MIAMI, United States – Haitian-American Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick has been indicted on federal charges for allegedly embezzling $5 million in disaster relief funds, laundering the money, and diverting a significant portion to finance her 2021 congressional campaign. The indictment, issued by a federal grand jury in Miami, also names her brother Edwin Cherfilus and several associates as co-defendants.
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Dennis: PNM will fix Tobago’s poor customer service
Ancil Dennis, the political leader of the PNM Tobago Council, has highlighted that subpar customer service continues to hinder Tobago’s tourism industry. Despite a three-year island-wide initiative launched in August 2021 during his tenure as chief secretary, aimed at transforming the service culture, the issue persists. The program, funded by the Tobago Tourism Agency Ltd (TTAL) and executed by the Tobago Hospitality and Tourism Institute (THTI), was led by Singaporean etiquette expert Ron Kaufman. By March 2023, approximately 2,000 individuals across various sectors had been trained, yet Dennis emphasized during a recent community meeting in Castara that poor customer service remains a significant challenge. He stressed that if the PNM secures victory in the upcoming THA election, improving customer service will be a top priority. Dennis also criticized the current administration for neglecting the Parlatuvier/L’Anse Fourmi/Speyside electoral district, citing poor infrastructure and lack of support for local farmers. At the meeting, he endorsed farmer Maxslon Roberts as the party’s candidate for the district in the upcoming election.
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Quarry operator Guerra arrested under SoE regulations
In a significant development, prominent businessman Danny Guerra was apprehended on November 20 under the state of emergency (SoE) provisions by the Special Investigations Unit. Guerra, the manager of D Guerra Ltd and owner of multiple companies under the D Guerra Group of Companies, faces allegations of unlawful aggregate processing without a license from the Ministry of Energy. This arrest follows a major police operation on October 9, which targeted an illegal quarry in Manuel Congo, Guanapo. The operation led to the shutdown of the site and the confiscation of a multi-million-dollar processing plant, trucks, and heavy machinery. Guerra, along with his son Garvin Guerra and 16 others, was detained during the raid. Earlier, on October 11, Guerra and his son had been charged and granted $50,000 bail each by a Justice of the Peace. Additionally, on October 10, Guerra, his son, a supervisor from D Guerra Ltd, and Carmino Ltd director Rolf Ferriera were taken to St Augustine Private Hospital under police guard for medical treatment after reportedly falling ill during detention. The case has drawn significant attention due to Guerra’s prominent business stature and the scale of the alleged illegal operations.
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CoP: TTPS helping shape next generation of men
On November 20, as the world marked International Men’s Day, Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) Commissioner Allister Guevarro emphasized the organization’s commitment to molding the next generation of men in the nation. In a heartfelt voice message shared on the TTPS Facebook page, Guevarro highlighted the origins of the day, which was founded by Trinidadian academic Dr. Jerome Teelucksingh. He underscored the significance of the occasion as a reminder of Trinidad and Tobago’s leadership in global discussions on discipline, service, and leadership. Guevarro pointed to the country’s rich legacy of producing influential men in academia, culture, and sports, citing figures like Dr. Eric Williams, Sir Ellis Clarke, and ANR Robinson, whose contributions have left indelible marks on the world. He also celebrated icons such as Hasely Crawford, Brian Lara, Dwight Yorke, Ato Boldon, and Nobel laureate VS Naipaul, who have showcased the nation’s excellence on international stages. Guevarro emphasized that International Men’s Day is more than a celebration for the TTPS; it is a call to action. He noted that the TTPS’s motto, ‘to protect and serve with pride,’ provides young men with a sense of belonging, a positive identity, and a pathway away from crime. By instilling values of discipline, respect, and service, the TTPS aims to shape men who will serve their families, communities, and nation with integrity. Guevarro urged citizens to recommit to fostering men of discipline, service, and faith, ensuring every young man understands that greatness is not only possible but expected.
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Steelpan and Powder Parade goes east
The Steelpan and Powder Parade (Eastern Region) unfolded in a burst of color and rhythm on November 15, showcasing the rich cultural tapestry of Tunapuna. The event commenced at El Dorado Road, Eastern Main Road, and culminated at the Republic Bank Exodus panyard, drawing crowds of enthusiastic spectators and talented performers alike. Among the standout bands were the Tunapuna Tipica Steel Orchestra, Simple Song Steel Orchestra, Bp Renegades Steel Orchestra, Massy Trinidad All Stars, Curepe Scherzando Steelband, Pamberi Steel Orchestra, and First Citizens Supernovas, each delivering electrifying performances that captivated the audience. Newsday photographer Faith Ayoung immortalized the festivities, capturing moments of joy, creativity, and cultural pride. From young pan enthusiasts reveling in the music to a moko jumbie tossing powder into the air, the parade was a testament to the enduring legacy of steelpan music in Trinidad and Tobago. Josiah Austin, chairman of the Tunapuna/Piarco Regional Corporation, also addressed the gathering, emphasizing the importance of preserving and celebrating this unique art form. The event not only entertained but also fostered a sense of community and cultural identity, leaving attendees with lasting memories of a day filled with music, dance, and tradition.
