In a landmark operation, the Dominica police announced on Friday the largest drug seizure in the nation’s history, confiscating more than 1,700 kilograms of cocaine with an estimated street value exceeding EC$46 million (approximately US$17 million). The operation, dubbed ‘Clean Street,’ marks a significant milestone in the country’s fight against drug trafficking. Acting Police Commissioner Lincoln Corbette revealed that the haul surpasses the previous record set in the early 1980s, when 3,000 pounds of cocaine were seized. ‘This is the biggest haul ever in Dominica,’ Corbette emphasized during a press conference. He praised the officers involved for their dedication, stating that the seizure prevents millions of dollars from falling into the hands of criminals and endangering citizens. Corbette also disclosed that 24 individuals—19 men and 5 women—were arrested in connection with the operation, alongside the confiscation of substantial cash amounts, firearms, and ammunition. While he did not confirm arrests directly linked to the cocaine seizure, the operation has dealt a significant blow to organized crime in the region.
分类： society
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Flooding Reported Across Antigua as Heavy Rain Triggers Alerts
The Antigua and Barbuda Meteorological Service has issued a flood alert for the John Hughes area following reports of severe flooding caused by relentless heavy rainfall. Residents are being urged to exercise extreme caution, particularly by avoiding flooded roads and low-lying areas that are prone to water accumulation. Motorists are also advised to drive with heightened care, as roads stretching from Old Parham Road north to Utility Drive have become wet and slippery due to the ongoing downpour. In addition to the John Hughes area, heavy rain has also been reported over Vernon, with locals sharing images of the deluge as showers continue to drench various parts of the island. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation and have emphasized the importance of staying informed through official weather alerts. The public is encouraged to remain vigilant and adhere to safety guidelines to mitigate risks associated with the adverse weather conditions.
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EC$7 million in First-Generation Scholarship awards
The Ministry of Education of Grenada celebrated its second First-Generation Scholarship Award Ceremony on October 10, 2025, at the Grenada Trade Centre Annex in Morne Rouge, St. George. The event marked the distribution of over $7 million in scholarships to 80 Grenadian students, enabling them to pursue higher education in fields such as accounting, criminal justice, business, healthcare, finance, sports management, hospitality, disaster management, and cybersecurity. This initiative, first launched in December 2024 for the 2025 academic year, is a collaborative effort between the Government of Grenada and Monroe University, targeting individuals who are the first in their families to attend university. Permanent Secretary Elvis Morain emphasized the transformative impact of the program, stating that it not only alleviates financial burdens but also fosters confidence and a sense of belonging. Education Minister Senator David Andrew highlighted the government’s goal of achieving one university graduate per household, citing Grenada’s 2021 census data, which revealed that only 3,960 individuals hold a first degree, 1,631 have a master’s, and 382 possess a doctorate. Minister Andrew underscored the government’s commitment to expanding access to higher education through partnerships like the one with Monroe University. Monroe University President Marc Jerome expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell and Minister Andrew for their investment in Grenadian students, while Senior Vice President Alex Ephrem emphasized the university’s practical, career-focused programs and unparalleled support services. Scholarship recipient Jenelle Morain thanked the Ministry of Education and Monroe University for their dedication to transforming lives through education. The scholarships cover tuition for online students and include accommodation for those attending Monroe’s campuses in St. Lucia and New York.
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Pharmacist on attempted murder charge granted bail (+Video)
In a significant development, Esworth Lewis, the pharmacist accused of attempted murder following a shooting incident in Calder, was granted bail on Thursday. This decision came despite the victim, Omarie Pereira of Biabou, remaining in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at Milton Cato Memorial Hospital (MCMH). Lewis had initially been denied bail during his first court appearance on Monday at the Serious Offences Court. However, Chief Magistrate Colin John reconsidered the decision after reviewing the evidence presented by the investigating officer, Corporal Kevron Jack. Jack testified that he had visited Pereira on Thursday morning and confirmed that while the victim was still in the ICU, he was no longer dependent on life support and was breathing independently. Based on this update, the prosecution, led by Inspector Renrick Cato, withdrew its objection to Lewis’ bail. The court set bail at EC$30,000 with one surety and imposed reporting conditions. The case has been adjourned to October 30. Lewis is alleged to have shot Pereira twice in Calder on October 10, leading to the attempted murder charge.
