Carib Scope

分类： society

  • E.P. Chet Greene Declares 2026 the Year of the Youth in St. Paul’s

    E.P. Chet Greene Declares 2026 the Year of the Youth in St. Paul’s

    In a profoundly hopeful New Year’s address to the community of St. Paul’s, a visionary roadmap for 2026 was unveiled, centered on empowering the younger generation and fostering collective progress. The message, delivered with spiritual reverence and community solidarity, framed the new year not as a mere calendar change but as fertile ground for shared promise.

    The cornerstone initiative declared 2026 the ‘Year of the Youth,’ recognizing young people not as future leaders but as a present force to be unleashed. This commitment will be materially supported by the soon-to-be-completed Leroy ‘Billy’ Tonge Technical Center in Liberta, hailed as a beacon for vocational training in cosmetology, architecture, and building trades. The center is presented as an inheritance for the youth to actively claim and shape their destinies.

    Beyond youth empowerment, the address outlined a multi-faceted community development plan. This includes advancing home ownership programs, fueling local entrepreneurship to strengthen the economic soul of St. Paul’s, and nurturing spiritual roots to maintain unity. The message also emphasized honoring elders with unwavering support while ensuring every child has access to educational resources and opportunities.

    The community’s recent upgrades, including health facilities in Liberta and Cobbs Cross, were reframed not as distant infrastructure but as monuments to shared well-being, entrusted to the people for their use and protection. The address also acknowledged the ongoing work to renew roadways and water services, requiring collective patience.

    A special tribute was paid to local athletes, whose discipline and victories are celebrated as pathways to inspire others and lift community spirit. The speech concluded with a powerful call for a chorus of commitment rooted in deep mutual love and biblical hospitality, urging residents to be their brothers’ and sisters’ keepers in building a community renowned for compassion, opportunity, and unshakeable faith.

  • Column: Decentralisatie van de schoolsport

    Column: Decentralisatie van de schoolsport

    Suriname’s upcoming hosting of the 2026 Inter Guyanese Games has sparked critical examination of athlete selection processes and regional representation disparities. Having reportedly claimed the overall championship title during the 2025 edition in neighboring Guyana, Suriname now bears responsibility for organizing the next iteration of this regional sporting event.

    The coordination of Surinamese representation falls under the purview of the Foundation School Sports Federation Suriname (SSFS), whose nationwide mandate theoretically ensures equal opportunity for students across all districts. Selection criteria should logically prioritize two fundamental qualifications: appropriate age categorization and active sports participation. However, reality demonstrates a persistent pattern where athletes primarily training in the capital city of Paramaribo consistently dominate national selections.

    This geographical bias creates significant barriers for district children seeking competitive opportunities. The Inter Guyanese Games present an ideal platform to actualize decentralization principles through sports. The camaraderie and connections formed during these games provide immeasurable value for participants—benefits that should not remain exclusive to urban-based athletes.

    As host nation, Suriname possesses expanded capacity to include more competitors in its delegation. This flexibility enables the reservation of placement quotas for each district, ensuring broader regional representation. District-based SSFS representatives would determine which athletes merit selection, provided they maintain active sporting engagement.

    Corporate entities operating within districts could be engaged to address financial constraints through sponsorship programs, while local sports associations might collaborate with national governing bodies to elevate training standards. With timely preparation commencing immediately, the 2026 Games could inaugurate a new era of equitable regional participation in international sports forums.

    Systemic reforms must ensure that birthplace ceases to determine athletic opportunity. Every young athlete deserves equitable access to development pathways and competitive experiences that build confidence and foster national pride through sports participation.

  • Four on cocaine trafficking charges remanded

    Four on cocaine trafficking charges remanded

    In a significant narcotics enforcement operation, a Guyanese court has ordered four individuals to be held in custody following their arrest in connection with a major cocaine seizure this week. The suspects are facing serious charges related to the alleged possession and trafficking of over 31 kilograms of cocaine discovered in Montrose, East Coast Demerara.

    According to the Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU), the substantial drug cache was intercepted in a vehicle on Broad Street, Montrose, consisting of 27 brick-like parcels of the illicit substance. The anti-narcotics agency conducted the operation that led to the discovery and subsequent arrests.

