A severe accident in the community of El Maizal, Valverde province, left 23 Haitian nationals injured after the minibus they were traveling in lost control, plunged into a river, and subsequently caught fire. The incident occurred last Friday night, prompting a swift and coordinated response from the National Emergency and Security System 9-1-1. Among the injured were four minors, three women, and 16 men, all of whom received immediate pre-hospital care and initial medical evaluations. Emergency services, including 13 ambulances from the Directorate of Out-of-Hospital Emergency Care Services (DAEH), two units from the General Directorate of Traffic Safety and Land Transport (Digesett), and teams from the National Police, Fire Department, and Military and Police Commission (Comipol), converged on the scene. Firefighters worked tirelessly to extinguish the blaze and secure the area, while medical personnel conducted victim triage, stabilization, and transport to nearby health centers. Simultaneously, Digesett, Comipol, and the National Police managed traffic flow and ensured perimeter safety during the rescue operations. The identities and immigration statuses of the victims remain undisclosed, with authorities expected to release a detailed report on the incident shortly.
分类： society
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Regering geeft SRD 1000 aan ambtenaren en kwetsbare groepen
In a significant move to support vulnerable populations, the Surinamese government has announced a one-time, tax-free payment of SRD 1000 for civil servants, individuals with disabilities, low-income households, and pensioners in December 2025. The decision, unveiled by the Cabinet of the President, underscores the administration’s commitment to social responsibility. While the total cost of this initiative remains undisclosed, the government emphasizes its focus on aiding the working class, which plays a pivotal role in societal functioning, as long as financial conditions permit. The payment is intended as a gesture of gratitude for the contributions of these groups throughout 2025. Additionally, the government highlights the need to prioritize vulnerable households, according to the Suriname Communication Service. Despite the country’s ongoing financial challenges, the administration deems it essential to provide such support. Since taking office, the government has implemented measures to reduce income tax on overtime, holiday allowances, bonuses, and gratuities to bolster purchasing power. Efforts are also underway to keep the prices of essential goods affordable. Furthermore, the administration is working to increase state revenues, ease interest and repayment obligations, control inflation, and stabilize the exchange rate. The government stresses the importance of collective motivation to build a more prosperous Suriname, ensuring well-being for all.
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Somoharjdo over intrekken perceel: De steiger is van het volk
The Ministry of Land Policy and Forest Management (GBB) in Suriname has officially revoked the allocated land parcel near the public pier in Leonsberg, previously granted to Sandiep Seemangal. The decision, signed by Minister Stanley Soeropawiro, emphasizes that the revocation was made in the interest of the public. ‘The pier does not belong to an individual but to the people. Minister Soeropawiro has taken the necessary action,’ stated Bronto Somohardjo, Chairman of the GBB Standing Committee, in an interview with Starnieuws. Somohardjo further stressed that the government, with parliamentary support, is committed to reclaiming unlawfully allocated public resources and ensuring that public facilities remain accessible. ‘We will no longer tolerate the privatization of public amenities. Wrongs must be righted. Boat operators will be protected, and the people’s access to the pier will be guaranteed,’ he added. The investigation revealed several critical issues: the parcel borders a public walkway to the pier, which has been in use for decades; its allocation obstructed access to the pier, disregarding existing infrastructure; the Maritime Authority Suriname raised navigational concerns; the land was largely overgrown with weeds and lacked any construction; and no compensation is due to the beneficiary as the revocation serves the public interest. A map confirms the 1,018 m² parcel’s location along the road to the pier, underscoring its role as a vital public access point.
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Child dies, several hurt in minibus accident
A devastating minibus accident in east Berbice on Friday, November 21, 2025, resulted in the death of a child and left several others injured, including a teacher in critical condition. According to police reports, the incident occurred as the group was returning from a school sports event in Springlands. The driver, who was also a teacher, reportedly lost control of the vehicle, causing it to overturn. The child sustained severe injuries and tragically succumbed to them. Authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding the accident, which has sent shockwaves through the local community. The injured victims are receiving medical attention, with the driver’s condition described as critical. This tragic event underscores the importance of road safety measures, particularly for school transportation.
