Carib Scope

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  • New registration eases Venezuelan migrants’ anxiety

    New registration eases Venezuelan migrants’ anxiety

    Trinidad and Tobago has initiated a significant expansion of its migrant regularization program, extending eligibility to all undocumented migrants within its borders. Angela Ramnarine of the La Romaine Migrant Support Programme confirmed the development, noting widespread approval among Venezuelan migrants despite some skepticism from a minority faction.

    The program revival comes six years after Trinidad’s initial 2019 registration drive that documented 16,000 Venezuelans. Ramnarine observed that registered numbers had progressively declined since then, resulting in a growing population of undocumented migrants who “felt like they were being hunted by the law.”

    Speaking with Newsday on December 30, Ramnarine reported receiving numerous calls from employers praising Venezuelan workers as “fantastic” contributors, particularly in construction sectors. The new initiative aims to address two critical objectives: comprehensive data collection and enhanced migration control.

    The political context remains inseparable from the migration crisis. Ramnarine noted that Prime Minister Keith Rowley has consistently positioned herself alongside the Venezuelan people amid international disputes regarding President Nicolás Maduro’s legitimacy. Migrants predominantly blame the Chavez and Maduro administrations for their displacement, with many viewing Maduro’s potential removal as their only hope for returning home safely.

    Regarding U.S. involvement, Ramnarine suggested American policies might be strategically designed to encourage migrant settlement in regional neighbors rather than attempting northward migration. She contrasted former President Trump’s threatened deportations of 600,000 Venezuelans with Trinidad’s current regularization approach.

    The nine-month registration window raised questions about duration adequacy, with Ramnarine advocating for employer inclusion in policy discussions. She emphasized the substantial impact migrant labor has created within Trinidad’s workforce, particularly in construction and service industries where employers expressed strong opposition to potential deportations.

    Ramnarine welcomed the program as a remedy to arbitrary enforcement practices, citing pre-Christmas Eve arrests conducted “in an ICE-like way” where detainees could allegedly secure release through under-the-table payments. The regularization should reduce such inconsistencies while alleviating the pervasive fear that prevented migrants from working or sending children to school following October deportation warnings from the Ministry of Homeland Security.

  • High Court pushes for settlement in cyclists’ challenge to TTCF trials

    High Court pushes for settlement in cyclists’ challenge to TTCF trials

    In a significant development for Trinidad and Tobago cycling, elite sprinters Njisane Phillip and Makaira Wallace of JLD Cycling Academy, alongside professional enduro rider Alexi Costa-Ramirez, have received a High Court directive to present a settlement proposal to the Trinidad and Tobago Cycling Federation (TTCF). This judicial instruction emerged from a virtual hearing presided over by Justice Westmin James on December 30, focusing on the federation’s controversial scheduling of national selection trials for the Pan American Track Championships.

    The court-mandated proposal aims to resolve the dispute surrounding the TTCF’s announcement of mandatory trials scheduled for January 17—a date that falls fewer than 12 weeks before the prestigious continental championships. The athletes, represented by attorney Dr. Emir Crowne, previously sought an injunction against the trials, asserting that the timing contravenes the federation’s constitutional provisions and established selection protocols.

    Central to the cyclists’ legal challenge is their claim that the TTCF’s own policies explicitly require national trials to be conducted at least 12 weeks prior to international competitions. They further argue that this abrupt scheduling departure from established practices could potentially jeopardize Olympic qualification opportunities, which frequently depend on meticulously planned continental championship timelines.

    TTCF president Rowena Williams acknowledged that no definitive decisions were reached during the hearing but expressed optimism regarding reaching a mutual agreement by January 2. The federation maintains that trials represent a legitimate selection methodology, noting that previous team selections have incorporated both competitive trials and discretionary choices. The TTCF additionally asserts that the January trial date received proper authorization through a council meeting attended by all three athletes involved in the current dispute.

    Should the settlement negotiations prove unsuccessful, Justice James indicated the High Court stands prepared to issue a prompt ruling on the matter, potentially setting a significant precedent for athlete-federation relations in Trinidad and Tobago sports governance.

  • Relatives mourn Arima fireman, but grateful for closure

    Relatives mourn Arima fireman, but grateful for closure

    The Trinidad and Tobago Fire Service community is reeling from the tragic death of Fire Officer Bruce Lezama, whose body was discovered on December 30 after a five-day search operation. The 47-year-old ambulance driver, attached to the Ambulance Section North based at the Northern Division headquarters in Port of Spain, was last seen alive on Christmas Day.

