Spanish authorities have initiated an investigation into the mysterious disappearance of a Pablo Picasso masterpiece, ‘Still Life with Guitar,’ while it was being transported from Madrid to Granada for a scheduled exhibition. The oil-on-canvas artwork, valued at 600,000 euros ($700,000), was part of a showcase organized by the CajaGranada foundation, featuring pieces from private collections. National police sources confirmed the ongoing inquiry but refrained from disclosing further details due to confidentiality protocols. This incident adds to a history of thefts targeting Picasso’s works, which are highly sought after for their immense value. Notably, two of his paintings fetched over $140 million at recent auctions. One of the most infamous thefts occurred in 1976, when more than 100 of Picasso’s works were stolen from the Palais des Papes museum in Avignon, France, though all were eventually recovered. Picasso, born in 1881 in Malaga, Spain, and passing in 1973, remains one of the most influential artists in history, renowned for his groundbreaking experimentation with diverse styles and themes.
分类： society
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Policewoman found dead at home in St James
In a somber turn of events, 59-year-old police corporal Bibzie Foster was discovered unresponsive at her residence in Brooks Close, Granville, St James, Jamaica, on Wednesday morning. Foster, who was on the verge of retirement, was rushed to a nearby medical facility, where she was pronounced dead. Preliminary reports have not yet disclosed the cause of her sudden passing. Foster was set to retire in November, marking the end of her dedicated service with the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF). The JCF’s Corporate Communications Network (CCN) has officially confirmed her untimely demise. The incident has left the local community and her colleagues in mourning, as they reflect on her contributions to law enforcement and her impending retirement that will now remain unfulfilled.
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Ministry of Works Hails Renovation of Barbuda Council Building
The Ministry of Works has celebrated the completion of the Barbuda Council Administrative Building renovation, a significant achievement in the island’s infrastructure and governance. This project, finalized earlier this year, aims to enhance local administration and improve service delivery for Barbuda’s residents. Funded through a USD 31 million loan from the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) and additional government investments, the refurbished building now boasts structural repairs, modern furnishings, and expanded spaces tailored to meet the needs of the island’s growing population. The renovation is part of a broader civil works program, which includes the rehabilitation of the Community Centre, now retrofitted for emergency shelter use, the construction of the National Office of Disaster Services (NODS) Operations Centre, and the development of a Community Multipurpose Centre/Emergency Shelter. Additionally, resilient concrete roads are being constructed across Barbuda to enhance transport safety and boost economic prospects. These initiatives are integral to a wider strategy aimed at providing modern infrastructure and supporting sustainable development on the sister isle.
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Commissioner of Police Congratulates Officers Who Excelled in Their Academic Pursuits
In a remarkable display of dedication to both duty and education, five officers from the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda have been celebrated for their outstanding academic achievements. Acting Commissioner of Police, Mr. Everton Jeffers, publicly commended Inspector Evette Henry, Senior Sergeant Kerry Zachariah, Sergeant Nekeisha Josiah, Sergeant Renee Roberts, and Corporal Lenia Livingstone for successfully completing their studies at the University of the West Indies, Five Islands Campus (UWIFIC). These officers graduated with honors in various disciplines, showcasing their commitment to professional and personal growth. Sergeant Nekeisha Josiah led the group with First Class Honours in International Management, while Sergeant Renee Roberts and Corporal Lenia Livingstone earned Upper Second Class Honours in Business Management, specializing in Human Resource Management. Senior Sergeant Kerry Zachariah achieved Upper Second Class Honours in Management with Psychology, and Inspector Evette Henry graduated with Upper Second Class Honours in Management, focusing on Human Resource Management. Commissioner Jeffers expressed immense pride in their accomplishments, stating that their success reflects the Force’s dedication to continuous learning and development. He encouraged other officers to follow their example, emphasizing the importance of education in enhancing service delivery and leadership capabilities. The Commissioner also reaffirmed the Administration’s support for officers pursuing higher education, highlighting how such achievements strengthen the organization’s ability to serve the people of Antigua and Barbuda effectively.
