Carib Scope

作者： admin

  • Kalinago Christmas event: ‘The Birth of Christ’ (with video)

    Kalinago Christmas event: ‘The Birth of Christ’ (with video)

    In a notable display of community engagement, former Prime Minister OJ Seraphin and his wife Lily made a special appearance at a distinctive Christmas event organized by the Kalinago community. The couple was present for the performance of “The Birth of Christ,” a dramatic production presented by the Hunger and Thirst After Righteousness Drama Group.

    The event, which blends cultural tradition with religious observance, represents the unique Christmas celebrations within the Kalinago territory. The presence of the former head of government underscores the ongoing connection between national leadership and indigenous communities, particularly during significant cultural and religious holidays.

    The dramatic performance itself serves as both spiritual reflection and cultural preservation, showcasing the community’s interpretation of the Nativity story through local artistic expression. Such events highlight how traditional Christmas observances are adapted and celebrated within different cultural contexts across the nation.

    The appearance of the former political leader at this community-driven event demonstrates the continuing role of public figures in supporting local cultural initiatives and maintaining connections with diverse constituencies beyond their formal terms in office.

  • Gros Islet retain two-day cricket title

    Gros Islet retain two-day cricket title

    Gros Islet Cricket Club has capped off a remarkable sporting year by securing consecutive victories in the Saint Lucia National Cricket Association Two-Day Tournament. The northerners claimed a decisive seven-wicket win against Central Castries in the championship finale held at Mindoo Phillip Park on December 28, 2025.

    The victory was orchestrated through exceptional individual performances that highlighted both batting prowess and bowling excellence. Young pace sensation Bjorn Fanis, a 17-year-old right-arm prodigy from Leon Hess Comprehensive Secondary School, delivered a career-best bowling performance of 5-22 during the first innings. His devastating spell dismantled Central Castries’ batting lineup, restricting them to a modest 136 runs.

    Gros Islet’s response was equally impressive, with wicketkeeper-batsman Noelle Leo showcasing his class with a magnificent century. The left-handed Windward Islands player smashed a fluent 130 from just 63 deliveries, featuring nine boundaries and eleven sixes. His dominant performance propelled Gros Islet to 289, establishing a substantial first-innings lead of 153 runs.

    Despite a stronger second-innings showing from Central Castries, who posted 304 runs, off-spinner Lee John emerged as the bowling hero with lifetime best figures of 8-85 from 19.1 overs. His precision bowling tore through the opposition’s batting order, limiting their competitive advantage.

    The chase for 152 runs became a formality as former West Indies Under-19 captain Kimani Melius unleashed a blistering 98 from just 41 balls, including eleven sixes and four boundaries. Though falling just short of his century, Melius’ explosive partnership with Leo ensured Gros Islet reached their target in only 15 overs, finishing at 152-3.

    This championship victory completes an extraordinary treble for Gros Islet, who earlier in the year claimed the 2024-2025 two-day competition, shared the Sandals Under-19 trophy with Central Castries, and triumphed in the National Lotteries Authority Saint Lucia Premier League.

  • RGPF establishes units to fight digital crimes

    RGPF establishes units to fight digital crimes

    In a strategic move to combat the escalating threat of digital crime, the Royal Grenada Police Force (RGPF) has formally launched two specialized technology units. Commissioner Randy Connaught announced the establishment of a Digital Forensic Unit and a Drones Unit during his year-end press conference, highlighting significant technological investments to address crimes ranging from digital fraud and data theft to online harassment.

    The Drone Unit, which began with a single aircraft, has now expanded into a full fleet operated by qualified pilots, with additional personnel currently undergoing training. While Commissioner Connaught showcased the drone program’s expansion, operational details of the Digital Forensic Unit remain closely guarded.

    This law enforcement modernization aligns with broader national security initiatives. Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell addressed Parliament in August 2024, emphasizing drone technology’s revolutionary potential, particularly for healthcare applications, and announced forthcoming regulations governing drone operations, including no-fly zones. However, these policies have not yet been formally gazetted into law.

