分类: society

  • Maharaj: PCA investigations ongoing into Tobago shootings

    Maharaj: PCA investigations ongoing into Tobago shootings

    Justice Minister Devesh Maharaj has provided updates on the ongoing investigations by the Police Complaints Authority (PCA) into two police-involved fatal shootings that occurred in Tobago earlier this year. The incidents, which took place on April 25 and May 30, involved the deaths of Ronell Marcelle, 34, and Frank Allen Sammy, 74, respectively. During a Senate session on October 29, Maharaj responded to inquiries from Opposition Senator Melanie Roberts-Radgman, detailing the progress of the investigations. In the case of Marcelle, the PCA has secured the police investigative file, which includes witness statements, video footage, and a post-mortem certificate, though some information remains pending. For Sammy’s case, the PCA has obtained extracts from police records and conducted interviews, including securing a witness statement, but additional details are still awaited. Maharaj emphasized the PCA’s commitment to thoroughness in these investigations, underscoring the importance of accountability and transparency in such sensitive matters.

  • #MelissaAftermath: Near chaos at service stations in St James

    #MelissaAftermath: Near chaos at service stations in St James

    Montego Bay, St James, witnessed scenes of desperation and disorder on Thursday as a limited number of operational petrol stations faced overwhelming demand from residents and motorists. Many individuals, carrying containers, flocked to these stations in a bid to secure petrol or diesel, essential for maintaining daily activities. One resident highlighted the critical need for gasoline to power generators, which have become indispensable in their daily lives. ‘Without the gas, we don’t have any light and ting,’ she remarked. Tensions escalated at a Union Street gas station, where disputes nearly turned violent as people vied for their share of the scarce resource. ‘All machete people draw because a the gas thing,’ a witness recounted to Observer Online. By late afternoon, long queues persisted at locations like the Thrifty Gas Station in Rose Hall, as individuals waited patiently to fill their vehicles and containers.

  • Decomposed Body Found in Old Capital

    Decomposed Body Found in Old Capital

    Authorities in Belize City are currently probing the death of an unidentified man after his decomposing body was discovered earlier today. The unsettling find was reported by a local resident who noticed a strong odor near the basketball court in the Caesar Ridge neighborhood. Upon arrival, police officers located the body lying face-up in an open lot adjacent to Wilton Cumberbatch Field. The deceased was clad in a white undershirt and black sports shorts. Law enforcement swiftly secured the scene, and forensic investigators were summoned to gather evidence. Preliminary assessments indicate that the victim may have suffered a gunshot wound, though further details remain unclear. The investigation is ongoing as authorities work to identify the individual and determine the circumstances surrounding his death.

  • Birthday Tribute for Daniel Held at Jolly Harbour Today

    Birthday Tribute for Daniel Held at Jolly Harbour Today

    A heartfelt gathering is planned at the Jolly Harbour Super Yacht Dock on Wednesday, October 29, to commemorate the birthday of Daniel with a unique and touching tribute. The event, set to take place from 5:00 to 6:00 PM, has been timed to coincide with the picturesque sunset, offering a stunning natural backdrop for the celebration. Attendees are invited to bring their preferred beverages, share cherished memories, and recount their most treasured stories about Daniel. Organizers have emphasized that the event aims to honor Daniel’s vibrant life and enduring spirit in a warm, community-oriented atmosphere. This informal yet meaningful gathering is expected to bring together friends and well-wishers to celebrate the essence of Daniel’s character and the impact he has had on those around him.

  • OM vraagt gerechtelijk vooronderzoek aan in Moiwana-zaak

    OM vraagt gerechtelijk vooronderzoek aan in Moiwana-zaak

    The Public Prosecution Service (OM) has formally requested the investigating judge to initiate a judicial inquiry into the Moiwana case. This move aims to enable additional investigative actions that can only be conducted under the supervision of the investigating judge.

  • Logos Hope to Bring Floating Bookfair Back to Antigua in November 2025

    Logos Hope to Bring Floating Bookfair Back to Antigua in November 2025

    The Logos Hope, the world’s largest floating bookfair, is making its much-anticipated return to Antigua and Barbuda from November 5 to 16, 2025. The vessel will dock at the Nevis Street Pier, St. John’s Cruise Terminal, offering a unique opportunity for both residents and tourists to delve into a treasure trove of over 5,000 books spanning diverse genres, including science, education, faith, fiction, and family life. Organized with the mission to disseminate ‘knowledge, help, and hope,’ the Logos Hope provides affordable literature and fosters cross-cultural understanding through its volunteer crew, which represents more than 60 nations. The official opening ceremony is scheduled for Wednesday, November 5, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., with boarding commencing at 9:30 a.m. Visitors can explore the ship from Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., and on Sundays from 1 p.m. to 9 p.m. Entry is priced at 5 XCD per person, with complimentary admission for children under 12 and seniors over 65. Payments for books can be made via cash or credit card. Notably, children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult, with each adult permitted to supervise up to ten children. This visit underscores Logos Hope’s enduring commitment to promoting literacy, cultural diversity, and community engagement as part of its Caribbean tour.

