Carib Scope

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  • Engineer falls to his death at Freeport Container Port

    Engineer falls to his death at Freeport Container Port

    A devastating workplace incident at Freeport Container Port has triggered a comprehensive safety review following the death of a 27-year-old engineer technician on Boxing Day. Anderson Adderley, an employee in the port’s Engineering Department, fell from a crane in the early hours of December 26, marking the first of two serious accidents at the facility within hours.

    The tragic sequence began around 5 AM when port personnel discovered Adderley unresponsive near the stack trailer area with critical injuries. Emergency Medical Services pronounced him dead at the scene. Preliminary investigations by Superintendent Nicholas Johnson of the Criminal Investigation Department indicate Adderley was assigned to work on one of the terminal’s 14 cranes, though he was not wearing a safety harness at the time of the fall.

    In a separate incident the same day, another worker sustained severe leg injuries when an object fell on him aboard a vessel docked near the container port. The injured man was transported to hospital, with his condition remaining undisclosed.

    The dual accidents have intensified scrutiny on safety protocols at the transshipment terminal, currently undergoing $100 million in upgrades and expansion. Adderley, who held a bachelor’s degree in engineering from the University of The Bahamas, had been employed at the port for approximately one year and was described as enthusiastic about his career prospects.

    Family members, including uncle Andrew Forbes, expressed profound grief while awaiting conclusive investigation results from both police and port authorities. Forbes revealed the tragedy represents the fourth consecutive year of bereavement for the family, describing Adderley as an only child whose mother is struggling with the loss.

    Freeport Container Port CEO Godfrey Smith issued a statement extending condolences to Adderley’s family, loved ones, and colleagues, confirming the company’s full cooperation with the ongoing Royal Bahamas Police Force investigation. The incident has raised critical questions about industrial safety standards in port operations, with family members hoping the tragedy will prompt enhanced safety mechanisms to prevent future fatalities.

  • Govt to register all illegal immigrants in Trinidad and Tobago

    Govt to register all illegal immigrants in Trinidad and Tobago

    In a significant immigration policy shift, Trinidad and Tobago’s government has announced the expansion of its Migrant Registration Framework to encompass all undocumented immigrants residing within the nation’s borders. The Ministry of Homeland Security unveiled this sweeping regularization initiative on December 29, marking a departure from previous programs that primarily focused on Venezuelan nationals.

    The newly structured program will enable all registered undocumented immigrants to obtain legal residency and work authorization from January 1, 2026, through September 30, 2026. This nine-month window provides an opportunity for foreign nationals without legal status to regularize their immigration standing.

    Registered participants will receive official identification cards containing their complete name, date of birth, photographic identification, and card expiration date. The program extends eligibility to children of permit holders, ensuring family unity remains intact throughout the regularization process.

    The ministry emphasized that this humanitarian gesture comes with strict enforcement provisions. Individuals with criminal records or those identified as high-security risks will be excluded from the program and face immediate deportation proceedings. This balanced approach aims to integrate willing participants while maintaining national security priorities.

    This policy development represents the most comprehensive immigration regularization effort undertaken by Trinidad and Tobago, potentially affecting thousands of migrants currently residing in the twin-island nation without legal documentation.

  • THA youngest candidate Shonae John has employment plan for Roxborough/Argyle

    THA youngest candidate Shonae John has employment plan for Roxborough/Argyle

    In a significant development for Tobago’s political landscape, 26-year-old biomedical technology graduate Shonae John has emerged as the youngest candidate in the upcoming Tobago House of Assembly (THA) elections scheduled for January 12. The University of the West Indies graduate officially filed her nomination papers on December 19 as the People’s National Movement (PNM) candidate for the Roxborough/Argyle district.

    John, who currently serves as a teacher at Goodwood High School, expressed profound enthusiasm about her political debut. “It’s incredibly exciting and truly an honor to receive this opportunity to represent the people of Roxborough/Argyle,” she stated outside the Glamorgan Multipurpose Facility after submitting her nomination. “Public service has been my long-standing aspiration, and reaching this milestone represents an emotional fulfillment of that dream.”

