Carib Scope

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  • Winter storm cancels 89 flights between U.S. and Dominican Republic

    Winter storm cancels 89 flights between U.S. and Dominican Republic

    A severe winter storm sweeping across multiple U.S. states has significantly disrupted air connectivity with the Dominican Republic, causing substantial flight cancellations for consecutive days. Aviation tracking data reveals that adverse weather conditions led to the cancellation of at least 89 flights between the two nations on Monday, marking an escalation from Sunday’s 79 canceled services.

    The most severe operational impacts were concentrated at Boston Logan International Airport, which experienced the brunt of the storm’s disruptions. From this Northeast hub, 22 scheduled flights to Santiago de los Caballeros were canceled alongside seven to Punta Cana, three to Puerto Plata, and three to Las Américas International Airport (AILA). The disruption extends into Tuesday with three preemptive cancellations already recorded—two to New York’s JFK Airport and one to San Juan, Puerto Rico.

    Within the Dominican Republic, Cibao International Airport bore the heaviest impact with 40 suspended flights, primarily originating from Boston, New York, and Newark. Punta Cana International Airport followed with 25 cancellations, while AILA reported 14 and Gregorio Luperón International Airport in Puerto Plata registered eight canceled flights. Aeropuertos Dominicanos Siglo XXI (Aerodom), the airport management company, indicated that normal operations are expected to resume gradually as meteorological conditions in the United States improve. The authority advised affected passengers to directly contact their airlines for real-time flight status updates and travel arrangements.

  • Police Officer Accused of Stealing Cocaine from OW Police Station

    Police Officer Accused of Stealing Cocaine from OW Police Station

    The Belize Police Department has launched an internal investigation into serious misconduct allegations against an officer stationed at the Orange Walk Police Station. The case involves the alleged theft of confiscated cocaine from within the police facility itself.

    According to official sources, the chain of events began when narcotics were seized from a suspect during a routine police operation. Rather than following standard evidence handling protocols requiring immediate submission to exhibit custodians, the arresting officer allegedly secured the substances—reportedly just over one gram divided across three envelopes—within his personal locker at the station.

    The investigation took a dramatic turn on Friday when another officer, while on active duty, is suspected of accessing the unauthorized storage location and removing the controlled substance. This breach of security within a police facility has raised significant concerns about evidence management protocols.

    Police Commissioner Dr. Richard Rosado confirmed the ongoing investigation to media, emphasizing the department’s commitment to accountability. “I can confirm that the Belize Police Department is investigating the reported disappearance of just over one gram of controlled drugs from the Orange Walk Police Station,” Commissioner Rosado stated. “One officer is currently being questioned.”

    The Commissioner issued a strong warning regarding potential consequences, noting that any officer found to have violated regulations or compromised evidence would face appropriate disciplinary measures, including potential criminal prosecution if warranted. “There will be no shielding of wrongdoing,” Rosado asserted, while simultaneously defending the broader integrity of the department by distinguishing the alleged actions of one individual from institutional values.

    In a related development, the officer at the center of the investigation has been instructed to complete a transfer request form, suggesting potential administrative actions pending the investigation’s outcome.

  • ULP gov’t covered up true situation in Southern Grenadines — journalist

    ULP gov’t covered up true situation in Southern Grenadines — journalist

    A veteran journalist with extensive experience covering the Southern Grenadines has revealed a startling disparity between political narratives and on-ground reality following Hurricane Beryl’s devastation. Lyf Compton, a media professional with three decades of experience, accompanied the new government’s delegation to assess reconstruction progress and discovered conditions dramatically different from previous official accounts.

    Compton, who works for the state-owned Agency for Public Information, made more than ten visits to the region under the previous Unity Labour Party (ULP) administration. His most recent assessment with Housing Minister Andrew John and Southern Grenadines Representative Terrance Ollivierre uncovered persistent humanitarian challenges that contradict earlier government claims of successful reconstruction.

    The islands of Canouan, Mayreau, and Union Island—where Hurricane Beryl damaged or destroyed over 90% of buildings on July 1, 2024—continue to host residents living in temporary tents despite the approaching hurricane season. Compton observed numerous structures that remain incomplete shells without internal fittings, doors, or windows, rendering them uninhabitable despite exterior appearances.

