Carib Scope

分类： society

  • Gun, ammo found in primary school classroom

    Gun, ammo found in primary school classroom

    Authorities in Guyana have launched a comprehensive investigation after a licensed 9mm pistol and eleven rounds of matching ammunition were discovered beneath a student’s desk in a Georgetown primary school. The unsettling find occurred on Monday afternoon, March 9, 2026, prompting immediate police response and raising serious security concerns within the educational institution.

    According to official statements from the Guyana Police Force, the discovery was made approximately at 1:06 PM when a teacher, alerted by reports of suspicious noises near a student’s desk, conducted a search of the area. The subsequent discovery led to school administrators contacting law enforcement immediately. Investigators from the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) subsequently visited the school, secured the firearm and ammunition, and transported them to a police station for safekeeping as the probe continues.

    Deputy Police Commissioner Wendell Blanhum, head of the CID, revealed that the weapon was legally registered to an individual who had previously reported it missing. Notably, the license holder’s child, who attends the same school, had been actively participating in family efforts to locate the firearm before its discovery in the classroom. Police have obtained statements from multiple persons connected to the incident, though specific details regarding how the weapon came to be in the classroom remain under investigation.

    The three-day gap between the discovery and the official police statement has drawn attention to protocol procedures in school security incidents. The event has sparked discussions among education officials and community leaders about enhancing security measures in educational environments to prevent similar occurrences in the future.

  • Veteran anaesthetist Dr Olubukola Ogumbyi retires after 40 years of service

    Veteran anaesthetist Dr Olubukola Ogumbyi retires after 40 years of service

    The healthcare community in Antigua and Barbuda is honoring the remarkable career of consultant anesthesiologist Dr. Olubukola Ogumbyi, who has retired after providing over forty years of dedicated medical service. Her departure marks the conclusion of an era that profoundly influenced both patient care standards and professional development within the nation’s medical sector.

    Dr. Ogumbyi’s distinguished journey in medicine commenced at the historic Holberton Hospital, where she initially served as a paediatric house officer. Her career trajectory subsequently led her to specialize in anesthesiology, where she cultivated an exceptional reputation among surgical teams and colleagues alike. Throughout her tenure, she became widely admired for her unwavering professionalism, composed demeanor in high-pressure operating theatre environments, and deep commitment to ensuring optimal patient outcomes.

    Beyond her technical responsibilities, Dr. Ogumbyi made substantial contributions to medical education by actively mentoring emerging physicians entering the field. Her guidance has reportedly shaped multiple generations of healthcare practitioners, with numerous colleagues attributing their professional development to her insightful mentorship. Over the course of approximately 40 years, she facilitated countless surgical procedures while simultaneously fostering a culture of excellence and compassion within the medical community.

    The announcement of her retirement has prompted an outpouring of tributes from healthcare professionals who have worked alongside her. These testimonials consistently highlight her exceptional clinical knowledge, leadership qualities, and the positive example she established through her daily practice. Many have expressed profound gratitude for her influential role in their careers while acknowledging that her absence will create a significant void within the profession.

    Medical professionals throughout Antigua and Barbuda have recognized Dr. Ogumbyi’s retirement as representing the loss of an institutional pillar whose contributions extended far beyond the operating room. Her legacy is characterized by both the lives she directly impacted through patient care and the elevated standards she helped establish within the country’s healthcare system.

  • Man charged with murder, two counts of serious bodily harm

    Man charged with murder, two counts of serious bodily harm

    Barbados law enforcement authorities have formally pressed criminal charges against a 24-year-old resident of St Michael in connection with a violent incident that occurred on March 1. The accused, identified as Jahmali Jahwaun Irell Greenidge from Lower Bridge Gap, Cave Hill, faces one count of murder alongside two additional charges of inflicting serious bodily harm.

