分类: society

  • Brazil : How to apply for a Family Reunification Visa (VITEM XI)

    Brazil : How to apply for a Family Reunification Visa (VITEM XI)

    In a significant move to support Haitian families, Brazil has streamlined the process for obtaining Family Reunification Visas (VITEM XI) through a collaboration with the International Organization for Migration (IOM). As of March 2025, approximately 180,000 Haitians reside in Brazil, with children born to Haitian parents in the country enjoying equal civil rights, including access to healthcare and education, as stated by Brazilian Ambassador Luis Fernando de Carvalho. The Visa Application Center for Brazil (CAVB), managed by IOM since 2015, exclusively assists Haitian citizens in applying for temporary humanitarian and family reunification visas. The center provides comprehensive administrative support, including form completion, document verification, and secure document transfer. However, CAVB staff do not influence visa decisions, which remain the sole responsibility of the Brazilian Embassy in Port-au-Prince. Applicants must submit a range of documents, including a valid passport, recent photos, a criminal record extract, and notarized copies of residence permits and identity documents. Notably, for 2025, notarized documents can be submitted via email, though the embassy may request physical copies if necessary. To schedule an appointment, applicants must verify their documents with a call center agent. The CAVB is located in Port-au-Prince and requires a confirmed appointment for visits.

  • Justice: A fugitive police officer wanted for rape on minor

    Justice: A fugitive police officer wanted for rape on minor

    The Ministry for the Status of Women and Women’s Rights (MCFDF) has expressed deep outrage following reports that a 16-year-old girl was allegedly raped by Sévère Aly, a Haitian National Police (PNH) officer stationed in Saint-Marc. The incident, which occurred in July 2025, has drawn widespread condemnation from government officials and the public alike. Minister Pedrica Saint-Jean, speaking on behalf of the MCFDF, strongly denounced the act, emphasizing the betrayal of trust by a public servant sworn to protect citizens. The Ministry has called on the PNH and the Ministry of Justice to take immediate administrative and legal actions to ensure the perpetrator is held accountable under the 2005 Decree on sexual assault. The Haitian National Police has confirmed that Officer Aly is currently a fugitive and that a warrant for his arrest has been issued. The Inspector General’s Office has been notified, and the PNH High Command has reiterated its zero-tolerance policy for ethical or legal violations. The institution has pledged full cooperation with the justice system to ensure accountability and uphold the rule of law. The case has sparked calls for systemic reforms to prevent such abuses of power in the future.

  • Migration Directorate launches night operations to reinforce immigration controls

    Migration Directorate launches night operations to reinforce immigration controls

    The Dominican Republic’s General Directorate of Migration (DGM) has initiated nighttime operations to bolster immigration controls and reinforce citizen security nationwide. This strategic move aims to address the issue of irregularly residing foreigners, particularly in high-traffic zones of the National District and Santo Domingo. The initiative involves deploying uniformed agents in visible patrols, organized into seven-member teams supervised by a coordinating officer to ensure protocol compliance and respect for human rights. Operations will occur daily, with heightened activity on weekends, extending into the early morning hours. Individuals lacking proper documentation will be transferred to immigration processing centers. Additionally, fixed observation points have been set up at traffic lights, motorcycle taxi stands, and other public areas where irregular activities or begging have been reported. The DGM highlighted that many interventions stem from the 311 ‘User Assistance’ line, enabling citizens to report concerns or request assistance.

  • 55 projects approved for National Day of Community Service

    55 projects approved for National Day of Community Service

    Dominica is gearing up for its annual National Day of Community Service, set to take place on November 4, with 55 projects approved across the island. Local Government Commissioner Glenroy Toussaint confirmed the smooth progress of preparations, emphasizing the initiative’s role in concluding the nation’s independence celebrations. The projects will encompass a variety of activities, including community beautification, environmental enhancements, and small-scale infrastructure improvements. Toussaint highlighted the focus on addressing local needs, particularly in flood-prone areas. ‘We recognize the necessity of improving village roads and drainage systems to mitigate flooding impacts,’ he stated. ‘Such projects will be prioritized this year.’ The initiative aims to engage all communities in Dominica, fostering national pride and community cohesion. Toussaint encouraged widespread public participation, noting the event’s significance in strengthening community bonds. ‘It’s not just about the work; it’s about bringing people together to enhance their communities,’ he added. The National Day of Community Service has become a cornerstone of Dominica’s independence festivities, promoting collective effort and civic responsibility.

  • Grand Bay man identified as victim of fatal motorcycle accident in Bellevue Chopin

    Grand Bay man identified as victim of fatal motorcycle accident in Bellevue Chopin

    A devastating motorcycle accident in Bellevue Chopin, Dominica, has claimed the life of Augustus Moses, a resident of Grand Bay. The incident occurred on Saturday, November 1, 2025, when Moses lost control of his motorcycle and collided with a parapet in the Rose Hill Petite Savanne Resettlement area. Despite immediate medical attention, Moses succumbed to his injuries. Authorities are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash, but details remain limited. Dominica News Online (DNO) has pledged to provide updates as more information emerges. The community is mourning the loss of Moses, whose untimely death has left a void in the hearts of many.