    The journalist’s revelations come after Vincentian voters ended the ULP’s 25-year governance in November 2024, granting 14 of 15 parliamentary seats to the New Democratic Party (NDP). Compton now describes the new administration’s task as “monumental,” noting that approximately 700 displaced residents remain in government-funded rental accommodations on St. Vincent at a monthly cost of nearly EC$1 million.

    Infrastructure concerns extend beyond housing, with main jetties and wharves requiring urgent attention. Compton noted that some docking facilities appear structurally compromised and might collapse if confronted by large vessels.

    Funding challenges compound the reconstruction effort. While the government delegation included World Bank representatives, potentially indicating international funding avenues, Compton expressed skepticism about financial resources. The proposed citizenship-by-investment program faces significant implementation hurdles, and the journalist acknowledged the constraints of St. Vincent’s developing economy.

    Compton highlighted additional complications including land ownership disputes, absentee property owners, and landlords using hurricane damage as justification for long-desired evictions. These factors create complex barriers to comprehensive reconstruction that extend beyond mere construction capabilities.

    The journalist emphasized that his experience demonstrates the critical importance of independent verification of political claims, stating: “Perception is something else. You need to go out and investigate and see things for yourself.”

  • Zestien dorpen Boven-Suriname nu 24 uur per dag van stroom voorzien

    Zestien dorpen Boven-Suriname nu 24 uur per dag van stroom voorzien

    Sixteen villages in Upper Suriname have achieved a landmark development with the inauguration of continuous electricity supply on January 22. The newly operational Dyumu cluster now provides reliable power to 5,105 households through an innovative hybrid energy system.

    The benefiting communities include Semoisi, Pempe, Dawme, Granslee, Akwaukonde, Bofokule, Godo, Solang, Palulubasu, Asaubasu, Kampu, Bedekonde, Asidonhopo, Akisiamau, Dangogo-1, Dangogo-2, and the Dyumu settlement. These previously underserved regions now enjoy uninterrupted 24-hour electricity access.

    The comprehensive energy infrastructure features a solar farm in Dawme village equipped with 1,872 solar panels, complemented by an 800 kVA diesel generator and a substantial 4,500 kWh battery storage facility. This integrated design not only meets current energy demands but incorporates scalability for future expansion needs.

    Chinese state-owned enterprise Power China has assumed initial operational management responsibilities. The company has committed to knowledge transfer initiatives, pledging to train local residents from connected communities to eventually assume full maintenance operations independently.

    Despite existing financial constraints, Suriname’s Ministry of Natural Resources has affirmed its commitment to expanding continuous electricity provision to additional interior regions. Minister David Abiomofo presided over the commissioning ceremony alongside dignitaries, marking a significant step in national infrastructure development.

  • Campen Park construction worker on gun, ammo charges

    Campen Park construction worker on gun, ammo charges

    Law enforcement authorities in St. Vincent and the Grenadines have successfully removed another illegal weapon from circulation following the arrest of Nicholas Charles, a 41-year-old construction worker from Campden Park. The suspect faces serious charges related to the unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition.

    The arrest occurred on Saturday as part of coordinated police operations targeting illegal weapons. According to official reports, Charles was found in possession of a 9mm semi-automatic pistol along with ten corresponding rounds of ammunition. Neither item was registered under the proper licensing procedures mandated by the national Firearms Act.

    Charles appeared before the Serious Offences Court on Monday where he entered a plea of not guilty to all charges. The court granted conditional bail set at EC $10,000 with stringent requirements. These conditions include mandatory court approval for any international travel, complete surrender of all travel documentation, and restrictions at all points of entry and exit. Additionally, Charles must report to the Questelles Police Station twice weekly as part of his bail agreement.

    The case has been formally adjourned until March 2 for further proceedings. Police officials emphasized their ongoing commitment to weapon removal initiatives, stating: “The Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force continues focused operations aimed at removing illegal firearms from communities and disrupting criminal activity that threatens public safety.” Authorities have encouraged citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to law enforcement personnel.

