Carib Scope

分类： society

  • Authorities Accidents leave 29 dead on Christmas and New Year’s Eve 2026

    Authorities Accidents leave 29 dead on Christmas and New Year’s Eve 2026

    The Emergency Operations Center (COE) has released its final assessment for the “Awareness for Life, Christmas 2025-2026” campaign, documenting 29 traffic-related fatalities throughout the nation’s road networks during the recent holiday period. This casualty figure occurred amidst unprecedented national mobility, with approximately 7.6 million travelers utilizing roadways, presenting substantial challenges to emergency response capabilities and driver conduct.

    Temporal analysis reveals a concerning distribution pattern, with 48% of fatalities occurring during the overnight hours from midnight to 6:00 a.m. The operational timeline showed 11 deaths during the Christmas phase and 18 during the New Year’s period, coinciding with peak travel intensity.

    Motorcycle-related incidents proved particularly devastating, accounting for 19 fatalities (over 65% of total deaths). Light vehicle collisions resulted in eight deaths, while pedestrian incidents claimed two lives. The COE’s data indicates that 25 fatalities occurred outside designated safety monitoring zones, compared to four within supervised areas, suggesting significant correlation between unmonitored sections and incident severity.

    Despite the tragic outcomes, the report notes a substantial 31% reduction in fatalities compared to the previous year’s 42 deaths. The comprehensive data also documented 245 traffic accidents affecting 307 individuals, with motorcycles involved in over 74% of incidents.

    Additional health metrics revealed 769 alcohol poisoning cases (including 52 minors) and 163 food poisoning instances, though fortunately no fatalities resulted from these medical emergencies.

  • Vuurwerk laat sporen na: acht slachtoffers rond jaarwisseling

    Vuurwerk laat sporen na: acht slachtoffers rond jaarwisseling

    The 2025-2026 fireworks period in Suriname has concluded with a total of eight registered fireworks-related accidents, according to official reports. This year’s casualty count shows a concerning increase from last year’s six documented cases, though it represents a significant improvement from two years prior when twelve incidents were recorded.

    The final incident occurred on Wednesday, January 1st, when a 48-year-old man presented himself at the Emergency Department of the Academic Hospital Paramaribo at approximately 9:00 PM. The individual sustained burns to his chest and abdomen but was discharged following medical treatment.

    In the Nickerie district, only one fireworks accident was registered on New Year’s Eve. A 50-year-old man received treatment at Mungra Medical Center (MMC) after sustaining injuries from a ‘pagara’ firecracker during fireworks festivities in the city center. The victim suffered second-degree burns to his lower lip.

    Notably, the youngest casualty during this fireworks season was merely six years old, while the oldest victim was 50. These statistics underscore the persistent risks associated with fireworks usage despite extensive public awareness campaigns and safety measures implemented during the year-end celebrations. The demographic spread of victims highlights that fireworks safety remains a universal concern affecting all age groups.

  • Orange Walk Electrician Arrested in Cocaine Bust

    Orange Walk Electrician Arrested in Cocaine Bust

    In a late-night anti-narcotics operation on December 31st, Orange Walk District police apprehended Henry Cawich, a 36-year-old electrician from Trinidad Village, on serious drug-related charges. The operation culminated in the discovery of substantial evidence indicating involvement in narcotics distribution.

    According to Assistant Superintendent of Police Stacy Smith, who supervised the operation, authorities uncovered a plastic bottle containing seven transparent bags during their search of the suspect’s residence. Each bag contained multiple parcels of a substance preliminarily identified as cocaine, with the total seizure weighing approximately 21 grams.

    The search was conducted with the suspect present, ensuring procedural compliance throughout the evidence collection process. Cawich, who works professionally as an electrician, has now been formally charged with possession of controlled drugs with intent to supply—a serious offense under Belizean narcotics legislation.

    The New Year’s Eve operation represents ongoing efforts by Orange Walk District law enforcement to combat drug trafficking activities within the community. This arrest highlights the continued vigilance of anti-narcotics units during holiday periods when illegal activities often see an increase.

