Carib Scope

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  • Bus Crash in Guatemala Leaves 15 Dead, 19 Injured

    Bus Crash in Guatemala Leaves 15 Dead, 19 Injured

    A catastrophic bus accident on Guatemala’s perilous Inter-American Highway has resulted in significant casualties, with authorities confirming 15 fatalities and 19 individuals injured. The tragedy unfolded in the early hours of Saturday when the passenger vehicle veered off the mountainous roadway and plummeted approximately 75 meters (246 feet) into a deep ravine.

    The incident occurred at the 174-kilometer marker, a section notoriously dangerous due to its steep terrain, frequent heavy fog, and persistently poor visibility conditions that challenge even experienced drivers. Local fire department officials reported that the victims comprised eleven adult men, three women, and one minor, highlighting the diverse demographic impact of the crash.

    Emergency response teams mobilized swiftly following the accident, conducting complex rescue operations in the difficult geographic location. The nineteen injured survivors were transported to multiple medical facilities in the region for urgent treatment, though the severity of their conditions remains undisclosed.

    This devastating event brings renewed attention to transportation safety concerns along Guatemala’s crucial highway network, particularly through its most hazardous mountainous regions where weather and topography combine to create dangerous driving conditions.

  • [UPDATED] Beckles: PM squeezing TT with hike in fines, fees

    [UPDATED] Beckles: PM squeezing TT with hike in fines, fees

    Trinidad and Tobago’s political landscape has erupted in conflict as Opposition Leader Pennelope Beckles launched a scathing critique against Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar’s administration over sweeping fee increases set to take effect January 1. The controversial measures, published through legal notices on Christmas Day, encompass dramatic escalations in traffic penalties, customs declarations, and civil registry services.

    Beckles characterized the government’s approach as a ‘reckless revenue-raising exercise’ designed to compensate for what she described as a ‘gaping revenue shortfall’ resulting from flawed oil price projections in the 2025/26 national budget. ‘The Government misled the nation on oil price projections, inflating expectations to US$70 per barrel when global prices now stand at US$56 per barrel,’ Beckles stated in her December 28 declaration.

    The opposition leader particularly targeted the administration’s abandonment of its campaign commitments, noting that Persad-Bissessar had explicitly promised to reduce traffic fines while in opposition during a UNC cottage meeting in April 2024. ‘In 2024, while in Opposition, Kamla Persad-Bissessar promised the people a reduction in traffic fines. Now in government, she has done the exact opposite, betraying that promise and burdening citizens even further,’ Beckles emphasized.

    The revised penalty structure demonstrates substantial increases across multiple categories. Traffic fines have predominantly doubled, with offenses such as seatbelt violations, helmet non-compliance, and mobile phone usage while driving now carrying $2,000 penalties instead of $1,000. Most strikingly, driving without valid insurance skyrockets from $1,000 to $10,000—a tenfold increase. Speeding penalties now feature tiered structures reaching up to $6,000 for exceeding limits by more than 31 km/h.

    Beyond traffic enforcement, customs declaration fees jump from $40 to $80 per import entry, while container examination fees increase from $375 to $750 and $525 to $1,050 respectively. Civil registry services also face revised pricing, with late birth registration fees increasing to $40-$50 for children between 3-12 months and $100-$150 for registrations beyond one year.

    Beckles dismissed the Prime Minister’s public safety justification for the traffic fine increases as ‘flimsy, baseless and misleading,’ arguing that the administration had deliberately abandoned the demerit points system designed to improve driver behavior in favor of purely financial penalties. She maintained that the timing and manner of implementation—during the holiday season and without legislative debate—demonstrated ‘poor governance and a disregard for the people.’

    The opposition leader concluded with an urgent appeal for reversal, stating that ordinary families already struggling with economic pressures would bear the brunt of these measures. She demanded transparency regarding the nation’s financial status and called for the Prime Minister to ‘come clean with the nation about the true state of the country’s finances.’

  • Health Minister to review ruling on Zika case

    Health Minister to review ruling on Zika case

    In a significant policy shift, Trinidad and Tobago’s Health Minister Dr. Lackram Bodoe has committed to reevaluating the ministry’s stance regarding a pivotal 2023 High Court ruling concerning state support for children disabled by the Zika virus. This development follows public appeals from the Zika Foundation of TT and affected families.

