分类: society

  • Family launches GoFundMe for Spanish sailor who went missing off Abaco

    Family launches GoFundMe for Spanish sailor who went missing off Abaco

    The family of Spanish-American sailor Miguel Campoy has initiated a crowdfunding campaign to finance a comprehensive private investigation into his mysterious disappearance near South Abaco six months ago. The 56-year-old mariner vanished on September 6 after departing aboard his 44-foot blue-hulled sailboat named Hella, with his final communication indicating calm seas and an unexpectedly prolonged journey.

    Following the suspension of official search operations by both the Royal Bahamas Defence Force and the United States Coast Guard, the family has exhausted considerable resources funding private aerial and maritime searches. The campaign aims to raise €18,000 to pursue advanced investigative measures including specialized satellite imagery analysis, legal action to obtain crucial mobile phone records, and enhanced maritime traffic pattern assessment.

    To date, investigators have recovered only Campoy’s support dinghy containing personal belongings and identification documents, while the primary vessel remains missing without confirmed debris. Advanced satellite analysis has identified another vessel transiting through the area approximately when contact was lost, though authorities have been unable to establish communication with the ship’s captain or operating company.

    Miriam Campoy, the sailor’s sister, emphasizes that while no allegations of wrongdoing are being made against any vessel, the family believes it reasonable to determine whether maritime witnesses observed unusual activity. The family faces additional challenges in obtaining critical mobile phone data from service providers and manufacturers, with neither Spanish nor Bahamian authorities successfully securing this information.

    The family has now engaged U.S. legal representation to pursue court orders for accessing mobile records and last-known location data. While expressing appreciation for Bahamian officials’ courtesy, Campoy noted that resource constraints may have limited the official investigation’s scope.

    The raised funds will be exclusively dedicated to continuing search operations, investigative efforts, and offering a monetary reward for verifiable information regarding Campoy’s disappearance. The family has explicitly dismissed suggestions that the sailor staged his disappearance, citing his strong family connections and planned meetings with friends shortly after his vanishing.

  • Seven students charged over viral high school brawl

    Seven students charged over viral high school brawl

    Nassau, Bahamas – Seven students from Doris Johnson Senior High School have been formally charged by police following a violent campus altercation that was captured on video and disseminated across social media platforms. The incident, which sparked widespread public concern, shows a chaotic physical confrontation involving multiple students engaging in aggressive behavior.

    According to Assistant Commissioner of Police Chaswell Hanna, the students face multiple charges including disorderly conduct, causing harm, and engaging in physical fighting. The widely circulated footage depicts a group of male students exchanging blows, with one individual lifting and throwing a chair at another participant. The confrontation escalated further when a student picked up a rock and struck another student in the head, while audible profanity and shouting filled the background.

    Police authorities confirmed that injuries sustained during the incident were minor, consisting primarily of scrapes and cuts that were treated by the school’s medical staff. ACP Hanna emphasized that law enforcement officials are collaborating with educational authorities and school safety partners to implement preventive measures against future occurrences.

    The police representative highlighted the availability of alternative intervention programs designed to redirect student behavior without immediate recourse to the criminal justice system. “We provide school students an opportunity to redeem themselves through participation in behavioral correction programs,” Hanna stated. “With parental consent, we place students in these initiatives, which have demonstrated success in most previous cases.”

    Addressing rumors of a school lockdown, Hanna clarified the terminology, explaining that while administrative staff brought the situation under control, the term “lockdown” inappropriately suggested students were in grave danger, which was not the case.

    Dominique McCartney-Russell, Director of Education, confirmed the ongoing investigation into the incident, noting that several involved students have been suspended to REFOCUS centers and will participate in restorative justice initiatives. Parent conferences have been conducted, with additional consequences to be determined as the investigation progresses.

  • Jamaica must consider social media restrictions, experts say

    Jamaica must consider social media restrictions, experts say

    Jamaica faces mounting pressure to implement social media restrictions for minors as educational and psychiatric experts highlight an escalating mental health crisis linked to digital platform usage. This development coincides with landmark litigation against tech giants in the United States alleging deliberate platform engineering for child addiction.

    Jamaica Teachers Association (JTA) President Mark Malabver revealed disturbing classroom realities, stating, “I have witnessed students threatening suicide after phone confiscations. Their emotional dependency on these devices has reached critical levels.” While acknowledging some educators’ innovative use of social media for instruction, Malabver asserted the overall harms significantly outweigh benefits, describing platforms as fundamentally disruptive to learning processes.

