In a significant early morning operation on Thursday, November 20, the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force successfully recovered an illegal firearm and ammunition during a routine stop and search in La Croix Mingot. The operation, conducted around 1:30 a.m., involved officers from the Special Services Unit in Castries who intercepted a vehicle with two occupants. The search yielded a Black Glock 19 handgun and 11 rounds of ammunition. The two individuals, identified as 34-year-old Melvin Montoute from St. Lawrence Street, Anse La Raye, and 27-year-old Shaquille De Leon from Marigot, were promptly taken into custody. Both men were formally charged with ‘Possession of a Firearm’ and ‘Possession of Ammunition.’ The following day, November 21, the First District Court granted Montoute and De Leon bail. Montoute was required to post $25,000 cash or provide a suitable surety for the firearm charge, while De Leon faced a $10,000 cash or surety requirement for the ammunition charge. This operation underscores the ongoing efforts by Saint Lucia law enforcement to combat illegal arms possession and enhance public safety.
作者： admin
-
WIN leader prepares to challenge opposition leader election delay, extradition case may go to High Court
Azruddin Mohamed, leader of the We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) party, announced on Monday his intention to take legal action against House Speaker Manzoor Nadir for delaying the election of the Opposition Leader. Mohamed expressed skepticism about Nadir’s willingness to convene a meeting of opposition MPs to facilitate the election, despite WIN holding 16 of the 29 opposition seats in Parliament. Mohamed stated, ‘We have to move to the court,’ emphasizing his determination to proceed with legal measures. Meanwhile, Clerk of the National Assembly Sherlock Isaacs confirmed no plans for such a meeting. Mohamed’s lawyer, Siand Dhurjohn, revealed that legal proceedings are being prepared ahead of an ultimatum set to expire next Monday. Dhurjohn stressed the constitutional obligation to elect an Opposition Leader promptly, highlighting the role’s importance in democratic processes. Concurrently, Mohamed faces an extradition request from the United States, where he is accused of wire fraud, mail fraud, and money laundering. His legal team, led by Roysdale Forde and Dhurjohn, is preparing a constitutional challenge, arguing that the extradition process could take years. Prosecutor Terrence Williams, representing U.S. interests, submitted updated documents to the court, though defense lawyers noted these were not yet properly processed through diplomatic channels. The case is set to resume on November 28, with further developments expected.
-
International reggae legend, Jimmy Cliff, dies at 81
The world of music mourns the loss of Jimmy Cliff, the iconic Jamaican singer, actor, and reggae ambassador, who passed away at the age of 81. His wife announced his passing in an emotional Instagram post, revealing that he succumbed to complications following a seizure and pneumonia. She expressed gratitude for the support of family, friends, and fellow artists who shared in his remarkable journey. Cliff’s career spanned over six decades, leaving an indelible mark on global music culture. His timeless hits, including “You Can Get It If You Really Want,” “Many Rivers to Cross,” and “Wonderful World, Beautiful People,” continue to resonate with audiences worldwide. Born in Saint James, Jamaica, in 1944, Cliff’s musical journey began in the early 1960s in Kingston, where he collaborated with producer Leslie Kong. His international breakthrough came with the 1972 film “The Harder They Come,” a pioneering Caribbean classic that showcased his talent and solidified his status as a reggae icon. The film’s soundtrack, featuring Cliff’s iconic songs, remains a cornerstone of reggae music. Cliff’s contributions to music were widely recognized, earning him Jamaica’s Order of Merit in 2003 and induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2010. In 2021, the U.S. Library of Congress preserved the soundtrack of “The Harder They Come” in the National Recording Registry. Cliff’s career also included a Grammy-winning cover of Johnny Nash’s “I Can See Clearly Now” in 1994 and the release of his final album, “Refugees,” in 2022. Jamaica’s Prime Minister Andrew Holness paid tribute to Cliff, praising his ability to inspire generations and elevate Jamaican culture globally. “Walk good, Jimmy Cliff. Your legacy lives on,” Holness wrote on X.
