Carib Scope

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  • Elderly Woman in Wheelchair Rescued From Blaze

    Elderly Woman in Wheelchair Rescued From Blaze

    A swift-acting neighbor became the hero of a harrowing incident in San Narciso Village, Corozal, when a residential fire broke out on the morning of January 7, 2026. The blaze completely destroyed a local home but resulted in no injuries thanks to the neighbor’s courageous intervention.

    The emergency unfolded when an elderly woman confined to a wheelchair found herself trapped inside the rapidly burning structure. Demonstrating remarkable presence of mind, a nearby resident rushed to the scene and successfully extracted the vulnerable occupant before flames could engulf the entire property.

    Preliminary information from the homeowner, identified as a local educator, suggests the conflagration originated from an electrical malfunction near her workstation. The area contained multiple connected devices that may have contributed to the incident, though official cause determination remains pending from fire investigators.

    Additional family members arrived during the emergency and attempted to combat the spreading fire using a truckload of water, but their efforts proved insufficient against the intensifying flames. When professional firefighting units eventually reached the location, the structure had already been completely consumed by the fire.

    The property owners suffered total loss of their personal belongings as the intensity of the blaze prevented salvage operations. Authorities continue their examination of the scene to establish definitive causation while the displaced family receives community support following their devastating loss.

  • Solid Waste Agency apologises for collection delays in Choiseul

    Solid Waste Agency apologises for collection delays in Choiseul

    The Saint Lucia Solid Waste Management Authority has formally expressed regret to communities within the Choiseul zone after significant interruptions in garbage collection services left waste accumulating in residential areas.

    Citing operational difficulties in a January 6, 2026 press statement, the Authority conceded that scheduled pickups had been either delayed or completely missed across multiple neighborhoods. This service failure created substantial inconvenience for local residents and raised concerns about public sanitation.

    In response to the growing waste backlog, management has activated all available resources to normalize collection operations. A specialized cleanup initiative commenced on Wednesday, January 7, targeting the accumulated refuse with additional personnel and equipment deployed specifically for recovery operations.

    While restoration efforts continue, Choiseul residents receive instructions to maintain their regular disposal routines by placing waste outside on originally designated collection days. The Authority emphasizes that consistent household cooperation will facilitate more efficient clearance of the existing waste surplus.

    Officials concluded their announcement by acknowledging public patience during the service disruption and reaffirming their commitment to resolving the situation promptly.

  • human Rights Watch calls for U.S. departure from prevalent human rights abuses in Venezuela

    human Rights Watch calls for U.S. departure from prevalent human rights abuses in Venezuela

    Human Rights Watch has issued a stark warning that the Trump administration’s aggressive military operations in Venezuela risk precipitating a severe human rights emergency. The alert follows January 3rd operations that resulted in the capture of Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores, who now face US federal court charges spanning drug trafficking and related criminal allegations.

    Juanita Goebertus, Human Rights Watch’s Americas director, condemned Washington’s approach, stating: “While Venezuelans possess the fundamental right to self-determination, the United States appears to be instrumentalizing Venezuela’s oppressive infrastructure to advance its own geopolitical and economic agendas.”

    The escalation began when President Trump declared the US would effectively “run” Venezuela indefinitely without specifying operational parameters. US officials have since indicated cooperation with Delcy Rodríguez, formerly Maduro’s vice president and recently installed as interim president on January 5.

    According to HRW documentation, American strategy involves manipulating oil embargo mechanisms in the Caribbean region combined with threats of additional military action to compel Venezuelan compliance with US demands. These include privileged access for American energy corporations and suppression of gang violence.

    The January 3rd strikes reportedly targeted military facilities, killing dozens of personnel including at least two civilians. The Cuban government—a historical ally of Venezuela—confirmed 32 Cuban officers among the casualties and strongly denounced the attacks.

    This intervention follows earlier extrajudicial US operations in Caribbean and Pacific waters that eliminated至少115 individuals accused of narcotics trafficking. Secretary of State Marco Rubio subsequently outlined demands for Venezuelan cooperation on oil investments, criminal group suppression, and severed ties with Iran and Hezbollah. President Trump reinforced these demands with threats of “a second strike” if Venezuela fails to “behave.”