    The association president further noted concerning shifts in childhood socialization patterns, with interpersonal development increasingly occurring through digital interfaces rather than physical interaction. “We’re navigating uncharted waters,” Malabver warned, “where technology dictates our direction rather than us steering its course.”

    Medical experts reinforce these concerns. Former Jamaica Psychiatric Association President Dr. Sapphire Longmore cited regional predispositions to depression and anxiety, particularly among youth from unstable family environments. “When children lack foundational identity structures, they become exceptionally vulnerable to social media’s addictive properties and associated harms,” she explained.

    Technology executive Christopher Reckord, who chairs national AI policy committees, confirmed platform design intentionally promotes extended engagement. “These systems are architecturally designed to encourage perpetual usage,” stated Reckord, while expressing full support for age-based restrictions despite his professional involvement in digital transformation.

    Australia’s recent prohibition on social media profiles for under-16s and similar French legislative actions provide international precedents. Jamaican experts propose graduated interventions, including school-based device bans and mandatory content controls. “We previously attended schools without phones successfully,” Reckord noted, advocating for play-based childhood development over screen-based socialization.

    Dr. Longmore emphasized beyond-restriction solutions, proposing automated intervention triggers for suicidal ideation content and enhanced identity-building programs. “Alongside artificial intelligence, we must promote ancestral intelligence—grounding youth in cultural heritage and personal purpose to counter digital harms.”

    The consensus among Jamaican professionals indicates urgent need for policy development balancing digital access protections with psychological safeguarding, positioning Jamaica within global conversations about regulating children’s social media exposure.

  • Pair held over fraudulent passport and voter ID scheme

    Pair held over fraudulent passport and voter ID scheme

    A significant identity fraud case involving the illicit acquisition of official Bahamian documents has resulted in the imprisonment of two individuals pending trial. Max Veve Pierre, an 18-year-old Haitian national, and his 59-year-old accomplice, Gersey Pierre, stand accused of orchestrating a sophisticated scheme to obtain government-issued identification under false pretenses.

    According to prosecution details presented in court, the alleged conspiracy began on December 23, 2024, when both defendants reportedly agreed to fraudulently secure a Bahamian passport. The plan allegedly came to fruition on February 3, 2025, when they successfully obtained a passport issued in Max’s name from the official Passport Office.

    The criminal complaint further reveals that Max Pierre allegedly utilized the fraudulent passport to obtain additional official documentation. Prosecutors assert that on January 23, he presented the document at the Parliamentary Registry to secure a Bahamian voter’s card, effectively attempting to establish false citizenship credentials.

    The scheme allegedly reached its critical point on February 24, when Max Pierre presented the counterfeit passport to immigration authorities at Lynden Pindling International Airport (LPIA). It was during this interaction that immigration officers detected irregularities in the documentation, leading to the unraveling of the entire operation and the subsequent arrest of both individuals.

    Following a court appearance before Senior Magistrate Anishka Isaacs, both defendants entered pleas of not guilty to the multiple charges against them. Max Pierre faces three counts of possessing false documents, two counts of uttering false documents, and fraud by false pretenses. Both defendants additionally face charges of conspiracy to commit fraud by false pretenses.

    Despite their professions as construction workers, the court deemed the allegations sufficiently serious to warrant remand. Both individuals were subsequently transferred to the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services, where they will remain until their trial commences on May 21. Inspector Timothy Bain is leading the prosecution in this case.

  • WATCH: Allman Town Primary students march for peace

    WATCH: Allman Town Primary students march for peace

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Young voices echoed through the streets of Allman Town as primary school students became ambassadors of peace during Jamaica’s annual Peace Day observance this Tuesday. Carrying messages of harmony and unity, the children from Allman Town Primary School organized a vibrant peace march through their community.

    The procession featured students marching alongside musical bands and community adults, creating a powerful visual representation of cross-generational solidarity. Their chants of “We want peace” resonated through the neighborhood, turning the event into both a celebration and a call for social cohesion.

    This annual observance occurs every first Tuesday of March, established through formal proclamation by then Governor General Howard Cooke in February 1996. The declaration officially recognized the peace-building initiatives of PALS Jamaica (Peace and Love in Society), an organization dedicated to conflict resolution and social harmony.