    The Barbados Police Service confirmed the charges relate to the fatal killing of Nigel Gibbs, while the assault charges involve two victims named Morgan Nelson and Raymond Lane. The judicial proceedings will commence at the District ‘A’ Criminal Court where Greenidge is expected to make his initial appearance before the judiciary.

    This development marks a significant progression in the criminal investigation that began following the early March incident. The legal system now moves toward the adjudication phase where evidence will be presented and examined through proper judicial channels. The community awaits further developments in this case as it progresses through Barbados’ criminal justice system.

  • Police Seek Public’s Help to Locate Stolen Honda Fit

    Police Seek Public’s Help to Locate Stolen Honda Fit

    Law enforcement authorities in the Greenbay area have issued a public appeal for assistance in locating a stolen vehicle following a reported theft on Thursday morning. The missing automobile is identified as a 2010 silver Honda Fit with distinctive Antigua and Barbuda license plate number A63266 prominently displayed on both front and rear sections.

    Community members and residents across the region are being urged to remain vigilant and report any sightings of the compact silver vehicle to local police departments immediately. Officials recommend that individuals who potentially spot the automobile should attempt to capture photographic evidence if circumstances safely permit, providing valuable investigative leads to law enforcement personnel.

    The circulating photograph distributed through official channels shows the distinct rear profile of the vehicle with its identifiable license plate clearly visible. While the basic details of the vehicle theft have been confirmed, police representatives have maintained operational confidentiality regarding specific circumstances surrounding the incident, potential investigative leads, or suspected individuals possibly connected to the case.

    This community-based approach to crime resolution emphasizes the growing importance of public-police collaboration in addressing local criminal activities. The strategy leverages widespread community engagement to enhance traditional law enforcement methodologies, potentially accelerating recovery efforts through collective public vigilance.

  • Repairs Underway at West Bus Station Police Post

    Repairs Underway at West Bus Station Police Post

    Authorities have initiated comprehensive restoration efforts at the West Bus Station police facility following substantial structural damage to the building. Law enforcement personnel previously stationed at the post have been temporarily reassigned to operate from St. John’s Police Station during the rehabilitation period.

    According to police administration officials, repair crews have been working diligently to address the damage, with significant progress reported as recently as the day prior to official statements. “I can confirm that restoration work has been conducted as late as yesterday,” a high-ranking police official disclosed during a press conference.

    The damaged police outpost serves a critical function in maintaining security and order at one of the city’s busiest transportation centers, processing thousands of commuters daily. While the exact nature and cause of the structural damage remain unspecified, authorities have prioritized returning operations to normalcy.

    Police leadership expressed optimism regarding the timeline for completion, indicating that personnel could potentially return to the West Bus Station facility within approximately ten days. “We anticipate officers resuming operations at their regular post in short order—possibly within a week and a half at most,” the senior officer added during the briefing.

  • Police Appeal for Public Help to Identify Driver in Illegal Dumping Incident

    Police Appeal for Public Help to Identify Driver in Illegal Dumping Incident

    Law enforcement authorities have launched a public appeal to identify a motorist connected to an unlawful waste disposal incident, emphasizing that the case will be prosecuted through the judicial system once the suspect is located. Investigators are actively working to determine responsibility for the unauthorized dumping of refuse and are encouraging community members with relevant information to come forward.

    Police officials highlighted the essential role of public cooperation in resolving environmental violations and ensuring accountability for offenders. “While our officers are dedicated to maintaining community standards, we cannot be present at every location simultaneously,” stated a police representative, making a direct appeal to potential witnesses.

    Authorities emphasized that community tips frequently prove instrumental in addressing illegal dumping cases and other environmental offenses, particularly when these acts occur without official observation. The collaborative effort between residents and law enforcement is considered fundamental to effective environmental protection.

    Individuals possessing any information that might advance the investigation are urged to contact local police authorities immediately. Once identified, the suspect will face formal legal proceedings in accordance with environmental protection statutes.

