Attorney Wendell Alexander has voiced strong criticism over the prolonged delay in conducting a coroner’s inquest into the death of Jamaican national Chinley Robinson, who died under suspicious circumstances in an Antigua prison earlier this year. Robinson, who was remanded in December 2024 on charges of stealing a $400 cell phone, was found unresponsive in his cell in January 2025. Initial reports suggested he may have been strangled, and a post-mortem examination later confirmed the cause of death as anoxia, trauma to the neck, and cardiac failure. Alexander, representing Robinson’s family, expressed frustration over the lack of transparency from authorities, stating that the delay has left the family “in the dark for months” and eroded public trust in the justice system. He emphasized that high-profile cases like this should be handled swiftly to ensure accountability. The delay, he argued, not only prolongs the family’s suffering but also undermines confidence in law enforcement. Alexander also highlighted systemic issues, noting that in other cases, he has had to seek High Court orders to compel inquests after delays of up to five years. Robinson’s death has raised broader concerns about prison oversight at His Majesty’s Prison, where he was reportedly sharing a cell with another inmate, who has since been released. Superintendent of Prisons Trevor Pennyfeather acknowledged that while the facility conducts hourly checks after lockdown at 4:30 p.m., incidents may not always be detected immediately. He added that additional training is being provided to recruits to enhance security. As of now, neither the Coroner’s Office nor the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda has provided an official update on the inquest or its findings. Police Commissioner Everton Jeffers stated that the investigation is ongoing, and further actions will depend on its outcome.
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Abinader declares Dominican Republic the top investment destination in Latin America
Uvero Alto, Dominican Republic – President Luis Abinader declared the Dominican Republic the top investment destination in Latin America during the grand opening of the W Punta Cana, an adult all-inclusive resort. The USD 160 million project, a collaboration between Marriott International, Grupo Puntacana, and Mac Hotels, marks a significant milestone in the nation’s tourism and economic development. Abinader highlighted that the project’s inception during the COVID-19 pandemic underscores the country’s resilience and commitment to growth. The president also emphasized the increasing presence of North American hotel chains, positioning the Dominican Republic second only to Mexico in U.S. tourism investment. With 15,000 new hotel rooms under construction nationwide—6,000 of which are set to open this year—the initiative is expected to create thousands of high-quality jobs and bolster economic stability. The W Punta Cana resort, located in Uvero Alto, boasts 340 luxurious rooms and suites, 12 diverse restaurants, and the exclusive AWAY Spa, offering a unique blend of music, wellness, and modern design. Industry leaders lauded the government’s unwavering support for tourism. Frank Elías Rainieri, president and CEO of Grupo Puntacana, praised the administration’s leadership and resilience, calling tourism a regional model. Tourism Minister David Collado hailed the arrival of W Hotels as a transformative moment for the country’s all-inclusive tourism sector.
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Neil Peter Fatally Shot in Morne Serpent
Neil Peter, a 35-year-old resident of Morne Serpent, tragically lost his life in a fatal shooting incident on October 5 in the Gros Islet community. Authorities were alerted to the scene at approximately 8:10 a.m. following reports of gunfire. Responding officers from the Gros Islet Police Station and the Major Crimes Unit discovered Peter’s body with multiple gunshot wounds. A medical practitioner at the scene confirmed his death. Peter was well-known in the area for his dedication to beekeeping, a passion he had cultivated over the past several years. The local community has expressed deep sorrow over the loss of a man who contributed positively to their environment. Investigators are urging anyone with information related to the incident to contact the Gros Islet Police Station at 456-3830 or the Major Crimes Unit at 456-3756.
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Abinader announces RD$2 billion investment in sports infrastructure funded by recovered corruption assets
In a landmark announcement, President Luis Abinader and Sports Minister Kelvin Cruz unveiled a transformative investment of two billion pesos aimed at revitalizing sports infrastructure in La Vega province and 27 municipalities. This unprecedented initiative, funded by assets recovered from corruption cases, signifies a pivotal step in leveraging public funds to enhance sports, health, and cultural facilities nationwide. Abinader underscored that this marks the initial phase of a comprehensive strategy to ensure equitable development across all regions of the Dominican Republic.
Minister Cruz elaborated on the ambitious plan, which includes the construction of 25 new roofed sports centers in municipalities currently lacking such amenities. La Vega will witness the creation of the state-of-the-art La Vega Arena, capable of accommodating 4,500 spectators, alongside the refurbishment of the local baseball stadium and the transformation of the Fernando Teruel Sports Center into a dedicated Volleyball Palace. Additionally, the project encompasses the reconstruction of a World Athletics-certified athletics track, the renovation of the Olympic swimming pool, and upgrades to handball and tennis courts.
The initiative extends its reach to San Juan de la Maguana and San Pedro de Macorís, where major sports complexes will undergo extensive renovations, including the addition of pavilions for wrestling, karate, gymnastics, and weightlifting. Cruz emphasized that this endeavor is not merely a promise but a tangible reality in progress, expressing gratitude to President Abinader for converting recovered assets into meaningful opportunities for youth and communities.