    The Peace Day tradition represents Jamaica’s ongoing commitment to addressing community violence through positive engagement and youth empowerment. By involving school children as primary participants, the event emphasizes the crucial role of education in fostering long-term social change and community resilience.

  • WASH Project Launched at Bella Vista Polyclinic

    WASH Project Launched at Bella Vista Polyclinic

    BELLA VISTA, TOLEDO DISTRICT – In a significant stride for public health infrastructure, a comprehensive Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) facility was officially unveiled on Thursday, March 2, 2026, at the Bella Vista Polyclinic. This critical initiative represents a collaborative endeavor between Belize’s Ministry of Rural Transformation, Community Development, and Local Government and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF). The project’s cornerstone involves the installation of dual 10,000-liter water storage tanks, supported by a newly constructed elevated concrete stand to ensure consistent water pressure. A dedicated, modern laundry room has also been established to augment the clinic’s operational hygiene protocols. Health officials emphasize that this infrastructure overhaul is designed to create a resilient backup water supply, effectively insulating medical services from disruptions in the main municipal system. This safeguard ensures uninterrupted patient care and critical medical procedures during periods of water scarcity. Furthermore, the enhanced laundry capabilities are projected to significantly elevate infection control measures, directly contributing to reduced nosocomial infection rates. This WASH project is a pivotal component of a broader, ongoing national strategy to fortify and modernize healthcare and sanitation services in Belize’s rural and underserved communities, directly impacting public health outcomes.

  • Police Investigate Suspected Drowning Incident in English Harbour

    Police Investigate Suspected Drowning Incident in English Harbour

    Authorities in Antigua and Barbuda are conducting a thorough investigation into the tragic death of a British tourist following a suspected drowning incident in English Harbour. The victim, identified as 73-year-old Christopher Graham Jones from England, encountered difficulties while snorkeling near Galleon Beach on Saturday, February 28th, 2026.

    According to preliminary reports from the Royal Police Force, the incident occurred at approximately 11:17 a.m. when Jones began experiencing distress during his swimming excursion. The captain of a nearby vessel, alerted by individuals signaling for help from the water, immediately intervened to assist the struggling tourist.

    Emergency response efforts were swiftly initiated as the victim was brought aboard the rescue vessel where cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) was administered without delay. Jones was subsequently transported to shore where members of the Antigua and Barbuda Search and Rescue (ABSAR) team continued advanced life-saving procedures.

    Despite these extensive efforts, the tourist was pronounced dead at 12:39 p.m. by medical professionals at the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre. The tragic incident occurred on the same day that Jones and his wife had arrived in Antigua aboard a cruise vessel from Barbados.

    The Royal Police Force has confirmed that a post-mortem examination will be conducted to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the death. Investigators continue to examine all aspects of the incident while extending their sincere condolences to the grieving family.

    In light of this tragedy, local authorities have issued a renewed safety appeal to both residents and visitors, emphasizing the critical importance of exercising extreme caution during beach activities and maintaining appropriate safety measures at all times.

  • Schandaal rond Alcoa Pensioenfonds Suriname bereikt nieuwe fase

    Schandaal rond Alcoa Pensioenfonds Suriname bereikt nieuwe fase

    A major financial scandal involving the Alcoa Minerals Pension Fund Suriname has entered a critical phase as prosecutors reveal suspicions that over $12 million has vanished from the fund. The Public Prosecutor’s Office has initiated criminal investigations into several high-profile individuals, including former minister and jurist Ferdinand Welzijn, who previously criticized fund administrators for what he termed “backward behavior.”

    The investigation centers on allegations of document forgery, fraud, embezzlement, and improper financial management that allegedly caused substantial financial damage to the pension fund. Multiple key figures are scheduled for questioning, including former pension fund chairman A. Venetiaan and property seller Mr. Punai, who was involved in controversial real estate transactions.

    This pension fund serves retirees of the former mining company Billiton, which operated for decades in Suriname. For these elderly beneficiaries, the pension represents a crucial income source, making the alleged disappearance of millions particularly devastating to their financial security.

    The Association of Pensioners of Billiton Company Suriname reports growing demands for transparency and justice within the retiree community. Board members supporting the investigation emphasize that the case transcends financial loss, touching on fundamental issues of trust in pension fund management and protection for retirees.