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VIDEO: Mourners Gather to Bid Farewell to George “Charlie” Barnes
The community of Ottos Newtown gathered today to bid a final farewell to George ‘Charlie’ Barnes, a 74-year-old gas station owner whose tragic death last month has left the nation in shock. Barnes was fatally shot outside his home on Nugent Street on September 12, an incident that has since sparked widespread calls for justice and an end to violence. The funeral service, held at a local church, was attended by family, friends, and members of the business community, all of whom came together to honor the life and legacy of a man described as hardworking, generous, and humble. Tributes during the service highlighted Barnes’ decades of dedication to his family, business, and community, as well as the kindness he extended to all who knew him. Police investigations into the killing are ongoing, and while a post-mortem examination was conducted by Government Pathologist Dr. Petra Miller-Nanton on September 29, the official findings have yet to be released. As the community lays Barnes to rest, many continue to call for justice and an end to the violence that claimed the life of a man who was a pillar of integrity and goodwill.
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Protest Set for Friday Over Police Shooting of Teenager Khaleel Simon
A community protest demanding justice for the police shooting of 18-year-old Khaleel Simon is set to take place on Friday, 17 October, outside the Bolans Police Station. The demonstration, initially postponed due to Tropical Storm Jerry, will proceed regardless of weather conditions, according to organizers. The protest aims to seek accountability and transparency in the incident that occurred on Simon’s 18th birthday, which has left the community in shock and mourning. Opposition MP Kelvin “Shugy” Simon, who represents the area, has called on residents to join the rally, emphasizing that the event is not politically motivated but a unified call for justice. He stated, “The family is still grieving, and the community remains traumatized. We must demand answers as to why Khaleel was shot in such a manner.” Police authorities have yet to provide a comprehensive account of the incident, fueling public outrage and calls for clarity. The protest underscores broader concerns about police accountability and the protection of young lives in the community.
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Caribbean Development Bank and youth agency support mushroom agri-business for young men in St Lucia
In a landmark collaboration, the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB), Saint Lucia’s Youth Economy Agency (YEA), and the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security, and Rural Development have celebrated the successful completion of the Boys-to-Men Mushroom Agribusiness Employment Pilot Project. This initiative, designed to tackle critical issues of food security and youth unemployment, has empowered 50 young men with essential skills in mushroom farming and business management. The program, which emphasizes environmentally sustainable practices, aligns with Saint Lucia’s broader objectives of sustainable development and food self-sufficiency. Michel Thomas, Senior Operations Officer at CDB, highlighted the project’s dual focus on reducing the nation’s reliance on food imports and creating viable employment opportunities for vulnerable youth. With a contribution of approximately USD74,000 through the Caribbean Technological Consultancy Services program, the CDB has played a pivotal role in making this initiative a reality. Thomas Leonce, Chairman of the YEA, emphasized the project’s transformative potential, stating that it equips young men with entrepreneurial skills and fosters innovative solutions for sustainable development. Implemented across communities such as Gros Islet, Cul De Sac, and Piaye, the project reflects a collaborative effort involving government ministries, trainers, mentors, and local stakeholders. It also supports CDB’s broader Youth Economy Project, which has provided USD6.7 million in loans and grants to young entrepreneurs aged 18 to 35. Michel Thomas reiterated the Bank’s commitment to youth empowerment and agricultural development, underscoring the importance of nurturing resilience and economic opportunity for future generations.
