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  • Police defend decision to deny UPP permission for political event

    Police defend decision to deny UPP permission for political event

    The Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda has officially denied a request from the United Progressive Party (UPP) to conduct a whistle stop event in the Constituency of Rural East. The decision, announced on Wednesday, 12th November 2025, was based on a thorough evaluation of operational and security concerns, including the proposed timing, which overlapped with peak traffic periods and raised potential safety issues. Despite the denial, the Police Administration approved a motorcade event scheduled for Sunday, 16th November 2025, following a prior application by the UPP. Formal approval was communicated to the UPP General Secretary on Tuesday, 11th November 2025. Acting Commissioner of Police Everton Jeffers emphasized the force’s commitment to maintaining public safety and order, stating that all decisions are guided by safety considerations and the efficient allocation of police resources. He called for continued cooperation from citizens and organizations to ensure a peaceful environment. The Police Administration reaffirmed its dedication to fairness, professionalism, and integrity in serving the citizens and residents of Antigua and Barbuda.

  • U.S. Tourist Fined for Importing Weed into Belize

    U.S. Tourist Fined for Importing Weed into Belize

    A 25-year-old American entertainer’s vacation in Belize took an unexpected turn when customs officials discovered marijuana in his luggage upon arrival. Elijah Quartey Mack, a Texas native, landed at Philip Goldson International Airport on Monday via a Delta flight from Atlanta. During a routine baggage inspection, officers uncovered three vacuum-sealed bags of cannabis, totaling just over a quarter pound.

    The following day, Mack appeared before a senior magistrate without legal representation. He entered a guilty plea, expressed remorse, and clarified that he had no intention of disrespecting Belizean laws, acknowledging the differing marijuana regulations between the U.S. and Belize. While recreational cannabis is legal in some U.S. states, Texas, Mack’s home state, maintains strict prohibitions against possession of any amount. Even in Atlanta, where his journey began, only small quantities (less than an ounce) have been decriminalized.

    Rather than facing jail time, Mack was fined $2,700, a reduction from the original penalty. He promptly paid the fine and was released the same day. The incident highlights the importance of understanding and adhering to local laws when traveling internationally.

  • Chief Election Officer says voter confirmation process ‘going well’ thus far

    Chief Election Officer says voter confirmation process ‘going well’ thus far

    Chief Election Officer Anthea Joseph has announced that more than 4000 individuals have applied for voter confirmation since the process commenced on October 15, 2025. Speaking during a recent statement, Joseph expressed satisfaction with the progress, acknowledging minor issues that have arisen but emphasizing that they are being addressed promptly. She highlighted the importance of appropriate attire for photo identification at the confirmation centers, explicitly prohibiting hats, sunglasses, and headbands. Despite rumors and negative comments circulating on some radio stations and within communities, Joseph noted that many applicants have reported a smooth and transparent process. She encouraged individuals, including those who cannot read or write, to participate without hesitation, assuring them of assistance from enrollment officers. Joseph underscored the significance of the confirmation process, stating that it is a democratic right and a prerequisite for inclusion on the new voters list. She warned that failure to confirm would result in exclusion from future electoral processes in Dominica, stressing the necessity of a voter ID card for participation in upcoming elections.

  • Robert Vishnudatt: “Nodeloze poeha over belastingontduiking”

    Robert Vishnudatt: “Nodeloze poeha over belastingontduiking”

    Robert Vishnudatt, a prominent Surinamese politician and founder of the political organization Volkspartij Leefbaar Suriname, has dismissed recent reports in Dutch media alleging his conviction for tax evasion as “unnecessary fuss.” The reports claimed that Vishnudatt was sentenced to ten months in prison for failing to pay turnover tax on his former security company, Care Events, in the Netherlands between 2018 and 2023. The initial reported amount of €420,000 was later corrected to €180,000. Vishnudatt refuted the allegations, stating that any tax arrears could be resolved through a payment arrangement with the Dutch tax authorities. He emphasized that he has not fled Suriname and maintains regular contact with the Dutch embassy, having last spoken with them in August. Vishnudatt also highlighted that such accusations are not new, recalling previous unfounded claims linking him to money laundering involving VHP leader Chan Santokhi. He plans to investigate the matter thoroughly before issuing a formal statement, noting the impact on his family and community.