    Despite Trump’s reference to overseeing a “judicious transition,” HRW observers note absent clarification regarding electoral processes, political prisoner releases, or human rights reforms. This ambiguity persists despite Venezuela’s July 2024 elections where independent analysts reported opposition candidate Edmundo González winning majority support, though official results declared Maduro victorious.

    The post-electoral period witnessed intensified repression including protestor fatalities, arbitrary detentions, and enforced disappearances targeting opposition figures, activists, and foreign nationals. Currently, over 860 political prisoners remain incarcerated according to legal aid organization Foro Penal, with the ICC Prosecutor’s Office investigating crimes against humanity allegations dating to 2014.

    Venezuela’s decade-long humanitarian crisis continues featuring critical shortages of food and medicine, prompting approximately 7 million citizens to flee while 14.2 million require urgent humanitarian assistance. Human Rights Watch urges global leaders—including Latin American, European, and Canadian counterparts—to advocate for democratic transition, prisoner releases, and accountability for human rights violations. The organization specifically calls upon the US to uphold its obligations under international human rights and humanitarian law.

    Goebertus emphasized: “The international community must prioritize protecting Venezuelans who have endured a decade of suffering under Maduro. Trump’s decapitation strike has merely exposed them to further systemic abuse.”

  • Trump administration demands Venezuela cut ties with US adversaries to resume oil production

    Trump administration demands Venezuela cut ties with US adversaries to resume oil production

    The Trump administration has established specific prerequisites that Venezuela must fulfill to restart its oil production operations, according to two senior White House officials. These demands were communicated to Venezuela’s government following the capture of ousted President Nicolás Maduro over the weekend.

    Administration officials emphasized that Venezuela’s economic survival without oil revenue remains viable for only several weeks, creating urgent pressure for compliance. The requirements include holding free and fair elections, releasing political prisoners, and eliminating drug trafficking networks operating within the country.

    Senator Marco Rubio indicated that the most immediate demands focus on Venezuela expelling foreign adversaries, particularly those from Iran, Russia, and China, while enhancing cooperation on oil sales and counter-narcotics efforts. The substantial US military presence near Venezuela’s coastline serves as leverage to ensure compliance, with administration officials expressing confidence in their coercive strategy.

    Should Venezuela cooperate, the administration has signaled willingness to reassess current sanction policies. President Trump has privately communicated his objective to remove Iranian, Russian, and Chinese influence from the Western Hemisphere, with Venezuela’s cooperation representing the initial critical step.

    While long-term plans involve extracting substantial oil reserves and rebuilding Venezuela’s energy infrastructure, the immediate priority remains preventing Venezuela from transferring oil resources to foreign adversaries. The administration acknowledges these ambitious goals will require significant time and resources.

    Concurrently, President Trump is scheduled to meet with executives from major oil companies, including Chevron—the sole US company currently operating in Venezuela—Exxon Mobil, and ConocoPhillips. This meeting follows Trump’s social media announcement regarding Venezuela’s interim government potentially transferring 30-50 million barrels of sanctioned oil to the United States, with proceeds to be administered under presidential authority.

  • Traffic changes for Bourne funeral

    Traffic changes for Bourne funeral

    The Barbados Police Service has issued comprehensive traffic advisories in anticipation of significant disruptions during Thursday’s military funeral ceremony for Police Constable Anisè Bourne. The solemn proceedings at St George Parish Church in The Glebe will necessitate implemented traffic modifications effective from 11:00 a.m. until the service’s conclusion.

    Substantial delays are projected along Maxwell Main Road between 11:00 a.m. and 11:40 a.m., affecting the corridor from Top Rock Roundabout to its convergence with Hilton Road. Subsequent interruptions between 11:45 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. will impact Charles Rowe Bridge near Chefette establishment, extending along Valley Road to its intersection with Walkers Road adjacent to Glebe Market.

    Stringent parking prohibitions will be enforced on Charles Rowe Bridge, Valley Road, and Walkers Road, permitting only momentary passenger transfers. Designated funeral attendee parking has been allocated at Glebe Playing Field and St George Parish Church premises.

    The police administration has emphasized serious consequences for non-compliance, including potential $500 fines or imprisonment for up to three months for violations of traffic directives or refusal to obey officers’ lawful commands. Emergency service vehicles remain exempt from all restrictions.

    Additional police personnel will be strategically deployed throughout the affected vicinity to facilitate traffic flow management. Authorities have expressed gratitude for public cooperation while extending apologies for anticipated inconveniences during this period of ceremonial observance.