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Gardiner, Rudder awarded UWI honorary degrees
The University of the West Indies (UWI) has announced that aviation pioneer Lyndon Gardiner and cultural entrepreneur Pierce Antonio “Boo” Rudder are among 11 distinguished individuals set to receive the institution’s highest academic honor during its 2025 graduation season. The ceremony, themed ‘Pelicans in an AI-driven future: where tradition meets tomorrow,’ will span from October 11 to November 8 across UWI’s Five Islands, Cave Hill, St Augustine, Mona, and Global campuses. Gardiner, a visionary entrepreneur from North Caicos, revolutionized regional air travel through his leadership of interCaribbean Airways. Starting as a modest one-man operation in the 1990s, he transformed Air Turks & Caicos into the largest privately-owned airline in the Caribbean. Today, interCaribbean connects 27 destinations across 17 countries, fostering regional unity and creating hundreds of jobs. Beyond aviation, Gardiner has made significant contributions through scholarships at UWI, medical transport partnerships, and disaster relief initiatives. Rudder, a cultural administrator and entrepreneur, has dedicated his life to advancing Barbadian culture and identity. He has managed the Blue Rhythm Combo, led the Musicians’ and Entertainers’ Guild of Barbados, and served as CEO of the National Cultural Foundation. His advocacy for copyright reform has empowered Caribbean creators to protect their intellectual property. Additionally, Rudder has excelled as a national sports administrator, leading the Barbados Rifle and Pistol Federation and representing the island internationally. His creative endeavors include producing the CD ‘Rush Hour’ and authoring ‘Marching to a Different Drummer.’ In 2019, he was awarded the Gold Crown of Merit for his contributions to culture, business, and sport. The two honorees will be recognized for their outstanding achievements during the UWI Cave Hill Campus graduation ceremony on October 18, 2025. Other notable honorees include reggae icon Marcia Griffiths, academic leaders Professor Niranjan Kissoon and Professor Gene D. Morse, and the late Jamaican business executive Donald Wehby.
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As yard turns to mud, St Andrew man blames drainage works
A St Simons homeowner, Keith Lowe, faced a distressing situation as relentless overnight rains transformed his yard into a muddy swamp, reigniting fears of flooding and sparking criticism of recent drainage modifications he claims have exacerbated the issue. On Tuesday, Lowe’s property in St Andrew, Barbados, was submerged in mud—a scenario mirrored in other parts of the island. The Barbados Meteorological Services (BMS) had issued a flash flood warning on Monday, predicting up to 50 millimetres of rain by Tuesday midday. Meteorologists cautioned that the heavy downpours could lead to severe runoff, soil erosion, and road blockages. Social media was flooded with images of the devastation, including Lowe’s own posts showing water encroaching beneath his home. Lowe recounted how water from the nearby road flooded his cellar, leaving behind thick mud. He expressed concern that continued rainfall could damage his home. Lowe attributed the flooding to recent road resurfacing and drainage changes, which he believes have redirected water toward his property. Despite his warnings to workers about the slope of his property, the kerb was lowered, worsening the situation. Lowe criticized the authorities for ignoring local input, stating, “We leave it to the experts, and the experts are failing at everything.” He also highlighted the placement of a new pipeline in front of his door, which has limited his ability to protect his home. By Tuesday evening, a government team visited the site, promising to raise the kerb and redirect water away from his property. However, with more rain forecasted, Lowe fears the measures may come too late. The BMS extended the flash flood warning until Wednesday morning, warning of potential flooding in low-lying areas due to saturated soils.
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CARICOM STATISTICS DAY: Secretary General urges unified approach to regional statistics strategy
Caribbean Statistics Day, celebrated on October 15, 2025, coincides with the culmination of the 2024-2025 Year of Statistics in CARICOM, marking a dual milestone. This year also commemorates the 50th anniversary of the Standing Committee of Caribbean Statisticians, highlighting the indispensable role of robust data systems in driving development and resilience across the Caribbean Community. CARICOM emphasized that the commemorative year has focused on standardizing and harmonizing statistical practices among member states. Key initiatives, such as the CARICOM Quality Assurance Framework, the CARICOM Code of Good Statistical Practices, and the Generic Statistical Business Process Model, have been successfully integrated into routine operations, streamlining the entire statistical lifecycle from data collection to dissemination. Currently, CARICOM is advancing its twelve-year Regional Strategy for the Development of Statistics, a comprehensive plan designed to fortify statistical infrastructures and ensure policymakers have access to accurate, timely data. Member governments are actively enhancing legal and institutional frameworks, allocating resources to National Statistical Offices, and prioritizing digital transformation to modernize statistical operations. CARICOM underscores the importance of a unified regional approach to address data gaps and elevate standards. On Caribbean Statistics Day, the Community reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening national and regional statistical processes, guided by the theme, “Improving Lives through Statistics: Strengthening and Innovating Together.” This vision reflects the collective aspiration for progress through collaboration and innovation.