  • We Gatherin’ kicks off in St Michael

    We Gatherin’ kicks off in St Michael

    The vibrant ‘We Gatherin’ celebrations have officially commenced in the parish of St Michael, Barbados, with a spirited multifaith service held at Golden Square Freedom Park on Sunday morning. The event saw the participation of parliamentary representatives, local residents, and well-wishers, united in a shared sense of community and cultural pride. The service began with blessings from Father Clement Paul of the Roman Catholic Church and members of the Sons of God Apostolic Spiritual Baptist Church, setting a tone of inclusivity and reverence.

  • Jamaican woman to appear in court Monday on drug charges

    Jamaican woman to appear in court Monday on drug charges

    A 40-year-old Jamaican woman, Tashana Roselyn Brown from West Prospect, Bog Walk, St Catherine, is set to appear in court on Monday, facing four serious drug-related charges. The Barbados Police Service Narcotics Unit arrested Brown on November 1, 2025, and subsequently charged her with possession of cannabis, trafficking of cannabis, intent to supply, and importation of cannabis. Authorities reported that the seized cannabis weighed 6.7 kilogrammes, with an estimated street value of $53,600. Brown’s case will be heard in the District ‘B’ Magistrates’ Court, marking a significant legal proceeding in the ongoing efforts to combat drug-related crimes in the region.

  • Man shot dead at Kendal Hill

    Man shot dead at Kendal Hill

    A tragic shooting incident in Kendal Hill B, Christ Church, has left one person dead, sparking an urgent appeal for information from local authorities. The event unfolded on Sunday afternoon at approximately 1:40 p.m., when two masked individuals emerged from a vehicle and opened fire on a stationary car, critically injuring its occupant. Emergency medical teams rushed to the scene but confirmed the victim showed no signs of life. A physician later officially declared the individual deceased. Law enforcement has launched a full-scale investigation into the matter and is urging anyone with relevant information to come forward. Witnesses or individuals with potential leads are encouraged to contact the Crime Stoppers hotline at 1-800-8477, the Police Emergency line at 211, or the Oistins Police Station at 418-2612. This incident underscores the ongoing challenges of gun violence in the region and the critical need for community cooperation in solving such crimes.

  • €15.000 beloning voor tip over verdachten moord Sherwin Peterhof

    €15.000 beloning voor tip over verdachten moord Sherwin Peterhof

    The Dutch authorities have announced a €15,000 reward for information leading to the arrest of Denise Soekra (57) and Claimond Maes (42), who are suspected of involvement in the murder of Sherwin Cedric Peterhof. Peterhof’s body was discovered buried in a cornfield in Meer, Belgium, on August 15, 2025. The gruesome discovery was made by a local farmer, who immediately alerted the authorities. Investigations reveal that Maes arrived in Suriname on August 14, just one day before the body was found, followed by Soekra five days later. There is strong suspicion that the two suspects are still in Suriname, having not left through official channels. In the Netherlands, five individuals have already been arrested in connection with the case: a 40-year-old woman from Amsterdam, a 31-year-old man from Rotterdam, a 43-year-old man with no fixed address, and two 40-year-old men from Rotterdam. Peterhof, born in Suriname, had been visiting family in the Netherlands since February 2025 and was scheduled to return on April 30. He was last seen alive near Bijlmer ArenA station in Amsterdam on August 5. Ten days later, his body was found buried in a cornfield. The Dutch authorities, supported by international law enforcement, are urging the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities or information. ‘We call on everyone to report any information or suspicious situations immediately. Together, we contribute to a peaceful and safe Suriname,’ stated the authorities.

  • The passing of a generation

    The passing of a generation

    The village of Lowmans Hill is in mourning following the recent passing of Leroy Fairbairn, just days after the death of his younger brother, Solomon, affectionately known as So-Lo. Both brothers, pillars of their community, succumbed to prostate cancer, leaving behind a legacy of hard work, discipline, and community service. Their deaths, occurring within the same week, have left an indelible mark on their family and the village they called home. Leroy, known for his generosity and quiet pride, was a farmer and community member who lived a balanced life, embodying the values of his generation. Solomon, equally respected, shared his brother’s commitment to their community. The Fairbairn family, known for their God-fearing and disciplined upbringing, has now lost two sons to cancer, a tragedy that underscores the broader issue of cancer’s impact on rural communities. The brothers’ passing signifies more than personal loss; it marks the gradual transition of a generation that built and sustained Lowmans Hill. Their lives, though cut short, were filled with purpose and service, leaving a legacy that will not be forgotten. The village, while grieving, finds solace in the memories of their contributions and the enduring impact they had on those around them.