Carib Scope

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  • Vybz Kartel, Masicka and Shenseea vie for MOBO Best Caribbean Act award

    Vybz Kartel, Masicka and Shenseea vie for MOBO Best Caribbean Act award

    The prestigious 2026 MOBO Awards has officially announced its nominees for the fiercely competitive Best Caribbean Music Act category, setting the stage for a grand celebration of Black musical excellence. The distinguished shortlist features an impressive array of talent, including dancehall titan Vybz Kartel, chart-topping artists Masicka and Shenseea, acclaimed singer Lila Ike, emerging sensation Ayetian, and Trinidad’s soca powerhouse Yung Bredda.

    Marking its monumental 30th anniversary, the Music of Black Origin (MOBO) Awards continues its enduring legacy of honoring and elevating Black music and culture across a diverse spectrum of genres. The upcoming ceremony is scheduled to be held at Manchester’s state-of-the-art Co-op Live Arena in the United Kingdom on March 26.

    In a remarkable showcase of artistic prowess, British artists Olivia Dean and Little Simz, alongside Jim Legxacy and KWN, have emerged as this year’s frontrunners, each securing an impressive four nominations across various genre categories.

    The nomination holds particular significance for Vybz Kartel, who was the recipient of the esteemed MOBO Impact Award at last year’s ceremony. This marks his return to the MOBO nominations list after previous recognitions in the Best Reggae Act category in 2004, 2009, and 2010. Notably, the category itself underwent a significant rebranding in 2022, evolving from Best Reggae Act to its current designation as Best Caribbean Music Act, reflecting the awards’ commitment to broader regional representation.

    Adding to his accolades, Vybz Kartel has also garnered a nomination in the highly coveted Best International Act category.

    For dancehall superstar Shenseea, this nomination represents her fifth MOBO recognition, further cementing her status as a consistent force in the industry. Her previous triumphs include winning Best Reggae Act in 2021 and Best Caribbean Act in 2025, alongside a Best International Act nomination in 2020.

    This year’s shortlist also highlights several pivotal career milestones: Masicka celebrates his inaugural MOBO nomination, while Grammy-nominated artist Lila Ike secures her third nomination following previous nods in 2020 and 2021. The nomination marks a significant breakthrough for newcomer Ayetian, who is poised to release a new EP in February. Similarly, Trinidad’s Yung Bredda earns his first MOBO recognition following the massive regional success of his hit soca single ‘The Greatest Bend Ova,’ which dominated airwaves throughout the past year.

  • US says it has seized another oil tanker in Caribbean

    US says it has seized another oil tanker in Caribbean

    WASHINGTON, United States — In a significant escalation of its sanctions enforcement strategy, United States military forces have conducted another successful maritime interception targeting Venezuelan oil exports. According to a statement released Thursday by US Southern Command (SOUTHCOM), the Tanker Veronica was apprehended in Caribbean waters during a pre-dawn operation.

    The mission, executed by US Marines and sailors, culminated without incident as evidenced by accompanying footage distributed by the military command. The video documentation depicted special operations soldiers employing rappelling techniques to descend onto the vessel’s deck from aircraft, demonstrating tactical precision.

    This seizure represents the sixth such enforcement action undertaken in recent weeks as part of Washington’s comprehensive campaign to restrict the flow of Venezuelan petroleum products to international markets. SOUTHCOM’s social media announcement explicitly reaffirmed the operational objective, stating: ‘The only oil leaving Venezuela will be oil that is coordinated properly and lawfully.’

    The ongoing operations reflect the continued implementation of US economic sanctions against the government of Nicolás Maduro, aiming to curtail the South American nation’s primary revenue source through systematic maritime interdictions in strategic Caribbean shipping lanes.

  • Vaz pays tribute to Chris Bovell

    Vaz pays tribute to Chris Bovell

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Prominent Jamaican legislator Daryl Vaz has publicly commemorated the life and legacy of former Senator Chris Bovell, the late Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) treasurer, in an official statement released Thursday. Vaz, who represents Portland Western in Parliament, characterized Bovell as an exceptional patriot, distinguished legislator, and consummate gentleman whose contributions to Jamaican politics left an indelible mark.

    Reflecting on their professional collaboration during their tenure as senior JLP officials, Vaz revealed their close working relationship when he served as deputy treasurer alongside Bovell as treasurer. The MP emphasized Bovell’s unwavering principles in public service, noting his unique combination of reliability, decency, and efficiency in all governmental matters. These qualities, Vaz asserted, would form the foundational elements of Bovell’s enduring political legacy.

