Carib Scope

分类： society

  • Two held with 22 kilos of cocaine in West Demerara

    Two held with 22 kilos of cocaine in West Demerara

    In a significant anti-narcotics operation on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, Guyanese authorities intercepted a substantial cocaine shipment weighing 22.394 kilograms on the La Grange Public Road in West Bank Demerara. The Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU) conducted the successful operation following actionable intelligence, resulting in the apprehension of two Guyanese male suspects.

    The operation unfolded when CANU agents, acting on received information, strategically intercepted a motor vehicle for inspection. A comprehensive search of the vehicle uncovered 20 brick-shaped parcels meticulously concealed within, all containing the illicit substance. The seizure represents a major blow to narcotics trafficking operations in the region.

    The seized cocaine, with an estimated street value running into millions of dollars, underscores the ongoing challenges and scale of the drug trade facing law enforcement agencies. CANU officials have not released the identities of the two individuals taken into custody, confirming only that both are Guyanese nationals. The suspects are currently in detention as investigations continue to uncover the origins, intended destination, and broader network associated with this significant drug shipment.

    This operation highlights the continued vigilance and effectiveness of Guyana’s anti-narcotics units in combating the illegal drug trade. Such large-scale seizures are critical in disrupting the supply chain of narcotics and preventing their distribution both domestically and internationally. The successful bust also demonstrates the importance of community intelligence in aiding law enforcement efforts against organized crime.

  • New pothole patching machines mark road repair overhaul

    New pothole patching machines mark road repair overhaul

    Barbados has launched a transformative initiative to modernize its road maintenance system with the acquisition of six advanced pothole patching machines. The first three units were formally inducted into the Ministry of Transport and Works’ (MTW) fleet during a ceremony at Inchcape’s Warrens offices on Wednesday, signaling a major departure from decades-old manual repair methods.

    Deputy Prime Minister Santia Bradshaw, who oversees transport and works, revealed the equipment’s impressive capabilities: each machine can prepare approximately 250 square meters daily—more than doubling the ministry’s current daily output of 122 square meters achieved through traditional crews. The integration of all three units will multiply the ministry’s preparation capacity sixfold, dramatically accelerating road rehabilitation across the island nation.

    The sophisticated machinery combines cutting, cropping, and cleaning functions within a single mobile platform, enabling smaller crews to execute repairs with enhanced efficiency and safety. This technological advancement addresses longstanding challenges associated with manual techniques, where teams of four to five workers would shovel hot asphalt from trucks—a process increasingly inadequate for modern traffic volumes, aging utility infrastructure, and intensifying rainfall patterns.

    Bradshaw acknowledged persistent public frustration with road conditions, explaining that repeated utility excavations compromise pavement integrity. “Each time a road is broken, it becomes structurally weakened,” she noted, emphasizing how subsequent reinstatements often lead to recurring failures, particularly during heavy precipitation.

    The ministry has implemented a comprehensive training strategy involving overseas specialists who will initially train local operators through a “train-the-trainer” model. While traditional patching continues during the transition period, MTW will temporarily expand cold-mix material applications to expedite dry-season repairs. The remaining three machines are expected shortly after clearing port formalities.

    Bradshaw assured these technological additions aim to enhance productivity rather than displace workers, with a broader equipment training program scheduled for 2026. The acquisition fulfills the minister’s October 2025 announcement ordering six patching trucks as part of a comprehensive road repair initiative, with full operational deployment anticipated after the hurricane season.

    The ministry has already identified priority roads for initial machine deployment and continues to incorporate public feedback into repair scheduling. This modernization effort forms part of a broader strategy to optimize operations during the January-June construction window when weather conditions are most favorable. A detailed briefing on MTW’s 2026 road program and upcoming tenders is scheduled for next week.

  • Police Find Gun Linked to Shootings in Independence

    Police Find Gun Linked to Shootings in Independence

    Law enforcement authorities in Independence Village have made a significant breakthrough in their investigation into recent shooting incidents with the recovery of a key piece of evidence. During a targeted operation conducted on Saturday, police units executed a search warrant at a derelict zinc bungalow situated within the Noralez Extension sector.

    The systematic search yielded a gold-finish 9mm Sig Sauer semi-automatic pistol accompanied by its magazine containing two live ammunition cartridges. Additionally, investigators secured thirty-three additional live 9mm rounds at the same location, substantially increasing the evidential value of the discovery.

