Carib Scope

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  • Claxton Bay takes $6.4m Lotto jackpot

    Claxton Bay takes $6.4m Lotto jackpot

    A transformative fortune has descended upon a fortunate Trinidadian citizen who secured the multimillion-dollar LottoPlus jackpot on New Year’s Eve. The life-changing winning ticket was procured from the National Lotteries Control Board (NLCB) outlet situated at St Margaret’s Junction in Claxton Bay on December 31st.

    The National Lotteries Control Board officially confirmed the monumental win through a press communication issued on January 1st, 2026. The announcement revealed that the staggering prize amount totaled $6,444,024.06, instantly catapulting the anonymous winner into millionaire status at the dawn of the new year.

    The combination that unlocked this substantial fortune consisted of the primary numbers 16, 20, 29, 31, and 34, complemented by the crucial Powerball number 7. This numerical sequence proved to be the key to financial transformation for the lucky ticket holder.

    Meanwhile, the NLCB has announced the continuation of its lucrative Lotto Plus offerings with a guaranteed $2 million jackpot scheduled for drawing on December 3rd at 8:30 PM. This ongoing opportunity ensures that the prospect of instant wealth remains accessible to lottery participants across Trinidad and Tobago.

    The latest winner joins an exclusive group of jackpot recipients who have experienced sudden wealth through the national lottery system, highlighting the life-altering potential that these games represent for ordinary citizens.

  • Trinidad central bank warns US/Venezuela tension affecting local economy

    Trinidad central bank warns US/Venezuela tension affecting local economy

    PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad – The Central Bank of Trinidad and Tobago (CBTT) has identified escalating geopolitical tensions between the United States and Venezuela as a significant factor contributing to mounting economic uncertainty in the domestic economy. This assessment was detailed in the bank’s year-end Monetary Policy Statement released Wednesday, December 31, 2025.

    While acknowledging that inflation remains well-contained, credit growth reasonable, and liquidity conditions improved, the CBTT characterized the nation’s economic recovery as ‘somewhat tentative.’ The bank reported that gains from increased energy production in Q2 2025, driven by two new natural gas fields (bpTT’s Cypre and bpTT/EOG’s Mento fields), were partially undermined by a non-energy sector showing signs of deceleration across multiple sub-sectors.

    Energy sector output surged 10.4% year-on-year, with natural gas production increasing 11.7% and crude oil output rising 8.9%. The petrochemical industry demonstrated mixed results with ammonia production expanding 23.6% and urea output jumping 51.3%, while methanol production continued its decline with a 12.7% contraction.

    The Central Bank noted concerning softness in distribution, construction, and manufacturing sectors, though these were partially counterbalanced by improvements in finance and utilities. Inflation metrics remained favorable, with headline inflation measured at 0.5% in November 2025 compared to 1.5% in June. Core inflation (excluding food prices) rose moderately by 0.5%, while food inflation decelerated to 0.8% due to lower international food prices and minimal weather-related disruptions to domestic agricultural supplies.

    Financial conditions presented a nuanced picture: system liquidity constraints eased substantially with commercial banks’ excess reserves at the Central Bank climbing from TT$3.5 billion in October to TT$5.3 billion by mid-December. Conversely, private sector credit expansion slowed to 6.3% year-on-year in October from 8.6% in June, primarily influenced by more modest business credit growth.

    The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) decided to maintain the repo rate at 3.50%, citing softness in the non-energy sector, low inflation environment, and narrowing interest rate differentials with the United States. The bank emphasized that safeguarding international reserves remains paramount given the country’s high import propensity, with foreign reserves strengthening from US$4.6 billion in October to US$5.3 billion as of December 19, 2025.

    The MPC committed to actively monitor the effects of recent wage adjustments on aggregate demand and import growth in coming months, standing ready to implement necessary monetary policy actions to balance foreign reserve protection with maintaining favorable funding conditions for domestic economic activity.

  • Marabella man murdered on Old Year’s night

    Marabella man murdered on Old Year’s night

    In a tragic conclusion to 2025’s violent crime statistics, Dexter Griffith, a 53-year-old laborer from Isaac Avenue, Plaisance Park, became what authorities believe to be the year’s final homicide victim during a New Year’s Eve ambush in Marabella.

    The fatal incident occurred approximately at 9 pm on December 31st, while Griffith was socializing with family members at the intersection of Charles Street and George Street. According to police reports, an unidentified vehicle abruptly stopped near the gathering, from which an armed assailant emerged.