    Beyond his professional attributes, Vaz highlighted Bovell’s profound dedication to both nation and family, placing these interests above all else. The late senator demonstrated particular aversion to injustice and emerged as a resilient voice during Jamaica’s politically turbulent eras decades ago. Vaz credited Bovell’s steadfast leadership with helping guide the nation toward its most viable and righteous developmental path.

    In his emotional tribute, Vaz extended heartfelt condolences to Bovell’s family, friends, and political associates, portraying the departed statesman as an individual of extraordinary character and humility. He memorialized Bovell as a ‘gentle giant’ consistently inclined toward assisting others while maintaining an exceptionally positive perspective toward all individuals—a quality Vaz described as remarkably rare in political circles.

    The MP concluded with spiritual consolation, expressing confidence that Bovell’s legacy of exemplary service would endure for generations. He offered prayers for the bereaved family and affirmed his belief that the late senator rests eternally in divine embrace, leaving behind a nation grateful for his distinguished service.

  • Upkeep pilot scores high marks from corporations

    Upkeep pilot scores high marks from corporations

    All fourteen municipal corporations participating in Trinidad and Tobago’s government-initiated Public Spaces Maintenance Program have reported exceptionally positive outcomes, with many requesting additional workforce allocations. Local Government Minister Khadijah Ameen confirmed the widespread approval following a January 14 stakeholder meeting, indicating strong productivity metrics across all regions.

    The innovative pilot scheme, approved by the Cabinet, employs workers directly through the Ministry of Local Government rather than traditional contractors. These workers have been deployed to regional corporations to execute maintenance operations encompassing recreation facilities, educational institutions, roadside verges, and cemetery grounds. Although school maintenance typically falls outside the ministry’s jurisdiction, corporations strategically utilized these resources to address pressing infrastructural needs.

    Minister Ameen revealed that municipal authorities provided detailed progress reports quantifying cleared acreage and square meters, demonstrating measurable achievements. Beyond workforce expansion requests, corporations submitted minor requisitions for tools and protective equipment, while proposing administrative process refinements.

    A significant recommendation emerged regarding flood mitigation strategies. Corporations proposed deploying manual labor during dry seasons to clear watercourses and drainage systems, potentially reducing seasonal flooding impacts. This proactive approach would complement existing flood-mitigation equipment programs.

    The ministry maintains continuous communication with participating corporations and will compile a comprehensive report for Cabinet review. With approximately 200 workers currently engaged, the program represents a governmental shift from transient “make-work” initiatives toward sustainable employment models that provide decent wages while eliminating intermediary contractors.

    Minister Ameen emphasized the dual benefit of cost efficiency and direct worker compensation achieved by removing political intermediaries and contractor layers. Program expansion remains contingent upon Cabinet approval and funding availability following the successful pilot evaluation.

  • Cop killed in Waltham Park shooting laid to rest

    Cop killed in Waltham Park shooting laid to rest

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — The New Haven Seventh Day Adventist Church in St Andrew became a place of solemn remembrance on Wednesday as hundreds gathered to honor the life and service of Constable Charles Stewart, slain in a tragic off-duty shooting incident last month.

    The ceremony, described as both a funeral and thanksgiving service, brought together uniformed colleagues, grieving family members, and community supporters. Stewart and his fellow officer, Constable Jemarey Gordon, lost their lives on November 13, 2025, during a violent confrontation at a commercial establishment on Waltham Park Road. According to police reports, multiple assailants engaged the off-duty officers before one produced a firearm and shot both men in their upper torsos. The perpetrators fled the scene on foot, while the wounded constables were transported to a medical facility where they were subsequently pronounced deceased.

    This double homicide triggered an intensive investigation by Jamaican law enforcement authorities, resulting in the apprehension and formal charging of two suspects currently facing justice.

    During the emotional service, Sergeant Arleen McBean, Chairman of the Jamaica Police Federation, delivered a poignant eulogy celebrating Stewart’s professional dedication and personal character. McBean’s tribute transcended individual mourning to address systemic challenges within the police force, highlighting critical issues such as officer working conditions, psychological morale, and institutional support structures for personnel and their families.

    In a significant portion of her address, McBean directed criticism toward the Independent Commission of Investigations (INDECOM), articulating widespread frustration among rank-and-file officers regarding the oversight body’s operational methodologies and approach to police accountability.

    Following the religious proceedings, Constable Stewart was laid to rest with full honors at Meadowrest Memorial Gardens in St Catherine, surrounded by a final salute from his comrades and the tearful farewells of loved ones.