    Police Commissioner Ronald Shaw confirmed the operational success, stating: ‘This recovery represents a crucial development in our ongoing investigations into the recent armed violence that has concerned our community. The swift action of our officers has potentially prevented further criminal activity.’

    The recovered firearm has been meticulously processed following forensic protocols and transferred to the National Forensic Science Service ballistic division. Technical experts will conduct comprehensive comparative analysis against ballistic evidence from recent shooting cases to establish potential connections to outstanding investigations.

    Residents have expressed relief at the development, with community watch coordinator Maria Gonzalez noting: ‘While we remain cautious, this police action demonstrates their commitment to addressing the security challenges we’ve faced.’

    Authorities continue to pursue active lines of inquiry and have appealed for any additional information from the public that might assist their ongoing investigation into the shooting incidents.

  • CWSA warns of early, extended water rationing amidst low rainfall

    CWSA warns of early, extended water rationing amidst low rainfall

    The Central Water and Sewerage Authority (CWSA) has issued an urgent advisory for residents of St. Vincent and the Grenadines to implement immediate home water storage solutions amid an unprecedented rainfall deficit. Meteorological data reveals that precipitation during the 2025 rainy season registered at merely 687.1 mm—less than half the annual averages recorded between 2020 and 2024, which consistently exceeded 1,296 mm.

    Joan Ryan, CWSA’s Public Relations and Marketing Manager, confirmed that surface and groundwater aquifers remain critically under-replenished, creating precarious conditions ahead of the upcoming dry season. Communities dependent on the Montreal, Dalaway, and Mamoon water sources are expected to experience the most severe impacts, historically being the first affected during drought periods.

    The Caribbean Climate Outlook Forum (CariCOF) projects both short-term drought conditions persisting until March and prolonged drought extending through May 2025. In response, CWSA has activated its emergency management protocol, intensifying monitoring of water sources, accelerating leak detection and repair operations, and enhancing public communication campaigns.

    Water rationing measures may be implemented earlier than usual and maintained for extended durations, accompanied by stringent conservation mandates. Residents are strongly encouraged to develop household water storage systems, with official guidelines recommending a minimum of ten gallons per person daily. Hardware stores nationwide are stocking water storage tanks, and CWSA has provided instructional resources for constructing DIY storage solutions using plastic barrels.

    Ryan emphasized the role of climate change in intensifying these unpredictable weather patterns, noting their significant impact across the Caribbean region. CWSA remains committed to ongoing monitoring and public information dissemination as the nation prepares for challenging water security conditions in the coming months.

  • New Police Substation Coming to Caye Caulker in $1.5M Contract

    New Police Substation Coming to Caye Caulker in $1.5M Contract

    The Belizean government has entered into a significant infrastructure agreement valued at $1.5 million with Coleman Construction Limited for the development of a contemporary police substation on Caye Caulker. This strategic initiative, orchestrated through the collaborative efforts of the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Ministry of Economic Transformation, is poised to substantially augment security protocols on the island, which is experiencing a consistent rise in tourism.

    The forthcoming facility will encompass over 3,500 square feet of advanced operational space. Its design incorporates specialized sections including a dedicated domestic violence unit, a highly secure evidence storage room, an exclusive crime investigation chamber, and modern conference facilities to support inter-agency coordination.

    Home Affairs Minister Oscar Mira emphasized the critical necessity for this project, citing the present subpar working conditions for officers. He asserted that the new substation will profoundly improve both the operational environment for law enforcement personnel and the overall safety framework for the local community and international visitors alike.

    Financial backing for this substantial public safety investment is being provided by the Central American Bank for Economic Integration (CABEI). The construction timeline is projected to span approximately twelve months. According to Minister Mira, this development represents a major commitment to safeguarding the citizens of Caye Caulker.

    Area Representative Andre Perez, who attended the contract signing ceremony, contextualized this project within the government’s wider ‘Plan Belize’ developmental agenda. This comprehensive initiative also includes provisions for establishing a new high school on the island, signaling a holistic approach to community infrastructure enhancement.

