective candidates have missed the deadline,” Scott explained, noting the department maintains communication with candidates who initiated but haven’t completed registration.

    The 2025 examination statistics documented 3,541 total participants in Mathematics and 3,819 in English A across both school-based and private entries nationwide. Scott confirmed all logistical preparations have reached finalization stages, stating unequivocally: “The systems are ready. We are putting things in place for those exams… all systems are go for the examinations.”

    The 2026 examination cycle will encompass both the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) ordinary-level and Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE) advanced-level assessments, scheduled to initiate on April 13 with language oral examinations.

  • Xillan Macrooy sluit SABI Literatuurfestival 2026 af met wervelende muzikale lezing

    Xillan Macrooy sluit SABI Literatuurfestival 2026 af met wervelende muzikale lezing

    Surinamese artist Xillan Macrooy delivered a mesmerizing multidisciplinary performance Wednesday evening, officially presenting his literary work ‘Mensen als zonnen en mensen als manen’ to a captivated Surinamese audience at a packed Spice Quest venue. The event marked both the triumphant homecoming of his Netherlands-published book and the grand finale of the SABI Literature Festival 2026.

    Macrooy masterfully intertwined poignant readings from his deeply personal narrative with musical interludes, demonstrating exceptional versatility as both writer and performer. His soulful vocals resonated through the hall during musical segments, enhanced by impeccable sound engineering, while musician Jonathan Moeslan provided atmospheric guitar accompaniment. The audience, comprising diverse age groups, remained enthralled throughout the evening, culminating in a spontaneous collective rendition of Macrooy’s earlier commercial work ‘Mi Kondre Tru’.

    The book itself courageously explores themes of identity, coming-of-age, and queer existence within the Surinamese context—particularly significant given the ongoing challenges surrounding LGBTQ+ discourse in the nation. Macrooy emphasized literature’s unique capacity to address such sensitive topics, expressing hope for increased dialogue and action regarding these and other social issues.

    During an intimate conversation with Sharda Ganga, Macrooy revealed his writing process and vulnerability within the text. Ganga observed his remarkable linguistic dexterity, noting how he ’employed the very language that once confined him as a tool for liberation.’ The author also reflected on the universal struggles of identity formation, particularly among youth, advising attendees not to fear inevitable change.

    The evening additionally honored writer Edgar Cairo, whose work profoundly influenced Macrooy’s artistic development. Beyond the main event, Macrooy recorded a podcast exploring queer legacy and visited the Nassy Brouwerschool with activist Sammy Doorson to discuss humanity and gender with students.

    Organized by Stichting Skrifi with support from the Dutch Foundation for Literature, the SABI Literature Festival aims to establish itself as a multi-day platform showcasing Surinamese literary innovation. Through partnerships with Surinamese and Dutch organizations, the foundation continues developing sustainable reading infrastructure despite limited resources, working to structurally strengthen the nation’s literary landscape through venues including Souposo, Spice Quest, and the university library.

  • Manhunt Launched After PG Teen Murder

    Manhunt Launched After PG Teen Murder

    PUNTA GORDA – Law enforcement authorities have initiated an intensive search operation following the fatal shooting of 17-year-old Jimmy Cus in a brazen attack that has sent shockwaves through this community. The incident occurred on Wednesday evening around 8:00 PM as Cus and his companion, 18-year-old Darwin Meraz, were walking along New Road when an unidentified assailant opened fire without apparent provocation.

    According to official statements from Assistant Superintendent Stacy Smith, officers responding to reports of gunshots discovered Cus’s body with multiple fatal gunshot wounds. Meraz sustained a non-life-threatening injury to his leg but managed to escape the violent encounter. Medical personnel pronounced Cus deceased at the scene.

    Investigators have identified a person of interest in connection with the shooting and are pursuing multiple investigative angles, including a potential connection to a recent homicide within the Punta Gorda Town jurisdiction. Police expressed concern that the violence might represent part of an escalating cycle of retaliatory actions between local groups.

    ASP Smith revealed that community policing sections had previously engaged in mediation efforts with both victims, who were known to local authorities. “They were very young in age to be more productive citizens of society,” Smith noted, indicating prior outreach attempts to guide the youths toward positive community engagement.

    The investigation remains active with law enforcement working to apprehend the suspect before further violence erupts. Authorities have pledged to disclose additional information to the media as the case develops and more details are confirmed through official channels.