    The case centers around Davyn Ragoo, born in February 2017 with microcephaly resulting from Zika virus infection. In May 2023, High Court Judge Joan Charles delivered a landmark 34-page judgment upholding a judicial review lawsuit filed by Davyn’s mother, Kavita Ramkissoon-Ragoo. The ruling declared that the State had failed in its constitutional duty to provide adequate support and specialized healthcare for disabled children, specifically violating Section 4(a) of the Constitution guaranteeing the right to life.

    Justice Charles’s judgment mandated several immediate actions: provision of urgent specialized healthcare for Davyn, financial assistance to the family, implementation of proper disability management protocols within three months, and payment of damages including aggravated damages for constitutional rights violations.

    The previous Health Minister, Terrence Deyalsingh, had announced intentions to appeal the judgment but reportedly took no subsequent action. Families affected by Zika-related birth defects reported receiving none of the court-ordered compensation or support services.

    Dr. Karen Sohan, head of the Zika Foundation, emphasized that affected families seek not financial assistance but practical support measures. “These are modest needs,” she noted, “but they carry immense significance in easing daily burdens and preserving dignity” for families caring for children who cannot walk or talk.

    Minister Bodoe responded via WhatsApp message, stating: “The health and well-being of our nation’s children remains very high on the agenda of this government and the Honourable Prime Minister. I will review this matter with the legal team to determine whether any further course of action is indicated.” His statement referenced the recent rededication of the Couva Children’s Hospital as evidence of the government’s commitment to children’s healthcare.

  • Siparia man stabbed several times in bar fight

    Siparia man stabbed several times in bar fight

    Authorities in Siparia have launched a criminal investigation into a violent bar altercation that resulted in a 41-year-old man sustaining multiple stab wounds during the evening of December 27th.

    According to official police reports, medical personnel at the Siparia District Health Facility alerted local law enforcement approximately at 8:30 PM after the severely injured victim was admitted with penetrating wounds to his cranial region, lower back, upper extremities, and thoracic area. Medical assessment revealed the patient had developed a pneumothorax (collapsed lung) due to the severity of his injuries, necessitating an imminent transfer to Point Fortin Hospital for specialized trauma care.

    The investigation faced initial hurdles as detectives were unable to interview the stabbing victim directly, as he remained under heavy sedation to manage trauma and pain. Subsequently, the victim’s brother arrived at the Siparia Police Station providing crucial background information. He disclosed that his sibling had returned to their Queen Street residence around 5:00 AM after socializing at a drinking establishment along Coora Road, already exhibiting the stab injuries. The brother explained that he delayed seeking medical attention until approximately 7:00 PM when the victim began experiencing intensified pain, at which point he transported him to the healthcare facility.

    Law enforcement officials are continuing their active investigation into the circumstances surrounding the violent incident, attempting to reconstruct the events that transpired at the Coora Road bar and identify potential suspects involved in the assault.

  • Trelawny teacher holds fast to hope after Hurricane Melissa destroys home

    Trelawny teacher holds fast to hope after Hurricane Melissa destroys home

    ST JAMES, Jamaica — In the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa’s devastating winds that struck on October 28, the remarkable resilience of Trelawny educator and entrepreneur Joan Montaque has emerged as a testament to human spirit. Her residence in the Litchfield community collapsed during the storm, but her unwavering faith and community support have paved the way for unexpected opportunities.

    Moments before the catastrophic structural failure, Montaque observed critical warning signs—sewage pipes fracturing and another bursting from the ground. Heeding these signals, she evacuated immediately with essential documents. ‘Divine guidance placed me where I needed to be to witness these warnings,’ Montaque shared with JIS News, reflecting on her narrow escape from what became a complete collapse of two concrete buildings.

    Rather than dwelling on her losses, Montaque emphasizes the profound support system that mobilized around her. Neighbors arrived at dawn following the hurricane, expressing their solidarity. Her religious community and parents of her students have consistently offered emotional and practical support throughout her recovery journey.

    The aftermath has revealed silver linings through institutional support systems. Montaque recently engaged with the Rural Agricultural Development Authority (RADA) Connect and GraceKennedy General Insurance initiative that conducted damage assessments and distributed insurance payouts to affected community members. This experience introduced her to agricultural insurance options and potential business development resources previously unknown to her.