    Lezama’s disappearance triggered immediate concern when he failed to report for duty on December 27. Security footage from his residence in Andy Estate, Arima, revealed the horrifying circumstances of his abduction—two assailants were captured attacking the fire officer before forcibly removing him in his own vehicle, which was later found abandoned.

    An intensive search operation involving fellow fire officers, relatives, and the Hunters Search and Rescue Team culminated in the grim discovery along the Arima Old Road. The identification process, while not formally completed, strongly suggests the remains are those of the missing firefighter.

    The Fire Services Association Second Division expressed profound devastation in an official statement signed by President Keon Guy. The association confirmed the suspension of all coordinated search operations and emphasized providing support to grieving family members and colleagues who described Lezama as a quiet, professional, and dedicated public servant.

    Opposition Leader Pennelope Beckles, speaking as both a political figure and Lezama’s constituency representative, revealed additional disturbing details during a media briefing. She confirmed that CCTV evidence showed not only the abduction but subsequent financial transactions from Lezama’s bank account before his body was disposed of. Beckles used the tragedy to criticize the government’s crime reduction policies, citing this incident alongside other recent violent crimes including a double murder in Arima on Christmas morning and the death of a nine-year-old child in a construction vehicle accident.

    The incident has raised serious questions about public safety and crime prevention measures in Trinidad and Tobago, particularly regarding the protection of emergency service personnel who dedicate their lives to serving the community.

  • Marchin Patriots land Kamil Pooran for 2026 cricket season

    Marchin Patriots land Kamil Pooran for 2026 cricket season

    In a strategic move ahead of the 2026 TT Cricket Board Premiership I season, Bess Motors Marchin Patriots have secured the signature of dynamic Trinidad and Tobago Red Force opening batsman Kamil Pooran. The 29-year-old right-handed batter brings substantial first-class experience to last season’s runners-up, having featured in eight First-Class matches and four List A appearances throughout his career.

    Pooran’s acquisition represents a significant coup for the Patriots, as the explosive batsman played pivotal roles in Central Sports’ consecutive Premiership I championship victories in 2024 and 2025. His recent form has been particularly impressive, highlighted by a match-winning performance in the inaugural West Indies T20 Breakout League final where he smashed 73 runs from just 44 deliveries to propel TT Legions to the title. Additionally, Pooran contributed to Trinidad and Tobago’s silver-medal campaign at the recent Bolivarian Games in early December.

    The Patriots officially announced the signing through their social media channels on December 18, expressing enthusiasm about their new acquisition. The club’s statement emphasized Pooran’s proven track record as a pressure player ready for the big stage, noting that his addition would substantially enhance both the quality and depth of their batting lineup while elevating team standards.

    This signing strengthens an already formidable Patriots squad that features multiple award-winning performers, including Evin Lewis—last season’s Premiership I Cricketer of the Year who amassed over 600 runs—and Kashtri Singh, both of whom were among the league’s top five cricketers for the 2025 campaign.

    The 2026 TT Cricket Board Premiership I season is scheduled to commence on January 24, with the reinforced Marchin Patriots positioned as strong contenders for the championship.

  • Caribbean CBI schemes risk EU visa backlash

    Caribbean CBI schemes risk EU visa backlash

    Several Caribbean nations operating Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programs are confronting potential suspension of their visa-free access to the European Union’s Schengen Area. The European Commission has initiated formal notification procedures, citing substantial deficiencies in the due diligence and security protocols of these economic citizenship schemes.

    The diplomatic tension centers on the perceived risks these programs pose to the EU’s internal security framework. Brussels authorities have expressed particular concern over the adequacy of background checks conducted on applicants prior to granting citizenship. The Commission’s action follows extensive evaluation periods and multiple rounds of consultations with Caribbean governments.

    Affected jurisdictions include Dominica, Grenada, and several other Eastern Caribbean states whose programs have attracted thousands of investors primarily seeking enhanced global mobility. The EU’s move represents the most significant regulatory challenge to date for the lucrative citizenship industry, which has generated substantial revenue for small island economies.

    Diplomatic sources indicate that Caribbean governments have been granted a limited window to implement corrective measures addressing the identified security vulnerabilities. The proposed suspension mechanism would not immediately revoke visa-free travel but would establish a temporary restriction pending compliance with EU security standards.

    The confrontation highlights growing international scrutiny of investor citizenship schemes, with multiple Western governments increasingly concerned about their potential exploitation for money laundering, tax evasion, and circumventing immigration controls. This development may prompt broader reassessment of visa-waiver agreements between the EU and third countries operating similar economic citizenship programs.