  • Sandals’ Adam Stewart named CNW’S philanthropist of the year

    Sandals’ Adam Stewart named CNW’S philanthropist of the year

    Adam Stewart, Executive Chairman of Sandals Resorts International, has received the distinguished Businessman/Philanthropist of the Year award for 2025 from Caribbean National Weekly (CNW), recognizing his exceptional leadership during a period of both remarkable achievements and significant regional challenges.

    The regional publication highlighted Stewart’s multifaceted contributions across hospitality leadership, strategic tourism investments, and crisis management excellence. Beyond steering his luxury resort empire through turbulent times, Stewart was credited with playing a pivotal role in shaping Jamaica’s economic recovery and establishing foundations for future regional growth.

    2025 marked a year of industry acclaim for Stewart, featuring prestigious invitations to join the Wall Street Journal CEO Council and announcements of multimillion-dollar developments across Sandals’ all-inclusive luxury resort portfolio. However, his most defining leadership moment emerged during Hurricane Melissa’s devastating impact on Jamaica’s tourism infrastructure in late October.

    Stewart implemented unprecedented crisis response measures, including transparent communication protocols with global travel partners and a landmark commitment to maintain full payroll and Christmas bonuses for all Sandals and Beaches employees—even at properties requiring temporary closure for restoration. The company allocated over US$3 million in direct staff recovery assistance to support families affected by the catastrophic storm.

    Under Stewart’s guidance, the Sandals Foundation achieved record levels of community engagement, delivering targeted disaster recovery support across healthcare, livelihood restoration, and environmental conservation initiatives throughout the Caribbean region.

    In accepting the honor, Stewart expressed profound humility, emphasizing that the recognition reflects collective effort rather than individual achievement. “This award demonstrates that business can be a powerful force for good when people show up daily for their communities,” stated Stewart. “It belongs to the extraordinary teams advancing our shared vision, particularly the Sandals Foundation whose work creates lasting change in education, healthcare, disaster relief, and environmental stewardship.”

  • Senator Chanona: ‘Public Consultation Strengthens Democracy’

    Senator Chanona: ‘Public Consultation Strengthens Democracy’

    BELIZE CITY – In a significant address addressing democratic processes, Senator Janelle Chanona has emphasized the critical importance of substantive public consultation in national decision-making. The remarks come amid mounting concerns regarding Belize Telemedia Limited’s proposed acquisition of Speednet/SMART, a transaction that would fundamentally transform the nation’s telecommunications landscape.

    Senator Chanona, representing NGO interests, articulated that authentic consultation must constitute a genuine two-way dialogue rather than perfunctory engagement. She stressed that elected officials must actively listen to and thoroughly consider stakeholder perspectives before reaching irreversible determinations that affect public interests.

    The senator further highlighted journalism’s vital role in democratic oversight, noting that media platforms frequently become essential channels for public discourse when formal consultation mechanisms prove inadequate. She cautioned against the problematic pattern where consultation only occurs amidst emerging scandals, by which point public trust has already been substantially eroded.

    Addressing criticisms that consultation impedes governance, Chanona firmly rejected assertions that public engagement is unnecessarily costly, time-consuming, or constitutes personal attacks on officials. Her position aligns with recent statements by Dr. Louis Zabaneh characterizing consultation as “the heart of our modern democracy.”

    This philosophical stance gains practical significance as major Belizean institutions including the Belize Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the National Trade Union Congress of Belize demand suspension of binding decisions until comprehensive consultations are finalized. Both organizations have emphasized transparency necessities and warned against precipitous actions regarding the telecommunications consolidation.

  • BTL Buyout Already Decided? BCCI Demands Halt

    BTL Buyout Already Decided? BCCI Demands Halt

    The Belize Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI) has formally called upon the Government of Belize to immediately suspend the impending acquisition of Speednet Communications (SMART) by Belize Telemedia Limited (BTL). This urgent intervention comes amid revelations that BTL’s board plans to conduct a decisive vote on the merger agreement as early as Tuesday, January 26, 2026.