  • LETTER: Call for a One-Year Work Exemption for Citizenship-Eligible Residents in Antigua and Barbuda

    LETTER: Call for a One-Year Work Exemption for Citizenship-Eligible Residents in Antigua and Barbuda

    In a bid to address the challenges faced by long-term residents, senior immigration officials in Antigua and Barbuda are advocating for a one-year work exemption for individuals who have met the residency requirements for citizenship but are currently barred from legal employment due to existing immigration policies. Under the current system, residents who have completed the necessary years of residence to qualify for citizenship lose their right to work once their work permit expires and they transition to an extension of stay. This creates a paradoxical situation where individuals who have contributed significantly to the nation’s economy and society are forced into unemployment or illegal work. The proposed exemption would grant a one-year work permit to those who have passed a standard immigration eligibility check, allowing them to continue working legally while completing their citizenship applications. This policy aims to reduce administrative burdens, promote fairness, and sustain economic contributions from experienced residents. Key benefits include economic stability, reduced bureaucratic hurdles, and enhanced social integration. The proposal also includes measures to ensure accountability, such as quarterly fees for delayed citizenship applications. By implementing this policy, Antigua and Barbuda would foster a more efficient and equitable immigration system that rewards long-term commitment and supports national development.

  • LETTER: An Australian Suggests a Reflective Approach to Antigua and Barbuda’s National Day

    LETTER: An Australian Suggests a Reflective Approach to Antigua and Barbuda’s National Day

    In a thought-provoking letter to the editor, Adrian Dow, a resident of Sydney, Australia, has proposed a significant shift in the way national days are observed. Dow suggests that Australia’s national day should be divided into two distinct segments: a morning dedicated to reflecting on the nation’s historical mistakes and an afternoon focused on celebrating its achievements. This dual approach, Dow argues, would provide a more nuanced and meaningful way to commemorate the day, encouraging both introspection and pride. Dow extends this idea beyond Australia, suggesting it as a universal model for all countries. With Antigua and Barbuda on the verge of celebrating their National Day, Dow invites the people of these nations to consider adopting this balanced approach to their own national celebrations. This proposal aims to foster a deeper understanding of national history and to serve as a safeguard against the repetition of past errors.

  • Alleged kidnapping victim rescued at construction site in Pares

    Alleged kidnapping victim rescued at construction site in Pares

    A 23-year-old man from Hatton was rescued on Sunday night following a harrowing ordeal at a construction site in Pares Village. The incident unfolded when the man’s 18-year-old sister received a distressing WhatsApp message on Sunday evening, alerting her that her brother had been kidnapped. The message reportedly included his precise location, which proved crucial in the rescue operation. The young man had left home earlier that day for work, but when his sister returned to their Hatton residence around 10:30 p.m., she discovered he had not returned. Upon checking her phone, she found the alarming message and immediately contacted the police. Authorities swiftly organized a search party and, using the location information provided, tracked the missing man to a house under construction in Pares Village. According to sources, the 23-year-old informed investigators that he had been hired to carry out construction work at the property. However, when he attempted to leave the site around 6:45 p.m., a 36-year-old man allegedly brandished a weapon, held him against his will, and prevented him from leaving. The suspect was subsequently arrested at the scene and is currently assisting police with their investigations.

  • Parental consent also protects abusers

    Parental consent also protects abusers

    Mandatory parental consent, often perceived as a safeguard for children, can paradoxically trap them in abusive households. While this provision is beneficial in nurturing environments, it becomes a tool of oppression in dysfunctional families. In such homes, sexual cruelty, fear, and suppression replace care and trust. Alarmingly, these ‘households of hell’ are more prevalent than society acknowledges, cutting across all social strata. Parental consent is frequently misused to preserve family image rather than protect children, allowing abusers to operate unchecked. In one Eastern Caribbean country, 18.6% of women reported childhood sexual abuse, a likely underreported statistic. Removing mandatory parental consent would grant adolescents legal access to healthcare professionals, empowering them and improving the reporting and prosecution of predators. The Age of Civil Responsibility Bill does not alter the legal age of consent, undermine trustworthy parents, or favor predators; instead, it makes abusers more vulnerable. Advocates urge the government to strengthen and proceed with the bill to protect children.