  • New US Dietary Guidelines urge Less Sugar, More Protein

    New US Dietary Guidelines urge Less Sugar, More Protein

    The United States has unveiled a transformative update to its federal dietary guidelines, marking a significant departure from previous nutritional advice. Released Wednesday by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the US Department of Agriculture (USDA), the new framework prioritizes protein intake and healthy fats while explicitly advising against ultraprocessed foods and added sugars.

    Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr. championed the concise new guidelines, which fulfill his promise to distill nutritional advice into a more accessible format. “My message is clear, eat real food,” Kennedy stated during a White House briefing. The recommendations notably endorse fats like olive oil, butter, and beef tallow—a shift from decades of advice promoting low-fat dairy products.

    A central visual change accompanies the update: an inverted pyramid places meats, cheese, and vegetables at its widest top section, replacing the longstanding MyPlate icon. Officials assert that adhering to these guidelines can help prevent or slow chronic diseases, a core tenet of the ‘Make America Healthy Again’ movement.

    The American Medical Association offered early endorsement. “The Guidelines affirm that food is medicine and offer clear direction patients and physicians can use to improve health,” said AMA President Dr. Bobby Mukkamala in a statement applauding the focus on processed foods and sugary beverages.

    Key specific changes include protein recommendations now based on body weight (1.2-1.6g per kilogram), advocacy for full-fat dairy without added sugars, and explicit guidance to avoid ultraprocessed packaged foods. The guidelines maintain cautions against alcohol and sugary drinks while updating infant nutrition advice to promote breastfeeding for up to two years and avoid added sugars through age 10.

    Some experts expressed concerns about the emphasis on red meat and dairy. Dr. Walter Willett, a Harvard nutrition professor, noted that while the guidelines address sugary drinks, they potentially overlook other critical areas. The update process itself has drawn scrutiny, with Kennedy criticizing previous development methods and promising continued reform of the advisory committee structure.

    These guidelines substantially influence federal nutrition programs including school meals, WIC, and SNAP, affecting millions of Americans. Their implementation will be closely watched by local health departments and public health officials grappling with the nation’s obesity epidemic.

  • Recurring Garbage Problem Sparks Frustration in Caledonia Village

    Recurring Garbage Problem Sparks Frustration in Caledonia Village

    The community of Caledonia Village in the Corozal District faces an escalating environmental and public safety crisis as persistent garbage dumping at the village entrance continues unabated. Despite ongoing efforts by local authorities, residents report that political polarization and community non-cooperation are severely hampering resolution efforts.

    According to eyewitness accounts, the recurring problem involves substantial waste accumulation along roadways near designated disposal areas, creating hazardous conditions with broken glass and metal cans posing direct threats to motorists and pedestrians. A concerned villager described the situation as cyclical, noting the problem has resurfaced repeatedly over several years.

    The political dimension of the crisis emerged clearly through resident testimony describing how community initiatives frequently encounter opposition based on political affiliations. “When supporters of one party implement solutions, opponents from the other party deliberately undermine progress,” explained one resident, highlighting how partisan divisions prevent collective action on shared community problems.

    Vice Chairlady Docia Chan confirmed the current village council inherited a severely compromised waste management situation upon taking office. Recognizing the strategic importance of the location as the village’s primary entrance, council members prioritized cleaning and maintaining the area to create a positive impression for both visitors and residents.

    Despite these efforts, including recent cleanup activities conducted on January 4th, 2026, and the installation of warning signage, fresh garbage bags appeared within just 24 hours of restoration work. Chan expressed frustration at the disregard for community standards, noting the properly accessible disposal area remains consistently underutilized.

    While the vice chairlady acknowledged uncertainty regarding whether the continued dumping stems from political motivation or simple negligence, she issued a firm appeal for improved community responsibility. The council has now escalated its response, preparing to involve law enforcement authorities to investigate and potentially prosecute offenders if the situation doesn’t improve.

    Residents are joining calls for unity, urging community members to transcend political affiliations and collaborate on solving environmental challenges that affect all villagers equally. The situation continues to develop as community leaders weigh additional measures to address this persistent public health and safety concern.