  • Sexual Assault Victim Frustrated as Dawson’s Case Drags

    Sexual Assault Victim Frustrated as Dawson’s Case Drags

    A case involving former police officer Durman Dawson, accused of sexually assaulting a colleague within the San Ignacio Police Station premises, continues to face significant courtroom delays, generating profound frustration for the victim. The incident, which was captured on surveillance camera, initially led to Dawson’s swift arrest and subsequent dismissal from the force following an internal disciplinary tribunal.

    According to Staff Officer ASP Stacy Smith, the police department has fulfilled its institutional responsibilities by conducting a thorough internal review process that culminated in Dawson’s termination. The disciplinary proceedings found Dawson guilty, a decision that was subsequently upheld after multiple appeals, first to the department’s legal office and then to the Belize Advisory Council.

    The current delays in the criminal justice process stem from complex legal maneuvers within the courtroom. A significant setback occurred when the victim, Ms. Gillett, successfully argued for the recusal of Dawson’s original defense counsel based on potential conflict of interest. The court agreed that the defense attorney’s prior discussions with the complainant created an improper dynamic, necessitating Dawson’s acquisition of new legal representation and resulting in repeated adjournments.

    Police authorities emphasize that while they have removed Dawson from his position, the judicial system must navigate these procedural challenges independently. The victim continues to await resolution as the case encounters further postponements, highlighting the often protracted nature of legal proceedings even with compelling evidence.

  • Marin Warns Cartels Are Outpacing Region at Miami Security Summit

    Marin Warns Cartels Are Outpacing Region at Miami Security Summit

    At the inaugural Americas Counter Cartel Conference in Miami, Belizean Defense Minister Florencio Marin Jr. delivered a stark warning that transnational criminal organizations are operating with unprecedented speed and sophistication, outpacing regional security responses. The high-level security summit brought together hemispheric leaders to address the escalating threat posed by cartel networks.

    Minister Marin emphasized that Belize’s strategic location bridging Central America and the Caribbean makes it particularly vulnerable to criminal exploitation of key maritime and overland routes. “These networks traffic narcotics, weapons, and human beings,” Marin stated. “They undermine governance, distort economies, fuel corruption and erode the safety and confidence of our citizens.”

    The defense minister outlined Belize’s comprehensive security strategy involving enhanced border protection, maritime domain awareness, intelligence-led operations, and interagency collaboration. However, he stressed that no single nation—especially smaller countries like Belize—can confront this threat alone, calling for coordinated regional action mirroring the operational efficiency demonstrated by criminal organizations.

    Concurrently, the Belize Defense Force has intensified northern border security through Operation Northern Fortress amid escalating cartel violence in Mexico’s Quintana Roo state following the killing of Mexican kingpin Nemesio ‘El Mencho’ Oseguera. Brigadier General Anthony Velasquez confirmed increased troop deployments, new vehicle acquisitions, and enhanced intelligence coordination with Mexican counterparts to monitor cross-border threats.

    While acknowledging the tangible nature of the cartel threat, Velasquez reported no current escalation of violence within Belizean territory, attributing this containment to proactive defense measures and continuous vigilance along the northern frontier.

  • Twelve Soldiers Axed Amid BDF Disciplinary Shakeup

    Twelve Soldiers Axed Amid BDF Disciplinary Shakeup

    The Belize Defense Force (BDF) has initiated a significant internal disciplinary overhaul, resulting in the dishonorable discharge of twelve soldiers confirmed to have committed serious violations of military conduct protocols. This decisive action coincides with heightened security operations along Belize’s northern border, where escalating cartel-related violence in Mexico has raised national security alarms.

    Brigadier General Anthony Velasquez, Commander of the BDF, emphasized that the dismissals were essential to preserve institutional integrity while maintaining operational readiness. The discharged personnel forfeit all military benefits and are permanently barred from reenlistment due to the severity of their infractions.

    While specific details of the violations remain partially classified, General Velasquez acknowledged multiple contributing factors including alcohol abuse, misconduct during Women’s Month observances, and other breaches of military discipline. The General clarified that disciplinary measures within the BDF range from administrative penalties for minor offenses to disgraceful discharge for grave violations such as weapon mismanagement, failure to report for duty, or actions resulting in loss of life.

    The timing of this disciplinary action is particularly significant as Belize strengthens its northern border surveillance in response to spillover violence from Mexican cartel operations. General Velasquez confirmed the force remains vigilant both internally and externally, maintaining disciplined readiness for potential security challenges emanating across the Río Hondo boundary.