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Residents Acted Quickly to save accident victims
In a remarkable display of civic responsibility and quick thinking, local residents played a pivotal role in rescuing victims of a recent accident. The incident, which occurred in a bustling neighborhood, saw bystanders immediately spring into action upon witnessing the collision. Eyewitnesses reported that several individuals rushed to the scene, providing first aid and ensuring the safety of those involved until emergency services arrived. Their prompt intervention not only stabilized the victims but also prevented further complications. Emergency responders later praised the community’s swift and coordinated efforts, highlighting how such immediate actions can significantly impact the outcome of critical situations. This event underscores the importance of public awareness and preparedness in handling emergencies, serving as a powerful reminder of the collective strength inherent in local communities.
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Boekpresentatie On(t)roerend Goed
In a thought-provoking presentation on November 19, 2025, legal scholar Carlo Jadnanansing unveiled his latest work, *On(t)roerend Goed*, a collection of 45 articles addressing Suriname’s complex property laws. The event, organized by the SJV, SJB, and Carlo Jad Fonds (CJF), highlighted Jadnanansing’s critique of the traditional interpretation of allodial property rights (aeeb) and his arguments for their continued legal relevance.
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English Harbour Resident Dies in Two-Vehicle Crash
A tragic two-vehicle accident occurred in Parham on Friday, resulting in one fatality and two individuals being hospitalized, according to local authorities. The deceased has been identified as Jerome Marsh from English Harbour. Marsh was operating a yellow Vitz when it collided with a Toyota Noah van. The severity of the crash left Marsh trapped inside his vehicle, necessitating the use of specialized rescue equipment by firefighters to extricate him. Marsh’s son, who was also in the car, sustained injuries and was rushed to the hospital. The driver of the Noah van is reported to be in critical condition. Both vehicles suffered extensive damage. Police are continuing their investigation into the circumstances surrounding the collision.
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Dangriga Sub Treasury Burglarized Again; Third Time in Two Years
The Dangriga Sub Treasury Building has been targeted by burglars for the third time in just two years, sparking widespread concern among local residents and authorities. The latest incident was discovered on the morning of November 21, 2025, when staff arrived to find the office thoroughly ransacked and a safe containing cash stolen. Located on St. Vincent Street, the building has once again become a crime scene, with investigators and forensic teams meticulously searching for evidence. This marks the third such burglary since March 2023, when thieves stole $40,000. In August 2024, burglars cut the power supply before executing another break-in. Despite these repeated incidents, no arrests have been made, leaving authorities under mounting pressure to address the security lapses. Police are urging anyone who witnessed suspicious activity overnight or early that morning to come forward with information.
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Former UDP Senator Charged with Sexual Assault
In a significant development in Belize, former UDP senator Macario Coy has been formally charged with sexual assault. The 39-year-old, who previously served in the political arena, was accused by a 36-year-old teacher of assaulting her on November 4, 2025. Following the allegations, Coy voluntarily surrendered to the Punta Gorda Police on November 21, accompanied by his legal counsel. After being charged, he was brought before the court, where bail was set at $3,000. The case has been scheduled for further proceedings on January 20, 2026. Authorities have assured the public that they will continue to monitor and report on the case as it progresses. This incident has sparked widespread attention and raised concerns about accountability and justice in the region.
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Belize Moves to Strengthen Domestic Violence Protections
In a significant move to bolster domestic violence protections, the Belizean government has introduced two pivotal bills aimed at providing survivors with quicker access to safety. The Justices of the Peace (Amendment) Bill and the Domestic Violence (Amendment) Bill empower specially trained Senior Justices of the Peace (JPs) to issue 72-hour emergency protection orders during times when courts are closed, such as nights, weekends, and holidays. Minister Thea Garcia-Ramirez, who presented the bills during a recent House meeting, emphasized that these changes serve as a ‘life-saving bridge between danger and safety.’ The reforms also include stringent vetting processes for JPs, the establishment of private spaces at police stations for victims, and enhanced oversight mechanisms. These measures are part of Belize’s National Gender-Based Violence Action Plan, which also envisions a one-stop support center, expanded police training, and a national hotline. Public consultations on a modernized Domestic Violence Bill are set to commence during the Sixteen Days of Activism, with the new law expected to be enacted in 2026. Minister Garcia-Ramirez highlighted the critical need for these amendments, noting that victims often face significant barriers in obtaining protective orders during emergencies or when courts are inaccessible. The proposed changes are the result of collaborative efforts among various ministries and organizations, ensuring a comprehensive approach to addressing domestic violence.