    Legal proceedings against Cawich are expected to commence shortly as authorities continue their investigation into potential connections to broader drug distribution networks in the Orange Walk region.

  • “It Hurts, It Hurts”: Gun Violence Rocks Pomona Village

    “It Hurts, It Hurts”: Gun Violence Rocks Pomona Village

    The Pomona Village community entered the new year shrouded in grief following a fatal shooting incident on New Year’s Eve that claimed the lives of two young men. Twenty-three-year-old Zion Samuels and twenty-two-year-old Luke Chavarria were fatally wounded by an unidentified assailant while socializing with friends outside Samuels’ residence.

    According to eyewitness accounts, a lone gunman approached the group and opened fire without provocation, resulting in the immediate deaths of both victims. Four other individuals present at the scene managed to escape unharmed. Local law enforcement confirmed the suspect fled on foot and remains at large as investigations continue.

    The tragedy has left families and community members devastated. Neidia Guzman, a longtime family friend, emotionally recounted the close relationships between the victims and her own family, emphasizing Samuels’ positive character and dedication to his children. The crime scene has since become a makeshift memorial with candles and flowers honoring the deceased.

    Police authorities disclosed that while the precise motive remains undetermined, the property has historical connections to drug-related operations. Mark Samuels, father of Zion, expressed profound sorrow over the loss of his son, describing him as an easy-going individual who didn’t deserve such violence.

    The investigation continues as community members grapple with the recurring pattern of gun violence affecting their neighborhood.

  • She Scratched and Won $15,000 on New Year’s Day

    She Scratched and Won $15,000 on New Year’s Day

    A resident of Independence Village commenced the year 2026 with an extraordinary financial windfall, securing a $15,000 prize from a Scratch and Win lottery ticket on New Year’s Day. The fortunate individual was enjoying the holiday with her sisters when she opted to purchase the ticket on a whim. Her immediate reaction upon revealing the winning symbols was one of disbelief and exhilaration. “I scratch the scratch and when I see, I want know if I di see good. I recheck it and I halla fi alla my sister deh,” she recounted, describing the moment she verified the win and celebrated with her family. When questioned about her plans for the sudden wealth, the winner revealed an intention to pursue entrepreneurial ventures rather than immediate expenditure. “I’ll try flip this money. I was buy all kind a thing and try invest this fi flip this over and put more inna mi account,” she stated, indicating a strategy of investment to grow the capital. Offering advice to fellow lottery enthusiasts, the winner maintained an optimistic outlook. “Yes. Unu try. Once unu try it, unu must ketch it one day. Because I always had my hopes up that one day I get scratch,” she encouraged, affirming her sustained belief in eventually achieving a win. The story serves as an inspiring start to the new year for the local community.

  • Education expert hails literacy push amid ongoing crisis

    Education expert hails literacy push amid ongoing crisis

    Barbados has initiated a comprehensive national campaign to confront a severe literacy crisis, abandoning previous claims of 99% literacy rates. Educational transformation specialist Shawntelle Morgan of I-Teach Transformative Knowledge Solutions Ltd identified 2025 as a watershed moment for the nation’s education system, marked by the Ministry of Education’s ambitious Project SOAR (Strengthen Our Ability to Read) initiative.

    The program represents a fundamental shift in educational strategy, implementing mandatory daily reading blocks across primary schools nationwide. Education Minister Chad Blackman has established the definitive goal of ensuring universal literacy by age seven—a direct response to years of declining academic performance in both reading and mathematics.

    Morgan acknowledged the government’s recognition of the literacy deficit as a positive development but emphasized that sustainable progress requires evidence-based approaches rather than merely implementing new programs. ‘We require robust assessment mechanisms to identify specific student needs before designing targeted interventions,’ Morgan stated. ‘Effective literacy programs must be tailored to individual learning levels rather than employing one-size-fits-all solutions.’

