分类: society

  • UPDATE: Police investigate shooting death in Silver Lake

    UPDATE: Police investigate shooting death in Silver Lake

    The Commonwealth of Dominica Police Force (CDPF) has launched an investigation into the tragic shooting death of Eddie Anthony James, a 32-year-old resident of Silver Lake. The incident occurred in the early hours of Friday, November 14, 2025, when James was fatally shot inside his home by unidentified attackers. Acting Superintendent Chaucer James, head of the Criminal Investigation Department, confirmed the details and urged the public to assist with the ongoing investigation. A man previously held in custody has been released pending further inquiries. Superintendent James emphasized the importance of resolving conflicts peacefully, stating that such violent behavior is detrimental to society. He assured the public that the police are committed to preventing such incidents and called for community cooperation to bring the perpetrators to justice.

  • Byron James’ Family Says His Murder Was ‘Mistaken Identity’

    Byron James’ Family Says His Murder Was ‘Mistaken Identity’

    The tragic murder of 36-year-old Byron James has left his family in shock, as they believe he was the victim of mistaken identity. The incident occurred late Friday night when two masked gunmen entered the yard of his Castle Street home and fatally shot him. Byron’s sister-in-law, Leah James, recounted the harrowing moments, stating that the attack happened just seconds after he stepped outside for a cigarette. She described rushing to the scene and being the first to see his lifeless body on the ground. Leah also revealed that her seven-year-old daughter witnessed the gunfire, adding to the family’s trauma. Byron’s brother, Nikolai James, spoke of Byron’s efforts to turn his life around, emphasizing his role as a loving uncle and his desire to leave his troubled past behind. Byron had recently been released from Belize Central Prison after a prolonged legal battle related to a 2012 murder conviction. The case had been stalled due to procedural delays, leading to his eventual release. Police have detained one man for questioning and recovered two nine-millimetre pistols, which will undergo ballistic testing. Assistant Superintendent Stacy Smith confirmed that no motive has been established yet. The family is now grappling with the loss of a man they say was striving for redemption.

  • Universal Church has no right to exclusive parking – City Mayor

    Universal Church has no right to exclusive parking – City Mayor

    Georgetown Mayor Alfred Mentore has firmly stated that the Universal Church of the Kingdom of God (UCKG) does not possess exclusive parking rights on Charlotte and Wellington streets. This declaration followed a heated confrontation between a church representative and a member of the public over parking space outside the church. The dispute escalated when the church representative claimed the area was a ‘private zone,’ a statement vehemently denied by the individual involved. The altercation, captured on video, saw the church representative act aggressively, even brandishing a cutlass, which was quickly removed by another church associate. Mayor Mentore expressed his disappointment with the pastor’s behavior, emphasizing that the city council had never granted the church any reserved parking privileges. City workers were dispatched to remove any ‘No Parking’ signs and ensure public access to the parking area. The incident, monitored by government CCTV, underscores the tension between public rights and perceived private claims in urban spaces.

  • Friend of Elderly Man Says Police Ran Over Him Too

    Friend of Elderly Man Says Police Ran Over Him Too

    In a devastating turn of events, 70-year-old Daniel Puerto tragically lost his life on Sunday night after being struck by a minivan while seated on George Price Highway in Roaring Creek Village. The incident took a further grim twist when Puerto was reportedly run over a second time by a police vehicle. Albert Budd, a close friend of Puerto, recounted the harrowing moments leading up to the accident. Budd had offered Puerto a ride home, but before he could act, he heard a loud crash. Upon returning, he discovered that his cousin had inadvertently struck Puerto with the minivan. Budd further alleged that the police mobile subsequently ran over Puerto’s head while he lay on the ground, compounding the tragedy. Assistant Superintendent of Police Stacy Smith addressed the media, providing details of the incident. She stated that the minivan driver, Michael McFadzean, was not suspected of being under the influence at the time of the collision. The minivan has been impounded for further investigation, and a notice of intended prosecution has been issued to McFadzean. Smith also mentioned that Puerto was known to frequently sit on the road, a habit that may have contributed to the accident. A post-mortem examination is underway to determine if alcohol or drugs played a role in the incident.

  • Fifteen Dominican students rank in top 10 in Regional Merit List across various subjects

    Fifteen Dominican students rank in top 10 in Regional Merit List across various subjects

    The Ministry of Education, Human Resource Planning, Vocational Training, and National Excellence has proudly announced that 15 Dominican students have secured top 10 rankings across seven subjects in the 2025 Regional Merit List. These exceptional students hail from six different schools, as confirmed by local registrar Magalie Celestine in an official audio statement. Celestine highlighted the achievements of these students, naming them along with their respective schools. Among the standout performers, Gordisha Joseph from North East Comprehensive School ranked seventh in Physical Education and Sports, while Christine Defoe of Pierre Charles Secondary School secured third place in Textile, Clothing, and Fashion. In the CCSLC category, Sari Bruni from Castle Bruce Secondary School achieved sixth place in Digital Literacy. Michael Lawrence, also from Castle Bruce Secondary School, topped the region in English. French saw remarkable dominance by Arthur Waldron SDA Academy, with Shalia Valmo, Laureline Valerie, and Khalid Collier securing the top three positions. Dominica Grammar School also excelled in French, with Gabrielle George placing sixth. In Mathematics, Adejah Schillingford of Dominica Grammar School and Khalid Collier of Arthur Waldron SDA Academy shared the top spot. Other notable achievements include Sari Bruney of Castle Bruce Secondary School ranking second in Social Studies. The registrar extended heartfelt congratulations to all students for their consistent excellence in the CSEC and CCSNC exams, emphasizing the Ministry of Education’s pride in their accomplishments.