    Since August, John has been actively engaging with constituents through walkabouts and personal meetings, describing these interactions as deeply enlightening. Her grassroots outreach revealed critical infrastructure deficiencies and basic necessity gaps within the electoral district. “Residents require fundamental improvements—from road repairs to structural reinforcements. Numerous areas demand immediate attention,” she noted.

    Identifying herself as a “country girl” deeply rooted in the Delaford and Roxborough communities, John emphasizes her local connections and passionate commitment to service. Her campaign promises a fresh perspective and genuine dedication to addressing systemic issues, particularly youth unemployment which she identifies as the district’s most pressing challenge.

    John’s policy agenda focuses on economic empowerment through business development initiatives and mentorship programs. She proposes leveraging the expertise of established tradespersons to guide young residents in developing marketable skills and establishing sustainable enterprises. “This approach will not only create self-employment opportunities but also generate jobs within the electoral district,” she explained.

    The political newcomer will compete against Orlando Kerr of the Tobago People’s Party (TPP) in a bid to unseat Progressive Democratic Patriots’ representative Watson Duke, who has held the seat for eight years.

  • UWI team: Piparo mud volcano ‘very active,’ high risk for eruption

    UWI team: Piparo mud volcano ‘very active,’ high risk for eruption

    A comprehensive assessment by the University of the West Indies (UWI) research team has revealed alarming activity levels at Trinidad’s Piparo Mud Volcano, prompting urgent calls for enhanced monitoring capabilities and immediate community alertness. The geological phenomenon, which began exhibiting significant activity on December 24, 2025, has demonstrated concerning subsurface pressure buildup that threatens widespread surface deformation beyond the immediate crater area.

    Led by Professor of Geomechanics and Geophysics Oshaine Blake and PhD Geoscience candidate Kerneese Ramjarrie, the multidisciplinary team including Dr. Lorraine Sobers, Dr. Kailas Banerjee, Dr. Dexter Davis, and Dr. Ryan Ramsook conducted extensive field assessments following the initial eruption event. Their investigation determined that the Christmas Eve incident primarily resulted from subterranean gas release and pressure accumulation, potentially triggered by human-induced environmental changes or tectonic compression mechanisms.

    The research findings indicate that Piparo ranks among the most active of Trinidad and Tobago’s 32 mud volcanoes, with historical precedent dating back to the destructive 1997 eruption that caused substantial property damage and resident displacement. Current data analysis reveals large pressurized systems of mud and gas are actively migrating northwestward from the main crater, generating ground displacement, structural fractures, and infrastructure damage across extended areas without visible surface vents.

    Professor Blake’s team emphasized the particular danger presented by pressure accumulation in northwestern regions where absent ground movement prevents natural venting. This phenomenon explains why roads, residential structures, and utility networks experienced damage during the December event despite no visible eruption sources in affected zones.

    The researchers have recommended expanding the monitored area to 400 acres to comprehensively map the pressurized system’s full extent. They urgently appealed for funding to establish advanced monitoring infrastructure that would enable predictive capabilities and eruption risk mitigation strategies. Such investment would facilitate developing a comprehensive early warning system and subsequent hazard zonation mapping for vulnerable communities.

    Local authorities have been advised to maintain heightened alert levels and implement precautionary measures, including restricting access to the main crater and surrounding fractured areas. Residents are urged to report any emerging cracks, gas emissions, or ground movement observations to emergency services immediately.

  • The Giving Wave spreads joy this Christmas

    The Giving Wave spreads joy this Christmas

    PORT OF SPAIN – The Giving Wave, a youth-driven community organization, has successfully concluded its 2025 operations with a remarkably successful Christmas toy drive campaign that substantially exceeded its initial objectives. The initiative, which partnered with the Just Because Foundation as primary beneficiary, ultimately delivered gifts to more than 200 children throughout Trinidad and Tobago – doubling its original target of 100 beneficiaries.

    The organization’s recent media release detailed how this grassroots effort demonstrated the powerful impact of community collaboration. Founded just seven months ago in May 2025 by five university friends – Genesis Manswell, Luke Manzano, Zack Aleong, Sierra Hade, and Moi-Marie Marchand – The Giving Wave represents a new generation of civic engagement. The group’s members, who share educational backgrounds at Fatima College and Holy Name Convent in Port of Spain, developed their commitment to service during their tertiary education years.