  • GCIC urges resolve impasse involving Ports Authority terminal staff

    GCIC urges resolve impasse involving Ports Authority terminal staff

    The Grenada Chamber of Industry and Commerce (GCIC) has issued an urgent appeal to the Grenada Ports Authority (GPA) and workers’ representatives to engage in time-bound, mediated negotiations to resolve the ongoing industrial dispute. Emphasizing the critical role of the port in the nation’s economy, GCIC warned that prolonged disruptions could have severe repercussions for households, businesses, and essential services. The Chamber’s President highlighted the particularly sensitive timing, with the pre-Christmas import season in full swing, perishable goods and pharmaceuticals in transit, and tourism operators managing high-season logistics. The impasse threatens to escalate price pressures, cause supply shortages, delay projects, and lead to widespread income losses. To mitigate these risks, GCIC proposed a temporary halt to disruptive actions, the appointment of a mutually acceptable mediator, and the publication of a joint progress update within 72 hours. The Chamber also offered to facilitate dialogue, provide neutral data on supply-chain impacts, and host multistakeholder sessions to foster clarity and consensus. ‘A fair, respectful, and clear resolution is in everyone’s interest,’ the President concluded, stressing the importance of safeguarding national welfare.

  • Jamaica stay in World Cup contention despite being held 1-1 by T&T

    Jamaica stay in World Cup contention despite being held 1-1 by T&T

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Jamaica’s national football team, the Reggae Boyz, remain in the race for an automatic spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup following a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Trinidad and Tobago in their Concacaf final-round Group B qualifier. The match, held at the Hasely Crawford Stadium in Port of Spain on Thursday, saw Trinidad and Tobago bow out of contention, while Jamaica kept their hopes alive.

  • Sales clerk caught with expired food handler’s permit

    Sales clerk caught with expired food handler’s permit

    In a recent enforcement operation in Four Paths, Clarendon, Jamaica, a 27-year-old sales clerk, Deandrea Dyer, was arrested and charged for selling baked goods with an expired food handler’s permit. The incident occurred on Wednesday when law enforcement officers visited the shop where Dyer was employed. Upon inspection, Dyer presented the necessary documents, including the facility’s certification and her food handler’s permit, as required by the Public Health Act. However, it was discovered that her permit had expired. Dyer, a resident of Howells Content, York Town, was informed of the violation and subsequently charged. She is scheduled to appear in the May Pen Court on January 15, 2025, to face the charges.

  • CPL donates US$100k to Jamaica’s hurricane relief efforts

    CPL donates US$100k to Jamaica’s hurricane relief efforts

    In the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, which ravaged Jamaica on October 28, 2025, the Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League (CPL) has committed a $100,000 donation to support relief and rebuilding efforts. The announcement was made on November 12, with the funds to be distributed through Jamaica’s Office of the Prime Minister to ensure efficient allocation to the most affected areas. As of November 11, the hurricane has claimed 45 lives, leaving many in the western part of the island struggling to recover from the Category 5 storm. CPL emphasized Jamaica’s significant role in Caribbean cricket and its own history, noting the deep connections many within the CPL family have with the island. The league will also collaborate with former West Indies captain Chris Gayle to boost his fundraising initiatives, leveraging its global network to raise awareness and encourage international support. CPL CEO Pete Russell expressed the league’s solidarity with Jamaica, urging global contributions to aid recovery. Jamaica’s Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment, and Sport, Olivia Grange, expressed gratitude for CPL’s support, highlighting the urgent need for assistance in the affected regions. The Jamaica Tallawahs, a CPL franchise with three titles, have a storied history in the league, further underscoring the significance of this gesture.

  • Dominican Republic donates supplies to assist families impacted by Hurricane Melissa

    Dominican Republic donates supplies to assist families impacted by Hurricane Melissa

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — In a significant gesture of regional solidarity, Jamaica has received a substantial shipment of relief supplies from the Dominican Republic to aid families impacted by Hurricane Melissa. The 628-tonne consignment, comprising essential items such as food, blankets, mattresses, mosquito nets, and medical supplies, was officially handed over at Kingston Wharves Limited on Wednesday.

  • WATCH: Two cops killed on Waltham Park Road

    WATCH: Two cops killed on Waltham Park Road

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — In a tragic incident on Thursday evening, two police officers were shot and killed on Waltham Park Road in St Andrew. The exact details of the shooting remain unclear, but the officers were rushed to the Kingston Public Hospital, where they were pronounced dead. Authorities have cordoned off the area as investigations continue. Further updates are expected as more information becomes available. This incident has raised concerns about safety and law enforcement in the region.