作者: admin

  • Manchester City sign Palace defender Guehi

    Manchester City sign Palace defender Guehi

    LONDON, United Kingdom — In a strategic move to address a critical defensive shortage, Manchester City Football Club has finalized the acquisition of English international Marc Guehi from Crystal Palace. The transfer, confirmed on Monday, involves a reported fee of £20 million (approximately $27 million) and commits the 26-cap England defender to a five-and-a-half-year contract at the Etihad Stadium.

    The signing arrives as a direct response to an ongoing injury crisis within City’s defensive lineup, which saw key center-backs John Stones, Rúben Dias, and Joško Gvardiol all absent during a recent 2-0 defeat to Manchester United. This marks the club’s second major signing of the January transfer window, following the £65 million procurement of Ghanaian winger Antoine Semenyo from Bournemouth.

    Guehi, a product of Chelsea’s academy who captained Palace to their historic FA Cup victory against City last May, expressed profound enthusiasm regarding the transfer. ‘I am really happy and incredibly proud to be a Manchester City player,’ he stated. ‘This move feels like the culmination of all the hard work I have put into my career. I am now at the best club in England and part of an unbelievable squad of players.’

    Manager Pep Guardiola lauded the club’s swift action in securing the highly sought-after defender, who was also a target for Liverpool and Bayern Munich. Guardiola emphasized the perfect timing of the acquisition, noting Guehi’s versatility and impending free-agent status at the season’s end. ‘A top central defender, playing for the national team… with the problems that we have in the back in the next few months it’s really, really important he’s here,’ Guardiola remarked.

    The transfer effectively preempts a potential summer bidding war, as other suitors were reportedly planning approaches for Guehi upon the expiration of his Crystal Palace contract. This acquisition forms part of a broader, expensive squad rebuild overseen by Guardiola, following the departures of long-serving players like Kevin De Bruyne and İlkay Gündoğan. Currently positioned second in the Premier League, seven points behind leaders Arsenal, City remains active in pursuit of silverware across the Champions League, FA Cup, and League Cup.

  • Energy Chamber: V’zuelan oil could be viable option

    Energy Chamber: V’zuelan oil could be viable option

    Amidst Venezuela’s political transformation with Nicolás Maduro’s imprisonment and US-backed interim president Delcy Rodríguez assuming power, Trinidad and Tobago’s Energy Chamber has highlighted the historical foundation for renewed energy cooperation between the neighboring nations.

    While recent discussions have centered on natural gas imports from Venezuela’s Dragon field, the Chamber emphasizes that the energy relationship historically extended beyond gas to significant crude oil transactions. In 2000, Trinidad imported over 18 million barrels of Venezuelan crude, representing more than half of its total imports at approximately 50,000 barrels daily—a volume equivalent to Trinidad’s current domestic production.

    The imported Venezuelan crude primarily supplemented declining domestic production for the Point-a-Pierre refinery, which had a processing capacity of 175,000 barrels per day. Beyond refinery feedstock, some Venezuelan crude was stored and re-exported through Point Fortin terminal, while other volumes were processed into specialized lubricant oils for export markets.

    Venezuela’s state oil company PDVSA maintained active membership in the Energy Chamber (then South Trinidad Chamber) during the early 2000s, regularly participating in Trinidad’s energy conferences. This relationship gradually deteriorated, with Venezuelan crude imports ceasing entirely by 2009.

    With domestic production now at approximately 53,000 barrels daily and continued decline, the Chamber suggests that refinery restart plans would necessitate new crude sources. A revitalized Venezuelan oil industry under interim leadership could potentially emerge as a strategic supplier, rebuilding the energy partnership that once flourished between the two nations.

  • Garbage crisis in Maloney Gardens a public health risk

    Garbage crisis in Maloney Gardens a public health risk

    The Maloney Gardens residential area in Trinidad is confronting a severe public health emergency as mounting piles of uncollected garbage continue to accumulate, creating hazardous living conditions for local residents. Camille Robinson-Regis, Member of Parliament for Trincity/Maloney, has characterized the situation as “serious, unacceptable and a growing public health risk” in an official statement released on January 19.

    The crisis has reached critical levels particularly in the parking areas serving Apartment 21, where decomposing waste has generated unsanitary conditions and pervasive foul odors. Robinson-Regis has formally escalated the matter to ministerial levels, demanding immediate cleanup operations and proper sanitation measures. She emphasized that waste removal constitutes a non-negotiable obligation of the responsible agencies.

