Carib Scope

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  • Halo Foundation, Partners Deliver Christmas Joy to More Than 60 Children

    Halo Foundation, Partners Deliver Christmas Joy to More Than 60 Children

    In a heartwarming display of community spirit, The Halo Foundation joined forces with Luxury Locations and multiple local businesses to create an unforgettable Christmas experience for more than sixty children during the holiday season. This annual initiative, deeply cherished by all participants, saw an extraordinary collaboration between corporate donors and community members.

    The event featured an array of festive activities including interactive storytelling sessions, lively games of ‘Santa Says,’ energetic tag matches, and various other holiday-themed entertainments that filled the venue with laughter and excitement. The celebrations culminated with a nutritious warm lunch service, refreshing beverages, and the highly anticipated distribution of Christmas presents by team members who enthusiastically embraced their roles as ‘Santa’s Helpers.’

    This philanthropic endeavor was made possible through generous contributions from Nadia Dyson of Luxury Locations and several of its property owners, supplemented by significant donations from Dana of L French Construction and Naomi of Caribbean Coffee. Additional support came from Darin of The Palms and Jamie of Jolly Harbour, who provided food supplies, a Christmas tree, and the event venue space.

    Romancier Edwards, President of Halo Generation Y, expressed that the team anticipates this initiative annually, emphasizing the particular significance of bringing festive joy to children who might otherwise lack opportunities to experience the full magic of the Christmas season. The foundation extended sincere gratitude to all partners, donors, and community members whose collective efforts transformed this Christmas initiative into an extraordinary success.

  • UN Human Rights Chief Raises Alarm Over U.S. Military Operation in Venezuela

    UN Human Rights Chief Raises Alarm Over U.S. Military Operation in Venezuela

    The United Nations Human Rights Office has issued a stern condemnation of the United States’ military operation in Venezuela, characterizing it as a violation of core international legal principles. UN spokesperson Ravina Shamdasani articulated profound concerns regarding the weekend operation, emphasizing that it contravenes the fundamental tenet prohibiting states from threatening or using force against another nation’s territorial integrity.

    While acknowledging Venezuela’s documented human rights deficiencies, the High Commissioner maintained that accountability for such abuses cannot be achieved through unilateral military actions that themselves breach international law. The statement emphasized that Venezuelans deserve justice through fair, victim-centered judicial processes rather than foreign intervention.

    Complicating the situation further, Venezuelan authorities implemented a state of emergency effective Saturday, granting powers to restrict movement, confiscate property for national defense, and suspend assembly and protest rights. The UN expressed additional concern over these measures’ potential impact on civil liberties.

    Concurrently, regional responses are emerging with Belize announcing alignment with CARICOM leadership to evaluate hemispheric implications. Belizean officials urged restraint, respect for international law, and constructive dialogue to restore Venezuela’s constitutional order according to its people’s will. They reaffirmed commitment to maintaining the region as a ‘Zone of Peace’ despite current challenges.

    The military operation, described by US officials as months in preparation and unprecedented in scale, involved deployment of over 150 aircraft targeting the capture of President Nicolás Maduro overnight Saturday.

  • Colombia emphasizes aggression against Venezuela is for hydrocarbons

    Colombia emphasizes aggression against Venezuela is for hydrocarbons

    Colombia has issued a firm diplomatic declaration reaffirming its commitment to international principles and opposing foreign intervention in Venezuela’s affairs. During a press conference, a senior Colombian official articulated the nation’s position that any resolution to the Venezuelan situation must emerge exclusively through peaceful dialogue and the autonomous will of its citizens, without external pressure.

    The Minister of Foreign Affairs presented a critical analysis of the regional instability, attributing its primary cause to economic interests centered on natural resource acquisition. The official specifically identified the United States’ fossil fuel economy as a driving force behind interventionist policies that violate fundamental international norms.

    Foreign Minister Villavicencio articulated that Washington’s pursuit of energy resources has repeatedly crossed established red lines in international relations, particularly regarding respect for national sovereignty and territorial integrity. The minister referenced historical patterns of US interventionism targeting resource-rich nations to meet economic demands.

