分类： society

The Court of Appeal in Trinidad and Tobago has partially upheld a High Court decision that nullified demolition orders issued by the San Juan/Laventille Regional Corporation (SLRC) against two property owners in El Socorro. The case, involving brothers Primnath Geelal and Rupnarine Geelal, centered on allegations of unauthorized building additions dating back to 2017 and 2018. The SLRC had issued ‘show cause’ and ‘demolition’ notices, claiming the structures violated the Public Health Ordinance and Municipal Corporations Act. The Geelals argued that the buildings were over 40 years old, with only minor cosmetic changes made since 2014. In October, Justices Prakash Moosai, Gillian Lucky, and Eleanor Donaldson-Honeywell ruled that the SLRC acted unfairly by failing to conduct a proper inquiry or ensure procedural fairness. While the court upheld the nullification of a December 2017 demolition notice due to procedural unfairness, it reinstated a subsequent show cause notice. Justice Donaldson-Honeywell emphasized that enforcement actions must comply with natural justice and constitutional safeguards. The court ordered an oral hearing by January 30, 2026, for Primnath Geelal to present evidence on whether the disputed works were structural or cosmetic. Costs were awarded to the Geelals, with the SLRC directed to pay two-thirds of assessed costs to Primnath and full costs to Rupnarine, who was never served any notice. The ruling highlighted that planning regulation enforcement must be tailored to the specific facts of each case.

The Port of Spain High Court has mandated the release of two individuals detained in connection with the disappearance and murder of 60-year-old Charleville businessman Imraz “Clubs” Ali, unless formal charges are filed by 4 pm on October 17. Justice Karen Reid issued the order on October 16 following a virtual hearing of a habeas corpus application submitted on behalf of the suspects—a market vendor and a laborer—against the Commissioner of Police. The court ruled that the second applicant must be released immediately if no charges are brought by the stipulated deadline. Additionally, the judge noted that the investigative file for the first applicant, who accused the police of misconduct, had been forwarded to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP). The judge emphasized that his detention should not extend beyond that of the other applicant, pending advice from the DPP. Attorney Taradath Singh represented both individuals. Ali’s body was discovered on October 11 near a precipice along the North Coast Road, over a month after he was reported missing on September 4. The suspects were taken into custody on October 9.

The National Council of Indian Culture (NCIC) launched its annual Divali Nagar festival on October 11 at the Divali Nagar compound in Chaguanas, Trinidad and Tobago. This year’s theme, ‘Loka Sangraha – Welfare of the World,’ underscores the universal principles of Hindu philosophy and their relevance in today’s global society. The festival, a vibrant celebration of Indian culture and traditions, featured a series of captivating performances and rituals. Among the highlights was Ishana Ramjit of the Shiva Ghana Organisation, who opened the event with a traditional deya ceremony. Over the following days, the Nagar came alive with performances by pannist Sunanda Mohip, devotional aarti rituals, and cultural showcases by children from the Sunil Ramsook Music Academy and members of Sathyam’s Dance Academy. President Christine Kangaloo graced the event on October 15, engaging in discussions with NCIC president Surujdeo Mangaroo during her tour. Newsday photographers Angelo Marcelle and Grevic Alvarado documented the festivities, capturing the essence of this cultural extravaganza.

In a dramatic turn of events, a suspected gang leader was apprehended by police after he visited the Maloney Police Station to inquire about his wife, who had been arrested earlier. The incident unfolded on the evening of October 16, when law enforcement officers, acting on intelligence, conducted a search of the couple’s apartment under the state of emergency (SoE) regulations. The woman, who was present at the time, informed officers that her husband had stepped out. During the search, police discovered a customized Glock 19 handgun, a magazine containing 15 rounds of 9mm ammunition, and a patented Glock drum magazine concealed in a blue and red knapsack in a bedroom. The woman was immediately cautioned, arrested, and taken into custody. Shortly after, her husband arrived at the police station to check on her status, only to be detained himself in connection with the illegal firearm. Both individuals remain in custody and are expected to face charges soon. Additionally, police invoked Regulation 13 of the Emergency Powers Regulations to detain two other residents of the same building, including a neighbor of the suspected gang leader. This regulation empowers officers to conduct searches without a warrant if they suspect evidence of criminal activity. The operation was led by Superintendent McKenzie and supervised by Acting Sergeant Forgenie, with the involvement of several officers including WCpl Castillo-Lewis, WPC Simon, PC Carter, PC Augustine, PC Gopaul, PC Villaroel, and PC Fisher.

A 25-year-old homeless man was hospitalized after consuming contaminated food and medication found in a cell at the Tunapuna Police Station. The incident occurred on October 15 at approximately 2:30 PM, while the man was being detained. According to a police report, he ingested two paracetamol tablets and stale food remnants left behind by previous inmates. Shortly after consumption, the man experienced severe discomfort and began vomiting. Emergency Health Services (EHS) were immediately contacted, and he was transported to the Eric Williams Medical Sciences Complex for treatment. Medical professionals confirmed that the man was in stable condition but required close monitoring. He was administered medication to detoxify his system and remains hospitalized under police supervision. This incident has raised concerns about hygiene and safety protocols within detention facilities.

The Tobago Blue Food Festival, an annual celebration of the island’s culinary heritage, is poised to commence on October 19 at the Bloody Bay Recreation Ground. Kern Cown, CEO of the Tobago Festivals Commission Ltd (TFCL), unveiled the preparations during a press conference at the Office of the Chief Secretary in Scarborough on October 16. Addressing past logistical challenges, particularly concerning shuttle services and parking, Cown emphasized the commission’s commitment to enhancing the patron experience. Six designated parking zones have been established to accommodate festival-goers, with Parking Zone A located within the venue on a first-come, first-served basis. Additional parking facilities include the Bloody Bay Beach Facility, Carrington Lot, Parlatuvier Community Centre, Parlatuvier Primary School, and the Cyd Gray Complex in Roxborough. Parking will open at 8 am, complemented by shuttle services starting at 9 am. A premium shuttle service from Market Square in Scarborough will depart at 10 am and 10:30 am, while the Public Transport Service Corporation (PTSC) will offer a paid shuttle at noon. The festival promises a vibrant lineup of activities, including a petting zoo, children’s corner, arts and crafts section, food court, and live entertainment. Renowned artists Farmer Nappy and Shurwayne Winchester are set to headline the event, alongside local performers. The festival, which celebrated its 25th anniversary in 2024, was established in 1998 to honor the versatility of dasheen, a staple root crop in Tobago’s cuisine.