    Looking forward, Montaque anticipates leveraging these new connections to enhance her yam farming enterprise through advanced planting methodologies and improved marketing strategies. While rebuilding her home remains a primary challenge—exacerbated by looting of her business assets—she maintains optimistic conviction that positive outcomes will emerge from her hardships, inspired by biblical narratives of perseverance.

  • Police seize illegal firearm in St Elizabeth operation

    Police seize illegal firearm in St Elizabeth operation

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Law enforcement authorities in St Elizabeth parish have successfully intercepted another illegal weapon during a targeted security operation, reinforcing their ongoing campaign against illicit firearms circulation. The operation unfolded at approximately 6:10 PM on Saturday, December 27, when a specialized police unit executed a search warrant at a residential property located within the Oxford community district.

    During systematic sweeps of an adjacent vacant lot, officers identified and secured a concealed Champion brand backpack, characterized by its black and gray coloration and single-strap design. A comprehensive search of the bag revealed a concealed pistol equipped with an ammunition magazine that contained no cartridges. Critical forensic examination indicated the weapon’s serial number had been deliberately obliterated, significantly complicating future tracing efforts.

    While the seizure represents a tangible success for local crime prevention initiatives, no apprehensions have been made in direct connection with the discovered firearm. The Jamaica Constabulary Force has confirmed that investigative procedures remain actively ongoing, with authorities pursuing multiple leads regarding the weapon’s origin and intended utilization. This incident marks the latest in a series of weapon recoveries that demonstrate intensified enforcement measures across southwestern Jamaican parishes.

  • US medical team brings dental care and trauma support to Westmoreland

    US medical team brings dental care and trauma support to Westmoreland

    A dedicated medical delegation from New York’s Emirates Facial and Dental Implants Center provided essential healthcare services to the hurricane-ravaged community of Westmoreland, Jamaica, during a four-day humanitarian mission from December 17-20. The team established operations at Little London Primary School, serving one of the regions most severely impacted by Category 5 Hurricane Melissa’s October 28 landfall.

    The multidisciplinary team comprising dentists, psychologists, and nurses addressed both physical and psychological needs of affected residents. Morvia Reid-Williams, Chief Financial Officer of the medical center, reported significantly worsened conditions compared to previous visits, noting widespread trauma among survivors still struggling with daily subsistence.

    Psychological support emerged as a critical component of the intervention, with over 50 children aged three to twelve receiving specialized trauma counseling. “When you’re a child, what happens to you sticks to you,” Reid-Williams emphasized, highlighting the importance of helping young victims process their hurricane experiences.

    The medical team conducted comprehensive health screenings, checking hypertension and glucose levels while treating various physical ailments including wounds and fungal infections. Dental emergencies represented the most pressing concern, with more than 80% of patients requiring urgent oral care. The team encountered children as young as five suffering weeks of sleepless nights from severe toothaches and adults with facial distortions caused by advanced dental infections.

    Through partnerships with United Mission of Goodwill and Jamaica 4 Life, the initiative distributed over 1,000 care packages throughout Little London. The outreach extended to Savanna-la-Mar Hospital’s maternity ward, where new mothers received infant care packages, while other hospital units obtained essential medications, wound care supplies, and surgical gowns.

    The mission held personal significance for Dr. Dwight Williams, a Bronx-based oral surgeon born in Little London who maintains strong connections to his hometown through regularly organized medical missions. Hurricane Melissa’s devastating path through St. Elizabeth, Hanover, St. James, and Trelawny parishes resulted in 45 fatalities, widespread homelessness, power outages, and substantial damage to healthcare infrastructure and public facilities.

  • Three former SSL directors slapped with multiple charges

    Three former SSL directors slapped with multiple charges

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Three former executives of the defunct financial entity Stocks and Securities Limited (SSL) now confront a sweeping array of criminal charges in one of Jamaica’s most significant investment scandals. The accused individuals include SSL founder Hugh Croskery, his daughter Sarah Meany, and former director Zachary Harding, who held his position from 2019 until the firm’s collapse in 2022.