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Onderminister Jadnanansing bespreekt 12-urige werkweek met Rosebel
The Ministry of Health, Welfare, and Labor (VWA) in Suriname recently held discussions with Rosebel Gold Mines N.V., a subsidiary of China’s Zijin Mining, to address concerns over the implementation of 12-hour work shifts in mining operations. The talks focused on the potential impacts on workers’ health, safety, and rights. Deputy Minister Raj Jadnanansing, overseeing Welfare and Labor, emphasized that while the government supports efficiency and flexibility, all work schedules must comply with legal frameworks. ‘Rest and safety standards are enshrined in labor laws and must be strictly adhered to,’ Jadnanansing stated. The meeting follows earlier consultations with the Rosebel workers’ union, which raised concerns about extended work hours, safety risks, and communication gaps with management. Additional topics included the employment of foreign workers, safety standards, and the reactivation of the internal monitoring committee, which includes representatives from the employer, union, and ministry. The committee has been inactive for some time, and the ministry urged its prompt reinstatement to oversee compliance with labor agreements. The Directorate of Labor provided guidance on current labor laws, reminding the company that foreign workers must possess valid work permits issued by the ministry. Rosebel Gold Mines committed to addressing administrative shortcomings, and the Labor Inspectorate will conduct regular inspections to ensure legal compliance and support improvements in working conditions. Representing Rosebel Gold Mines were Daniel Wu (Human Resources Director), Jerry Zhu (Manager People and Culture), and Angela de Abreu (Deputy HR Manager).
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IICA discussion pinpoints aspects of governance, public investment, and environmental financing as essential for enhancing regional agricultural and food networks
A recent hemispheric forum organized by the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA) brought together government officials, international organization representatives, and agrifood sector experts to strategize on enhancing institutional frameworks and aligning public policies across Latin America and the Caribbean. The event emphasized three critical pillars for addressing the region’s agrifood challenges: effective governance, targeted public expenditure, and innovative green financing mechanisms. Participants explored scalable solutions and identified barriers to expanding and strengthening agrifood policies, culminating in actionable recommendations for more inclusive, sustainable, and impactful initiatives. A recurring theme was the necessity of platforms fostering dialogue and coordination among ministries, international agencies, private enterprises, and civil society to ensure good governance. Robust monitoring and evaluation systems were also highlighted as essential for transparency and accountability. Eugenio Díaz-Bonilla, IICA’s Special Advisor, stressed the importance of multi-year operational programs with clear objectives, funding sources, and monitoring mechanisms. Discussions on public investment underscored the need for strategic resource allocation toward sustainable productivity, innovation, and healthy diets. Carmine Paolo De Salvo of the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) advocated for smart incentives like pre-planting assistance and price guarantees for small-scale farmers. Green financing discussions focused on establishing regulatory frameworks for green loans and subsidies, with participants emphasizing financial innovation to develop renewable energy financing and transparency platforms. Luis Rosa Pérez of CAF highlighted the role of renewable energy loans and transparency platforms in fostering accountability. The forum concluded with a commitment to advancing coordinated public policies in the agrifood sector, supported by IICA’s Public Policy Observatory for Agrifood Systems (OPSAa), which will document and analyze the discussed cases for future scalability and impact.
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Officials Urge Caution as Thunderstorms and Lightning Sweep Across Antigua and Barbuda
ST. JOHN’S, Antigua — As severe thunderstorms, relentless lightning, and torrential rainfall continue to batter Antigua and Barbuda, local authorities are issuing urgent safety advisories to residents, particularly students and parents. The Antigua and Barbuda Meteorological Services emphasize the critical importance of adhering to lightning safety protocols during this hazardous weather event.