    According to the MP, the accumulating waste presents particular dangers to vulnerable populations including children, elderly residents, and individuals with pre-existing health conditions. She has vehemently asserted that no community should be expected to endure such environmental hazards.

    Robinson-Regis acknowledged collaborative efforts with Councillor Stephan Wattley in engaging relevant authorities, while clarifying that the Tunapuna/Piarco Regional Corporation—whose sanitation workers have provided interim assistance—does not bear ultimate responsibility for resolution. The MP has requested a definitive timeline for remediation and committed to providing residents with ongoing updates.

    Expressing solidarity with frustrated constituents, Robinson-Regis has established reporting mechanisms through her constituency office to identify specific problem areas for immediate escalation. She reaffirmed her unwavering commitment to advocating for the community until the health and wellbeing of Maloney Gardens residents are fully safeguarded.

  • Cops’ coastline clean-up clears over 12 tonnes of garbage

    Cops’ coastline clean-up clears over 12 tonnes of garbage

    In a significant environmental initiative, Trinidad and Tobago’s Coastal and Air Support Unit (TTPS) spearheaded a comprehensive beach clean-up operation across the Carenage District on January 18. The five-hour endeavor, conducted from 7 AM to noon, targeted multiple coastal areas including Tembladora Coastline, Williams Bay, and St Peter’s Bay.

    The operation marked the inaugural event in a series of twelve community and public safety programs planned by the TTPS for 2026. This strategic initiative emphasizes three core pillars: enhanced public safety, proactive crime prevention, and substantive community engagement through collaborative action.

    Through coordinated efforts between law enforcement and community participants, volunteers successfully removed more than 140 bags of accumulated waste from the coastline. The collected debris comprised diverse materials including discarded wood, metal fragments, abandoned tires, single-use plastic containers, and Styrofoam materials, collectively weighing over 12 volumetric tonnes.

    The clean-up operation featured an impressive coalition of stakeholders, including diplomatic representation from the British High Commission through Jennifer Aoo Rogers, alongside the Island Property Owners Association, Marine Services Association, and the Ministry of Trade, Investment and Tourism. Additional participation came from the yachting community, Chaguaramas Development Authority, and the Diego Martin Borough Corporation.

    Critical logistical support was provided by several sponsors including Northern Outdoor and Tactical, Ocean Imports Caribbean, Henry’s Mini Mart and Transportation, with additional support from Assistant Superintendent Surendra Sagramsingh and Gregory Reece of Trinidad Dental.

    Police officials emphasized the intrinsic connection between environmental protection and public safety, noting that well-maintained coastal areas reduce potential hazards, deter illegal dumping activities, and contribute to enhanced maritime security. The TTPS reaffirmed its commitment to holistic policing approaches that combine enforcement measures with preventive strategies and community partnerships.

    The operation was conducted under the directive of Commissioner of Police Allister Guevarro, with strategic coordination managed by Deputy Commissioner of Operations Suzette Martin and Assistant Commissioner of Tactical Support Collis Hazel. Field execution was overseen by ASP Ag Rawle Ramharack alongside Inspectors Ronny Rampallard (Air Support Unit) and Ricardo Matas (Coastal Support Unit), with senior officers actively participating in the hands-on clean-up efforts.

  • Tributes pour in after death of Italian designer Valentino

    Tributes pour in after death of Italian designer Valentino

    ROME—The global fashion community is in mourning following the announcement from the Valentino Garavani Foundation that the iconic Italian designer passed away at age 93 on Monday. Surrounded by close companions at his Roman residence, the man known mononymously as Valentino leaves behind an unparalleled legacy that shaped haute couture for over six decades.

    His departure comes merely months after another Italian fashion titan, Giorgio Armani, passed away, marking a poignant moment for the industry. Tributes poured in immediately from fashion houses, political leaders, and cultural institutions worldwide.

    Designer Donatella Versace memorialized him on Instagram as “a true maestro who will forever be remembered for his art,” while Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni hailed him as the “undisputed master of style and elegance and eternal symbol of Italian high fashion.”

    Valentino’s influence extended beyond the runway, dressing generations of cultural icons from Audrey Hepburn and Jackie Kennedy to contemporary stars like Julia Roberts and Gwyneth Paltrow. His signature “Valentino red” gowns became synonymous with luxury and sophistication, while his personal aesthetic—complete with immaculate grooming and beloved pug dogs—embodied the opulence he championed.

    The 2008 documentary “The Last Emperor” chronicled his extraordinary career and final collection, cementing his status as a fashion legend. His creative vision transformed the “Made in Italy” label into a global powerhouse, with his 1964 meeting with Jackie Kennedy proving particularly transformative for both his career and American fashion consciousness.