  • Milieuorganisaties waarschuwen: Grootschalige sojateelt bedreigt Surinaams oerbos

    Milieuorganisaties waarschuwen: Grootschalige sojateelt bedreigt Surinaams oerbos

    A coalition of environmental organizations in Suriname has issued an urgent warning about planned large-scale soybean cultivation that poses a severe threat to the country’s primary forests. The allocation of 113,000 hectares of agricultural land, including 50,000 hectares dedicated to soybean production, risks the loss of over 7% of Suriname’s forest cover, potentially jeopardizing its status as the “greenest country on Earth.”

    The Green NGO Collective delivered an open letter to parliament highlighting how massive agricultural expansion contradicts the government’s own “Green Development Strategy,” which explicitly identifies large-scale agriculture as the worst-case scenario for the nation’s environmental future. The groups detailed numerous ecological concerns, including deforestation, biodiversity loss, soil and water contamination from agricultural chemicals, and disruption of critical watersheds essential for rice field irrigation.

    Environmentalists note that these developments directly conflict with Suriname’s official 50-year structural vision, which excludes large-scale agriculture in primary forests and concentrates farming activities in traditional agricultural zones such as Nickerie, Coronie and Saramacca.

    The coalition is demanding parliamentary clarification on how massive agricultural concessions in pristine forests align with both national policy and international environmental agreements. They emphasize that deforestation not only causes environmental damage but could also trigger social conflicts by displacing indigenous communities and undermining their traditional ways of life.

    While acknowledging potential economic benefits from large-scale agriculture, the organizations warn of unequal profit distribution, increased dependence on foreign corporations, and the loss of sustainable economic potential in the long term. Additionally, environmental degradation could lead to higher healthcare costs due to pollution-related health issues in affected regions.

    The environmental groups remain open to dialogue and hope for a constructive government response to collaboratively develop a sustainable future for Suriname that balances economic development with environmental preservation.

  • Central Block gets new reopening date

    Central Block gets new reopening date

    The highly anticipated reopening of the Central Block at Port of Spain General Hospital has encountered significant setbacks, pushing its completion date to June 2026 instead of the previously scheduled March 31st deadline. The Urban Development Corporation of Trinidad and Tobago (UDeCOTT) confirmed the substantial delay in the $1.3 billion, 540-bed facility project, which was originally slated to open last year.

    Despite building works reaching 95.82% completion, UDeCOTT cited multiple complex challenges that have collectively contributed to the extended timeline. The corporation provided a detailed breakdown of the issues, highlighting critical infrastructure problems that emerged during the final phases of construction.

    Significant pipeline pressurization issues were identified during system testing between July and December 2025. The fire sprinkler system evaluation revealed leaks throughout the piping network, necessitating extensive repairs and replacement of damaged drywall installations. Simultaneously, global supply chain disruptions caused delays in duct insulation shipments from China, affecting HVAC system commissioning between June and September 2025.

    A particularly severe incident occurred on January 26, 2026, when a broken pipeline allowed water infiltration into the electrical bus duct system, causing a three-day power interruption. The damaged component requires replacement, with delivery expected in April 2026.

    Additional complications arose with medical gas system certification, as two previously approved verifiers declined to travel to Trinidad and Tobago due to US Embassy travel restrictions during the State of Emergency. A new certified verifier only arrived on March 1, 2026, to begin the inspection process.

    Despite these challenges, progress continues with medical equipment installation and staff training. Bed ward areas across Levels 3 to 12 reached operational readiness between December 2025 and February 2026, though specialized areas including the Pharmacy and Operating Theatre Suites remain under construction.

    The project, approved by the former government in June 2017, has faced numerous obstacles including the 2018 earthquake and COVID-19 pandemic. UDeCOTT maintains its commitment to delivering the redeveloped Central Block with the highest standards of safety and functionality.