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Reid, Pinnock and co-accused to return to court in February
The high-profile corruption trial involving former Jamaican Education Minister Ruel Reid, ex-Caribbean Maritime University President Fritz Pinnock, and three co-accused is set to continue in February 2026, with additional witness testimonies expected to shed light on the alleged $25 million fraud scheme. The trial, which began on October 7th after an initial delay due to the absence of Judge Vaughn Facey, has seen Senior Parish Judge Sanchia Burrell presiding over the proceedings.
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Antigua’s PM says Jamaica can bounce back bigger and better
ST JAMES, Jamaica—Gaston Browne, Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda, has expressed unwavering solidarity with Jamaica in the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, drawing parallels to his nation’s recovery from Hurricane Irma in 2017. During a visit to affected areas in Westmoreland on November 17, Browne emphasized the Caribbean’s collective resilience and the potential for stronger rebuilding efforts.
Reflecting on Antigua and Barbuda’s experience, Browne highlighted how Barbuda, despite being devastated by Hurricane Irma, emerged stronger through unified efforts. ‘We rebuilt bigger and better, and Jamaica can do the same,’ he stated. He underscored the importance of regional cooperation, noting that Antigua and Barbuda has already deployed linesmen and soldiers to assist Jamaica’s recovery. Additionally, the country has pledged financial support for relief and reconstruction programs.
Browne called on international financial institutions to provide concessional financing for resilient rebuilding, warning that the cost of inaction would be measured in lives and livelihoods. He urged Jamaicans to remain steadfast, emphasizing the Caribbean’s shared history of overcoming adversity. ‘We, as Caribbean people, have always faced trials together, and this too shall pass,’ he said.
The Prime Minister reiterated his nation’s commitment to supporting Jamaica and advocating for resilient infrastructure across the Caribbean. ‘We are a small country, but our solidarity is mighty. We will do whatever we can to assist Jamaica and its people,’ he affirmed. Browne’s message underscores the importance of unity and innovation in the face of natural disasters, offering a blueprint for recovery and growth.
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Teen charged following alleged carjacking
KINGSTON, Jamaica — A 17-year-old boy has been formally charged in connection with a violent carjacking that occurred on Slipe Road in Kingston 5 on the evening of Sunday, October 12. The teenager faces multiple charges, including robbery with aggravation, possession of a prohibited weapon, and using a firearm to commit a felony. According to reports from the Half-Way-Tree police, the incident unfolded between 11:00 pm and midnight when the boy and his accomplices, posing as passengers, hailed a ride from a popular ride-sharing service. Shortly after entering the vehicle, one of the suspects allegedly held a knife to the driver’s neck while another brandished a firearm. The teen is accused of forcibly removing the driver from the car before fleeing with the vehicle, which contained a bag holding $50,000 in cash and electronic devices valued at $60,000. The driver promptly reported the incident to the authorities, prompting an immediate investigation. The suspect was later apprehended during a targeted police operation and formally charged after a questioning session conducted in the presence of his attorney and guardian. His court appearance is currently being scheduled.
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Traz Di Jennik releases latest single
KINGSTON, Jamaica — As the festive season approaches, Jamaican artist Traz Di Jennik is setting the stage for holiday revelry with his latest track, ‘Party Hot Girlz.’ Released in early November, the song was co-produced by the singer alongside Trevor ‘Skatta Lopa’ Bonnick and Lydia Campbell. Despite its timing, the track was not crafted with Christmas in mind. Instead, Traz Di Jennik drew inspiration from the image of girls partying all night, which sparked the song’s intro and punchline. He shared this creative process in an interview with Observer Online.
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High Court rules in ANSA Merchant Bank’s $30m fraud case
In a landmark ruling, the High Court has adjudicated on the $30 million fraud case involving ANSA Merchant Bank (AMB) and its former employees. Justice Frank Seepersad, in a comprehensive 100-plus page judgment, dismissed claims against four former employees but found former business development officer Dwayne Rojas guilty of breaching contractual and fiduciary duties. Rojas was implicated in a fraudulent loan scheme, colluding with roll-on/roll-off car dealers to defraud the bank of $30 million over two and a half years. The scheme involved falsified job letters and fabricated vehicle documents, with non-existent vehicles listed as loan collateral. Justice Seepersad ruled that Rojas knowingly processed fraudulent applications, causing substantial financial loss to AMB. The court also dismissed cases against Zaria Sankar, Reyvaan Rampersad, Kerry Ramsaroop, and Adriana Ramsingh, citing insufficient evidence of wrongdoing. However, summary judgments were granted against five roll-on/roll-off companies, ordering them to repay $24 million. Justice Seepersad criticized AMB for targeting junior staff while neglecting to hold senior officers accountable. He highlighted the bank’s inadequate internal controls and risk management practices, which facilitated the fraud. The judge recommended that the case be forwarded to the Director of Public Prosecutions and the Commissioner of Police for potential criminal charges. Additionally, he urged the Minister of Trade, Industry, and Tourism to review the operating licenses of the implicated dealerships. The ruling underscores the need for stricter financial oversight and accountability in the banking sector.