  • UN warns of complex situation in Gaza

    UN warns of complex situation in Gaza

    A severe weather system has exacerbated the already dire humanitarian situation in Gaza since Saturday, with powerful winds and torrential rains causing widespread destruction across the territory. The storm has triggered the collapse of multiple buildings that had previously sustained structural damage from military operations, while simultaneously flooding the tent settlements that currently serve as home for the majority of Gaza’s displaced population.

    Philippe Lazzarini, Commissioner-General of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), issued a stark assessment of the deteriorating conditions. He emphasized that Gaza’s residents are being subjected to escalating levels of suffering, desperation, and mortality due to the compounding effects of natural disasters and human-made restrictions. Lazzarini specifically criticized Israeli authorities for maintaining stringent limitations on humanitarian aid operations, stating that essential supplies are not reaching the enclave at required volumes despite the emergency conditions.

    The UN humanitarian coordination office (OCHA) documented numerous weather-related casualties in recent hours, including multiple cases of pediatric hypothermia and numerous illnesses linked to sewage system failures and wastewater overflow contamination. This latest storm follows another severe weather event earlier this month that resulted in 13 fatalities, among them two infants.

    Structural damage assessments reveal at least 17 complete building collapses and significant damage to over 42,000 tents and temporary shelters, either partially or completely destroyed. This infrastructure damage has directly impacted no fewer than 235,000 individuals, further straining the territory’s limited resources and emergency response capabilities. The cumulative effect of these disasters has created what aid agencies describe as an unsustainable humanitarian emergency with growing health risks for the vulnerable population.

  • Four Men Charged with Possession of a Modified Flare Gun

    Four Men Charged with Possession of a Modified Flare Gun

    In a significant law enforcement operation, the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda has formally charged four young men with possession of an illegally modified flare gun. The arrests occurred following a targeted mobile patrol conducted on the afternoon of December 27, 2025.

    The individuals facing charges have been identified as Niah Joseph, 19, of No. 2 George Street; Jeremy Floyd, 19, and Devontia Summer, 21, both residing at No. 3 George Street; and Duran Benjamin, 21, from Green Bay Hill.

    According to official reports from the Office of Strategic Communications, police units were conducting high-visibility patrols across multiple jurisdictions including Grays Farm, Green Bay, Hatton, Five Islands, Hawksbill Beach, Yeptons, and Deep Bay. At approximately 3:10 p.m., officers intercepted a silver Honda Fit vehicle occupied by the four suspects.

    During a systematic search of the vehicle, law enforcement personnel discovered a modified flare gun concealed beneath one of the seats. The discovery led to the immediate arrest of all occupants and subsequent charges under the country’s firearms legislation.

    The accused are scheduled to appear in court to formally answer the charges. This operation forms part of the Royal Police Force’s broader strategy to maintain public safety and combat criminal activities through visible policing presence and proactive intervention measures across the island nation.

  • Politie: Aroma rond 01.30 uur ingesloten, om 06.10 uur levenloos aangetroffen in cel Keizerstraat

    Politie: Aroma rond 01.30 uur ingesloten, om 06.10 uur levenloos aangetroffen in cel Keizerstraat

    Surinamese police authorities faced intense media scrutiny during a press conference addressing the controversial death of detainee Dennis Aroma, who was found deceased in a custody cell at the Central Police Station (Keizerstraat) on Monday morning. The incident has raised serious questions about detention protocols and inmate monitoring procedures.

    According to police spokesperson Michael Elskamp, Inspector Third Class and acting Head of Public Relations, Aroma had been transported to the station at approximately 1:30 AM on December 29 following his discharge from the Academic Hospital Paramaribo (AZP). The detainee was placed in an Observation and Temporary Stay (OTS) cell, where he was discovered lifeless during routine checks at 6:10 AM.

    Police Commissioner Rachel Deekman revealed that Aroma had initially received treatment at the Emergency Department for gunshot wounds sustained during his apprehension. Authorities emphasized that OTS cells are designed for isolated detention pending further judicial proceedings, not for continuous surveillance of high-risk individuals.

    The police force acknowledged contacting Suriname’s Psychiatric Center (PCS) to determine whether Aroma had documented mental health concerns, though no medical reports indicating psychological instability were available at the time of his transfer.

    While preliminary investigations suggest suicide using bandage materials from a splint applied to his right lower leg, officials declined to provide specific details pending completion of the autopsy and formal investigation. The Capital Crimes Division, assisted by Forensic Investigation and medical professionals, is conducting a comprehensive review of the circumstances.