    Assistant Commissioner Vannie Curwen provided stark context for these developments, noting the increasing digitalization of criminal activity. “We have been able to build out a Digital Forensic Unit giving us the capacity to go far, deep and wide into everything,” Curwen stated. “Every electronic gadget that is used to commit a crime, we will find you, and if you delete it, we will be able to find it again.”

    The urgency of these measures is underscored by a regional situational assessment conducted under the World Bank-funded Caribbean Digital Transformation Project (CARDTP). Published in August 2025, the report reveals cyber threats are proliferating faster than public comprehension, with Grenada showing particularly concerning trends.

    Focus groups conducted with Grenadian citizens revealed widespread experience with cyber incidents—from scams to impersonation and cyberbullying—yet fewer than half of participants could accurately define basic cybersecurity terms like “phishing” or “two-factor authentication.” Many believed cybercrime only targeted large institutions rather than ordinary citizens, and reporting rates remained low due to uncertainty about procedures, fear of embarrassment, and lack of trust in response systems.

    The assessment recommends comprehensive public education campaigns, increased visibility of cybersecurity resources like CSIRT Grenada, and enhanced support systems for vulnerable groups including teachers, parents, seniors, and small businesses.

  • Trump Claims the U.S. Destroyed a Major Facility in Venezuela, But Did It Actually Happen?

    Trump Claims the U.S. Destroyed a Major Facility in Venezuela, But Did It Actually Happen?

    In a controversial radio interview that has raised more questions than answers, former President Donald Trump asserted that U.S. forces recently destroyed a significant Venezuelan facility as part of ongoing pressure tactics against the Nicolás Maduro regime. During his appearance on WABC’s Friday broadcast, Trump made the cryptic declaration: “They possess a substantial plant or major facility where vessels originate. We eliminated that target two nights ago. We struck them with considerable force.

    The remarkable claim lacks official verification from multiple fronts. The White House has maintained complete silence regarding these assertions, declining all requests for clarification. Simultaneously, Venezuelan authorities have reported no major facility destruction nor issued formal complaints about any military incursion. The nature, location, and even existence of the alleged target remain shrouded in uncertainty.

    This ambiguous statement emerged during Trump’s broader discussion about American operations targeting Venezuela, including previously documented strikes against suspected narcotics trafficking vessels and the enforcement of oil tanker blockades under international sanctions regimes. The absence of corroborating evidence from either government has created an information vacuum, leaving analysts and observers to speculate about the veracity and context of these unsubstantiated claims.

  • Flash-flood watch in effect across Barbados

    Flash-flood watch in effect across Barbados

    Barbados remains on high alert as meteorological authorities have issued a comprehensive islandwide flash-flood watch effective throughout Wednesday. The Barbados Meteorological Services (BMS) extended the advisory due to persistent unstable atmospheric conditions, forecasting additional rainfall accumulations ranging from one to two inches across the island.

    The current weather pattern, driven by surface to mid-level instability combined with an upper-level jet stream, follows overnight moderate to heavy showers that primarily affected southern regions of the island. Meteorological officials indicate these conditions could potentially escalate to a red-level warning if precipitation intensifies beyond current projections.

    Anticipated impacts include significant water accumulation on roadways and agricultural fields, likely resulting in transportation delays and isolated route diversions. Rising water levels in ponds and natural water bodies present additional concerns, with minor flooding expected in drainage systems, road networks, and low-lying properties. Areas with exposed terrain face possible soil erosion complications.

    Authorities have mandated continuous monitoring of official updates through the BMS, Department of Emergency Management (DEM), Barbados Government Information Service (GIS), and accredited local media outlets. The flash-flood watch, initially activated at 6:00 a.m. local time, remains effective until 6:00 p.m. Wednesday, subject to earlier termination should meteorological conditions improve.

