作者: admin

  • Taxi fare dispute leads to seizure of illegal gun

    Taxi fare dispute leads to seizure of illegal gun

    A heated dispute over a taxi fare escalated into a serious criminal incident in Mabaruma, Guyana, leading to the seizure of an illegal firearm and the arrest of two suspects. According to the Guyana Police Force, the incident unfolded on Saturday, November 15, 2025, when a 50-year-old taxi driver was allegedly assaulted and threatened by a passenger who brandished a handgun during a disagreement over the fare. The driver promptly reported the incident to the authorities. In response, police launched an early morning operation on Sunday, November 16, 2025, resulting in the detention of two construction workers, aged 21 and 23, from Parika, East Bank Essequibo. During subsequent investigations, one of the suspects guided officers to a bushy area in Mabaruma, where a .22 caliber pistol, believed to have been used in the altercation, was recovered. The firearm has been secured as evidence, and both individuals remain in custody while the investigation continues. This incident highlights the dangers faced by taxi drivers and the ongoing challenges of illegal firearms in the region.

  • Youth voices rise against crime at speak-off finals

    Youth voices rise against crime at speak-off finals

    At the 2025 Youth Speak-Off Finals, held on Saturday night at Golden Square Freedom Park, Tykairi Sargeant of the Men’s Empowerment Network delivered a powerful plea for unity in addressing Barbados’ rising crime rates. Sargeant questioned the future of society if current trends persist, emphasizing the collective responsibility of citizens to foster safer communities. He highlighted emotional intelligence as a cornerstone for positive behavioral change and underscored the critical need for mental health awareness, particularly among young men, who often face societal pressures leading to unresolved trauma and unhealthy coping mechanisms. The event, themed ‘From Fear to Citizen Empowerment: Safer Streets, Stronger Communities,’ was organized by the Criminal Justice Research and Planning Unit (CJRPU) in collaboration with the National Peace Programme. Lumiere Clarke of King’s Trust International secured second place, while Romarr Corbin of the Barbados National Youth Parliament took third, both advocating for empowerment and community-driven action. The eight finalists, including Roshauna Clarke, Ashriel Bernabé, Peter Sandiford-Scott, Relissa Mitchum, and Dequan Thompson, presented compelling arguments on crime prevention and citizen responsibility. CJRPU Director Cheryl Willoughby praised the participants for their courage and contributions to research-informed crime prevention strategies. Minister of People Empowerment and Elder Affairs Kirk Humphrey lauded the youth as future leaders, emphasizing their resilience and leadership. The competition awarded $2,000 to the first-place winner, $1,000 for second, $500 for third, and $200 to each remaining finalist.

  • Diverse ventures take spotlight at We Gatherin’ entrepreneurial fair

    Diverse ventures take spotlight at We Gatherin’ entrepreneurial fair

    The We Gatherin’ Co-operative Entrepreneurial Fair, held on Saturday at Church Village Green, Central Bank, St Michael, drew a consistent crowd despite challenging weather conditions. The event highlighted a vibrant array of co-operatives, small businesses, and financial education programs, underscoring Barbados’ increasing emphasis on community-driven economic growth and resilience.

  • Belize Pushes for Stronger Flight Links to Europe

    Belize Pushes for Stronger Flight Links to Europe

    In a strategic move to revitalize its tourism sector, Belize has initiated high-level discussions with leading European airlines to enhance flight connectivity. The meetings, held this week, focused on key markets such as the UK, Germany, and France, and aimed to address evolving travel trends and the increasing interest of European tourists in Belize. The Belizean delegation, led by Tourism Minister Anthony Mahler, included CEO Nicole Usher and BTIA President Efren Perez. They emphasized the importance of strengthening partnerships with international travel companies and maintaining Belize’s visibility through targeted marketing and media campaigns. These efforts come at a critical time for Belize’s tourism industry, which has faced recent challenges, including an 8.6% decline in overnight tourist arrivals in September and disruptions caused by mass flight cancellations in U.S. airports due to air traffic control shortages and a federal government shutdown. Despite these setbacks, Perez remains optimistic, highlighting Belize’s proactive approach in promoting its tourism offerings and urging stakeholders to remain focused and resilient. The initiative underscores Belize’s commitment to leveraging international collaborations to drive tourism growth and economic recovery.

