Homeland Security Minister Roger Alexander has announced plans to convene with state security officials to deliberate on whether the current State of Emergency (SoE) should be extended beyond its October 28 expiration date. The SoE, initially declared on July 18, was prompted by intelligence from Police Commissioner Allister Guevarro, who revealed that organized criminal gangs were plotting widespread violence, including murders, robberies, and kidnappings. On the same day, Guevarro oversaw the relocation of gang leaders from the Maximum Security Prison in Arouca to military and Coast Guard facilities to sever their communication networks and disrupt their operations. Parliament subsequently extended the SoE for three months on July 29. Speaking at a cancer screening clinic in Tunapuna on October 24, Alexander emphasized that any decision to extend the SoE would be strategic, contingent on whether the government’s objectives had been met. He noted that discussions with relevant stakeholders were essential before a final decision could be made, though no specific timeline for these talks has been set. Meanwhile, Commissioner Guevarro, in an August 11 interview, stated that the immediate threat had been neutralized but acknowledged ongoing efforts to dismantle the criminal networks responsible. The public awaits further updates as the government weighs its next steps.
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Ex-AG Ramlogan: There was precedent for CJ’s appointment
Trinidad and Tobago’s judicial landscape witnessed a significant transition as Justice Ronnie Boodoosingh was sworn in as the nation’s ninth Chief Justice on October 22 at President’s House in St. Ann’s. The ceremony, attended by key dignitaries, marked a pivotal moment in the country’s legal history. Former Attorney General Anand Ramlogan, SC, lauded the appointment, describing Boodoosingh as a jurist with “unimpeachable credentials” whose leadership is expected to bolster public trust in the judiciary. In a statement issued on October 24, Ramlogan emphasized Boodoosingh’s extensive experience in both criminal and civil law, praising his integrity and dedication. He also commended acting President Wade Mark for swiftly filling the vacancy left by the resignation of former Chief Justice Ivor Archie on October 22, averting potential instability in the judiciary. Addressing concerns over the expedited consultation process, Ramlogan cited historical precedents, including the 2015 appointment of Alvin Hilaire as Central Bank governor, to justify the urgency. He argued that Archie’s prior retirement announcement provided ample time for deliberation, dismissing opposition claims of inadequate consultation as unfounded. Ramlogan asserted that the appointment was both lawful and constitutionally sound, referencing past executive actions upheld by the Privy Council. Legal experts noted that while the appointment process could face constitutional challenges, such claims would not overturn the decision but might result in a judicial declaration. Boodoosingh’s tenure is anticipated to uphold the continuity and integrity of judicial leadership in Trinidad and Tobago.
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BIGWU: Government recruiting for positions already filled
The Banking, Insurance and General Workers’ Union (BIGWU) has strongly criticized the government’s National Recruitment Drive, labeling it a severe breach of trust. The union alleges that the drive includes positions already occupied by current employees, causing significant distress among workers. In a media statement issued on October 24, the final day of the drive’s first phase, BIGWU President Don Devenish demanded the immediate withdrawal of such advertisements. The union described the situation as a ‘gross lapse in industrial and human resource practice,’ urging the government to issue a public apology and take corrective measures to prevent recurrence. BIGWU emphasized that advertising filled positions undermines job security and breaches employment contracts, potentially amounting to constructive dismissal. The union highlighted the psychological and economic toll on affected employees, who face anxiety, humiliation, and fear of unemployment. BIGWU warned that such actions could lead to legal consequences, including claims for damages. The government defended the drive, stating it aims to fill 20,000 critical vacancies across 25 ministries, modernize the workforce, and improve public services. However, BIGWU stressed that workers’ dignity and rights must not be compromised by administrative errors.
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Family of missing sailor Miguel Campoy still waiting for answers six weeks later
The family of Miguel Campoy, a Spanish-American sailor who vanished at sea six weeks ago, has expressed growing frustration over the lack of progress in the investigation. Campoy, 56, disappeared on September 6 while sailing his 44-foot blue-hulled vessel, Hella, from South Abaco to New Providence. His last known communication with relatives was around 6 p.m., when he reported calm conditions and anticipated a longer-than-expected journey.