    This stance forms the foundation of Colombia’s diplomatic rejection of any external interests that seek to compromise the sovereignty of nations in their management and control of natural resources. The South American nation emphasized its unwavering defense of established diplomatic mechanisms designed to preserve peace and security throughout the region.

    Colombia reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining Latin America as a Zone of Peace, advocating for solutions that prioritize dialogue over coercion and respect the self-determination of all nations in the region.

  • Patchakan Villagers on Alert as Wildcat Roams

    Patchakan Villagers on Alert as Wildcat Roams

    The rural community of Patchakan Village has been thrust into a state of heightened vigilance following a series of predatory attacks on domestic animals, believed to be the work of an unidentified wildcat. Village authorities have initiated coordinated safety measures in response to the emerging threat.

    According to Wilfredo Roger Medina, the village chairman, the unsettling pattern began approximately one week ago when multiple households reported their livestock and pets either missing or discovered mutilated. The severity of the attacks is evident in the grisly remains; Medina described instances where sheep were consumed to the point that only their spinal columns remained.

    The situation has escalated from concerning to alarming due to the predator’s increasing boldness. Initially thought to be operating on the periphery in forested zones, the animal has now been documented venturing into the village’s residential core, resulting in the disappearance of household pets like cats and dogs. This proximity to human dwellings has significantly amplified residents’ anxiety.

    While the exact species remains unconfirmed, eyewitness accounts from villagers suggest the animal is a sizable feline, possibly with black fur. To date, the incidents have impacted a minimum of four to five families, with economic losses mounting from the killed livestock.

    In a proactive response, community leaders have activated a local neighborhood watch program. This initiative aims to circulate warnings among residents and implement preventive strategies to curb further losses until a permanent solution is deployed.

    Official assistance is now en route. Rangers from the national Forestry Department are scheduled to arrive imminently to conduct a professional assessment. Their operational plan involves the strategic placement of motion-activated trail cameras in an effort to capture imagery of the creature, which is a critical first step for formal identification.

    Medina was explicit regarding the community’s objective, emphasizing a non-lethal resolution. ‘The intention is not to exterminate the animal,’ he stated. ‘Our goal is to safely capture it and relocate it back to its natural habitat, far removed from the village.’

  • Village Council Warns Over Dumping Problem

    Village Council Warns Over Dumping Problem

    The San Felipe Village Council has issued a stern warning regarding persistent illegal dumping activities at key entry points and surrounding areas, stating the practice is severely damaging the community’s historically esteemed reputation for cleanliness and hospitality.

    Council representatives emphasized that while San Felipe remains widely recognized for its residents’ warmth and communal pride, the accumulation of discarded garbage at village entrances presents a contradictory narrative. The council articulated that when trash becomes visible at community gateways, blame isn’t assigned to individuals but rather tarnishes the entire village’s image, collectively labeling residents as neglectful of their environment.

    Despite concerted cleanup initiatives—including substantial mechanical clearing operations conducted merely two months prior—the dumping problem continues unabated, particularly along the Orange Walk–San Felipe roadway corridor. Officials noted that prominently displayed signage throughout the area explicitly warns of potential fines for littering and illegal waste disposal, though enforcement has historically emphasized patient education over punitive measures.

    Additional concerns were raised regarding litter accumulation in the central park following gatherings, particularly those involving youth. The council is urging all residents to utilize provided waste receptacles and assume personal responsibility for maintaining public spaces.

    In a strategic shift toward enforcement, authorities are now encouraging citizens to actively document illegal dumping incidents through photographic or video evidence, which may serve as crucial documentation for potential compliance actions.

  • Parlementaire commissie volgt Caricom-standpunt over Venezuela

    Parlementaire commissie volgt Caricom-standpunt over Venezuela

    Suriname’s Parliamentary Standing Committee for Foreign Affairs has endorsed the government’s decision to maintain alignment with the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) regarding the Venezuela situation rather than adopting an independent national position. Foreign Minister Melvin Bouva emphasized during Monday’s committee hearing that Suriname will uphold the collective stance of the regional bloc while continuously monitoring developments in the neighboring nation.