  • Belize Police Department Honors Women Leaders

    Belize Police Department Honors Women Leaders

    In a powerful demonstration of institutional commitment to gender equality, Belize’s security apparatus is undergoing a profound cultural transformation during Women’s Month 2026. The Belize Police Department and Belize Defense Force are implementing comprehensive initiatives to recognize female contributions while addressing systemic challenges facing women in uniform.

    The Belize Police Department hosted a landmark symposium highlighting female leadership and resilience. Senior Superintendent Dehanne Augustine, Second in Charge of Belize District, emphasized the event’s significance in addressing critical issues including career development, trauma support, and cancer awareness. The department formally honored twenty-two female officers for exceptional service in categories including community engagement, arrest records, and years of dedicated service.

    Simultaneously, the Belize Defense Force is confronting historical concerns regarding women’s safety within military ranks. Brigadier General Anthony Velasquez characterized gender-based abuse as a “wicked problem” deeply embedded in societal structures. While acknowledging past incidents, Velasquez reported dramatic improvement with only one case documented in the previous year.

    The military’s SHARP (Sexual Harassment/Assault Response and Prevention) policy has emerged as a transformative framework, creating multiple reporting channels including anonymous options and civilian police coordination. Commanders emphasize this policy has fundamentally altered institutional culture, though complete eradication of deeply rooted societal issues remains an ongoing process.

    Both institutions are maintaining vigilance through continued policy enforcement and cultural education, ensuring female personnel feel both protected and empowered throughout their careers. This coordinated approach across Belize’s security services represents a national model for addressing gender equality in traditionally male-dominated professions.

  • Unions flag ‘lack of consultation’ but back free school breakfast plan

    Unions flag ‘lack of consultation’ but back free school breakfast plan

    The Barbados Ministry of Education Transformation’s announcement of universal free breakfast for primary school students has received qualified endorsement from the nation’s two largest labor unions, though both organizations have sharply criticized the government’s failure to consult them before making the policy public.

    The National Union of Public Workers (NUPW) and Barbados Union of Teachers (BUT) expressed support for the program’s nutritional objectives while raising significant operational concerns. Both unions revealed they learned about the initiative through media reports rather than official channels, despite the policy’s potential impact on their members’ working conditions.

    NUPW Deputy General Secretary Wayne Walrond confirmed his organization received no prior communication from education authorities. “I can tell you I’m not aware of any discussion held with the union. I heard these things in the media,” Walrond stated, emphasizing the lack of details regarding implementation plans or workforce involvement.

    BUT President Rudy Lovell similarly reported no pre-announcement consultation, raising practical questions about program execution. “If breakfast is to be served before the official start of the school day, who will be responsible for supervising students during this period?” Lovell questioned, highlighting concerns about potential additional responsibilities for teaching staff without adequate support.

    Both union leaders stressed that proper consultation represents a fundamental principle of sound industrial relations, particularly for policies affecting working conditions. Walrond noted that decisions involving student populations inevitably impact non-student workers, making representative engagement essential.

    Lovell warned that insufficient staffing could create undue strain on educational personnel, stating: “Without additional staffing, there is a risk of placing undue strain on teachers, administrative staff, and ancillary workers.” He called for clarity on whether dedicated personnel would be assigned or if existing staff would assume additional duties.

    The concerns extend beyond union leadership, with reports indicating that school meals workers themselves remain uninformed about implementation details. Some workers confirmed they await guidance from management regarding the program’s rollout.

    Education Minister Chad Blackman announced the program at Wednesday’s Childhood Obesity Prevention Youth Health Summit, revealing that all primary school students will receive free breakfast beginning September 2026. The initiative forms part of the government’s education transformation agenda, addressing observations that up to one-quarter of students begin school without eating, adversely affecting concentration and learning outcomes.

    In response to mounting concerns, the ministry issued a Thursday night statement promising “strategic stakeholder consultations in the coming months” involving workers’ unions, teachers, administrators, and parent representatives. The department committed to carefully designing implementation systems and logistics.

    Despite current tensions, BUT President Lovell expressed willingness to collaborate, describing the program as a “significant and commendable investment” in children’s wellbeing. “With proper planning, consultation, and resource allocation, this initiative can become a transformative measure,” Lovell stated, acknowledging research demonstrating improved educational outcomes for students who begin their day with nutritious meals.