  • One Suspect Detained for Latest Belize City Murder

    One Suspect Detained for Latest Belize City Murder

    Authorities in Belize City have detained one suspect following the fatal shooting of 36-year-old Byron James, who was killed outside his family’s residence on Castle Street late Friday night. The incident, which occurred in the Old Capital, has prompted an intensive police investigation. Assistant Superintendent of Police Stacy Smith reported that officers arrived at the scene around 9:55 p.m. and discovered James lying motionless. Preliminary investigations suggest that two masked individuals entered the yard, opened fire, and fled the scene. A family member recounted hearing approximately five gunshots. Law enforcement officials recovered two nine-millimetre pistols, which have been sent to the National Forensic and Science Services laboratory for ballistic testing to ascertain their involvement in the crime. The motive remains unclear, and one individual is currently in police custody. James, who had recently been released from Belize Central Prison after appealing a murder conviction, was out on bail at the time of his death. A post-mortem examination is pending to determine the exact cause of death.

  • More Details of Dangriga Father Shot Dead

    More Details of Dangriga Father Shot Dead

    In a harrowing incident that has shaken the community of Dangriga, a 28-year-old father, Oscar Williams Jr, was fatally shot inside his home on Rear Pine Street on Friday night. The attack occurred shortly after 9 PM, as Williams was in the lower flat of his two-storey residence with his son. According to police reports, a masked assailant dressed in dark clothing entered the dwelling and opened fire, striking Williams multiple times. Emergency responders arrived to find Williams on a sofa with severe gunshot wounds. He was rushed to the Southern Regional Hospital but was pronounced dead upon arrival. Authorities have recovered significant ballistic evidence from the scene, including 14 expended 9mm shells and three slugs. Assistant Superintendent of Police Stacy Smith confirmed that one male suspect has been detained, though the motive remains unclear. ‘The investigation is ongoing, and all angles are being pursued,’ Smith stated. The community now awaits further details as Williams’ body undergoes a post-mortem examination.

  • Grenada celebrates marine heritage and sustainability

    Grenada celebrates marine heritage and sustainability

    The 4th Annual Dive and Conservation Festival in Grenada has wrapped up another successful edition, marking a week-long celebration of the island’s marine biodiversity, sustainable tourism, and community-driven conservation initiatives. The festival kicked off with an opening ceremony at Mount Cinnamon Resort, attended by sponsors, partners, and participants, all united by their passion for environmental stewardship. Shanai St Bernard, Nautical Development Manager at the Grenada Tourism Authority (GTA), emphasized the festival’s mission to showcase Grenada’s marine beauty while fostering education and awareness about conservation. St Bernard highlighted the importance of collective efforts in preserving the island’s marine ecosystems for future generations. The week featured a series of immersive activities, including a sea moss farming demonstration, a dive at the “World Adrift” sculpture park in Carriacou, and an encounter with the endangered Grenada frog at Grand Etang. These experiences underscored the interconnectedness of conservation, innovation, and sustainability. The festival also hosted “Conservation Conversations,” a conference that brought together students, sustainability experts, and conservationists for meaningful dialogue. A screening of the documentary “Open Season,” which chronicles efforts to protect Grenada’s sea turtle population, was a key highlight. Stacey Liburd, CEO of the GTA, praised the festival’s impact, noting Grenada’s commitment to protecting its marine ecosystems and biodiversity. The event concluded with mangrove restoration and birdwatching activities at Woburn Mangrove Boardwalk, where participants worked alongside local conservationists to plant seedlings and observe the area’s diverse wildlife. The Dive and Conservation Festival reinforced Grenada’s reputation as a premier dive destination and a leader in sustainable marine tourism.

  • Akelo Andre of Gambles charged with multiple firearm-related offences

    Akelo Andre of Gambles charged with multiple firearm-related offences

    In a significant crackdown on illegal firearms, the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda has arrested and charged 28-year-old Sedeki Akelo Andre from Gambles with unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition. The incident occurred in the early hours of Sunday, November 16, 2025, when Narcotics Officers, conducting an operation on Perry Bay Main Road, encountered Andre and conducted a search. During the search, officers discovered a Taurus 9mm Pistol and seven matching rounds of ammunition in his possession. Andre was immediately taken into custody and formally charged. He is scheduled to appear in court to face the charges. This arrest is part of the Royal Police Force’s ongoing efforts to combat illegal firearms and ammunition, which are central to their broader strategy to reduce crime. Authorities are urging the public to report any information related to illegal weapons or suspicious activities to assist in these efforts.

  • Open letter of thanks for Lennox Abraham’s national award

    Open letter of thanks for Lennox Abraham’s national award

    In a heartfelt tribute to decades of unwavering dedication, Lennox Abraham has been honored with a national award by the Commonwealth of Dominica. The recognition, bestowed on November 3, 2024, coincides with the 47th anniversary of Dominica’s Independence. Abraham’s remarkable 40-year journey of selfless service has left an indelible mark on the nation. The award was granted following a recommendation by a close friend and colleague, who expressed profound gratitude to the government for their swift and decisive action. Despite some critics labeling the recommendation as politically motivated, the authorities recognized the genuine spirit behind the appeal. This honor not only celebrates Abraham’s contributions but also underscores the importance of good governance and unity in building a just and peaceful society. The article, originally published on DNO, was republished to amplify this message of appreciation and inspiration.