Meteorological experts have warned the public to remain indoors or avoid open areas when thunderstorms are active. The mantra, ‘When thunder roars, go indoors,’ underscores the dangers posed by lightning, even from distant storms. Residents are urged to seek immediate shelter upon hearing thunder or seeing lightning.
For those caught outdoors, officials advise avoiding open spaces, tall structures, and bodies of water. Students are encouraged to stay indoors until the weather improves. The ’30-30 Rule’ is being reiterated: if the time between seeing lightning and hearing thunder is 30 seconds or less, individuals should seek shelter immediately and remain indoors for at least 30 minutes after the last thunderclap.
Authorities have also highlighted that lightning can strike several miles from the storm’s center, making it essential to avoid electrical appliances, wired devices, and outdoor areas like balconies or porches during active lightning. A flash flood watch remains in effect until later this afternoon, and residents are urged to stay updated through official advisories from the Meteorological Services and local emergency channels.
This severe weather event underscores the need for heightened vigilance and adherence to safety guidelines to prevent injuries or fatalities. Residents are encouraged to monitor weather updates and take all necessary precautions to ensure their safety.
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Dominica Calypso Association announces newly appointed positions
On October 14, 2025, the Dominica Calypso Association held a pivotal meeting to establish its new leadership structure. The session marked the first gathering of the recently elected members, who deliberated on key appointments to steer the organization forward. Gregory “Karessah” Rivierre emerged as the newly appointed President, bringing his extensive experience and vision to the role. Fitzroy “Bingo” Leon was named Vice President, tasked with supporting the President in driving the association’s initiatives. Renna “Mystrie” Prosper was elected Secretary, ensuring the smooth operation of administrative affairs, while Joey “Explosion” Loyd took on the responsibilities of Treasurer, overseeing financial management. Additionally, Royette Laurent was appointed as Assistant Secretary/Treasurer, and Peter Letang was chosen as the Public Relations Officer, responsible for enhancing the association’s public image. The membership roster also included notable figures such as Jerry “Oracle” Loyd, Chester “Daddy Chess” Letang, and Keith “Tronada” Hurtault, who will contribute their expertise to the association’s endeavors. This leadership reshuffle is expected to invigorate the Dominica Calypso Association, fostering growth and innovation in the calypso music scene.
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ECSE announces Regional Schools Investment Competition
The Eastern Caribbean Securities Exchange (ECSE), in partnership with key stakeholders, has unveiled the Regional Schools Investment Competition, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at high school and first-year college students. This program seeks to immerse young minds in the world of investing while shedding light on the operations of the Eastern Caribbean Securities Exchange. By doing so, it aspires to bolster the development of money and capital markets within the Eastern Caribbean Currency Union (ECCU) by nurturing a generation of knowledgeable and engaged investors.
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Bailey Reaffirms Antigua and Barbuda’s Commitment to Sweet Potato Innovation and Food Security
The Fisheries Division Conference Room at Point Wharf was a hub of activity and optimism on October 15, 2025, as stakeholders from across the Caribbean convened for the Inaugural Annual Project Virtual Symposium on Next Generation Sweet Potato Production. The event, both in-person and virtual, marked a significant step toward enhancing regional collaboration in agriculture. Mr. Gregory Bailey, Director of Agriculture and Chair of the Project Steering Committee, delivered opening remarks on behalf of the Government of Antigua and Barbuda and the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Barbuda Affairs (MALFBE). He emphasized the importance of innovation, shared purpose, and regional unity in advancing agricultural development. Mr. Bailey highlighted the sweet potato as more than a staple crop—it is a symbol of resilience, heritage, and food security for the Caribbean. He underscored its role in value chain development, agricultural diversification, and the transformation of food systems. The symposium served as a platform to reflect on progress, consolidate lessons learned, and strengthen partnerships. Mr. Bailey also proposed the establishment of a Caribbean Sweet Potato Community of Practice to foster knowledge sharing and innovation. He concluded by reaffirming Antigua and Barbuda’s commitment to sustainable agricultural systems and thanked participants for their contributions to this transformative initiative.