    Prosecutors have filed a comprehensive indictment detailing multiple violations of Jamaican financial regulations. The charges allege the trio systematically deceived investors by fraudulently soliciting investments, constituting a breach of Section 28 of the Larceny Act. Additional counts include operating without proper corporate registration under the Companies Act, conducting securities business without a valid dealer’s license as mandated by the Securities Act, failing to register securities with the appropriate commission, and violating the Banking Services Act.

    The legal proceedings have advanced with Hugh Croskery being granted bail set at one million Jamaican dollars. His court appearance is scheduled for January 26, 2026, where formal proceedings will commence. Croskery’s defense team, led by King’s Counsel Peter Champagnie and attorney Samoi Campbell, has vigorously maintained their client’s innocence.

    Champagnie publicly stated that his client denies all allegations and has provided complete cooperation to investigative authorities throughout the probe. The defense counsel emphasized the importance of due process, urging the public to refrain from premature judgment until judicial proceedings conclude in court.

  • US lawmakers condemn Trump plan targeting Caribbean immigrant families

    US lawmakers condemn Trump plan targeting Caribbean immigrant families

    WASHINGTON, United States – Congressional leaders from both chambers have issued a forceful condemnation of the Trump administration’s proposed immigration rule that would penalize Caribbean and other immigrant families for utilizing legally accessible public benefits. The legislators submitted a formal regulatory comment to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) opposing the “Public Charge Ground of Inadmissibility” rule, characterizing it as an unlawful reinterpretation of longstanding immigration statutes.

    The bipartisan coalition, comprising senior members from judiciary and immigration subcommittees, argued that the proposal would fundamentally alter the 135-year definition of “public charge” without congressional authorization. The current interpretation applies only to individuals primarily dependent on government subsistence, while the new rule would expand this definition to include recipients of healthcare, nutritional, and housing assistance programs.

    Lawmakers warned the policy would create chilling effects across immigrant communities, potentially causing families to avoid essential services despite their legal eligibility. They cited DHS’s own impact assessment acknowledging potential consequences including worsened health outcomes, increased poverty rates, housing instability, and greater emergency room utilization – effects that would extend beyond immigrant households to affect broader communities.

    The congressional opposition highlights that federal agencies have historically recognized programs like Medicaid, SNAP, and housing assistance as supplemental benefits designed to promote public health and family stability. Legislators noted that Congress has deliberately preserved immigrant access to these programs through specific eligibility rules in recent legislation, including the 2025 reconciliation law.

    Several New York City agencies have joined the criticism, amplifying concerns about the rule’s potential impact on public health and social welfare systems. The lawmakers have urged the administration to maintain the 2022 regulations which they assert better reflect congressional intent and protect vulnerable families from being penalized for using lawful assistance programs.

  • Bishop Clarke’s love for Trelawny fuels major hurricane relief drive

    Bishop Clarke’s love for Trelawny fuels major hurricane relief drive

    FALMOUTH, Trelawny — When Hurricane Melissa devastated sections of Trelawny, Florida-based Bishop Maurice Clarke experienced what he describes as an ‘out-of-body experience’ – physically present in America yet emotionally connected to his Jamaican homeland. The senior pastor of Central Light Grace Chapel in Lauderdale Springs immediately mobilized his predominantly Jamaican congregation to launch a comprehensive relief operation.

    Bishop Clarke, who maintains deep roots in Falmouth where he was baptized 50 years ago, spearheaded a initiative that shipped 34 generators, 10 airbeds, food supplies, clothing, and linens to the hurricane-ravaged community. The operation faced significant logistical challenges, including nearly $8,000 in shipping costs, until philanthropist Cynthia Baker joined the effort.

    The relief mission held profound personal significance for Bishop Clarke, who credits the Falmouth New Testament Church of God with shaping his spiritual journey. ‘The church gave me a full scholarship when my mother couldn’t afford seminary tuition,’ he revealed. ‘Falmouth has been my backbone, and I feel obligated to give back.’

    The container shipment navigated complex logistics from Florida to Montego Bay, where remarkably, among over 200 containers on the barge, theirs was the only one cleared immediately upon arrival. Distribution was coordinated through the New Testament Church of God on Market Street, serving as the primary relief center for affected residents.

    Bishop Clarke emphasized that the effort was driven by love rather than recognition: ‘Being here in America doesn’t mean we’ve forgotten where we came from. It’s our passion for the people that motivated us.’