  • Four new Brechin Castle Golf champs crowned

    Four new Brechin Castle Golf champs crowned

    The 2026 Brechin Castle Golf Open culminated in a spectacle of dramatic reversals and fresh triumphs, with new champions emerging across all divisions at the Couva course from January 9-10. The tournament’s climax was defined by remarkable come-from-behind victories that captivated the local golfing community.

    In the men’s championship, Marcus Ling staged an impressive final-day surge to seize the title. Overtaking overnight leader Liam Bryden, Ling delivered a steady even-par round of 72 to finish with a championship total of 216 strokes across three days of competition. Bryden secured runner-up position with 219, while the battle for third required a countback decision that ultimately favored young contender Ross Ramkissoon over Alex Kangoo. Club veteran John Rampersad completed the top five with 224, simultaneously capturing the best net prize.

    The women’s championship witnessed a generational shift as teenage sensation Isabella Ramdeen dethroned defending champion Victoria Seenath. Ramdeen’s final-round 78 secured her a winning total of 242, narrowly surpassing Seenath’s 244. Former titleholder Jada Charles claimed third with 246, while promising newcomer Arianna Khan earned the ladies’ best net honor.

    First flight competition produced equal drama as 2025 Player of the Year Nandlal Ramlakhan leveraged his experience to overcome Asa Roopchand via countback after both contenders finished tied at 242. Brechin Castle Golf Club demonstrated domestic dominance by sweeping the flight’s top four positions, with Amir Ali (243) and Kevesh Ramnath (248) following closely.

    The second flight saw Riaz Ali mount a decisive charge to claim victory with 170, edging out teenage leader Kaiden Baynes (172). Kumar Boodram (176) and Navin Dookeran (177) rounded out the division’s top performers. Day two competition crowned Reid Sonnilal as third flight champion.

    Club officials celebrated the event as a resounding success that sets the stage for Trinidad and Tobago’s packed 2026 golf calendar, beginning with this inaugural major tournament that established new competitive benchmarks while showcasing emerging talent.

  • Indecom receives 620 new complaints April – Sept 2025

    Indecom receives 620 new complaints April – Sept 2025

    Jamaica’s Independent Commission of Investigations (Indecom) has documented a significant volume of misconduct allegations against security personnel, receiving 620 formal complaints between April and September 2025. The independent oversight agency recommended criminal charges against 34 law enforcement officers and disciplinary measures for an additional 30 personnel during this period.

    The comprehensive data, legally mandated to be presented to Parliament, was disclosed through Indecom’s quarterly reports tabled on January 13, 2026. The April-June quarter accounted for 303 complaints, with assault cases (144) representing nearly half of all allegations. Other predominant categories included fatal shootings (72), neglect of duty (43), firearm discharges (30), and harassment (17).

    Forensic specialists from Indecom conducted scene investigations at 96 incidents during the first quarter, primarily involving fatal shootings (72 cases), followed by shooting injuries (13), firearm discharges (8), and custody-related deaths (3). Geographically, Kingston and St. Andrew recorded the highest complaint volume with 117 reports, followed by St. Catherine (55), St. James (32), Westmoreland (23), and Hanover (13). Portland registered the fewest incidents at just three.

    The commission finalized 113 investigative reports with recommendations, dismissing 89 cases as unsubstantiated while advancing 10 cases for disciplinary action against 12 officers and 14 cases for criminal prosecution against 18 officers. The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions issued 17 rulings during this quarter, resulting in charges against six Jamaica Constabulary Force officers and one correctional officer. Notably, security force engagements resulted in 81 fatalities across 72 shooting incidents.

    During the subsequent July-September quarter, Indecom received 317 new complaints, maintaining similar patterns with assault (126), fatal shootings (61), firearm discharges (52), neglect of duty (45), and unprofessional conduct (19) comprising the primary categories. Forensic teams responded to 94 incidents, including 60 fatal shootings, 14 firearm discharges, 12 shooting injuries, and 9 custody deaths.

    Kingston and St. Andrew again led in complaint frequency (115), followed by St. Catherine (60), Westmoreland (26), St. James (19), and St. Thomas (17). The commission completed 119 reports, recommending disciplinary action for 18 officers and criminal charges for 16 officers. The ODPP issued 19 rulings, leading to charges against 11 JCF members.

  • 7,000 families on food assistance

    7,000 families on food assistance

    NASSAU, BAHAMAS – Food insecurity in the Bahamas has escalated dramatically with Hands for Hunger, a leading assistance organization, reporting a 40% surge in registered families seeking aid over the past year. Executive Director Keisha Ellis confirmed the charity’s pantry registry has expanded from approximately 5,000 to nearly 7,000 households, though the precise catalysts behind this alarming increase remain undetermined.