Both the Royal Bahamas Defence Force (RBDF) and the United States Coast Guard conducted search operations for approximately a week before suspending their efforts. The family subsequently initiated a private search, deploying airplanes over the area for an additional fifteen days. Despite these efforts, no significant findings have been made, aside from the recovery of Campoy’s dinghy, which was found adrift with personal belongings, including his passport, credit cards, and water supplies.
Miriam Campoy, Miguel’s sister, speculated that her brother may have intentionally left the sailboat due to an emergency, such as water ingress or a collision. However, the exact circumstances remain unclear. The dinghy is currently in the custody of the Western Division police, who have yet to provide any updates or conclusions to the family.
Ms. Campoy revealed that she has repeatedly contacted authorities, including an RBDF officer identified as Mr. Livingston, but has received no substantive information. She also noted that Spanish police have attempted to liaise with Bahamian authorities but have similarly been met with silence.
The family, desperate for closure, has offered a $50,000 reward for information leading to Campoy’s safe return and $2,000 for verified tips. They have distributed missing-person posters across The Bahamas and internationally, urging anyone with information to contact the RBDF, the Royal Bahamas Police Force, or email findmiguelcampoy@gmail.com.
Miguel Campoy, a dual citizen of Spain and the United States, was a seasoned sailor and qualified yacht captain who had lived aboard his vessel for seven years. His family described him as methodical and well-prepared, making his disappearance under calm weather conditions all the more perplexing.
The Campoy family has called for greater transparency from Bahamian authorities, emphasizing their desire to uncover the truth and, if necessary, recover his body. ‘We just need to know what happened,’ Ms. Campoy said, reflecting the family’s anguish and determination for answers.
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#EyeOnMelissa: JCF ready to protect key infrastructure if Melissa hits says Blake
KINGSTON, Jamaica — In response to the imminent threat posed by Tropical Storm Melissa, Jamaica’s Police Commissioner, Dr. Kevin Blake, has announced the full activation of the Jamaica Constabulary Force’s (JCF) hurricane preparedness plan. The JCF has mobilized its resources to safeguard critical infrastructure and ensure public safety as the storm approaches the island’s southeastern coast.
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#EyeOnMelissa: Tourism stakeholders reinforce safety as Tropical Storm Melissa approaches
As Tropical Storm Melissa approaches Jamaica, the island’s tourism industry is intensifying its preparations to ensure the safety of staff, guests, and infrastructure. Stakeholders across the sector are implementing robust safety protocols and collaborating closely with local authorities to mitigate potential risks. Lowell Spence, owner of Smokeez Seafood Restaurant in Rose Hall, St James, emphasized the importance of reinforcing staff training and briefing guests on emergency procedures. Similarly, Sanju Chatani, Senior Director of Taj Mahal Plaza in Ocho Rios, highlighted the need for clear and timely communication with both patrons and employees. Marc Melville, CEO of Chukka Caribbean Adventures, stressed the value of readiness and collaboration with government agencies to protect visitors during the storm. Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett has urged all industry players to prioritize safety, describing preparedness as the cornerstone of recovery. He revealed that the Tourism Emergency Operations Centre has been activated at The Jamaica Pegasus hotel in New Kingston to coordinate a unified response. The centre will facilitate communication between the Ministry of Tourism, emergency agencies, and industry partners, ensuring a cohesive approach as updates from the Meteorological Service are received. Bartlett also underscored Jamaica’s history of rapid crisis response as a testament to the destination’s resilience. He called for calm, vigilance, and unity, reiterating the mantra: ‘Preparation, not panic.’