    Eyewitness accounts indicate that Griffith’s common-law wife, daughter, and another male companion immediately fled through a nearby pathway upon recognizing the imminent threat. During their escape, multiple gunshots echoed through the neighborhood.

    Law enforcement personnel from the Marabella Police Station responded promptly to emergency calls. Upon arrival, officers discovered Griffith’s lifeless body at the scene. Official medical confirmation was provided by a District Medical Officer who subsequently pronounced death.

    Forensic experts from the Crime Scene Investigation Unit conducted a thorough examination, recovering substantial ballistic evidence including seven discharged 9mm cartridge casings and one live round of the same caliber. The investigation remains ongoing with no established motive for the targeted killing at this preliminary stage.

    The homicide adds to Trinidad and Tobago’s ongoing challenges with violent crime, particularly highlighting the persistent issue of firearm-related violence in community settings. Local authorities continue to appeal for witnesses to come forward with any information that might assist in identifying the perpetrators.

  • Old Harbour United acquire Spanish Town Police FC

    Old Harbour United acquire Spanish Town Police FC

    In a significant restructuring of Jamaican football, Old Harbour United Football Club has announced its acquisition of struggling Jamaica Premier League side Spanish Town Police FC. The move marks a strategic pivot for Old Harbour United, which recently secured the St Catherine FA Division 1 title but will now relinquish this championship as they exit the St Catherine Major League.

    The acquisition signals a fundamental shift in Old Harbour United’s operational model. The club will transition exclusively into a football academy program, redirecting its focus toward youth development, player education, and cultivating future talent for both local and national football circuits. This strategic realignment demonstrates the organization’s commitment to sustainable growth and strengthening the regional football pipeline.

    The newly structured academy will emphasize technical training, discipline, and holistic player development while simultaneously supporting the competitive objectives of Spanish Town Police FC under its new ownership structure. Old Harbour United expressed appreciation to the St Catherine Football Association, players, coaching staff, supporters, and community partners for their sustained backing throughout the years.

    Spanish Town Police FC, established in 1977, achieved its historic first qualification to Jamaica’s top-flight football for the 2025/2026 season. However, the team has faced considerable challenges, securing only two victories from 14 matches and remaining anchored at the bottom of the 14-team league with just eight points. The club currently faces relegation, trailing four points behind both Chapelton Maroons and fellow promoted team Treasure Beach FC, who each hold 12 points.

    This merger potentially offers Spanish Town Police FC a crucial lifeline in their battle against relegation. Despite their struggles, the team has demonstrated competitive capability with victories over Waterhouse FC and Treasure Beach FC, suggesting potential for improved performance under the new ownership structure.

  • Roman Catholic bishops call for Caribbean Day of Prayer

    Roman Catholic bishops call for Caribbean Day of Prayer

    PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad – In a significant regional intervention, the Antilles Episcopal Conference (AEC) has declared Thursday a Caribbean Day of Prayer, urging Roman Catholics across the archipelago to seek divine intervention for peace and stability. The appeal comes amid escalating military activities in Caribbean waters that threaten regional harmony.

    The AEC, representing 19 dioceses across 13 sovereign nations and numerous overseas territories, has positioned itself as a moral voice in growing geopolitical tensions. Archbishop Jason Gordon of Port of Spain, serving as AEC president, issued a comprehensive statement advocating for diplomatic solutions over military confrontation.

    Archbishop Gordon specifically addressed governments with Caribbean interests, including the United States, Venezuela, and CARICOM member states, urging them to prioritize dialogue, diplomacy, and cooperation over force and intimidation. The religious leader expressed particular concern about the fragmentation of regional unity, calling for an urgent CARICOM summit to address divisive geopolitical disputes.

    The archbishop’s statement highlighted the rapid deterioration of regional stability since the AEC’s initial warning about military build-ups in October. What was previously identified as a troubling presence has evolved into active military operations featuring tanker seizures, expanded naval assets, and restrictive airspace measures that directly impact civilian populations.

    Citing the Caribbean’s longstanding designation as a Zone of Peace, the AEC leadership expressed alarm about developments that threaten human dignity and regional stability. The statement referenced recent lethal maritime incidents, blockade operations, and intensified surveillance activities that endanger innocent lives and exacerbate humanitarian suffering, particularly in Venezuela.