    Committee Chairman Ebu Jones confirmed that discussions with Minister Bouva highlighted the critical importance of safeguarding Suriname’s national interests within international decision-making frameworks. “Suriname must remain vigilant. Our strength derives from established international norms,” Jones stated in an interview with Starnieuws.

    The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has acknowledged recent statements by Delcy Rodríguez, Venezuela’s interim president, who appealed to the international community—particularly U.S. President Donald Trump—to collaborate on Venezuela’s development and future prospects.

    Regarding citizen safety, officials confirmed that three Surinamese nationals are officially registered in Venezuela, with one additional individual employed at Suriname’s diplomatic mission. Minister Bouva assured the committee that all Surinamese citizens in Venezuela currently reside in secure circumstances.

    The government has also developed contingency plans addressing potential increases in Venezuelan migration toward Suriname. Minister Bouva committed to ongoing consultations with the parliamentary committee to regularly assess evolving developments in Venezuela and their regional implications.

  • Boys told to return phone allegedly stolen at Twist Mall

    Boys told to return phone allegedly stolen at Twist Mall

    Security camera footage from Twist Mall has captured public attention after being circulated online, showing two unidentified boys allegedly involved in the theft of a mobile device. The video publication was accompanied by a direct appeal urging the minors or their guardians to promptly return the property to avoid potential escalation.

    The social media post containing the surveillance material explicitly warned that failure to return the phone could result in formal legal proceedings being initiated. Despite the serious allegations and public circulation of the evidence, local law enforcement agencies have not yet confirmed the incident or released any official statements regarding the investigation.

    This situation highlights growing concerns about retail security and the ethical implications of publicly sharing surveillance footage involving minors before official investigations conclude. Mall management has remained silent on their security protocols and the decision to publicly release the footage rather than immediately involving authorities.

    The incident has sparked discussions about proper procedures for handling alleged theft cases involving juveniles and the balance between public shaming and legal due process in addressing petty crimes within retail environments.

  • Dominican attorney criticizes refugee agreement with United States

    Dominican attorney criticizes refugee agreement with United States

    A significant diplomatic development has ignited intense debate in Dominica as Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit’s administration faces sharp criticism over a recently announced refugee agreement with the United States. The arrangement, revealed during a January 5th press conference, establishes Dominica as a host nation for third-country refugees whom the US cannot repatriate to their countries of origin.

    Prime Minister Skerrit characterized the agreement as the product of meticulous negotiations with the US State Department, emphasizing enhanced bilateral relations and protection of Dominican citizens’ access to travel, education, and employment opportunities. “This carefully considered arrangement demonstrates Dominica’s commitment to being a reliable partner to the United States while ensuring national security remains uncompromised,” Skerrit stated.

    However, Dominican attorney Cabral Douglas, currently based in Australia, has launched a formidable critique against the agreement. Douglas contends that accepting individuals with no established connections to Dominica or the Caribbean region violates the nation’s immigration laws and represents an alarming erosion of parliamentary oversight. “This agreement bypasses legislative approval and effectively surrenders control of our borders,” Douglas asserted.

    Douglas further connected the refugee arrangement to broader concerns regarding Dominica’s Citizenship By Investment Programme, which he claims has already generated international repercussions including visa restrictions from the United Kingdom and suspended US visa applications. “The cumulative effect of these policies makes daily life increasingly challenging for ordinary Dominicans while undermining our national sovereignty,” he explained.

    The attorney raised practical concerns regarding integration challenges, housing shortages, strain on public services, and language barriers that might accompany refugee resettlement. He called upon citizens to reevaluate the government’s leadership approach, characterizing the agreement as part of a pattern of disregarding democratic processes.

    The controversy highlights the complex balance small nations must strike between fostering international partnerships and preserving national autonomy, setting the stage for continued political discourse regarding Dominica’s foreign policy direction.