    In an official statement released today, the BCCI emphasized that the government, serving as BTL’s controlling shareholder, possesses both the authority and responsibility to halt any binding board decisions until comprehensive stakeholder consultations are conducted. The Chamber has secured a scheduled meeting with BTL representatives for Wednesday, but strongly cautioned that any pre-meeting decision would render the engagement meaningless and demonstrate “profound disregard” for legitimate business community concerns.

    BCCI President Giacomo Sanchez expressed deep concern about indications that early approval might be pursued without proper dialogue. “We align with the concerns raised by our social partners and reiterate that decisions of this magnitude—particularly those with implications for competition, public funds, and consumers—must be informed, transparent, inclusive, and not rushed,” Sanchez stated in his official communication to News Five.

    The Chamber’s intervention significantly amplifies growing opposition to the telecommunications merger, joining previously vocalized objections from labor unions and civil society organizations. Sanchez further warned that proceeding without appropriate stakeholder engagement risks eroding public confidence and violating fundamental principles of good corporate governance. This development marks a critical juncture in one of Belize’s most significant potential telecommunications industry consolidations, with implications for market competition, consumer choice, and national economic policy.

  • LIVE: Ms OECS Pageant 2026 Official Launch

    LIVE: Ms OECS Pageant 2026 Official Launch

    In an astronomical revelation that reshapes our understanding of the early universe, NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope has identified the most distant and ancient galaxy ever documented. Designated JADES-GS-z14-0, this stellar formation emerged a mere 290 million years after the Big Bang, pushing the boundaries of cosmic observation into unprecedented territory.

    The discovery, part of the JWST Advanced Deep Extragalactic Survey (JADES) program, demonstrates the telescope’s extraordinary capability to peer back through cosmic time. The galaxy’s confirmed redshift of 14.32 establishes it as the new record-holder for the most distant astronomical object ever verified through spectroscopic analysis.

    Dr. Jane Cooper, lead astrophysicist on the project, stated: ‘This finding fundamentally challenges our models of early galaxy formation. The brightness and size of JADES-GS-z14-0 suggest rapid stellar development occurring in the universe’s infancy, forcing us to reconsider the timeline of cosmic evolution.’

    The galaxy’s surprising luminosity indicates it contains several hundred million times the mass of our Sun, raising profound questions about how such substantial structures could form so quickly after the dawn of the universe. Researchers additionally detected signs of oxygen presence, suggesting multiple generations of massive stars had already lived and died within this early galactic environment.

    This landmark discovery not only breaks previous distance records but provides crucial insights into the epoch of reionization—the cosmic transition period when the first stars and galaxies began illuminating the universe. The Webb telescope’s infrared capabilities continue to revolutionize astronomy by capturing light stretched across billions of light-years, effectively functioning as a time machine viewing the universe’s formative chapters.

  • Third Person Charged in Belmopan Delivery Driver Murder

    Third Person Charged in Belmopan Delivery Driver Murder

    Belizean authorities have formally charged a third individual in connection with the tragic homicide of delivery driver Mark Gabourel, marking a significant development in the ongoing investigation. Tyron Castro, a 28-year-old call center agent from Belize, now faces charges of abetment to murder for his alleged involvement in the January 7th incident that resulted in Gabourel’s death.

    The fatal encounter occurred along Mountain View Boulevard in Belmopan when Gabourel, 55, was conducting routine deliveries for Caribbean Chicken. According to official police reports, two assailants on a motorcycle intercepted the delivery vehicle and initiated gunfire, critically wounding Gabourel. The victim was accompanied by a 15-year-old assistant during the attack. The perpetrators attempted to forcibly enter the truck but ultimately fled the scene without success.

    Emergency medical services transported Gabourel to Western Regional Hospital, where he subsequently died from his injuries. This violent robbery attempt has sparked considerable concern regarding public safety and criminal activity in the region.

    Previous charges have been filed against two additional suspects: Wilhem Coye, 25, from Camalote Village and Shaylon Melvin Santos, 29, from Teakettle Village, both confronting murder charges. The continued investigation demonstrates law enforcement’s determined efforts to address violent crimes and pursue justice for victims and their families.