  • U.S. Strike Kills Three Suspected Narco-Terrorists On Saturday

    U.S. Strike Kills Three Suspected Narco-Terrorists On Saturday

    The United States military has confirmed the execution of a targeted strike on a vessel suspected of narcotics smuggling in the Eastern Pacific, resulting in the deaths of three individuals. The operation, conducted by Joint Task Force Southern Spear on November 15, was authorized by Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, according to a statement released by U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM).

    The vessel, reportedly operated by a Designated Terrorist Organization, was intercepted while navigating a known drug-trafficking route in international waters. Intelligence assessments indicated that the craft was transporting narcotics at the time of the strike. The operation led to the elimination of three male individuals identified as narco-terrorists aboard the vessel.

    SOUTHCOM emphasized that this interdiction is part of broader, ongoing efforts to dismantle transnational criminal networks active in the region. The strike underscores the U.S. military’s commitment to combating illicit activities that threaten regional security and stability. This operation highlights the strategic use of military force to disrupt organized crime and narco-terrorism in international waters.

  • ‘Everything gone’: Hurricane Melissa leaves devastation in southern Jamaica

    ‘Everything gone’: Hurricane Melissa leaves devastation in southern Jamaica

    The rural parish of St Elizabeth, located on Jamaica’s southwestern coast, is grappling with the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, one of the most destructive storms ever to hit the island. The Category 5 hurricane left a trail of devastation, uprooting trees, flattening homes, and severing communication lines. Residents are now embarking on the arduous journey of recovery, relying on community solidarity and government aid to rebuild their lives.

    David Muschette, an 84-year-old resident of the Wilton district, narrowly escaped disaster when his home was reduced to rubble. Fleeing barefoot through flying debris and torrential rain, he sought refuge at his neighbor Pamela Heath’s house. Heath, herself shaken by the storm, provided him with shelter, dry clothes, and comfort. “Mi can’t take fi see the sufferation,” she said, emphasizing her commitment to helping those in need despite her own struggles.

    The storm’s impact was felt across the parish, with many homes losing roofs and essential belongings ruined. Carnel Williams and his partner, Keisha Granville, lamented the loss of their home and possessions. Granville, who lost a leg years ago, expressed her frustration at being unable to move or contact her grandchildren. Neighbor Linoval Wright, whose house also lost its roof, described the storm as worse than Hurricane Gilbert in 1988, calling it “terrible.”

    In response to the crisis, the Jamaican government established a National Hurricane Relief Committee, co-chaired by ministers Desmond McKenzie and Daryl Vaz, to coordinate rebuilding efforts. Regional support has also been mobilized, with Barbados dispatching a humanitarian team and supplies to assist in the recovery. Prime Minister Mia Mottley emphasized the importance of Caribbean solidarity, pledging continued cooperation through the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA).

    As recovery efforts continue, the resilience of St Elizabeth’s residents shines through. Despite losing everything, they remain determined to rebuild their lives, relying on the strength of their community and the support of their neighbors. “Everybody lose something,” Heath said, “But we still here.”

  • Notice of Night Works at Bike Plus and Bendals

    Notice of Night Works at Bike Plus and Bendals

    The Ministry of Works has issued a public advisory regarding the commencement of night-time road works in specific areas, starting at 6:00 pm tonight. The affected locations include Bike Plus and Bendals Road. Residents and road users are urged to exercise heightened caution during this period, as heavy-duty machinery will be operational. To ensure safety and minimize disruptions, motorists are advised to follow designated detours and comply with instructions from traffic control personnel. Additionally, vehicle owners are encouraged to remove their cars from the work zones prior to the start of operations. The Ministry emphasizes the importance of public cooperation to facilitate a smooth and efficient execution of these essential infrastructure activities.