    The literacy expert advocated for an expanded definition of literacy that transcends basic decoding skills to include comprehensive reading comprehension, critical analysis, and higher-order thinking capabilities. This broader perspective aligns with the nation’s objective of developing globally competitive citizens prepared for 21st-century challenges.

    As Barbados transitions toward digital educational platforms, Morgan highlighted the necessity of creating interactive resources that accommodate diverse learning styles. These digital tools should enable differentiated instruction and provide multiple avenues for knowledge demonstration, including hands-on activities, model creation, and varied expression formats.

    Morgan also addressed behavioral challenges in classrooms, noting that perceived disengagement often masks students’ inability to express knowledge through conventional methods. She championed multisensory instructional approaches that build student confidence and capability, ultimately fostering more positive learning environments and better educational outcomes.

  • Advocaat ontwapend na gewapende confrontatie met politieman

    Advocaat ontwapend na gewapende confrontatie met politieman

    A dramatic confrontation at the Keizerstraat police station resulted in the disarming of a defense attorney who allegedly drew his service weapon toward a police officer. The incident, which occurred on January 2nd, stems from allegations of extortion involving the same officer.

    According to sources familiar with the case, the attorney’s clients reported being pressured and extorted by the police officer in question. The lawyer subsequently filed an official complaint with the officer’s superiors, leading to a arranged confrontation between both parties at the station.

    Tensions escalated rapidly when the attorney declined to engage in direct confrontation with the officer. Witness accounts indicate the police officer became agitated and allegedly attempted to physically assault the lawyer. In response, the attorney—a former police officer who maintains a valid firearm license—drew his service weapon to demonstrate he was armed.

    Following the altercation, the Public Prosecution Service (OM) was immediately notified. Under the OM’s directive, the attorney was arrested and transported for further questioning. Prosecutors will determine whether to pursue criminal charges against either party upon completion of the ongoing investigation.

    Parallel investigations are currently examining both the original extortion allegations against the police officer and the attorney’s decision to draw his weapon during the confrontation. Authorities have declined to release additional details while both inquiries remain active.

  • Red Cross President Pledges Stronger Disaster Preparedness, Community Support in 2026 New Year Message

    Red Cross President Pledges Stronger Disaster Preparedness, Community Support in 2026 New Year Message

    In his annual New Year’s address, Dr. José V. A. Humphreys, President of the Antigua and Barbuda Red Cross Society, extended profound appreciation to the organization’s volunteers, members, and supporters for their unwavering dedication throughout the past year. The message highlighted how the challenges of the previous year had reinforced the organization’s fundamental mission and demonstrated the critical importance of its humanitarian work.

    Reflecting on a period marked by vulnerability and uncertainty, Dr. Humphreys praised the collective response characterized by compassion, courage, and professional excellence. He emphasized that through this steadfast commitment, the Society successfully delivered hope to households, preserved human dignity, and ultimately fortified community resilience across the nation.

    The President articulated the core identity of the Red Cross, defining it not by its physical symbols but by its people and principles. He underscored the organization’s foundational ethos: non-discriminatory service, leadership rooted in integrity, and actions guided solely by humanity. The past year served as a testament, he noted, that adhering to these values while maintaining accountability and community-centric focus enables meaningful transformation even amidst significant adversity.

    Looking forward to 2026, Dr. Humphreys outlined a strategic vision built on clarity and renewed determination. Key priorities include enhancing disaster preparedness and response capabilities, broadening community-based health and social support programs, investing in youth engagement and volunteer leadership development, and continuing to strengthen internal governance and long-term sustainability. Reaffirming the Society’s primary mission, he pledged an ongoing, steadfast commitment to preventing and alleviating human suffering in all its forms.

    Concluding on behalf of the Governing Board, Dr. Humphreys expressed deep gratitude for the trust and belief in the power of humanity demonstrated by all involved. His message culminated with wishes for strength, wisdom, compassion, and peace in the new year for every supporter and their families.