    Born in Voghera in 1932, Valentino established his Rome-based fashion house in 1960 after training in Paris. Alongside business partner Giancarlo Giammetti, he built an empire that redefined luxury fashion through successive acquisitions and global expansion.

    A public lying in state will be held at his company headquarters near Rome’s Spanish Steps on Wednesday and Thursday, with a funeral scheduled for Friday in the Italian capital.

  • Kishane Thompson and Clayton twins confirmed for Sweden meet

    Kishane Thompson and Clayton twins confirmed for Sweden meet

    STOCKHOLM, Sweden — A constellation of Jamaican sprinting talent is poised to electrify the track at the upcoming BAUHAUS-galan Indoor meet this Thursday. The event, a prestigious stop on the World Athletics Indoor Tour Silver circuit, will feature an impressive Jamaican contingent including world 100m silver medalist Kishane Thompson and the formidable Clayton twins, Tina and Tia.

    The official start lists, released Monday, confirm the athletes’ participation, setting the stage for a high-caliber competition. The entry is headlined by Tia Clayton, who arrives in Stockholm boasting the current world-leading time in the 60m event. Clayton cemented her top status this past Saturday at the Anderson/Fuller meet held at GC Foster College in Jamaica, where she blazed to a new personal best of 7.02 seconds.

    Her twin sister, Tina Clayton, a fellow World Championships silver medalist, adds further depth to the Jamaican delegation, promising a compelling narrative on the track.

    On the men’s side, Kishane Thompson enters the competition in scintillating form. Fresh off a victory at the same Jamaican meet, Thompson clocked a time of 6.52 seconds in the 60m, a mark that currently ties him for the third-fastest time in the world this indoor season. This performance signals a strong return to form for the athlete, who experienced relay disappointment at the 2025 World Championships in Tokyo.

    The BAUHAUS-galan is now positioned as a critical early-season test for these elite athletes, offering a glimpse of their preparedness as the international athletics calendar progresses.

  • Tivoli Gardens and Arnett Gardens seek to rebound from losses

    Tivoli Gardens and Arnett Gardens seek to rebound from losses

    A pivotal Jamaica Premier League (JPL) double-header is set for Monday evening at Kingston’s Anthony Spaulding Complex, featuring four teams desperate to alter their fortunes in the second round of competition.

    In the opening match at 5:30 pm, seventh-placed Tivoli Gardens confronts Molynes United, currently sitting 11th. This encounter presents a critical opportunity for Tivoli to re-enter the coveted top six with a victory. However, Molynes United enters the fixture with demonstrated resilience, having secured a 1-1 draw against Tivoli in their first-round meeting. Riding a wave of confidence from only one defeat in their previous seven outings, Molynes poses a significant threat to Tivoli’s ambitions.

    The evening’s second clash at 7:30 pm pits Arnett Gardens against a struggling Waterhouse FC. Arnett arrives reeling from a demoralizing 3-0 defeat to Chapelton Maroons last week and is determined to orchestrate an immediate turnaround. Their campaign for redemption is bolstered by facing a Waterhouse squad they previously defeated 2-1 in the first round. Waterhouse FC, languishing in 10th place, faces a profound offensive crisis, having netted a mere six goals throughout their last eleven matches. Their path to climbing out of the bottom half of the table is unequivocally dependent on rediscovering their scoring form.

    These simultaneous fixtures represent more than just points; they are tests of character and pivotal moments that could define the mid-season trajectory for each club involved.

  • Africa Cup of Nations refereeing gets a red card

    Africa Cup of Nations refereeing gets a red card

    The 2022 Africa Cup of Nations concluded in Rabat amidst unprecedented controversy, with tournament officiating becoming the central narrative rather than the football itself. The final match between host nation Morocco and Senegal descended into chaos following a series of contentious decisions by Congolese referee Jean-Jacques Ndala, culminating in a dramatic 20-minute delay as Senegalese players protested what they perceived as biased officiating.

    The tournament’s defining moment occurred when Ndala awarded Morocco a penalty in the final moments of regular time, shortly after disallowing a Senegalese goal for a foul on Achraf Hakimi. The disallowed goal, described by former French international referee Bruno Derrien as involving ‘very light contact,’ proved particularly controversial as video review might have validated the goal had play continued.

    The penalty decision itself—awarded for El Hadji Malick Diouf’s challenge on Brahim Diaz—was characterized by Derrien as questionable at a critical juncture when match tension was ‘enormous.’ Ndala’s management of the crisis drew criticism, particularly his passive response as Senegalese players left the pitch in protest, a violation of FIFA rules that could have resulted in multiple dismissals.