  • Epstein mentioned Trump multiple times in private emails, new release shows

    Epstein mentioned Trump multiple times in private emails, new release shows

    Newly disclosed emails from Democrats on the House Oversight Committee have revealed that Jeffrey Epstein, the convicted sex offender who died by suicide in 2019, mentioned former President Donald Trump multiple times in private correspondence over the past 15 years. The emails, exchanged with Epstein’s longtime associate Ghislaine Maxwell and author Michael Wolff, suggest Trump spent significant time with a woman described as a victim of Epstein’s sex trafficking network. In one message, Epstein claimed Trump “knew about the girls,” seemingly referencing Trump’s assertion that he expelled Epstein from his Mar-a-Lago club for targeting young women there. The emails, released on November 12, were obtained after subpoenaing Epstein’s estate earlier this year. Notably, Trump neither sent nor received any of the messages, which largely predate his presidency, and he has not been accused of any criminal wrongdoing related to Epstein or Maxwell. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt criticized the release, calling it a “selective leak” to create a “fake narrative” against Trump. Meanwhile, Wolff, who was in communication with Epstein, stated he couldn’t recall the full context but confirmed discussing Epstein’s relationship with Trump. The emails have reignited scrutiny of Epstein’s connections to high-profile figures, though their implications remain unclear.

  • Encouraging turnout at police recruitment fair

    Encouraging turnout at police recruitment fair

    The Barbados Police Service (BPS) held a highly successful recruitment fair on Saturday at the Police Sports Club in Weymouth, St Michael, to tackle a critical shortage of approximately 250 officers. The event attracted a steady flow of attendees throughout the day, with many arriving early to register and participate in on-the-spot preliminary interviews. Acting Senior Superintendent Stephen Herbert and Public Affairs and Communications Officer Ryan Brathwaite, who spoke at the opening ceremony, emphasized the growing staffing gap caused by retirements, illnesses, and career transitions. Brathwaite highlighted the importance of maintaining adequate numbers to ensure effective service to the nation, stating, ‘This is about building capacity. We have more people leaving the service than entering, so it is crucial to keep our numbers up.’ He also stressed that the fair aimed to showcase the diverse roles within policing, beyond just street-level enforcement. When questioned about a potential link to the recent rise in criminal activity, Brathwaite clarified that the event was part of ongoing efforts to maintain staffing levels rather than a direct response to recent incidents. Acting Sergeant Wendell Foster of the Special Operations Management Services echoed this sentiment, noting that many Barbadians only see a limited aspect of policing. He encouraged attendees to explore the various specialized units, such as forensics, cybercrime, and drone operations, which were showcased through live demonstrations. The fair also aimed to inspire a new generation of officers and help the public appreciate the complexity and high standards of modern policing. Brathwaite urged families to attend with young relatives, emphasizing the role of parents and guardians in career guidance. He added that the event provided an opportunity for individuals who had never considered policing to discover new possibilities.

  • At Least 120 Injured as Protests Erupt in Mexico

    At Least 120 Injured as Protests Erupt in Mexico

    On November 16, 2025, Mexico witnessed widespread unrest as thousands of demonstrators, predominantly from Gen Z youth groups, took to the streets to protest escalating cartel violence and the government’s perceived inaction. The protests were triggered by the assassination of Carlos Manzo, a mayor who had vocally opposed cartel activities. Manzo was killed on November 1 while attending a Day of the Dead festival, a tragedy that galvanized public outrage. Demonstrators, carrying banners emblazoned with “We are all Carlos Manzo” and donning cowboy hats in his honor, clashed with police near the National Palace in Mexico City. Authorities responded with tear gas, resulting in at least 120 injuries, including 100 police officers, and 20 arrests. President Claudia Sheinbaum, whose approval ratings remain above 70%, accused right-wing opponents of funding the protests and warned of the use of online “bots” to incite unrest. In a public briefing, Sheinbaum emphasized her support for freedom of expression but questioned the motives behind the demonstrations. The incident underscores the growing tension between the Mexican government and citizens demanding stronger action against cartel violence.