    During proceedings before Sparendaam Magistrate Clive Nurse, defendants Andre Moonilall and Sherwin Laundry entered not guilty pleas to charges of narcotics possession with intent to traffic. The court denied bail to both individuals, ordering their remand to prison until February 9, 2026, when their cases will be heard.

    Two additional suspects, Jermin Adams and Amanda Lam, similarly pleaded not guilty to charges of facilitating cocaine trafficking operations. Magistrate Nurse issued identical remand orders for both defendants, who will remain in custody until the February court date.

    The case represents one of the more substantial narcotics interdictions recently reported by Guyanese authorities, highlighting ongoing efforts to combat drug trafficking in the region. CANU officials continue to investigate the matter while the judicial process moves forward for the four accused individuals.

  • Families opt for a quiet close to 2025

    Families opt for a quiet close to 2025

    As 2025 concluded, Brandon’s Beach in Barbados offered a serene alternative to boisterous celebrations, with families and visitors choosing peaceful reflection over festive revelry. The picturesque shoreline became a backdrop for intimate gatherings emphasizing familial bonds and tranquil contemplation.

    Among those savoring the year’s final hours was the Gill family, who established a beachside encampment for an evening of culinary delights and traditional entertainment. Their celebration featured a repertoire of activities including modified dodgeball, creative sand-drawn games, and racquet sports blending modern and Bajan traditions. The family orchestrated a color-coordinated gift exchange before anticipating a symbolic sea immersion to ceremoniously conclude the year.

    “Our picnic embodies our celebratory spirit,” a family representative explained. “We’ve prepared macaroni pie, seasoned chicken with rice, and assorted sandwiches. This communal gathering represents our dedication to preserving connections through shared experiences.”

    This year-end beach gathering has evolved into an cherished family ritual, complementing their Christmas reunions. “We intentionally converge during these transitional moments,” they noted. “After celebrating Christmas collectively, we determined to reconvene for the year’s culmination.”

    Nearby, Horace Bailey, a septuagenarian taxi operator with decades of service, articulated a philosophy of cautious celebration. The 76-year-old transportation veteran elected for domestic tranquility over nocturnal activities, citing safety concerns and visual limitations from modern vehicle headlights.

    “By eight this evening, I’ll be securely retired to my residence,” Bailey stated. “At my age, prudence supersedes celebration. My daughter will represent our family’s celebratory spirit abroad tonight.”

    Despite increasing competition from ride-sharing services like Uber, Bailey reported consistent annual earnings. “Business remains satisfactory amid transportation evolution,” he commented. “I maintain gratitude for daily provisions whenever cruise ships dock. Divine appreciation accompanies every fare.”

    An American first-time visitor simultaneously absorbed the beach’s calming ambiance, expressing immediate affinity for Barbadian hospitality. “The population radiates exceptional warmth,” the tourist observed. “My inaugural Barbados visit continues exceeding expectations with each passing moment.”

  • FLASH : Assassination of Inspector Jean Sterlin Hold in Fort-Jacques : what we know

    FLASH : Assassination of Inspector Jean Sterlin Hold in Fort-Jacques : what we know

    Haiti’s deepening security crisis has been tragically underscored by the targeted assassination of Chief Inspector Jean Sterlin Hold, a dedicated law enforcement officer known by his aliases ‘Blan’ and ‘San Souci.’ The incident occurred on the evening of December 30, 2025, in Fort-Jacques within the Kenscoff commune, where Inspector Hold commanded the Lotin sub-police station in the Fermathe area.

    The fatal shooting transpired approximately at 7:00 p.m. outside the ‘Sheeshee’s Food’ Club. According to official reports from the Haitian National Police (PNH), Inspector Hold sustained two gunshot wounds. While his bulletproof vest intercepted one projectile, the second proved lethal.

    Preliminary investigations conducted by PNH have identified Louis Marcus, alias ’50,’ proprietor of the establishment where the attack occurred, as the prime suspect. Law enforcement operations resulted in the apprehension of Johnny Roseus, believed to be Marcus’s brother-in-law, during coordinated searches at both the suspect’s residence and the club. Critical evidence, including surveillance footage, has been secured for forensic examination.