    Judicial authorities will determine witness lists and investigation procedures in the coming weeks. Legal experts anticipate the case could establish significant precedents for pension fund oversight and corporate accountability in Suriname. For the aging beneficiaries affected by the scandal, the pursuit of justice remains paramount as the judicial process unfolds.

  • STATEMENT: United Progressive Party extends deepest sympathy following devastating Fire in Roseau

    STATEMENT: United Progressive Party extends deepest sympathy following devastating Fire in Roseau

    ROSEAU, DOMINICA – March 2, 2026: The United Progressive Party (UPP) has issued a formal statement expressing profound condolences to residents and business owners impacted by a catastrophic fire that recently ravaged sections of Dominica’s capital city. Party leader Joshua Francis conveyed heartfelt sympathy to those confronting the arduous task of rebuilding destroyed homes and businesses.

    The opposition party specifically praised the rapid intervention of the Dominica Fire Service, acknowledging their professional conduct and bravery in preventing further devastation. Additionally, the UPP highlighted the courageous efforts of local community members and young volunteers who assisted emergency responders in containing the blaze, citing their actions as emblematic of national solidarity during crises.

    However, the statement raised significant concerns regarding the adequacy of national emergency preparedness. Reports of limited resources available at the incident scene have prompted the UPP to demand immediate government action to enhance firefighting capabilities. The party formally urged the administration to prioritize the acquisition of new fire trucks and modernized equipment, framing disaster response infrastructure as critical to public safety and economic stability.

    Emphasizing collective responsibility, the UPP reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for comprehensive emergency protocols and sustainable safety measures for all citizens. The party’s communication office, led by Public Relations Officer Lofty Durand, remains available for further media engagement.

  • Cotuí celebrates cultural heritage with focus on sustainability and tradition

    Cotuí celebrates cultural heritage with focus on sustainability and tradition

    COTUÍ, Dominican Republic – The vibrant streets of Cotuí recently served as a living canvas where cultural heritage seamlessly merged with environmental consciousness during the municipality’s annual carnival celebration. This distinctive festival, recently elevated to the status of Intangible Cultural Heritage of the Dominican Nation, continues to captivate audiences through its authentic representation of local identity and revolutionary costume craftsmanship that transforms discarded materials into artistic marvels.

    The Dominican Association of Tourism Press (Adompretur) deployed a specialized delegation to Sánchez Ramírez province to document the event’s cultural significance and evolution. According to journalist María Mercedes’ reporting for the Adompretur official portal, the press corps observed firsthand the seamless integration of ancestral traditions with contemporary environmental messaging. This collaboration between media professionals and cultural preservationists highlights a strategic partnership dedicated to safeguarding Dominican folklore while promoting sustainable practices.

    The carnival parade showcased iconic characters including papeluses, platanuses, and funduses, which collectively define the event’s unique visual identity. Diverging from commercialized festivals elsewhere, Cotuí’s artisans employ dried plantain leaves, shredded paper, and repurposed plastic bags to construct elaborate costumes. This innovative approach demonstrates remarkable resourcefulness, converting everyday waste into breathtaking artistic expressions that draw thousands of spectators annually.

    Adompretur representatives engaged extensively with local artisans and cultural custodians to assess the celebration’s social impact. The association emphasized how the carnival functions as a powerful vehicle for social consciousness, incorporating recycling as a fundamental aesthetic component. By prioritizing authentic craftsmanship over mass-produced alternatives, Sánchez Ramírez province has established an environmentally sustainable model that honors its African and Spanish ancestral legacy while protecting ecological resources.

    The press tour also examined the region’s growing economic and tourism potential following the Senate’s official designation of the carnival as national heritage. This legislative recognition amplifies the importance of specialized journalism in promoting cultural tourism. Adompretur’s involvement ensures that the unique attributes of Sánchez Ramírez reach international audiences, positioning the province as an emerging destination where cultural authenticity and eco-tourism converge harmoniously.

    The festivities culminated in a powerful demonstration of communal pride, reinforcing the notion that tradition and innovation can coexist productively. For both media representatives and local participants, the Cotuí carnival stands as a dynamic museum of Dominican creativity. Through its commitment to sustainability and with support from organizations like Adompretur, this cultural legacy promises to inspire future generations while preserving the authentic simplicity that defines its extraordinary character.