  • Retired public servant, healthcare administrator Percy McDonald dies

    Retired public servant, healthcare administrator Percy McDonald dies

    The nation of Saint Lucia is mourning the passing of esteemed former public official Percival “Percy” McDonald, whose death was formally announced on January 14. The Diamond Estate, Soufriere native succumbed to a prolonged illness, as confirmed by his former colleague Cletus Springer, who remembered McDonald as “a gentleman and patriot.

    McDonald’s most notable contribution came during his tenure as Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Tourism, Civil Aviation, and International Financial Services from 1994, where he delivered exceptional service for five years. His distinguished public service career began in the late 1980s with assignments in the health and agriculture ministries.

    Following his retirement from central government, McDonald intensified his community engagement in Soufriere. He served as Vice President of the Regional Development Foundation (1999-2004) and chaired the groundbreaking Soufriere Marine Management Association (2000-2008). His compassionate leadership extended to establishing a soup kitchen initiative through the Soufriere Parish Council in 2004, providing sustenance for street beggars and underprivileged individuals through collaboration with the St Vincent DePaul Society and National Community Foundation.

    McDonald subsequently transitioned into health administration, chairing the board of St Jude Hospital and serving as chairman and consultant administrator of the Spartan Medical Sciences Institute. He also presided over Tenelle Health Sciences University.

    Springer fondly recalled their professional relationship on social media: “The glue between us was the late, great Romanus Lansiquot. When I transferred to Planning, Percy replaced me at Tourism. We had many lively arguments and shared countless humorous moments. He was a fitness fanatic who exercised as often as he could.”

    McDonald’s national contributions were formally recognized through multiple honors. At the 2023 GIMIES Awards, he received Special Recognition for developing the tourism ministry’s marketing arm and spearheading the national taxi association. His dedication earned him an MBE in 2000 for public and community service, upgraded to CBE in 2022 for poverty alleviation initiatives.

  • Red Bank Rejects Scarlet Macaw Sanctuary

    Red Bank Rejects Scarlet Macaw Sanctuary

    In a decisive community vote, residents of Red Bank Village have formally rejected a government initiative to establish a scarlet macaw sanctuary within the Maya Mountains. The proposed conservation area, intended to safeguard critical feeding grounds for hundreds of these vibrant birds while boosting local ecotourism, faced overwhelming opposition during a packed public consultation on Tuesday evening.

    The meeting, attended by nearly 200 villagers, revealed deep-seated frustrations regarding perceived exclusion from preliminary discussions. Area Representative Rodwell Ferguson confirmed the consensus: “The conversation tonight was really on target to say, ‘We don’t want it.’ As an elected representative, I told them we are going to back off.”

    Central to residents’ concerns were potential restrictions on hill access essential for daily subsistence and unverified rumors about farmer relocations. Ferguson addressed land survey concerns, stating, “I know the land has been surveyed but not issued and signed by the Minister of Natural Resources,” while pledging to prevent any land sales that might limit community access.

    Tour guides presented contrasting perspectives, emphasizing the sanctuary’s ecological and economic necessity. Guide Basilio Mes warned, “It would be very bad for us as we will not be able to come and work in our area anymore,” advocating for a compromise sanctuary model permitting sustainable access. Mes cited observable scarlet macaw population declines and recent environmental threats including illegal logging and unauthorized zipline construction as urgent justification for protection measures.

    Community member Lorencio Sho criticized the government’s engagement approach: “You’re going based off of three persons’ opinions, not the entire community.” Sho referenced Minister Orlando Habet’s recent media comments suggesting the proposal was nearing approval as particularly concerning given the lack of community consultation.

    Despite the current rejection, Ferguson left open the possibility of future reconsideration, stating he would support the initiative should community sentiment evolve. The outcome highlights ongoing tensions between conservation objectives and community sovereignty in natural resource management.

  • George Worme and The New Today lose defamation matter

    George Worme and The New Today lose defamation matter

    In a landmark defamation ruling, the High Court of Grenada has determined that The New Today publication engaged in libel against Karen Roden-Layne, the former general manager of the Grenada Solid Waste Management Authority (GSWMA). Justice Raulston Glasgow delivered the verdict on January 13, concluding the lengthy legal proceedings that spanned several years.

    The case centered on allegations published by The New Today claiming Roden-Layne had misappropriated organizational funds through improper use of the authority’s credit card during an official trip to the United Kingdom. Justice Glasgow found the publication failed to substantiate these serious allegations with credible evidence.