-
Staatsolie opent offshore-deur voor wereldwijde investeerders
Suriname has officially unveiled its Open-Door Offering, a groundbreaking initiative designed to provide international oil and gas companies with flexible access to a significant portion of its offshore territory. Launched by Staatsolie on Monday, this strategic move aims to bolster Suriname’s standing in the Guiana Basin and attract investors to explore both shallow and deep-water blocks. Approximately 60% of the nation’s offshore area is now available for exploration, offering companies the opportunity to select their preferred blocks and submit tailored work programs. The initiative features attractive fiscal terms, low surface risks, and a stable, investment-friendly environment to enhance global interest. Companies can opt for Production Sharing Contracts or Joint Study Agreements for collaborative analysis. Selected areas will be publicly listed on the Open-Door Offering webpage, allowing competitors to submit rival proposals within a 90-day window. Concurrently, Staatsolie introduced the GeoPortal, an interactive platform providing comprehensive geological and geophysical data, available for lease at favorable rates. Additionally, the company released the GeoAtlas of Suriname, a detailed resource based on decades of data collection and analysis, offering a complete overview of the Guiana Basin’s geology and potential. The GeoAtlas is freely downloadable from Staatsolie’s website, further supporting exploration efforts.
-
Reggae Icon Jimmy Cliff, dies at 81
Jimmy Cliff, the iconic Jamaican singer, actor, and songwriter whose six-decade-long career catapulted reggae music onto the international stage, has passed away at the age of 81. His wife, Latifa Chambers, announced his death on Instagram, revealing that he succumbed to complications from a seizure followed by pneumonia. Born James Chambers in 1944 in Saint James, Jamaica, Cliff rose from humble beginnings, singing in his local church from the age of six. He adopted the stage name ‘Cliff’ as a teenager, symbolizing his ambition to scale the highest peaks of musical success. Cliff’s career gained momentum in the early 1960s through collaborations with producer Leslie Kong, which led to local hits. His international breakthrough came after representing Jamaica at the 1964 World’s Fair in New York, followed by signing with Island Records and relocating to London. Cliff’s music, characterized by its fusion of ska and reggae rhythms with socially conscious lyrics, resonated globally. His 1969 UK hit, ‘Wonderful World, Beautiful People,’ reached No. 6 on the charts, blending messages of hope with critiques of societal issues. Bob Dylan famously praised Cliff’s 1970 anti-war anthem ‘Vietnam’ as ‘the best protest song ever written.’ Among his timeless hits are ‘You Can Get It If You Really Want,’ ‘I Can See Clearly Now,’ and ‘Wonderful World, Beautiful People.’ Tributes have flooded in worldwide, including from Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness, who hailed Cliff as a ‘cultural giant’ whose music elevated Jamaican culture on the global stage. Despite his accolades, Cliff cherished his connection with fans, often citing moments when his music inspired profound personal transformations as his greatest achievements. He continued performing into his later years, including a memorable appearance at the Coachella Festival in 2010.
-
Show the World returns to showcase youth at Christmas
The highly anticipated annual event, *Show the World – It’s Christmas*, is set to return on Saturday, November 29, at the Sandals Grande Ballroom. This year’s edition promises to blend music, family, and festive cheer, continuing its legacy as a platform for showcasing Saint Lucian talent. Organised by Ronald ‘Boo’ Hinkson & Friends, the event has become a cornerstone of the island’s cultural calendar, celebrated for its ability to unite communities and highlight emerging artists. At a recent press briefing, sponsors and organisers shared their enthusiasm for the event’s evolution and its focus on fostering young talent. MacNaughton McLean, one of the event’s founders, reflected on its origins, noting that the initiative was born out of a desire to provide a stage for Hinkson and the many artists he has mentored. This year, the event will feature a special family-themed segment, adding a heartwarming touch to the performances. Export Saint Lucia, the newest sponsor, sees the partnership as a natural extension of its mission to promote Saint Lucian excellence globally. CEO Sunita Daniel highlighted the event’s role in identifying talent for international showcases, such as Expo Osaka. Long-time sponsors like JQ Motors, KFC, Domino’s Pizza, and First National Bank also reaffirmed their commitment to supporting youth development through the arts. With a lineup of world-class musicians, vocalists, and surprises, *Show the World – It’s Christmas* aims to deliver an unforgettable experience for attendees.