  • Nurses seek stronger protection from workplace violence as new year begins

    Nurses seek stronger protection from workplace violence as new year begins

    The Barbados Nurses Association (BNA) has launched its 2026 advocacy campaign with urgent calls for strengthened protective measures and improved working conditions, identifying violence against healthcare workers as among the most pressing challenges facing the nursing profession.

    In an official statement, BNA President Dr. Fay Parris commended nurses as “the heartbeat of our healthcare system” while acknowledging both significant progress and persistent challenges. The Association celebrated several 2025 achievements including Barbados’ ratification of International Labour Organisation Convention 149, which establishes formal rights and protections for nursing personnel. This ratification marked a substantial advancement in professional standards and working conditions throughout the island nation.

    Additional milestones included the approval of the Public Officers Loan and Travelling Allowances Act, which promotes equitable allowance distribution across the profession, and noticeable improvements in environmental safety protocols within healthcare facilities, creating safer environments for both staff and patients.

    Despite these advancements, Dr. Parris highlighted several unresolved issues continuing to undermine nurse wellbeing and morale. Protracted delays in approving sabbatical policy logistics have generated widespread frustration among nursing professionals. The ongoing lack of transportation solutions for night and evening shifts remains unaddressed, while systemic staffing shortages have increased dependence on flexi-time arrangements, exacerbating burnout rates.

    Most alarmingly, the Association emphasized that violence against healthcare workers and insufficient protective measures represent growing concerns that demand immediate attention. The BNA has consequently pledged to prioritize safe, supportive workplaces and expedited resolution of employment matters throughout 2026.

    The Association’s comprehensive agenda includes advocating for practical transportation solutions for late-shift workers, championing legal reforms to protect healthcare workers from violence, and expanding insurance options specifically addressing injury and health coverage. Organizational modernization efforts will enhance member services, while strengthened mentorship programs, wellness initiatives, and professional development opportunities aim to ensure every nurse feels valued and supported.

    Furthermore, the BNA plans to increase nursing representation on national boards and policy-making bodies, amplify youth engagement within the profession, and implement membership growth strategies to unify the nursing community under a collective purpose. Dr. Parris concluded with a call for unified action, stating: “The challenges are real, but so too is the strength of the profession when acting collectively.”

  • STATEMENT: From the desk of the president of Dominica Association of Teachers (DAT)

    STATEMENT: From the desk of the president of Dominica Association of Teachers (DAT)

    In a powerful New Year’s address, Mervin Alexander, President of the Dominica Association of Teachers (DAT), has articulated a compelling vision positioning educators as the fundamental cornerstone of national progress. The message, directed to teachers, principals, and educators across Dominica, opens with profound gratitude for their unwavering dedication throughout the previous year.

    The association has formally announced its thematic focus for 2026: “Teachers Are the Foundation to National Development – Value Us.” This theme underscores the critical understanding that without teachers, no other profession could exist, as educators serve as the initial cultivators of all career paths and skillsets.

    Alexander’s narrative reframes the teaching profession beyond mere knowledge transmission, describing educators as “architects of the future,” “builders of society,” and the essential foundation upon which national progress is constructed. The address paints a vivid picture of teachers transforming young children with minimal skills into future professionals who eventually serve society in banks, health centers, and hospitals.

    While acknowledging education’s recognized role in reducing poverty, fostering economic growth, and promoting social cohesion, the DAT president highlighted a significant disparity between rhetorical appreciation and substantive support. The address calls for concrete actions including respect, adequate resources, and meaningful participation in policy-making decisions.

    Specific policy expectations were outlined, including the long-awaited Primary Schools restructuring initially promised for January 2023, now formally agreed upon in the 2024-27 Collective Agreement to commence in January 2026. The association also anticipates salary adjustments for Early Childhood Educators following the revised minimum wage implementation in December 2025.

    The DAT reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for improved working conditions, professional development opportunities, and wages that reflect teachers’ pivotal nation-building role. Alexander concluded with condolences to families of teachers who passed away in 2025 and urged educators to prioritize their health and well-being while continuing their vital contributions to Dominica’s future.