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.
分类： business
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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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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).
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Forex: $161.28 to one US dollar
KINGSTON, Jamaica — The foreign exchange market in Jamaica witnessed notable shifts on Monday, October 6, as the US dollar experienced a marginal decline, while the Canadian dollar and British pound strengthened. According to the Bank of Jamaica’s daily exchange trading summary, the US dollar closed at $161.28, marking a decrease of 6 cents from its previous trading session. In contrast, the Canadian dollar saw an upward trajectory, ending the day at $116.37, up from $115.84. Similarly, the British pound also gained momentum, closing at $218.83, compared to $216.85 in the prior session. These fluctuations reflect the dynamic nature of global currency markets and their impact on Jamaica’s economy. The Bank of Jamaica continues to monitor these trends closely, providing timely updates to stakeholders and the public.
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US interest rates well-placed to fight inflation – Fed official
In a recent address, Kansas City Federal Reserve President Jeff Schmid emphasized that current US interest rates are well-positioned to support the Federal Reserve’s ongoing battle against inflation. Speaking at a conference in Kansas City, Schmid countered President Donald Trump’s persistent calls for rate reductions, stating that the existing policy stance is only slightly restrictive and appropriate given the economic and financial landscape. Schmid, a voting member of the Fed’s influential rate-setting committee, highlighted that he supported last month’s rate cut as a prudent risk-management strategy, particularly in light of signs of a cooling labor market. The Federal Reserve operates under a dual mandate from Congress, tasked with independently addressing both inflation and unemployment through adjustments to its benchmark lending rate. Schmid’s comments sharply contrast with Trump’s frequent criticisms of Fed Chair Jerome Powell and the rate committee for their perceived reluctance to cut rates swiftly. While inflation remains stubbornly above the Fed’s long-term 2% target, Schmid underscored that the central bank must prioritize its credibility on inflation, even as it navigates the delicate balance between inflation and unemployment. Market analysts, citing data from CME Group, predict a 95% likelihood of a quarter-percentage-point rate cut at the Fed’s upcoming meeting, which would adjust the key lending rate to a range of 3.75% to 4.00%.
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JSP optimistic despite losses; looks at expansion
MANDEVILLE, Manchester — Despite significant setbacks in coffee production due to adverse weather conditions, Jamaica Standard Products (JSP), a leading coffee manufacturer, remains steadfast in its commitment to growth and innovation. John O Minott Jr, the managing director of JSP, shared insights during International Coffee Day last Wednesday, highlighting the company’s resilience and its recent milestone—the first anniversary of the Island Blue Coffee House in Mandeville.
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Premier Brantley Updates on Nevis Geothermal Project as NIA Awaits CDB Review of Bids
The Nevis Island Administration (NIA) is currently awaiting a response from the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) regarding the evaluation of bids for the drilling of production wells in the Nevis geothermal project. Premier Mark Brantley, Minister of Finance and Energy, provided an update during his September 30 press conference, explaining that five companies have submitted proposals for the project’s next phase. The evaluation process involves two stages: a technical review, which has already been completed, and a financial review, which is pending the CDB’s ‘No Objection’ approval. Premier Brantley emphasized the importance of this step to ensure transparency and fairness, despite the delays it may cause. The project aims to establish a 30-megawatt geothermal plant in Nevis, which will not only meet the island’s baseline power needs but also enable energy transmission to St. Kitts via undersea cables. Premier Brantley addressed concerns about resource ownership, clarifying that the geothermal resources remain under Nevis’s control and that collaboration with the Federal Government is aimed at benefiting the entire Federation. The project has garnered significant international funding, including $20 million from the Saudi Fund for Development and $17 million from the CDB, with the goal of reducing fossil fuel dependency and enhancing energy security in the region.
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Antigua and Barbuda Set to Welcome 1 Million Cruise Visitors, PM Browne Says
Antigua and Barbuda is poised to achieve a historic milestone in its tourism sector, with Prime Minister Gaston Browne announcing that the twin-island nation is on track to welcome more than one million cruise visitors this season. This unprecedented figure marks a significant achievement for the country’s cruise tourism industry, which has seen transformative growth since the government partnered with Global Ports Holding (GPH) six years ago. Speaking on the *Browne and Browne Show* on Pointe FM, Browne highlighted the strategic decision to collaborate with GPH as a turning point in enhancing the nation’s cruise infrastructure. ‘Global Ports just announced that this season, 2025/26, we’re expecting over a million cruise tourists,’ Browne stated. ‘This is a direct result of the decision we made six years ago, despite criticism.’ GPH has invested nearly $80 million into the port redevelopment project, with the prime minister noting that the company has yet to turn a profit. ‘It will take time to amortize the investment, but the World Bank model suggests an average of 30 years for such projects,’ he explained. The partnership has not only improved port facilities but also spurred the development of land-based amenities and commercial spaces along Newgate Street, further enhancing the visitor experience. Browne emphasized that Antigua and Barbuda is emerging as a premier destination in the Caribbean, with the upcoming winter tourism season expected to be one of the strongest in years. Hoteliers across the island are reporting robust bookings, signaling a promising outlook for both cruise and stayover tourism. ‘We are making progress in every aspect of our development,’ Browne said, underscoring the government’s commitment to infrastructure and economic growth. This record-breaking season underscores the success of the government’s development model, positioning Antigua and Barbuda as a marquee destination in the region.
