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Customers of Trinbago Express, a shipping courier company, staged protests outside the Ministry of Trade, Investment, and Tourism in Port of Spain on November 12, urging Trade Minister Satyakama Maharaj to intervene in resolving their cargo delays. The shipments, which have been held at the Port of Port of Spain for several months, include personal items, business goods, and gifts. Demonstrations also took place in Tobago and at the New York Attorney General’s Office, with protesters chanting, ‘No cargo, no peace.’

Umar Abdullah, leader of the First Wave Movement, emphasized the anguish felt by customers both locally and in the diaspora. He called on the Ministry of Trade to act decisively, stating, ‘The Ministry cannot claim ignorance or impotence. It has the power to investigate, the authority to intervene, and the duty to act.’

Among the protesters was dual citizen Claude Beerom, who returned to Trinidad from the US with essential items, including medication. Beerom expressed frustration over the delay, noting that Trinbago Express Shipping Inc collected his items in June but has yet to deliver them. He highlighted the challenges faced by returning residents, particularly those with specific dietary and medical needs.

Trinbago Express T&T Ltd, the local arm of the company, has severed ties with its US counterpart and closed its Port of Spain office. Managing Director Lidmer Murray explained that the local company operates independently and has no control over the US operations. He cited the inability to access containers due to unpaid shipping fees as the primary reason for the closure. Murray urged Trinbago Express Shipping Inc to fulfill its financial obligations to customers.

Efforts by Newsday to contact Trade Minister Maharaj and Parliamentary Secretary Dr. Colin Neil Gosine for comment were unsuccessful.

Authorities in the Southern Division are currently investigating a distressing incident involving a seven-year-old student from Gasparillo Government Primary School, who is now in critical condition at San Fernando General Hospital. The child, whose identity remains undisclosed, is receiving intensive care after sustaining a ruptured spleen. The incident reportedly occurred on the afternoon of November 12, when the boy’s mother was urgently summoned to the school following allegations that her son had been pushed on the premises. Despite the severity of the situation, the school has yet to release any additional details regarding the incident. Following the event, the child was immediately transported to the hospital’s casualty department. Upon being informed of the critical nature of the injuries, San Fernando police officers, including Cpl Matloo and PC Soogrim, promptly responded and engaged with the boy’s family. As part of their ongoing investigation, police officials visited the school on November 13 to gather further information. However, the exact circumstances surrounding the injury remain unclear, with authorities unable to confirm whether the incident occurred at the school or elsewhere. Media access to the school has been restricted, complicating efforts to obtain more information.

The tight-knit community of Windsor Park in California, Couva, gathered on November 13 to bid farewell to Vishnu Lalla, a 63-year-old livestock farmer whose life was tragically cut short by a brutal kidnapping and murder. Lalla, remembered for his boundless kindness, love for nature, and unwavering work ethic, was found dead in a forested area off Brechin Castle Road on November 9, just over 24 hours after being abducted from his home. He was shot in the head, leaving his family and friends devastated.

At the funeral, Pastor Ralph Sawh, a cousin of Lalla, officiated and reflected on the senseless tragedy. Sawh offered a poignant prayer for those responsible, invoking divine justice and repentance. He emphasized the sanctity of the soul, urging mourners to cherish their spiritual well-being above all else. The pastor also prayed for peace and comfort for Lalla’s grieving family and friends, invoking the calming presence of the Holy Spirit.

Lalla’s sister Molly, who resides abroad, delivered an emotional tribute, recalling her brother’s loving nature and their deep bond. She described him as not only a brother but also a close friend and cheerleader. Molly reminisced about their last meeting, where Lalla’s affectionate gestures seemed almost prophetic, as if he knew it would be their final goodbye. She expressed her hope that he would find eternal peace in God’s kingdom, surrounded by the serenity he cherished in life.

Lalla’s nephew, Ishwar, and other family members also shared heartfelt memories, painting a picture of a man who lived with a big heart, forgave easily, and worked tirelessly for the well-being of his animals, land, and loved ones. He was described as a father figure to many, embodying kindness and selflessness.

Lalla’s abduction occurred on the evening of November 8, shortly after he was seen tending to his animals. His grey Toyota Hilux was later discovered burned, and a $100,000 ransom demand was made for his safe return. Investigations have led to the detention of a policeman and two civilians suspected of involvement in the crime. The Homicide Bureau of Investigations, Region Three, is actively pursuing the case.

The funeral concluded with Lalla’s body being taken to the Waterloo Cremation Site, as the community continues to grapple with the loss of a man whose life was a testament to love, kindness, and hard work.

In response to the recent ban on Carnival activities at Udecott-controlled venues, including the Brian Lara Cricket Academy and the International Waterfront, prominent event promoter Randy Glasgow has proposed an alternative solution. Instead of outright bans, Glasgow suggests that promoters should be allowed to post a bond, which would be forfeited if noise pollution regulations are violated during events. This bond could then be allocated to affected residents’ associations as compensation. Glasgow emphasized the need for Environmental Management Authority (EMA) officials to be present at events to enforce noise regulations and ‘pull the plug’ on non-compliant activities. He also called for collaborative meetings involving promoters, residents, Udecott, EMA, police, fire services, and noise pollution experts to develop sustainable solutions. Glasgow highlighted the cultural significance of Trinidad Carnival, which he described as a global showcase of the nation’s rich heritage and creativity. He urged Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar to reconsider the ban and engage with promoters to find a balanced approach. Despite the Prime Minister’s firm stance, Glasgow remains hopeful for a resolution that supports both the entertainment industry and community well-being.