    Despite operating with limited resources as UWI students balancing academic and work commitments, the organization has maintained consistent community involvement. Their activities have included environmental initiatives such as beach clean-ups in collaboration with 868SaveTheEarth, volunteer work at the Immortelle Centre, and the organization of multiple food drives throughout the year.

    The group specifically acknowledged On the Verge Ltd. as their largest sponsor and expressed gratitude to all supporters who contributed to the toy drive’s success. The Giving Wave has encouraged continued community participation through their Instagram presence @thegivingwavett, signaling their intention to maintain momentum into 2026 with further charitable projects.

  • Police shoot patient after stabbing incident at Kingston Public Hospital

    Police shoot patient after stabbing incident at Kingston Public Hospital

    A violent confrontation between law enforcement and a patient at Kingston Public Hospital (KPH) resulted in an officer-involved shooting on Monday morning, creating chaos within the medical facility. The incident unfolded approximately at 5:40 a.m. when hospital staff urgently summoned police to a ward following reports of a stabbing attack.

    According to official accounts, medical personnel alerted officers to a critical situation where a male patient had allegedly assaulted another patient with a weapon. As law enforcement personnel responded to the emergency call, the suspect reportedly turned aggressive toward the responding officers. The situation escalated dramatically when the individual allegedly charged at one of the officers with a weapon, prompting the law enforcement official to discharge their service firearm in response to the perceived threat.

    The wounded patient received immediate medical attention at the same hospital where the violent episode occurred. Hospital authorities have coordinated with law enforcement officials while maintaining normal operations despite the morning’s dramatic events. The Jamaica Constabulary Force has initiated standard protocol investigations into the officer’s use of force, while hospital administration reviews security procedures following the breach of safety within their facilities.

    This incident highlights the challenging environment healthcare workers and law enforcement face when managing violent situations within medical settings, where protocol demands balancing public safety with patient care responsibilities. The investigation continues as authorities work to determine the exact sequence of events that led to the shooting.

  • Rose Heights residents stage another protest over lack of water

    Rose Heights residents stage another protest over lack of water

    For the second time in less than a week, residents of Rose Heights in Montego Bay have taken dramatic action to protest severe water shortages plaguing their community. On Monday, frustrated citizens blocked Forty-One Boulevard—the main access route into the area—using assorted debris to demand immediate resolution to what they describe as an intolerable situation.

    Local accounts reveal the crisis has persisted for months, with some households reporting complete absence of running water for three to four consecutive months. The paradox of receiving water bills despite nonexistent service has further inflamed tensions. One resident displayed a National Water Commission (NWC) bill for $16,000, declaring, “We are going to use our bodies to block the road” until their demands are met.

    Councillor Arthur Lynch of the Montego Bay South East Division acknowledged the severity of the issue, confirming that water distribution remains inconsistent across different sections of Rose Heights. While some areas receive limited supply, others face complete deprivation. Lynch revealed he has engaged with NWC representatives, who expressed inability to address the infrastructure problems due to the ongoing civil unrest. Utility officials have indicated they await decreased tensions before deploying crews to assess and regularize water distribution.

    The councillor emphasized his ongoing efforts to mediate solutions, stating: “I want to say again to residents we understand your frustration, we understand the issues, and I am working assiduously to see how best we can come up with some amicable solutions.” Despite these assurances, residents remain determined to continue demonstrations until tangible improvements materialize, highlighting a critical breakdown in essential service provision that transcends mere inconvenience and threatens basic living conditions.

  • Mt Pleasant FA and Cavalier move up in JPL tables

    Mt Pleasant FA and Cavalier move up in JPL tables

    The Jamaica Premier League witnessed a significant shift in its competitive landscape this Sunday as perennial contenders Mount Pleasant FA and Cavalier SC secured crucial victories, narrowing the championship gap to just four points behind league leaders Racing United. Both clubs now stand at 22 points following their respective 1-0 triumphs, setting the stage for an intensified title pursuit in the coming weeks.

    At Jarrett Park, Mount Pleasant FA claimed their sixth seasonal victory against Montego Bay United through a decisive 47th-minute strike from Raheem Edwards. Head coach Theodore Whitmore characterized the win as “very important,” emphasizing that “three points today were necessary” given their position in the standings and games in hand. The match proved particularly challenging for Montego Bay United, marking their first consecutive defeats this season amid ongoing recovery efforts following Hurricane Melissa.