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#EyeOnMelissa: Jamaica to be declared disaster area shortly
KINGSTON, Jamaica — Prime Minister Dr. Andrew Holness has announced that Jamaica will soon be declared a disaster area as the nation braces for the impact of Tropical Storm Melissa. The declaration, expected by the end of Friday or early Saturday, will activate the Disaster Risk Management Act, granting authorities enhanced powers to safeguard lives and property. Holness made the announcement during a special press briefing at the Office of the Prime Minister on Friday. He emphasized the importance of public cooperation once the declaration is formalized, assuring stakeholders of prior consultations and adequate public notice. Additionally, Holness revealed that measures under the Trade Act will be implemented to prevent price gouging, citing concerns over the scarcity of essential goods like bread in supermarkets. Senator Aubyn Hill, Minister of Industry, Investment, and Commerce, will soon sign an order to enforce these measures, ensuring fair pricing during the crisis.
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Kamla: PNM protecting drug mafia, undermining TT safety
Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar has launched a scathing critique against the opposition People’s National Movement (PNM), accusing them of orchestrating a disinformation campaign to shield their alleged drug mafia financiers. In a statement released on October 24, the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM) condemned the PNM for undermining efforts to combat drug, arms, and human trafficking in Trinidad and Tobago (TT). The Prime Minister highlighted the nation’s vulnerable borders, which have facilitated illegal activities, including the entry of tens of thousands of migrants and the brutal murders of over 10,000 citizens in the past two decades. The OPM further alleged that PNM-controlled constituencies are disproportionately affected by drug-related gang violence, yet the party prioritizes the interests of its financiers over the welfare of its constituents. Amid these accusations, the government welcomed the USS Gravely warship and the 22nd US Marine Expeditionary Unit for joint military training with TT’s defense force from October 26 to 30. This collaboration, part of the renewed Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA) between TT and the US, aims to enhance national security and operational readiness. Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar emphasized the importance of international partnerships in safeguarding the nation, stating, ‘TT must always come first.’
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Young warns of energy sector fallout
The closure of Nutrien’s operations at the Point Lisas Industrial Estate in Trinidad has sparked significant concerns over the management of the country’s energy sector. Former Energy Minister and Prime Minister Stuart Young attributed the shutdown to what he termed “unfortunate mismanagement,” warning of its potential to undermine Trinidad and Tobago’s global competitiveness. The shutdown, confirmed on October 23, has already begun to disrupt the supply of carbon dioxide (CO₂) to local and regional manufacturers, including those in the carbonated beverage industry, a key export sector for the nation. Nutrien cited port access restrictions and unreliable natural gas supply as primary reasons for the decision, which has impacted its Trinidad Nitrogen operations’ cash flow over an extended period. Despite the closure, Nutrien remains confident in meeting its 2025 nitrogen sales targets, supported by its North American production. Young emphasized the critical role of the energy sector as a major foreign exchange earner and employer, stressing the importance of maintaining investor confidence and fostering respectful relationships with energy companies. He criticized the current government for failing to uphold these principles, warning of potential long-term plant closures and broader economic fallout.
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Bahamas urged to monitor Tropical Storm Melissa hurricane threat
The Bahamas Department of Meteorology (BDM) is closely tracking Tropical Storm Melissa, which is currently situated in the north-central Caribbean. The storm, which has the potential to intensify into a major hurricane by this weekend, poses a significant threat to parts of The Bahamas and surrounding regions. As of the latest update, Melissa remains nearly stationary, located approximately 360 miles south of Matthew Town, 440 miles southwest of Providenciales, and 675 miles south-southeast of New Providence. The storm currently boasts maximum sustained winds of 45 mph, with higher gusts, and is expected to strengthen gradually. Forecasters predict that Melissa could escalate to a Category 3 hurricane by Saturday. The storm is anticipated to drift northeastward today before shifting westward from Saturday through Monday. If the projected path remains consistent, the southwestern islands of the Southeast Bahamas, including the Turks and Caicos, could experience tropical storm or hurricane conditions as early as Tuesday. The rest of the Southeast and Central Bahamas are likely to face impacts from Wednesday into Thursday. Meteorologists have cautioned that interactions with the high terrain of Jamaica, Cuba, or Hispaniola could influence Melissa’s intensity before it approaches the archipelago. Despite these variables, residents in the affected areas are advised to prepare for prolonged heavy rainfall, strong winds, and coastal flooding starting Tuesday. The BDM has urged both residents and visitors to stay informed through official updates available at met.gov.bs.