  • King Dice says ‘no-go’ for Calypso monarch competition 2026

    King Dice says ‘no-go’ for Calypso monarch competition 2026

    In a seismic development for Caribbean musical culture, ten-time Calypso Monarch Dennison ‘King Dice’ Joseph has declared his formal withdrawal from the 2026 competition season. The iconic performer made his startling revelation through social media channels this weekend, sending ripples through the calypso community.

    The reigning champion until his dethronement in 2024, Joseph yielded his crown to current titleholder Joy ‘Joy’ Stoute during last year’s finals, where he secured first runner-up position. His departure from competition follows what appears to be growing dissatisfaction with judging protocols within the traditional art form.

    Joseph pointedly questioned the fairness of his 2025 evaluation, asserting: ‘The performance was there, the song was on point, the presentation was on point.’ His rhetorical challenge to followers—’Where did I go wrong?’—preceded his enigmatic observation that ‘Calypso is Carnival, not church,’ suggesting fundamental disagreements about artistic evaluation criteria.

    While withholding specific details about his grievances, the calypsonian issued apologies to his dedicated supporters while firmly closing the door on 2026 participation. He articulated a fundamental principle regarding artistic judgment: performances and compositions should be evaluated on their merits rather than the performers themselves.

    The musical visionary concluded his announcement by hinting at forthcoming creative projects, indicating that his artistic journey will continue through alternative channels beyond competitive platforms. This development marks a significant moment for calypso’s evolving landscape, potentially prompting broader conversations about artistic validation in traditional musical forms.

  • Eerste vuurwerkslachtoffer van het jaar geregistreerd

    Eerste vuurwerkslachtoffer van het jaar geregistreerd

    Suriname has documented its inaugural firework-related incident of the year, prompting urgent safety warnings from emergency services. A 24-year-old male presented at the Academic Hospital Paramaribo’s Emergency Department on Sunday evening at approximately 10:00 PM, sustaining significant incense-related trauma to his right eye. The patient has been scheduled for follow-up consultation with an ophthalmologist today.

    The emergency medical staff and Suriname Fire Brigade Corps have intensified their campaign for stringent safety protocols during firework celebrations. Authorities emphasize that adult supervision of minors remains absolutely critical during these activities. While acknowledging the entertainment value of fireworks, the fire brigade underscores that enjoyment must be balanced with serious responsibility.

    Official guidelines mandate comprehensive eye protection through certified safety goggles and strictly prohibit hand-launched ignition of fireworks. The utilization of extended ignition sticks or incense cones is compulsory to minimize severe injury risks. The fire brigade has specifically advised against purchasing or activating so-called ‘bang fireworks’ known for their explosive properties.

    Dangerous stunts involving pyrotechnics must be avoided at all times, according to the safety directive. Tampering with fireworks or attempting to relight dud devices that failed to ignite constitutes particularly hazardous behavior. Additionally, targeting animals with fireworks constitutes prohibited conduct due to risks of grave physical harm and psychological distress.

    Special precautions apply to rocket-type fireworks, with recommendations to secure all windows and doors when neighborhood displays occur. Age-specific regulations establish that children under 7 years must have zero contact with fireworks, while those aged 7-16 may only participate under direct adult supervision.

    Finally, authorities urge public vigilance regarding surroundings, particularly near vulnerable establishments including places of worship, healthcare facilities, and residential areas.

  • Colombia’s Petro says US bombed suspected cocaine factory in Venezuela

    Colombia’s Petro says US bombed suspected cocaine factory in Venezuela

    BOGOTA, COLOMBIA — Colombian President Gustavo Petro has publicly alleged that the United States military conducted an aerial bombing operation targeting a suspected narcotics production facility in neighboring Venezuela. The controversial claim was made via social media platform X on Tuesday, directly implicating former U.S. President Donald Trump in authorizing the strike.