    This final controversy capped three weeks of growing mistrust toward match officials. Earlier rounds saw Cameroon protest a overlooked penalty in their quarter-final defeat to Morocco, while Nigeria’s midfielder Bright Osayi-Samuel labeled the refereeing in their semi-final ‘dreadful’ following questionable decisions.

    Morocco coach Walid Regragui addressed the allegations of preferential treatment, stating: ‘Many people want to believe, or make others believe, that we get advantages from the referees. We are the team to beat, so people will try to find every possible reason to say that Morocco is favored.’

    The aftermath has drawn response from FIFA President Gianni Infantino, who condemned the behavior of some supporters and Senegalese staff while urging the Confederation of African Football to implement ‘appropriate measures.’ The controversies have notably tarnished a tournament otherwise praised for its organizational excellence, raising serious questions about refereeing standards in African football.

  • Relatives of Beetham men allegedly beaten in police traffic stop demand investigation

    Relatives of Beetham men allegedly beaten in police traffic stop demand investigation

    Families from Beetham Gardens are demanding urgent investigations into alleged police brutality and constitutional rights violations during a controversial traffic stop incident in Port of Spain. The incident, which occurred on January 17, has sparked outrage and calls for accountability within Trinidad’s law enforcement agencies.

    According to eyewitness accounts and family statements, two men returning from work were subjected to violent treatment by police officers during a routine traffic stop on Piccadilly Street. The confrontation reportedly began when one officer used profane language toward the men, prompting a respectful objection about the inappropriate conduct expected from someone in uniform.

    The situation escalated rapidly when officers allegedly physically assaulted both men in full public view. Witnesses described disturbing scenes where one man was beaten with a baton until the weapon bent, while another was struck with a police firearm. The elder of the two men was reportedly forced to the ground, restrained with a knee to his chest, and kicked in the head during the altercation.

    Following their arrest, the detainees were transported to Besson Street Police Station where their families encountered systematic obstruction in securing their release. Despite recent legislative changes under the Administration of Justice (Indictable Proceedings) Act that explicitly grant justices of the peace authority to administer station bail, officers repeatedly denied bail access.

    The case reveals concerning inconsistencies in police procedure. Although relatives were informed the men faced charges of resisting arrest, obscene language, and assault, official documentation only appeared on the Judiciary’s portal approximately 48 hours post-arrest, raising questions about procedural compliance.

    Adding to the controversy, witnesses claim police officers later visited community members demanding deletion of video evidence that had circulated widely on social media platforms. Attorney Terry Boyer has formally taken representation of the affected families, preparing comprehensive complaints to both the Professional Standards Bureau and Police Complaints Authority.

    The incident highlights ongoing tensions between law enforcement and communities in Trinidad, testing the implementation of recent judicial reforms designed to protect citizens’ rights during police interactions.

  • Woman seeks closure 7 years after mother’s murder

    Woman seeks closure 7 years after mother’s murder

    A grieving daughter continues her relentless pursuit for justice nearly seven years after the horrific murder of her mother, a case that remains shrouded in mystery within Trinidad’s criminal investigation system.

    Carolyn McKenzie, daughter of the late Angela Elizabeth McKenzie, maintains her vigil for answers regarding the brutal chopping death that claimed her 64-year-old mother’s life on January 30, 2019. The elderly victim was discovered in the front yard of her Quinam Road residence in Siparia, situated within a densely forested area, bearing catastrophic chop wounds that nearly decapitated her.

    Forensic evidence examination revealed a disturbing blood trail originating from inside the residence, suggesting the violent attack commenced indoors before culminating in the exterior premises. Notably, investigative reports indicated no apparent theft or robbery, eliminating conventional motives and deepening the mystery surrounding the crime.

    Despite comprehensive investigations conducted by the Homicide Bureau of Investigations, Region Three, the case remains officially categorized as ongoing with no arrests made. The deceased, remembered as an active agriculturalist and devout congregant of La Divina Pastora RC Church, lived independently at the time of her tragic demise.

    As the seventh anniversary approaches, Carolyn McKenzie plans to honor her mother’s memory through religious commemorations, seeking spiritual solace while confronting the painful reality of unresolved justice. She emphasizes the broader context of unaddressed violent crimes nationwide, expressing both personal anguish and societal concern over investigative delays.

    The emotional toll continues to manifest unexpectedly, with Carolyn describing sudden episodes of overwhelming grief that underscore the persistent trauma affecting victims’ families in unsolved homicide cases.