分类: society

  • Huge pit visible in Shanghai after viral sinkhole video

    Huge pit visible in Shanghai after viral sinkhole video

    A significant sinkhole emerged at a Shanghai metro line construction site, prompting immediate emergency response and raising questions about urban infrastructure safety. The incident, which occurred during Thursday morning rush hour in the city’s outer district, was confirmed by local authorities who reported no casualties despite the dramatic nature of the collapse.

    From a nearby shopping mall, observers could view the edges of a substantial crater at the work site where a new metro line section was under development. The area surrounding the collapse saw heightened security measures with police cordoning off adjacent road sections and construction vehicles mobilizing around the perimeter.

    The situation gained widespread attention when videos purporting to show the ground suddenly giving way and swallowing temporary structures circulated extensively online. However, verification analysis conducted by AFP indicated potential artificial intelligence manipulation or enhancement of these viral clips, leaving their authenticity unconfirmed.

    According to local media reports, shop owners in the vicinity confirmed the timing of the incident during peak morning hours. The state-owned enterprise responsible for the construction project had previously identified a leak at the site on Wednesday, prompting the immediate activation of emergency protocols before the full collapse manifested.

    Officials stated that the precise cause of the sinkhole would be disclosed through formal channels once determined. This incident recalls previous ground collapse events in China, notably the 2020 sinkhole in the northwest that resulted in nine fatalities after consuming a bus and pedestrians.

  • HerFlow Foundation to promote menstrual health at 2026 Sagicor Sigma Run

    HerFlow Foundation to promote menstrual health at 2026 Sagicor Sigma Run

    KINGSTON, Jamaica—In an innovative approach to addressing menstrual health during disaster recovery, the HerFlow Foundation will leverage the platform of the 2026 Sagicor Sigma Run to distribute free menstrual products and provide essential education on period management. The annual charity road race, known for its significant community impact, will serve as a strategic venue for the foundation’s humanitarian efforts following Hurricane Melissa.

    The organization announced through an official statement that its participation aligns with the Sigma Corporate Run’s broader mission to assist communities devastated by recent hurricane damage. HerFlow’s initiative, branded as the ‘Recover with Dignity’ campaign, specifically targets the often-overlooked challenge of period poverty in disaster scenarios.

    Shelly-Ann Weeks, Executive Director of HerFlow, emphasized the comprehensive nature of true recovery: ‘Post-hurricane rehabilitation must extend beyond physical infrastructure to include the preservation of human dignity. Our campaign ensures women and girls maintain access to fundamental menstrual products during crises. Period poverty persists through disasters, and our commitment continues as communities rebuild collectively.’

    The foundation is simultaneously advancing a broader societal message regarding menstrual health management. Challenging longstanding taboos, HerFlow positions menstrual health not as a personal inconvenience but as a matter requiring systemic public health solutions.

    In a powerful statement ahead of Sunday’s event, the foundation declared: ‘A decade of activism has demonstrated that silence can be broken. The coming decade will test whether systems will adapt. When athletes line up this weekend, observe carefully. The red you might witness isn’t theatrical—it’s symbolic. Menstruation continues unabated—not for 5K races, not for anything.’

  • ‘It should have been life in jail’

    ‘It should have been life in jail’

    A Bahamian court has sentenced 39-year-old Chris Ferguson to 40 years imprisonment for the horrific rape and murder of 12-year-old Adriel Moxey, a case that has shocked the nation. Ferguson, a painter and car washer from Misty Close, pleaded guilty to charges of murder, unlawful sexual intercourse, and unlawful detention to have sexual intercourse before Justice Guillimina Archer-Minns.

    The court heard how Ferguson systematically followed the child along a bush path on November 18, 2024, falsely claiming to be a local resident before luring her into vegetation where he committed sexual assault and ultimately strangled her with a belt. In a disturbing twist, he returned the following day to relocate the body. The victim’s remains were discovered two days later near Faith Avenue after an extensive island-wide search, with police reports confirming death by strangulation.

    Outside the courtroom, Sasha Moxey, the victim’s mother, expressed mixed emotions regarding the sentencing. While acknowledging the pain of hearing graphic details of her daughter’s final moments—so severe that her partner had to exit the courtroom—she accepted the 40-year term as part of a judicial agreement, though she believed life imprisonment would have been more appropriate.

    The proceedings revealed Ferguson’s written apology to the family, in which he stated: ‘I took away an innocent life and I know I must pay for my wrongdoing.’ His defense counsel, David Cash, highlighted Ferguson’s remorse and requested continued psychological counseling and enrollment in a prison fellowship program, noting his client’s solitary confinement and need for mental health evaluation.

    Justice Archer-Minns characterized the crimes as ‘heinous and callous,’ emphasizing that the child ‘did not deserve to die the way she did.’ The court agreed to forward defense submissions regarding prison conditions to the prison commissioner.