    During the press conference, journalists criticized the lack of transparency regarding surveillance protocols, camera monitoring, and hospital discharge decision-making processes. Police representatives stated they had come forward provisionally to address public concern and curb speculation, but definitive answers would require completion of the ongoing investigation and receipt of the official autopsy report.

  • NSWA Conducts Overnight Drain Cleaning Along Major St. John’s Corridors

    NSWA Conducts Overnight Drain Cleaning Along Major St. John’s Corridors

    In a proactive overnight operation, teams from the National Solid Waste Management Authority (NSWA) undertook an extensive drainage maintenance initiative across key areas of St. John’s, Antigua. The nocturnal workforce targeted critical infrastructure along Independence Drive, Andy Roberts Street, and Sir Vivian Richards Street, extending their efforts from the V.C. Bird Monument to the Special Security Building. This strategic timing minimized disruption to daytime traffic and commercial activities while maximizing operational efficiency. The comprehensive procedure involved cutting through overgrown vegetation, removing accumulated debris and sediment, and performing high-pressure flushing of drainage channels. This initiative represents a critical component of the nation’s enhanced flood mitigation strategy, designed to improve water runoff capacity during heavy rainfall events. The government’s investment in preemptive infrastructure maintenance reflects a shift toward sustainable urban water management practices that prioritize resilience against increasingly frequent extreme weather patterns.

  • Our Picks: Must-read books in 2026

    Our Picks: Must-read books in 2026

    The St. Lucia Times editorial team has released a meticulously curated selection of literary works poised to dominate reading lists in the coming year. This comprehensive guide spans multiple genres—from transformative non-fiction to immersive fiction—offering readers purposeful recommendations for intellectual growth and entertainment.

    The collection opens with ‘Anansi: New & Ancient African Tales,’ a vibrant anthology featuring the legendary trickster character, with contributions from writers across the African diaspora including Saint Lucian author Dawn French. Sports Editor Terry Finisterre highlights this work as a significant cultural contribution.

    In the psychological wellness category, Paul David’s ‘At Last A Life’ presents a revolutionary approach to anxiety management through acceptance rather than resistance, as noted by Multimedia Journalist Josiah St. Luce. This theme continues with Albert Ellis’s ‘How to Stubbornly Refuse to Make Yourself Miserable About Anything,’ which challenges conventional self-help methodologies.

    The autobiographical selections include Rich Paul’s ‘Lucky Me,’ which explores how ordinary experiences shape extraordinary destinies, and Walter Isaacson’s seminal biography ‘Steve Jobs,’ recommended for innovators seeking to transform personal passions into global impacts.

    Ancient wisdom finds its place through Marcus Aurelius’s ‘Meditations,’ described by Multimedia Journalist Kherim Nelson as a raw, practical journal of philosophical reflections from a leader bearing immense responsibility. This historical perspective contrasts with contemporary fiction like Cleyvis Natera’s ‘Neruda on the Park,’ which Digital News Editor Sydney Joseph praises for its poignant portrayal of a Dominican family confronting neighborhood gentrification.

    Technology and nostalgia converge in Ernest Cline’s ‘Ready Player One,’ a science fiction novel that increasingly mirrors our technological reality. Meanwhile, ‘Running in Heels’ by Yasmin Solitahe Odlum and Barbara Jacobs Small provides comprehensive documentation of women’s political participation in Saint Lucia, particularly relevant during an election year.

    Sports enthusiasts will appreciate Richard Moore’s ‘The Bolt Supremacy,’ which investigates Jamaica’s track and field dominance through historical context and training methodologies. Business leadership receives focused attention through Steven Bartlett’s ‘The Diary of a CEO’ and Patrick Lencioni’s ‘The Four Obsessions of an Extraordinary Executive,’ the latter personally endorsed by CEO & Publisher Hermina Elcock for its practical framework for organizational leadership.

    Additional notable inclusions feature Albert Ellis’s psychological critique ‘The Myth of Self-Esteem,’ Austin Clarke’s political fiction ‘The Prime Minister’ exploring repatriation experiences, Tahereh Mafi’s fantasy trilogy ‘This Woven Kingdom’ with its innovative magic systems, and Jordan Peterson’s controversial but impactful ’12 Rules for Life’ addressing personal responsibility in challenging circumstances.

    This curated collection represents more than reading recommendations—it constitutes a roadmap for personal development, cultural understanding, and intellectual engagement for the year ahead.