    The General Directorate of PNH has mandated the Inspector General’s Office (IGPNH) and the Central Directorate of Judicial Police (DCPJ) to conduct an exhaustive investigation aimed at apprehending all individuals complicit in this homicide and ensuring their prosecution.

    Inspector Hold, a native of Jérémie, had earned recognition for his unwavering opposition to the notorious ‘Kraze Baryè’ criminal faction and his protective stance toward Fort-Jacques residents. His career exemplified professional dedication and selfless community service.

    Official responses to the tragedy have been swift and unanimous. The PNH expressed profound condolences to Inspector Hold’s family, colleagues, and associates while reaffirming their determination to pursue justice. The Presidential Transitional Council (CPT) honored the inspector as a ‘valiant servant of the State’ and pledged continued institutional support for national security operations. Kenscoff Municipal Authority, led by Mayor Jean Massillon, condemned the killing as an assault on republican values and civic safety, extending sympathies to the entire community grieving this significant loss.

  • Outsource Development Studio launches the Little Go Getters Dominica movement amongst other developments in 2025

    Outsource Development Studio launches the Little Go Getters Dominica movement amongst other developments in 2025

    Dominica witnessed a transformative educational movement throughout 2025 as Outsource Development Studio launched the comprehensive ‘Little Go Getters Dominica Movement’ in partnership with local organizations. The initiative, formally introduced on June 17th, represents a multifaceted approach to youth development that combines entrepreneurial education, cultural preservation, and community engagement.

    The program commenced with a series of community block parties at summer’s onset, funded by corporate sponsors including Jollys Pharmacy, Do It Center, Dominica Electricity Services, and Oceans Forward. These events served as introductory platforms for the movement’s vision of nurturing problem-solving capabilities and creative thinking among children.

    As the academic year resumed, the organization embarked on an extensive school outreach program, visiting four primary institutions: Berean Christian Academy, Giraudel Primary School, Morne Prosper Primary School, and Massacre Canefield Primary School. Through these visits, students encountered ‘The Little Go Getters’ book series and participated in interactive educational activities designed to stimulate entrepreneurial mindsets. Sponsorship from Corp-EFF Insurance Company Ltd., Express Courier, and Auto Trade Ltd. facilitated these educational endeavors.

    Concurrently, the organization partnered with the Sagicor Cave Hill School of Business and Management to launch ‘Better Me, Better You, Better Businesses’ executive development courses. These programs specifically target senior managers and executives, emphasizing innovative thinking, organizational transformation, and challenging conventional business practices.

    In a significant cultural development, the organization registered EarthGold, a new intellectual property celebrating Afro-Caribbean heritage through arts, fashion, and superfoods. The inaugural collection, ‘I Have a Very Big God,’ is exclusively available at the Earth Gold – Mother Land Store, featuring culturally significant products that honor Caribbean heritage while promoting wellness.

    The organization’s year-end communication expressed optimism for 2026, declaring ‘Ascend’ as the thematic focus for the coming year—emphasizing growth, elevation, and purposeful advancement across all initiatives.

  • Central Farm Vehicle Heist Foiled by Remote Shutdown

    Central Farm Vehicle Heist Foiled by Remote Shutdown

    In a dramatic pre-dawn operation, Belizean authorities successfully prevented a major vehicle theft through rapid technological intervention. On December 31, 2025, seven masked individuals breached security at the Ministry of Agriculture’s Central Farm compound, overpowering and restraining the night watchman before seizing keys to four government pickup trucks (three Toyotas and one Nissan).

    The perpetrators, described as Creole-speaking locals, immediately headed toward the western border with Guatemala in what appeared to be a coordinated escape plan. However, the quick actions of the freed security guard triggered an immediate response chain. Ministry officials activated a sophisticated remote vehicle shutdown system that forced the thieves to abandon all four trucks just before reaching the international boundary.

    Agriculture Minister Rodwell Ferguson confirmed the vehicles were recovered near Arenal and Benque, praising the coordinated efforts between his department and law enforcement. While acknowledging the brazen nature of the pre-dawn heist, Minister Ferguson declined to speculate on whether insiders were involved, stating investigations were ongoing. The incident has raised questions about compound security despite the presence of surveillance cameras, with authorities examining potential cross-border connections while emphasizing the thieves appeared to be Belizean nationals based on linguistic evidence.