    Ms. Moxey revealed that Ferguson’s knowledge of her daughter’s bag location convinced her of his guilt as the last person to see Adriel alive. She described the ongoing impact on the victim’s siblings, particularly the eldest, and asked the public to remember her daughter as ‘beautiful and full of life.’ While acknowledging the sentence brought some closure, she noted the healing process would require considerable time. The case was prosecuted by Eucal Bonaby.

  • Stabroek newspaper closes down

    Stabroek newspaper closes down

    GEORGETOWN, Guyana – In a significant blow to Caribbean media diversity, Stabroek News, one of Guyana’s longstanding daily publications established in the 1960s, has announced its permanent closure. The shutdown marks the second major media outlet in the region to cease operations recently, following Trinidad and Tobago’s NEWSDAY.

    The newspaper’s principal shareholders, Isabelle and Brendan de Caires, described the decision as “extraordinarily difficult and painful” in a comprehensive public statement. They revealed that the state-operated Department of Public Information (DPI) has accumulated an outstanding debt exceeding GUY$80,000,000 (approximately US$320,000) for unpaid advertisements over the past year.

    Despite numerous private appeals and public calls for settlement, the government entity has persistently failed to clear its substantial debt. The shareholders characterized this pattern of non-payment as a deliberate strategy to deprive the publication of essential operating capital, effectively crippling its financial viability.

    The statement further contextualized the challenges of operating a media enterprise in the Caribbean region, noting that “publishing has always been a precarious undertaking in Guyana and the Caribbean due to the modest size of the potential readership, and to other market constraints.” While emphasizing that profit was never the primary motivation, they stressed that any business must maintain financial sustainability to continue operations.

    Additional obstacles cited include repeated denials of radio broadcasting licenses and significant competitive disadvantages compared to other local media entities. Although Stabroek News maintained a television subsidiary for several decades, the shareholders noted that competitors enjoyed “significant privileges” that created an unlevel playing field. This environment ultimately made the anticipated transition from print newspaper to multimedia broadcaster impossible, contributing to the publication’s eventual demise.

  • St. Joseph’s Academy Interact Club Continues Season of Giving with Donation to Antigua and Barbuda Red Cross

    St. Joseph’s Academy Interact Club Continues Season of Giving with Donation to Antigua and Barbuda Red Cross

    The Interact Club of St. Joseph’s Academy has demonstrated exceptional community leadership through its comprehensive “Season of Giving” campaign, executing multiple philanthropic projects that address diverse local needs. Their humanitarian efforts culminated on February 11th with a significant clothing donation to the Antigua and Barbuda Red Cross, providing essential support for the organization’s thrift store operations that serve vulnerable populations throughout the island. The student-led initiative involved meticulous organization as Interactors mobilized their peers and school community to contribute pre-owned garments.

    Earlier this academic term, the club initiated its charitable programming by honoring medical professionals at Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre with doughnut donations, recognizing their tireless service within the national healthcare framework. Expanding this healthcare support, the organization collaborated with Christ the King School’s Interact Club to enhance pediatric care facilities. Their joint contribution included practical items such as bedding sets, window curtains, timekeeping devices, and electric kettles specifically designated for the Pediatric Ward, directly improving the comfort experience for young patients and their families during treatment.

    These coordinated endeavors reflect the Interact Club’s deep commitment to operationalizing the principle of service above self. Through strategic partnerships and targeted outreach, the student members have exhibited remarkable organizational capabilities while developing genuine compassion for community welfare. Their multifaceted approach to social support demonstrates how youth-led initiatives can create tangible positive impact across various sectors of society, from healthcare support to essential goods distribution for economically disadvantaged communities.

  • WATCH: Condo Units To Be Available For Purchase by locals in refurbished Heritage Hotel

    WATCH: Condo Units To Be Available For Purchase by locals in refurbished Heritage Hotel

    A landmark heritage hotel is set to undergo a transformative redevelopment that will create exclusive condominium ownership opportunities for local residents. The carefully orchestrated refurbishment project aims to preserve the architectural integrity of the historic property while converting it into modern residential units specifically earmarked for community members seeking ownership in prestigious locations.

    The initiative represents a significant shift in urban development strategy, prioritizing local access to premium real estate that might otherwise target international investors or luxury buyers. The restoration will maintain the building’s distinctive facade and character-defining elements while introducing contemporary amenities and sustainable features expected by today’s homeowners.

    Urban planning experts note this approach addresses multiple objectives simultaneously: preserving cultural heritage assets, increasing owner-occupied housing stock, and enabling community-connected residents to establish roots in historically significant neighborhoods. The project demonstrates how adaptive reuse of heritage structures can serve both conservation goals and housing needs without compromising architectural significance.

    Prospective buyers can expect a blend of historical charm and modern convenience, with original features like cornices, moldings, and possibly even restored lobby elements incorporated into the residential design. The development timeline and purchasing process details will be announced in coming months, with priority expected to be given to long-term residents and those with demonstrated community ties.