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OPINION: What cannabis legislation can teach us about foreign direct investment (Part 1)
Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) has long been a contentious issue in Saint Lucia, with local populations expressing concerns over its impact on displacement, environmental neglect, and unequal treatment of local versus foreign investors. Critics argue that foreign investors often receive prime land, extensive tax exemptions, and the ability to repatriate profits, while local industries and workers are left with minimal benefits. This has fueled skepticism about the ‘trickle-down’ economic model, where the promised benefits of development rarely reach the grassroots level.
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Venezuelan man chopped during brawl
A violent altercation at a bar in Best Village, West Coast Demerara, Guyana, left a Venezuelan man with severe injuries on the morning of Sunday, October 5, 2025. The victim, identified as Geraldy Angel, was allegedly attacked by a group of fellow Venezuelans during the brawl. According to police reports, the incident escalated around 12:30 a.m. when an argument broke out between a Venezuelan woman, Alianda Martin, and her husband, Osmel Figuera, who were drinking at the bar with family members. The dispute quickly turned physical, with several men joining the fight. One of the assailants, armed with a cutlass, reportedly struck Angel in the left thigh, causing significant injury. Angel was immediately rushed to the West Demerara Regional Hospital, where he received medical treatment and was admitted in stable condition. As of now, no arrests have been made, although several individuals have been questioned by authorities. The investigation is ongoing, with police working to piece together the events leading to the violent encounter.
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8 arrested, guns seized in connection with land mining dispute
In a significant development linked to an ongoing land mining dispute in Toroparu, Region 7 (Cuyuni-Mazaruni), eight individuals have been apprehended, and multiple firearms confiscated, according to the Guyana Police Force (GPF). The arrests stem from two separate incidents on September 23 and 30, 2025, which have intensified tensions in the area. Among those detained are Mitchell Watson, miner Ronaldo Alphonso, rangers Marvis Hillman and Edson Carter, security agent Leon Wilkinson, security guard Randy Allen, Juleth George of GM Alphonso Mining, and operator William Hill. The initial altercation on September 23, captured on video, involved personnel associated with Mr. Alphonso and a group including rangers Hillman and Carter, reportedly escalating to the alleged discharge of firearms by Alphonso’s security team. A subsequent incident on September 30, also documented on video, featured security agent Wilkinson as the primary speaker, indicating unresolved tensions. To address the situation, a joint operational team comprising GPF officers and the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) has been deployed to monitor and mitigate further conflict.
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7 arrested, guns seized in connection with land mining dispute
In a significant development concerning a land mining dispute in Toroparu, Region 7 (Cuyuni-Mazaruni), authorities have arrested seven individuals and confiscated multiple firearms. The Guyana Police Force (GPF) and the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) have jointly intervened to de-escalate the situation, deploying a specialized team to monitor the area and prevent further conflict. The arrests stem from two separate incidents on September 23 and 30, involving personnel linked to Alphonso Mining and a group of rangers. The initial altercation, captured on video, reportedly escalated to the alleged use of firearms by Alphonso’s security team. A subsequent incident, also documented on video, highlighted ongoing tensions between the parties. Those arrested include Mitchell Watson, rangers Marvis Hillman and Edson Carter, security agent Leon Wilkinson, security guard Randy Allen, Juleth George of GM Alphonso Mining, and operator William Hill. Authorities are working to restore order and address the underlying issues fueling the dispute.
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Facts over fear: A look at the real numbers with my Bajan family
As Barbados steps into a new chapter of its history, concerns about the influx of skilled professionals from other CARICOM nations have been met with official data that tells a story of balance, leadership, and sustainable growth. Julian Rogers MBE, a veteran Caribbean broadcaster, addresses these concerns by presenting findings from the Barbados Accreditation Council, which highlight the country’s role as a regional leader in facilitating skilled movement. Between 2016 and 2024, Barbados issued 2,869 Skills Certificates to both Barbadians and other CARICOM nationals, while verifying only 877 certificates for professionals coming to work in the country. This ratio of three incoming professionals for every ten outgoing ones underscores Barbados’ high standards and its contribution to regional capacity building. The data also reveals that the number of skilled nationals entering Barbados averages just 97 per year, a manageable and sustainable figure that dispels fears of overwhelming the job market or social services. Furthermore, Barbadians have actively utilized the CARICOM Skilled Nationals programme to pursue opportunities abroad, with 582 certificates issued to Barbadians between 2016 and 2019 alone. Rogers emphasizes that the system fosters a multi-directional exchange of talent, promoting regional integration and growth. As Barbados navigates this new era, the facts point to a balanced and promising reality, encouraging confidence over anxiety and a clear understanding of the country’s leadership role in the Caribbean community.
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Price adjustments to some petroleum products
Starting at midnight on Sunday, October 5, consumers will witness a slight reduction in gasoline and diesel prices, while kerosene and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) will experience notable increases. Gasoline prices will decrease by one cent, retailing at $3.95 per litre, while diesel will drop by six cents to $3.34 per litre. In contrast, kerosene will see a significant hike of 21 cents, bringing its price to $1.48 per litre. LPG prices will also rise, with the 100lb cylinder priced at $164.95, the 25lb cylinder at $46.34, the 22lb cylinder at $40.94, and the 20lb cylinder at $37.22. The next scheduled price adjustment is set for November 2, 2025, as announced by the Barbados Government Information Service (BGIS).