  • US Seizes Two Oil Tankers Linked to Venezuela Sanctions, China and Russia Call it “Bullying”

    US Seizes Two Oil Tankers Linked to Venezuela Sanctions, China and Russia Call it “Bullying”

    In a significant escalation of sanctions enforcement, United States naval forces have intercepted and seized two oil tankers carrying Venezuelan crude in Caribbean waters. The operation, confirmed by the US European Command, culminated a two-week Atlantic pursuit targeting vessels allegedly violating international sanctions against Venezuela.

    The seized vessels include the Russian-flagged Bella 1 and the fully-loaded Sophia tanker, collectively transporting millions of barrels of crude oil. Maritime tracking data indicates the Sophia alone carries approximately two million barrels of Merey crude loaded from Venezuela’s Jose Oil Terminal in late December.

    President Donald Trump announced the unprecedented seizure, stating that between 30 million and 50 million barrels of sanctioned oil would be confiscated and sold at market value. The President issued directives demanding Venezuela exclusively collaborate with the United States on oil exports while severing energy ties with China, Russia, Iran, and Cuba.

    “This Oil will be sold at its Market Price, and that money will be controlled by me, as President of the United States of America, to ensure it is used to benefit the people of Venezuela and the United States!” Trump declared via social media on Tuesday.

    The operation received substantial international support, with United Kingdom forces providing surveillance and logistical assistance. British Defence Secretary John Healey characterized the seizure as part of “global efforts to crack down on sanctions busting.”

    However, the action has provoked strong diplomatic backlash from both China and Russia. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning condemned the seizure during a Wednesday press conference, stating: “The United States’ brazen use of force against Venezuela and its demand for ‘America First’ when Venezuela disposes of its own oil resources are typical acts of bullying.” Russian officials echoed similar sentiments, denouncing the seizure as an unlawful assertion of extraterritorial jurisdiction.

  • Dominicans now face up $15,000 Visa Bond for entry into U.S.

    Dominicans now face up $15,000 Visa Bond for entry into U.S.

    The Trump administration has instituted a groundbreaking visa bond policy affecting citizens from 38 countries, including the Caribbean nation of Dominica. This new requirement mandates that otherwise eligible travelers seeking B1/B2 visas must post substantial financial bonds as part of their application process.

    According to official State Department guidelines, consular officers now possess discretionary authority to impose bond requirements during visa interviews, with amounts typically set at $5,000, $10,000, or $15,000 depending on individual circumstances. The substantial sums represent a significant financial barrier for many applicants from affected nations.

    Beyond the financial commitment, applicants must complete Department of Homeland Security Form I-352 (Immigration Bond form) regardless of their application location. The U.S. government strictly requires all payments through official channels only after explicit consular instruction, emphasizing that unauthorized payments will not be refunded regardless of visa outcome.

    Notably, bond payment does not guarantee visa approval, with final decisions remaining at the discretion of visa authorities. Successful applicants face additional restrictions, being limited to entry and exit through three designated airports: Boston Logan International, John F. Kennedy International, and Washington Dulles International.

    The bond terms outlined on DHS Form I-352 and Travel.State.Gov specify automatic cancellation conditions, including timely departure from the U.S. or denial at port of entry. However, violations such as overstaying or unauthorized presence trigger reporting to USCIS for potential investigation and legal action.

    Antigua and Barbuda joins Dominica as the only other Caribbean territory subject to these stringent new requirements, reflecting a broader immigration policy shift affecting dozens of nations worldwide.

  • Warehouse Break-In Leads to Theft of 150 Cases of Chicken Meat in All Saints Road

    Warehouse Break-In Leads to Theft of 150 Cases of Chicken Meat in All Saints Road

    Authorities in Antigua are investigating a significant theft at Goodwill Agencies on All Saints Road, where criminals made off with approximately 150 cases of chicken meat. The burglary involved perpetrators cutting through a secured 40-foot shipping container located on the company’s premises and removing an entire pallet of poultry products. In a subsequent discovery, 48 cases from the stolen consignment were found abandoned a short distance from the crime scene, though the majority remains missing. Law enforcement officials have launched a full investigation into the break-in and subsequent theft. Meanwhile, Goodwill Agencies has issued a public health advisory, cautioning both consumers and business operators to exercise extreme vigilance when sourcing chicken products. The company emphasized that the stolen goods may have been compromised during the extraction process, potentially rendering them unsafe for consumption due to improper handling and unknown storage conditions.