    This distressing development coincides with the government’s recent announcement eliminating Value-Added Tax (VAT) on unprepared grocery items effective April 1, a policy shift intended to reduce food expenses. While feeding organizations and business leaders have welcomed the fiscal adjustment, they universally characterize it as inadequate against the scale of the mounting crisis.

    Nicolette Fountain Archer of the Bahamas Feeding Network acknowledged the VAT removal would provide marginal budget relief—potentially extending resources by approximately 5%—but emphasized that structural economic pressures dwarf the impact of tax reduction. ‘Rising food prices, utilities, housing costs, and transportation expenses continue to place enormous pressure on families,’ she stated, noting that comprehensive solutions must address root causes of poverty through enhanced social support systems and sustained economic interventions.

    Ms. Ellis echoed these concerns, questioning whether the tax relief meaningfully alters the reality that groceries remain ‘extremely expensive’ for countless Bahamian families. While acknowledging the measure might alleviate superficial ‘tension,’ she emphasized it falls short of resolving systemic food insecurity. ‘No, it will not solve the crisis,’ Ellis asserted. ‘It’s a major step… but no, it is not enough to really address the issues and the underlying causes.’

    Adding his voice to the discourse, Bishop Walter Hanchell of Great Commission Ministries praised the VAT exemption while advocating for its expansion to include cooked food from restaurants and hotels—a critical source of meals for many residents. Similarly, the Bahamas Chamber of Commerce and Employers’ Confederation endorsed the policy but urged government to consider extending VAT relief to other essentials like hygiene products and medications, framing the move as one component within a broader strategy to reduce living costs.

    The Chamber further highlighted persistent challenges within the business environment, noting that small and medium-sized enterprises in particular await more substantial reforms to achieve operational stability. As national dialogue continues, all parties agree that multi-faceted, long-term approaches are imperative to genuinely combat the deepening crisis of affordability and hunger.

  • Take Carnival to Skinner Park

    Take Carnival to Skinner Park

    A passionate appeal has emerged from San Fernando advocating for the complete utilization of Skinner Park during Trinidad and Tobago’s upcoming Carnival 2026 celebrations. The proposal, articulated through a letter to the editor by community member AV Rampersad of Princes Town, highlights the venue’s significant potential as a premier Carnival destination.

    The communication emphasizes the park’s demonstrated capability to host major cultural events, specifically referencing its successful history as the venue for Calypso Fiesta—the prestigious semi-finals of the calypso monarch competition. The author vividly describes the distinctive ‘aura’ and unique atmosphere that permeates the park during such events, suggesting these qualities make it an ideal Carnival venue.

    Rampersad’s proposition centers on addressing the current underutilization of the facility, positioning it as both a practical and culturally significant solution for enhancing Carnival 2026 festivities. The argument maintains that maximizing Skinner Park’s capacity would not only optimize existing infrastructure but potentially elevate the overall quality of the national celebration.

    The correspondence concludes with well-wishes for a safe Carnival 2026 for all citizens of Trinidad and Tobago, reinforcing the community-focused nature of the suggestion. This proposal comes as Trinidad and Tobago continues to strategically develop its world-renowned Carnival events while balancing tradition with infrastructure optimization.

  • Management by neglect

    Management by neglect

    A scathing critique of Trinidad’s public service operations has emerged through a citizen’s letter to Newsday, highlighting severe systemic failures at the Licensing Office in San Fernando. The correspondence, submitted by Gordon Laughlin via email, paints a picture of institutional neglect that extends beyond licensing to immigration services, banking, and transportation infrastructure.

    The core issue identified revolves around chronic mismanagement rather than procedural penalties. Citizens reportedly face financial penalties for delays directly caused by institutional shortcomings, including critically understaffed offices, inadequate planning, and obsolete operational systems. The author describes a scene of profound dysfunction: a single cashier, one photographer, and merely one teller attempting to serve thousands of citizens.

    This operational crisis creates substantial economic repercussions, wasting valuable time, financial resources, fuel, and overall productivity. The letter argues that such systemic inefficiencies directly hinder national economic improvement and development. Rather than representing governance focused on progress, the current situation exemplifies what the author terms ‘management by neglect’—a pattern of administrative failure that permeates multiple public service sectors.

    The critique suggests that the fundamental problem stems from insufficient resource allocation coupled with a concerning lack of urgency in addressing these longstanding issues. The situation at the San Fernando office, documented photographically last Friday, serves as a microcosm of broader national service delivery challenges.