  • Prime Minister Browne Welcomes Zimbabwe’s New Ambassador During Courtesy Call

    Prime Minister Browne Welcomes Zimbabwe’s New Ambassador During Courtesy Call

    In a significant diplomatic development, Prime Minister Gaston Browne of Antigua and Barbuda hosted Zimbabwe’s newly appointed Ambassador, Cecil Chinenere, at the Prime Minister’s Office on Tuesday. The high-level meeting marked a pivotal step toward enhancing bilateral cooperation between the Caribbean nation and the African republic, with both parties expressing strong commitment to mutual priorities.

    Prime Minister Browne extended warm congratulations to Ambassador Chinenere on his diplomatic appointment, expressing optimism that the encounter would catalyze deeper relations between their nations. The leadership discussed concrete mechanisms for structured collaboration, including the establishment of a Joint Consultative Committee that would institutionalize their partnership.

    The dialogue revealed remarkable alignment on critical global issues, with both nations reaffirming their shared stance on climate justice, reparations, and enhanced South-South cooperation. Prime Minister Browne emphasized the strategic importance of African-Caribbean unity in achieving equitable representation within international institutions, particularly the United Nations.

    Significant practical measures were proposed during the discussions, including the potential appointment of Honorary Consuls to facilitate cost-effective diplomatic and economic engagement. The Prime Minister also addressed Zimbabwe’s interest in rejoining the Commonwealth, indicating Antigua and Barbuda’s support for their re-admission and extending an invitation for President Emerson Mnangagwa to attend the upcoming Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting hosted by Antigua and Barbuda later this year.

    Ambassador Chinenere conveyed presidential greetings from Zimbabwe and acknowledged the welcoming reception, emphasizing his nation’s dedication to building partnerships that elevate living standards through sectoral cooperation. The discussions also touched upon recent advancements in direct air connectivity between Africa and the Caribbean, highlighting tangible progress in regional integration.

    The Government of Antigua and Barbuda reaffirmed its leadership role in fostering Africa-Caribbean connectivity and anticipates continued engagement with Zimbabwe to advance shared objectives in development, resilience, and strengthened global representation for both regions.

  • Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit clarifies Dominica’s position on allegations of regional Venezuelan trafficking network

    Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit clarifies Dominica’s position on allegations of regional Venezuelan trafficking network

    Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit has issued a forceful denial of Dominica’s involvement in any illegal activities following explosive reports linking Caribbean politicians to international drug cartels. The allegations surfaced in connection with a massive 700-page indictment filed in New York that details a sophisticated cocaine trafficking network operating across the region.

    The controversy emerged after the dramatic detention of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and First Lady Cilia Flores during a U.S. military operation in Caracas on January 3. The indictment alleges that drug traffickers systematically bribed officials along the ‘Caribbean route’ to ensure protection and political support, enabling seamless transportation of cocaine from Venezuela to the United States.

    According to court documents, this corruption network extended from Colombian producers through Venezuelan transit points to Caribbean intermediaries and ultimately to distributors in Central America and Mexico. The scheme allegedly allowed traffickers to amass enormous profits while securing political backing that compromised institutional integrity and fostered political instability throughout the hemisphere.

    During a Monday press conference, Skerrit addressed what he called ‘baseless allegations’ while defending Dominica’s energy agreements with Venezuela. ‘We entered into an agreement with Venezuela under the Petro Caribe initiative that helped sustain the economies of participating countries,’ Skerrit stated. ‘This agreement was completely transparent and brought vital foreign exchange while stabilizing petroleum prices.’

    The Prime Minister emphatically declared: ‘We never engaged in any illegal activities that contravene international law, domestic law, or any regional or international treaties. This government has never involved itself in drug dealing or any illegal activities whatsoever. We can stand and say this anywhere with clear conscience.’

    Skerrit highlighted his administration’s commitment to regional security, noting: ‘No government in our history has invested more resources in police and national security to ensure our country and region remain peaceful. I have engaged in highly sensitive security initiatives with international partners that I don’t even share with my cabinet due to their confidential nature.’

    Meanwhile, President Maduro and First Lady Flores pleaded not guilty to drug trafficking charges in a New York court on January 5, setting the stage for a landmark legal proceeding that could have profound implications for regional politics and international relations.