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SVG will never be ‘over-commercialised,’ — Mark tells int’l media
St. Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) is steadfast in its commitment to sustainable tourism, ensuring the destination remains unspoiled by over-commercialization. Annette Mark, CEO of the SVG Tourism Authority (SVGTA), emphasized this vision during her address at the Caribbean Tourism Organisation’s (CTO) 2025 State of the Tourism Industry Conference in Bridgetown, Barbados. Mark highlighted SVG’s dedication to preserving its natural and cultural heritage for future generations while offering visitors an authentic and unique experience.
Mark underscored the importance of responsible development, stating that SVG will never feature massive hotels or overcrowded beaches. Instead, the focus is on community tourism, ensuring that local communities benefit economically and socially from tourism activities. The SVGTA is actively upgrading tourism sites to enhance visitor experiences while maintaining the destination’s charm.
SVG’s multi-island geography is a key attraction, with seamless inter-island connectivity via airports and reliable ferry services. Mark noted that travelers can reach any island within 15 minutes, making it an accessible yet exclusive destination. The country’s tourism strategy is paying off, with a 58.7% year-on-year increase in arrivals from the United States and over 100,000 stay-over visitors for the first time in history.
Air connectivity is expanding, with Virgin Atlantic, American Airlines, JetBlue, and Delta supporting the destination. Additionally, SVG is attracting high-end cruise passengers, aligning with its positioning as a luxury destination. The government is also partnering with major hospitality brands, including Sandals and Marriott, to enhance accommodation options while maintaining a balance between luxury and accessibility.
Mark painted a vivid picture of SVG’s diverse landscapes, from the rugged volcanic terrain of St. Vincent to the pristine white sand beaches of the Grenadines. She invited visitors to imagine the beauty of each island, reinforcing SVG’s appeal as a unique and emerging destination. With a target of 120,000 stay-over visitors this year and a 17.3% increase already recorded, SVG is poised for sustainable growth in its tourism sector.
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‘Ferries, not flights’: Caribbean officials push for cost-effective, cargo-friendly sea links
For decades, the necessity of enhancing regional connectivity through maritime routes has been a focal point among tourism officials, business leaders, and various interest groups in the Caribbean. However, options for sea travel have remained largely restricted, with services like L’Express Des Îles primarily catering to sub-regional transport between French and Kweyol-speaking islands. Ferry services, with their dual capacity to transport both passengers and cargo, present a transformative opportunity for the region. Such connectivity could seamlessly link business and leisure travelers across destinations, fostering economic integration and unity among geographically proximate islands. This potential was a central theme on Day 2 of the State of the Tourism Industry Conference (SOTIC) 2025, where tourism ministers from across the Caribbean emphasized the value of expanded ferry services. Tashia Burris, Secretary of Tourism for Tobago, highlighted the pressing need for additional ferry capacity to address gaps caused by heavy domestic bookings on Caribbean Airlines, which currently serves as the primary carrier for international arrivals via Trinidad’s Piarco Airport. Burris underscored the strategic advantage of Tobago’s proximity to Grenada, Barbados, and Guyana, advocating for enhanced southern Caribbean connectivity. Grenada’s Minister of Tourism, Adrian Thomas, echoed these sentiments, noting that ferries could not only improve passenger transport but also transform agricultural waste into commercial opportunities by facilitating the movement of perishable goods. Thomas emphasized the cost-effectiveness of sea travel compared to air transport, particularly for inter-island journeys. Zhavargo Jolly, Minister of Tourism for Turks and Caicos, passionately argued for the establishment of a reliable regional supply chain, lamenting the inefficiency of current shipping routes that often detour through Miami, inflating costs and impacting the cost of living. Jolly called for coordinated efforts within regional organizations like CARICOM and the Caribbean Tourism Organisation to address these logistical challenges. While the discussions at SOTIC 2025 highlighted the immense potential of ferry services, the realization of this vision hinges on the decisive actions of key stakeholders.