  • Curepe clash driver heads to Court

    Curepe clash driver heads to Court

    A 27-year-old maxi-taxi driver involved in a physical altercation with Licensing Authority officers in Curepe is scheduled to face judicial proceedings following his arrest. The incident, captured by a TV6 journalist, unfolded along Southern Main Road on Monday within the St Joseph police district jurisdiction.

    According to official reports, the confrontation began when Licensing officers conducted routine vehicle inspections near the East Grove Housing Development. The driver allegedly assaulted an officer by striking him twice in the face before brandishing a wheel spanner and pursuing the officials’ vehicle. The suspect subsequently fled the scene but was apprehended following police investigations.

    Legal representative Rajin Dominic Persad confirmed his client anticipates formal charges, stating they would “explore legal manoeuvres” if charges weren’t filed promptly. The defense team, which includes attorney Roland Bain, has maintained cautious restraint regarding potential charges and penalties pending official documentation.

    Background information reveals the driver previously held temporary employment at the Licensing Office, suggesting possible familiarity with the involved officials. Family members speaking anonymously described the driver’s longstanding perception of being “targeted” by both police and transportation authorities during his maxi-taxi operations.

    Psychiatrist Dr. Varma Deyalsingh provided expert analysis of potential contributing factors, citing “pent-up frustration” from perceived harassment, financial pressures, and domestic issues. “When individuals feel economically threatened and consistently disrespected before their passengers, this can manifest as explosive anger,” Deyalsingh explained, highlighting the psychological impact of public humiliation.

    The specialist proposed de-escalation techniques for enforcement encounters, suggesting officers emphasize vehicle safety concerns rather than punitive approaches. This incident reflects broader global trends identified by the World Economic Forum, which reports declining public trust in authoritative institutions and increasing civil intolerance toward regulatory bodies.

  • Debaters to Enjoy Full Slate of Cultural and Social Activities as LIDC 54 Gets Underway in Nevis

    Debaters to Enjoy Full Slate of Cultural and Social Activities as LIDC 54 Gets Underway in Nevis

    The Caribbean island of Nevis has officially commenced the 54th Leeward Islands Debating Competition (LIDC 54), welcoming intellectual delegations from across the region for a four-day convergence of rhetoric and cultural exchange. From March 12-15, 2026, the Nevis Island Administration, in partnership with the Ministry of Education and Nevis Literary and Debating Society, has orchestrated an immersive program blending competitive discourse with rich cultural experiences.

    Six participating territories include defending champions Antigua, alongside Anguilla, Montserrat, Sint Maarten, St. Kitts, and host nation Nevis. The event commenced with an official welcome reception hosted by Honourable Eric Evelyn at Malcolm Guishard Recreational Park, setting the tone for diplomatic engagement.

    Mrs. Kerilyn David, Deputy Principal of Nevis Sixth Form College, unveiled an extensive itinerary designed to complement the intellectual rigors of debate with cultural enrichment. Beyond the competitive sessions, delegates will experience Charlestown shopping excursions, karaoke socials, historical island tours, glow parties, beach picnics (‘beach-nic’), and dedicated cultural showcases where each team presents their island’s heritage.

    The competitive schedule features Montserrat versus St. Kitts in Thursday’s inaugural debate, followed by Anguilla challenging Sint Maarten on Friday. Saturday’s semifinals will pit Debate One’s winner against Antigua, while Debate Two’s victor faces Nevis. The championship final culminates on Sunday at 5:00 PM, followed by an elegant Masquerade Ball at Four Seasons Resort Nevis.

    Nevis, boasting eleven historical LIDC victories including 2024’s triumph, fields a six-member team from Nevis Sixth Form College: Kiara Barry, Rajaun Fyfield, Keyana Warner, Shirmia Thompson, Kijari Huggins, and Tahleya Phillip. All events at Nevis Performing Arts Centre (NEPAC) remain free to the public, encouraging community engagement with this celebration of youth oratory and regional camaraderie.