    Simultaneously, Cavalier SC broke their winless streak against Harbour View FC with Christopher Ainsworth’s 66th-minute goal, reversing their first-round stalemate. Harbour View’s struggles continued as they extended their winless run to four matches, dropping to 10th position in the league tables.

    In other Sunday fixtures, St Catherine Police FC continued their impressive form with a 1-0 victory over promoted side Treasure Beach FC. Jordan Elliston secured the win with his 51st-minute goal, replicating his match-winning performance against Waterhouse FC two rounds prior. The match concluded with Treasure Beach reduced to 10 players after Jahiem Harris received a red card in the 84th minute.

    Molynes United further distanced themselves from relegation concerns with a 2-0 win over Waterhouse FC, avenging their first-round loss. Nickache Murray opened the scoring in the 43rd minute before substitute Wisdom Ubani sealed the victory in the 71st minute. In a surprising development, Portmore United missed their opportunity to reclaim the top spot after being held to a goalless draw by Dunbeholden FC.

  • NEL recovers from loss with $15.3m profit

    NEL recovers from loss with $15.3m profit

    NATIONAL Enterprises Ltd (NEL) has demonstrated exceptional financial resilience by posting a $15.3 million profit after tax, marking a dramatic 104% recovery from previous unrealized fair value losses. The company’s strategic maneuvers have yielded impressive operational efficiencies, reducing expenses by 9% while simultaneously boosting dividend income by 14% to $129 million from $113 million.

    The energy investment firm reported robust cash reserves of $172 million in cash and equivalents, underscoring its strengthened financial position. This turnaround was significantly propelled by the resurgent performance of NGC and TTLNG—formerly components of Atlantic LNG train one—now integrated into the restructured unified ALNG operation encompassing trains two through four.

    Executive Director David Robinson emphasized the company’s steadfast commitment to shareholder value despite persistent global market volatility, geopolitical tensions, and irregular gas supply patterns. “Our sustained resilience against multifaceted challenges validates both the durability of our core assets and our capacity to capitalize on emerging value-creation opportunities,” Robinson stated. He further expressed confidence that this performance breakthrough establishes a foundation for delivering consistent shareholder returns across both immediate and extended timeframes.

    Beyond financial metrics, NEL reinforced its community engagement through comprehensive corporate social responsibility initiatives targeting education, youth development, social welfare, and cultural programs. The company’s strategic investments included financial literacy campaigns, educational fundraising support, and entrepreneurship incubators, reflecting its dedication to empowering future generations and enriching community ecosystems.

    The 2024 dividend distribution reached $156 million, equivalent to $0.26 per share, with a trailing dividend yield of 7.3%—ranking among the most competitive returns on the local exchange and outperforming comparable market benchmarks.

  • Council commends clean THA election campaign so far

    Council commends clean THA election campaign so far

    The Council for Responsible Political Behaviour has issued commendations to political parties participating in Tobago’s January 12 elections for their commitment to maintaining campaign integrity. In a December 28 media release following its first weekly monitoring session, the Council acknowledged the parties’ declared intentions to conduct a clean electoral process.

    Despite the positive assessment, the Council revealed that only two of the four invited political parties attended the live televised signing ceremony of the Code of Ethical Political Conduct held in Tobago on December 23. The organization has maintained an open invitation for all parties to endorse the code regardless of their initial participation.

    The Council identified emerging concerns regarding social media conduct that potentially violates ethical standards. While acknowledging its limited capacity to monitor digital platforms, the watchdog has encouraged public vigilance and reporting of potential code violations through designated channels including WhatsApp (793-4505) and email (info@politicalethicstt.org).

    The established code mandates that parties and supporters adhere to fundamental ethical principles including: prohibition of discrimination based on race, ethnicity, sex, gender, class, or religion; avoidance of false or defamatory allegations against parties or candidates; refraining from character assassination attempts; and respecting the private lives of candidates and their families unrelated to public activities. Comprehensive information regarding the code and potential violations is accessible through the Council’s official website at www.politicalethicstt.org.