    While acknowledging states’ legitimate responsibility to combat transnational crime and uphold international law, the AEC emphatically stated that militarization cannot achieve lasting security. The conference warned that heightened military operations by global powers or regional actors foster mistrust, disrupt economies, and disproportionately endanger vulnerable populations.

    The AEC expressed solidarity with the Venezuelan people, acknowledging their desire for democratic renewal and institutional integrity. Archbishop Gordon emphasized that Venezuela’s quest for justice and peace deserves respectful attention from the Caribbean Community, particularly during this critical juncture in the nation’s history.

  • Police confirm Granville killings, rifle seized

    Police confirm Granville killings, rifle seized

    A deadly confrontation between Jamaican security forces and armed individuals in the Brown’s Lane area of Granville, St James, resulted in three fatalities early on New Year’s Day, including a four-year-old child, according to official reports from the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF).

    The incident unfolded when a joint police-military team responded to multiple reports of explosions and illegal firearm discharges in the community. Acting on intelligence indicating planned illegal gun salutes, security personnel encountered armed subjects who allegedly opened fire upon their arrival, prompting an exchange of gunfire.

    Following the altercation, two adult males were discovered with fatal gunshot wounds and were subsequently pronounced dead at a nearby medical facility. Authorities confirmed the seizure of a high-powered rifle from the scene. Tragically, a young child also perished in the incident, while a 68-year-old woman sustained injuries and received medical treatment.

    The JCF issued an official statement expressing profound regret for the child’s death and extending condolences to the affected family, while simultaneously emphasizing concern for all civilian casualties. The force has maintained a visible presence in the area to preserve public order and prevent further escalation.

    In response to the shootings, Granville residents organized protests alleging excessive use of lethal force by law enforcement personnel. Official investigations into the circumstances surrounding the incident are currently underway, with oversight bodies conducting thorough examinations. The identities of the deceased males remain pending formal verification.

  • New Year’s baby welcomed at Cornwall Regional

    New Year’s baby welcomed at Cornwall Regional

    Cornwall Regional Hospital inaugurated the new year with a momentous occasion as it welcomed its inaugural newborn of 2026. The first birth occurred in the early hours of Thursday, January 1st, marking a celebratory start to the year for the medical facility.

    The honor belongs to Devauney Vernon Jr., a healthy infant boy delivered precisely at 12:32 a.m. The newborn entered the world weighing 2.67 kilograms and measuring 47.5 centimeters in length.

    The delivery was successfully managed under the expert care of a dedicated medical team. Registered midwife Kemicka Bartley performed the delivery, with registered midwife Hermine Levy Letman serving as the nurse in charge, ensuring a safe and professional birthing process.

    The mother, Daina Johnson, a resident of King Street in Montego Bay, was reported to be radiant and joyful as she embarked on her New Year journey with her newborn son. This special event represents not only a personal milestone for the Johnson family but also a symbol of hope and new beginnings for the community served by Cornwall Regional Hospital.

  • Kraff’s management seeks to clarify circumstances for Galiday Bounce cancellation

    Kraff’s management seeks to clarify circumstances for Galiday Bounce cancellation

    A contractual disagreement between dancehall artist Kraff and event organizers has resulted in the abrupt cancellation of the highly anticipated Galiday Bounce New Year’s Eve celebration at New York’s Amazura Concert Hall.

    Kraff’s management team issued a detailed statement Thursday explaining their position, revealing that the artist’s headline performance was canceled due to unmet contractual obligations. According to the statement, despite prolonged negotiations and good-faith efforts to resolve outstanding issues, the promoters failed to satisfy critical requirements including confirmation of an agreed-upon deposit and finalized travel arrangements.

    The management emphasized that the decision to withdraw was made reluctantly after exhaustive attempts to salvage the situation. “Documentation supporting this timeline is on file,” the statement noted, underscoring the seriousness of the breach. They extended gratitude to disappointed fans while reaffirming their commitment to working exclusively with promoters who maintain professional standards essential for successful productions.

    This development follows earlier accusations from event promoter Galdiez Mendez, who launched social media criticism against Kraff Wednesday alleging unfulfilled contractual duties and demanding repayment of allegedly advanced funds. The conflicting narratives highlight the complex nature of performance agreements in the entertainment industry.

    Kraff’s representatives previously clarified that the performance was never formally contracted, discussed, or approved as a benefit concert, contradicting claims circulating within the industry. The cancellation has left fans disappointed and sparked conversations about professional standards in event planning and artist management.