  • Cabinet Throws Full Support Behind Warri Rival Project

    Cabinet Throws Full Support Behind Warri Rival Project

    The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda has unanimously endorsed the Warri Rival project, granting full governmental support to this cultural preservation initiative after Department of Creative Industries officials delivered an extensive presentation to ministers this week.

    Government ministers received an immersive demonstration highlighting Warri’s profound historical roots and cultural importance, tracing the game’s origins to ancient African civilizations and its subsequent transmission throughout Caribbean communities over centuries. Rather than presenting it as merely a recreational activity, officials framed Warri as a multifaceted educational instrument capable of developing critical cognitive abilities in youth.

    The initiative specifically emphasizes Warri’s capacity to enhance strategic thinking capabilities, cultivate patience, and strengthen problem-solving skills among younger generations—attributes identified as vital for both academic achievement and personal growth. The government’s institutional backing aims to transform the traditional board game into a mechanism for fostering national identity while creating platforms for international cultural dialogue.

    A centerpiece of the implementation strategy will be the Inter-Schools Warri Championship, an upcoming tournament designed to engage students nationwide in competitive yet culturally meaningful encounters. Event organizers anticipate this competition will serve as a cornerstone for integrating Warri more deeply into Antigua and Barbuda’s educational framework and cultural consciousness.

    With formal cabinet approval now secured, the Warri Rival project transitions from conceptualization to nationwide execution, establishing Antigua and Barbuda as a pioneering force in the Caribbean region’s revival of traditional African games.

  • Community policing in action at the Convent High School

    Community policing in action at the Convent High School

    ROSEAU, DOMINICA – In a proactive move to foster positive relationships with the younger generation, the Commonwealth of Dominica Police Force (CDPF) has intensified its Community Oriented Policing Initiative. On January 10, 2026, officers engaged directly with students from Forms 1-2 and 1-3 at the prestigious Convent High School, marking a significant step in their ongoing outreach strategy.

    The initiative, designed to bridge the gap between law enforcement and the community, focused on interactive dialogues and educational sessions. Police representatives addressed the assembled students, emphasizing themes of civic responsibility, conflict resolution, and the critical role of youth in maintaining community harmony. The program’s curriculum is tailored to demystify police work and build mutual trust from an early age.

    This engagement at Convent High School is not an isolated event but part of a broader, strategic national campaign. The CDPF has been systematically visiting educational institutions across the island nation, aiming to instill a sense of security and open communication channels with students. The long-term objective is to cultivate a collaborative environment where young citizens view the police as approachable allies rather than an authoritative force.

    Educational authorities and community leaders have lauded the initiative, highlighting its potential to reduce juvenile delinquency and empower students with knowledge about law and order. The CDPF has confirmed its commitment to expanding these programs, underscoring a modern policing philosophy that prioritizes prevention and community partnership over mere enforcement.

  • Anthony Smith Jr. Contributes Over $20,000 to All Saints West Football Clubs

    Anthony Smith Jr. Contributes Over $20,000 to All Saints West Football Clubs

    In a significant boost for grassroots sports and youth development, Anthony Smith Jr., the Member of Parliament for All Saints West, has championed a substantial financial injection exceeding $20,000 into local football clubs. This strategic investment underscores a dedicated commitment to fostering community cohesion and providing structured opportunities for the younger generation.

    The most recent allocation, distributed on Tuesday evening, saw a combined $10,000 presented to the Sea View Farm and Freemans Village football clubs. This contribution represents the second installment of seasonal funding, following an initial round of equal financial support provided to both teams earlier. Smith emphasized that this parity is a core principle of his initiative, ensuring both clubs benefit identically from the program.

    ‘Investing in our youth and supporting sports development in All Saints West is not optional; it’s essential,’ Smith declared in an official statement. He powerfully articulated the broader vision behind the funding, stating, ‘When we strengthen our clubs, we strengthen our communities.’ The MP further elaborated on the philosophy driving the contributions, asserting that young people are deserving of ‘opportunity, structure, and support,’ and that ‘fairness and consistency matter’ in delivering these resources.

    This series of donations is framed as a critical component of a larger, ongoing strategy to enhance community engagement and social infrastructure. By channeling resources into athletic organizations, the initiative aims to use sports as a catalyst for positive social development, team building, and personal growth among the constituency’s youth, thereby fortifying the community’s foundation from the ground up.

  • Billionaire Manchester United co-owner sparks outrage by claiming UK ‘colonized by immigrants’

    Billionaire Manchester United co-owner sparks outrage by claiming UK ‘colonized by immigrants’

    British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has publicly demanded an apology from billionaire industrialist Jim Ratcliffe following controversial comments alleging the United Kingdom has been ‘colonized by immigrants.’ The Prime Minister characterized Ratcliffe’s statements as ‘offensive and wrong’ during a Wednesday address, emphasizing Britain’s identity as ‘a proud, tolerant and diverse country.’