    President Petro stated that the alleged operation targeted a facility in the strategic port city of Maracaibo, which he characterized as a suspected cocaine processing plant. “We know that Trump bombed a factory, in Maraitaibo, which we fear was mixing coca paste to make cocaine,” Petro declared in his post.

    The Colombian leader’s statement came just one day after Trump himself confirmed that U.S. forces had conducted military operations against suspected drug trafficking targets in Venezuelan territory. While Trump specifically mentioned striking “a docking area for alleged drug boats,” the exact location and timing of these operations remain unclear, leaving open the possibility that these represent separate incidents or different descriptions of the same event.

    The allegations raise significant questions about cross-border military operations and national sovereignty, potentially escalating tensions between the United States and Venezuela amid already strained diplomatic relations. Neither U.S. nor Venezuelan authorities have officially confirmed Petro’s specific claims regarding the Maracaibo facility bombing at this time.

  • Body of abducted Trinidad fireman found

    Body of abducted Trinidad fireman found

    PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad – Trinidadian authorities have confirmed the tragic discovery of a murdered firefighter whose abduction from his residence was captured on surveillance footage. The victim, identified as 46-year-old Bruce Lezama, was reported missing after failing to report for duty on December 27. His last confirmed sighting dates back to Christmas Day.

    According to official police reports, closed-circuit television evidence reveals a harrowing sequence of events in which two unidentified males intruded into Lezama’s property. The footage shows the assailants physically assaulting the fireman, restraining him with bindings, covering his head with a hood, and forcibly transporting him in his own vehicle, which was later recovered abandoned.

    Financial investigations uncovered that TT$2,500 had been illegally withdrawn from Lezama’s bank account following his disappearance. After an extensive overnight search operation conducted by fellow firefighters, Lezama’s body was ultimately located at the three-mile mark on Tuesday, culminating a multiday investigation that has shaken the community.

    The Trinidad and Tobago Police Service has launched a comprehensive homicide investigation but has not yet disclosed potential motives or suspects in the case. This incident has prompted widespread concern regarding violent crime targeting public servants in the region.

  • Squatters move into family’s HDC home

    Squatters move into family’s HDC home

    A Trinidadian family’s four-year wait for their government-subsidized home culminated in a shocking discovery on December 29 when they found strangers decorating and preparing to occupy their Housing Development Corporation (HDC) property in Riverside South, Corinth. The couple, who requested anonymity, immediately contacted law enforcement after being alerted by concerned neighbors about unauthorized activity at their townhouse unit.

    Upon arrival with police, the family discovered their allocated home had been altered with installed curtains and wall modifications. Officers encountered three women occupying not only their unit but two adjacent properties as well. Law enforcement directed the unauthorized occupants to vacate immediately and secured the premises, though official charges remain unconfirmed.

    This incident occurred amidst controversial public statements from HDC Chairman Feeroz Khan regarding potential regularization of squatters in vacant state housing. Housing Minister David Lee subsequently distanced himself from these remarks, claiming no knowledge of such initiatives.

    The affected family had initially paid their down payment in November 2020, enduring a protracted administrative process that required repeated document submissions and valuation updates. During this period, their unit’s cost escalated from $600,000 to $750,000 TT dollars. Their perseverance included significant personal sacrifice, including the loss of their vehicle during flood conditions while attending a mandatory HDC meeting.

    Following the break-in, the family urgently visited HDC offices with police documentation. After tense negotiations, officials provided keys under a rent-to-own arrangement despite outstanding paperwork. The unit transferred with existing utility debts totaling approximately $595 TT dollars, which the family accepted to secure immediate occupancy.

    The emotional toll was profound, with the husband experiencing uncharacteristic rage and the wife describing overwhelming heartbreak. They emphasize their decision to publicize this ordeal aims to highlight vulnerabilities faced by legally allocated homeowners amid ambiguous housing policies. The family now occupies the property continuously as a preventive measure against further occupation attempts.