    Court documents revealed that following the original publication, GSWMA’s Board of Directors, then chaired by Dr. Bert Brathwaite, conducted a thorough internal investigation that completely exonerated Roden-Layne. The investigation concluded there had no misuse of corporate funds or credit facilities. These findings were subsequently published in The New Today as a paid advertisement, though the original defamatory content remained uncorrected.

    The court has mandated a 21-day negotiation period for both parties to reach a mutually agreeable damages settlement. Should they fail to consensus by mid-February 2026, the matter will be referred to the Master of the Court for formal assessment and determination of appropriate compensation within two months.

    George Worme, representing The New Today, faces significant financial liability following the court’s ruling, which underscores the critical importance of journalistic verification before publishing serious allegations against public figures.

  • 13-year old shot and injured during attempted robbery- police

    13-year old shot and injured during attempted robbery- police

    A violent attempted robbery targeting two elderly brothers culminated in the shooting of a 13-year-old suspect in Georgetown on Wednesday morning, according to official police reports. The incident unfolded at approximately 10:15 AM near the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception on Brickdam, a prominent location in the city center.

    Preliminary investigation details indicate that two octogenarian brothers, aged 81 and 79 respectively, were en route to conduct official business when they were suddenly accosted by two assailants arriving by bicycle. One of the perpetrators, allegedly brandishing a knife, attempted to forcibly seize a haversack carried by the older sibling.

    The attempted theft was thwarted when the elderly victim raised an alarm that alerted nearby civilians. During the ensuing commotion, a 25-year-old licensed firearm holder who witnessed the altercation discharged his weapon toward the fleeing suspects. Law enforcement authorities have confirmed the weapon has been secured as evidence pending formal investigation.

    The teenage suspect from Albouystown sustained a gunshot wound to the gluteal region and was promptly transported to Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation for emergency medical treatment. His accomplice managed to evade capture and remains at large. Police forensic teams have identified relevant CCTV footage from the area and are conducting thorough reviews of the digital evidence.

    The Guyana Police Force declined to specify whether the armed responder was a private citizen or a police officer assigned to ministerial security detail. The investigation remains active as authorities work to reconstruct the precise sequence of events.

  • Dominica’s education ministry collaborates with IsraAID for first aid and CPR training of 47 local teachers

    Dominica’s education ministry collaborates with IsraAID for first aid and CPR training of 47 local teachers

    In a significant stride toward educational safety, the Ministry of Education, Human Resource Planning, Vocational Training, and National Excellence has concluded a comprehensive two-day First Aid and CPR certification program. Conducted in partnership with the international humanitarian organization IsraAID, this intensive training equipped 47 primary and secondary school teachers from across Dominica with critical emergency response capabilities.

    The curriculum delivered expert instruction in Basic First Aid techniques, Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) protocols, and the proper utilization of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs). Participants who successfully completed the program will receive official certification through the St. John Association of Saint Lucia, ensuring adherence to internationally recognized first aid standards.

    Permanent Secretary Robert Guiste emphasized the strategic importance of this initiative, stating: ‘This training directly enhances schools’ capacity to respond effectively to medical emergencies and accidents, aligning with our national priorities for building a safer, more resilient education system.’ He further revealed complementary measures including the procurement of first aid kits and fire extinguishers for all schools, alongside personal protective equipment for vocational teachers.

    The program represents just the initial phase of a broader safety campaign. Ministry officials announced plans to train an additional 50 educators by January 2026, with another 50-targeted during summer sessions. The recently concluded training, valued at over $8,000, was fully funded by IsraAID Dominica.

    Wynela Francis, Senior Programme Officer at IsraAID, highlighted the enduring value of the partnership: ‘First Aid and CPR training constitutes essential lifesaving knowledge. Increasing the number of trained staff directly contributes to enhanced school safety and emergency preparedness across Dominican communities.’

    Notably, the instruction was delivered by a newly established cadre of local trainers, many from the Dominica Fire and Ambulance Services. These facilitators were previously certified through capacity-building programs jointly organized by IsraAID and the Office of Disaster Management in 2025. This train-the-trainer model demonstrates a sustainable approach to disaster readiness by developing local expertise and building long-term resilience within the island’s education infrastructure.