  • Coastguardsman denied promotion, gets $175,000 in damages

    Coastguardsman denied promotion, gets $175,000 in damages

    In a landmark ruling that exposes significant administrative failures within Trinidad and Tobago’s defense establishment, High Court Justice Kevin Ramcharan has ordered the state to pay $175,000 in damages to Coast Guard Lieutenant (Naval) Chevon Diaz for unlawfully denying his promotion. The December 30 judgment revealed that flawed performance evaluations and unsubstantiated allegations regarding a missing weapon were improperly utilized to hinder Diaz’s career advancement.

    The court determined that Diaz, an 18-year veteran of the TT Coast Guard (TTCG), was unjustly bypassed for promotion to acting lieutenant commander due to irrelevant and unsupported claims that contaminated decisions affecting his seniority, compensation, and professional trajectory. Justice Ramcharan delivered a sharply critical assessment of the evidence presented by the state, particularly questioning the affidavit testimony of then-Coast Guard commanding officer Captain Don Polo (now Chief of Defence Staff), which demonstrated repeated claims of ignorance regarding matters directly within his purview.

    Central to the case was a 2018 incident involving a missing firearm. The court established that Diaz was not in command of the vessel when the weapon disappeared and that a rating outside his crew was responsible. Since no finding of guilt was ever made against Diaz, the judge ruled that his seniority could not legally be impacted and that negative appraisals connected to the incident should not have been used to penalize him.

    Justice Ramcharan expressed particular concern about the quality of the defense’s evidence, noting: ‘On several occasions, Capt Polo averred that he could not admit or deny certain allegations because it was not within his knowledge. Clearly that cannot be true. He must know about matters concerning him. Therefore, the court views Capt Polo’s averments with respect to those issues very skeptically.’

    The court established that Diaz should have been promoted to acting lieutenant commander on September 15, 2017—exactly six years after his appointment as lieutenant—and to the substantive rank on September 15, 2020, aligning with previous High Court precedent regarding promotion timelines.

    Regarding Diaz’s claim for the Efficiency Medal, which requires 12 years of ‘irreproachable’ service, the court determined that while the standard exceeds mere absence of convictions, the weapons incident could not have tarnished Diaz’s reputation since he was not responsible. The judge ordered reconsideration of the medal decision based solely on relevant factors, though stopped short of directly awarding the medal.

    The court awarded Diaz $100,000 in compensatory damages and $75,000 in vindicatory damages, plus 2.5% annual interest from the claim date until judgment, along with legal costs. Attorneys Arden Williams and Mariah Ramrattan successfully represented Diaz in both judicial review and constitutional proceedings against the Coast Guard commanding officer, the Defence Force Commissions Board, and the Attorney General.

  • Couva Carnival gets going with pageant screening

    Couva Carnival gets going with pageant screening

    The Couva Carnival Committee (CCC) has unveiled ambitious plans for its 2026 festivities, commencing with the screening of aspirants for the Miss Central Trinidad Pageant on January 3rd at Lisas Gardens Community Centre. This year’s pageant gains distinctive prominence as it coincides with Valentine’s Day celebrations on February 14th, promising unique romantic-themed surprises for both participants and attendees.

    CCC chairman Ramchand Rajbal Maraj revealed that the committee has engineered special Valentine’s-inspired attractions that will create memorable experiences for carnival-goers. “We encourage everyone to arrive promptly on Carnival Saturday evening at the Couva Carnival Centre for an exceptional spectacle,” Maraj announced. “Attendees might depart with extraordinary Valentine-themed surprises that will make this celebration truly unforgettable.”

    The pageant serves as the centerpiece of Couva’s six-day carnival extravaganza and functions as a strategic springboard for young women pursuing careers in the beauty industry. Maraj anticipates robust participation during the screening process, noting the event’s established reputation for launching successful pageant careers.

    Two significant preliminary events will precede the grand finals: the sponsor selection and contestant sashing ceremony at Touch & Taste Restaurant in California on February 6th, followed by an extensive motorcade through central Trinidad’s communities on February 7th.

    Maraj projected that the 2026 celebrations would surpass previous years in scale and quality, citing enhanced organizational structures with specialized sub-committees overseeing specific event aspects. The committee is actively seeking increased sponsorship support from both public and private sector entities, emphasizing the events’ demonstrated capacity to attract thousands of participants due to their exceptional production quality.

    In parallel developments, auditions for the Couva Calypso Monarch competitions will commence on January 11th at Balmain Community Centre, featuring both senior and junior categories starting at 9:00 AM.