  • Thieves Ditch Vehicles After Shootout with Police in Cayo

    Thieves Ditch Vehicles After Shootout with Police in Cayo

    A coordinated police operation in Belize’s Cayo District resulted in the recovery of multiple stolen vehicles following an armed confrontation with suspects on December 31, 2025. The incident began when thieves stole a security guard’s phone at Central Farm, prompting an immediate emergency response. Officers from the Benque Police Formation and Special Patrol Unit swiftly implemented a strategic operational plan designed to intercept stolen vehicles typically trafficked toward Guatemala. During the recovery operation, law enforcement personnel came under fire from one of the suspects, leading to an exchange of gunfire before the culprits abandoned their vehicles and fled into surrounding areas. Police successfully recovered two stolen trucks—one located on Hydro Road and another on George Street in Benque Viejo Town. Assistant Superintendent of Police Stacy Smith confirmed that investigators are examining multiple video recordings and utilizing geo-tracking technology to identify the suspects involved. Operations remain active as authorities continue their pursuit of the individuals responsible for the theft and assault on officers.

  • MIDH Offers Short-term Relief As Placencia Garbage Woes Persist

    MIDH Offers Short-term Relief As Placencia Garbage Woes Persist

    The picturesque tourism hub of Placencia, Belize, faces an escalating waste management emergency as continuous heavy rainfall has crippled the village’s primary garbage disposal system. For nearly three weeks, torrential downpours have rendered the sole access road to the official dump site completely impassable, forcing the Placencia Village Council to deposit mounting solid waste directly at the dump’s entrance.

    This developing environmental and public health situation has triggered significant concern among local residents and tourism stakeholders alike. In response to the growing crisis, the Ministry of Infrastructure Development and Housing (MIDH) has intervened with stopgap measures. Minister Julius Espat confirmed that the ministry is deploying road materials to create a temporary passage to the dump site, acknowledging this as an interim solution pending improved weather conditions.

    Minister Espat contextualized the Placencia situation within broader regional challenges, noting simultaneous infrastructure emergencies across southern Belizean villages including Barranco and Bella Vista, where critical culverts have been washed away. With limited equipment available for the entire southern district, the ministry faces the complex task of prioritizing multiple communities’ urgent needs.

    The minister addressed concerns about the pace of government response, emphasizing that all requests receive immediate attention despite logistical constraints. “We have to balance assistance to as many communities as we possibly can,” Espat stated, adding that the ministry interprets community frustrations as expressions of legitimate need rather than political criticism. He specifically recognized Placencia’s strategic importance as a growing tourism destination while outlining plans for a permanent infrastructure solution once weather patterns stabilize.

  • Major Gun and Drug Bust Caps Record Year for Police

    Major Gun and Drug Bust Caps Record Year for Police

    Belize City law enforcement authorities have concluded an extraordinarily productive year with a significant operational triumph. On December 30, 2025, a meticulously planned intelligence operation culminated in the discovery of substantial illegal contraband concealed within mangrove vegetation adjacent to Nutmeg Street in the Lake Independence district.

    The coordinated effort between Special Branch operatives and Eastern Division Precinct Two officers yielded an impressive arsenal: one AR-15 rifle, 105 rounds of 5.56mm ammunition, two high-capacity drum magazines, 45 rounds of 7mm ammunition, and two tactical ballistic vests. This seizure represents the culminating achievement in a year of unprecedented enforcement success.

    Assistant Superintendent of Police Stacy Smith, Staff Officer, provided comprehensive statistics demonstrating the scale of this enforcement victory. The Belize Police Department’s 2025 totals include 234 illegally possessed firearms removed from circulation, with ammunition seizures reaching 7,477 rounds. Enforcement actions resulted in 194 individuals facing formal charges for weapons-related violations.

    Firearm classification data reveals handguns dominated seizures with 123 nine-millimeter pistols confiscated, alongside 14 high-powered rifles and various other caliber weapons including .38 revolvers and shotguns.

    The narcotics enforcement achievements proved equally remarkable. Authorities intercepted 705,638 grams of cannabis, 41,784 grams of cocaine, and over 5,000 grams of crack cocaine destined for distribution networks. These enforcement measures led to 1,562 individuals being charged with drug trafficking offenses throughout the review period.