-
Saint Lucia places 4th at Rugby Americas North tournament
The Saint Lucia national men’s rugby team concluded their campaign in the Rugby Americas North (RAN) Sevens Tournament with a fourth-place finish in Tier 2, held at the Larry Gomes Stadium in Trinidad and Tobago. Despite a narrow 10-13 loss to The Bahamas in the group stage, the team advanced to the semifinals, showcasing resilience and determination. In the preliminary match against The Bahamas, Benerrero Wellington scored an unconverted try in the fourth minute, leveling the score at 5-5 by halftime. Claudius Medouze’s powerful run in the second half briefly gave Saint Lucia the lead, but The Bahamas responded with a try and secured victory with a last-minute penalty kick. Earlier in the tournament, Saint Lucia dominated the British Virgin Islands 14-5, with tries from Melvin Alexis and debutant Yantez Jn Baptiste, complemented by two conversions from Malyle Cherry. They also triumphed over St Vincent and the Grenadines with a commanding 31-12 victory, featuring contributions from Alexis, Wellington, Jn Baptiste, and Medouze, alongside conversions by Cherry, Jn Baptiste, and Jesey Francois. Additionally, Saint Lucia shut out The Turks and Caicos Islands 12-0, with Medouze and Alexis scoring tries. However, their playoff journey ended with a 0-19 defeat to Curaçao, followed by a 17-26 loss to The Bahamas in the third-place playoff, despite a spirited comeback led by Jn Baptiste, Francois, and Le-Mani Lewis.
-
St Martin Primary School mourns the passing of Secretary – Mrs. Selena Shillingford
The St. Martin Primary School (SMPS) has announced the sad passing of their esteemed secretary, Mrs. Selena Shillingford. In a heartfelt statement, the school described Mrs. Shillingford as much more than a staff member—she was the welcoming presence in the office, a pillar of support for students, teachers, and parents, and an integral part of the SMPS community. Her kindness, dedication, and warm spirit left a lasting impact on everyone who knew her. The school extended its deepest condolences to her family, friends, and all those grieving her loss. They pledged to honor her memory and the significant contributions she made to the institution. In light of this tragic event, SMPS has declared a day of closure, with classes resuming on Tuesday, November 25, 2025. Dominica News Online (DNO) also expressed its heartfelt sympathies to the loved ones of Mrs. Shillingford, wishing her soul eternal peace.
-
Teen Receives Saxophone Through Community Donation
In a heartwarming display of community spirit, 17-year-old Drayton Payne, a budding musician, was presented with a saxophone on Sunday, marking an early Christmas celebration. The generous donation was orchestrated by Brother Sylvester Browne and the UPP Women’s Forum, who recognized Payne’s dedication to music and community involvement. The presentation took place at a modest gathering where attendees celebrated Payne’s contributions to the Progressive Youth and his growing passion for music. Organizers emphasized that the gift was intended to nurture his development as a young performer. Speakers at the event highlighted Payne’s longstanding commitment to community activism, noting his early engagement in political campaigns and his continued participation in youth initiatives. The Women’s Forum was particularly commended for their role in facilitating the donation. Attendees urged the public to continue supporting Payne as he embarks on his musical journey, underscoring the importance of community backing for young talent.
-
Antigua and Barbuda Delegation Concludes High-Level Security and Protocol Visit to the United Kingdom
A high-level delegation from Antigua and Barbuda has successfully concluded a significant visit to the United Kingdom, focusing on critical discussions surrounding security and diplomatic protocol. The visit, which underscores the strengthening bilateral ties between the two nations, aimed to enhance cooperation in areas of mutual interest, including national security, intelligence sharing, and diplomatic best practices. The delegation, comprising senior government officials and security experts, engaged in a series of high-profile meetings with UK counterparts, exploring innovative strategies to address emerging global security challenges. This visit marks a pivotal step in fostering a robust partnership that prioritizes the safety and stability of both nations. The outcomes of these discussions are expected to have far-reaching implications for regional security frameworks and diplomatic engagements.