A tragic incident occurred on Saturday, November 8, 2025, when an 8-year-old boy was critically injured after being struck by a pick-up truck near mast 72 on the Afobakkaweg in Suriname. The victim, who sustained severe injuries including a fractured leg, was found unresponsive on the road and was immediately transported to the Academic Hospital Paramaribo by the Medical Mission ambulance. He remains in critical condition. The Brokopondo police station received a report of the accident and promptly initiated an investigation. The driver of the pick-up, identified as C.K. (51), was not present at the scene. Witnesses had reportedly attacked him and threatened to set his vehicle on fire, prompting a passing police officer to escort him and his vehicle to the Klaaskreek police post. Preliminary police findings indicate that the driver, who holds a valid license and was not under the influence of alcohol, was traveling from Afobakka towards Paramaribo when the boy attempted to cross the road from left to right. C.K. is set to appear before an assistant public prosecutor, while further investigation has been handed over to the Central Region Traffic Unit.
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Dominican Republic tops Latin American investment rankings in FIU report
Miami, FL – The Dominican Republic has been crowned the leading investment destination in Latin America, according to the 2025 Latin America Country Risk Index and Analysis by Florida International University’s (FIU) Adam Smith Center for Economic Freedom. The report reveals that 76% of experts endorse investing in the country, significantly outpacing Paraguay (66%) and Argentina (63%). The Dominican Republic’s governance, institutional strength, and appeal to foreign investors have earned it recognition as one of the region’s most stable, credible, and low-risk nations. Amidst a backdrop of political polarization, economic volatility, and rising insecurity across Latin America, the Dominican Republic stands out for its democratic stability, reliable institutions, and robust business environment. FIU attributes this success to the nation’s consistent macroeconomic policies, fiscal discipline, and investor confidence. Additionally, the country has capitalized on global economic trends like nearshoring and friendshoring, further solidifying its position as a secure and predictable destination for strategic industries. The report also highlights the Dominican Republic’s lower social and security risks compared to the regional average, bolstered by strong foreign relations and a cooperative foreign policy. Its strategic alliance with the United States has further enhanced external stability. The government has welcomed FIU’s findings, viewing them as a testament to its ongoing efforts to modernize, promote transparency, and enhance competitiveness. The administration has reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining economic growth and solidifying the country’s reputation as one of Latin America’s most trustworthy and dynamic investment hubs.
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Survivors, families, friends join CIBC Walk to raise cancer aid funds
CIBC Caribbean is making significant strides in its mission to raise nearly $100,000 for cancer awareness and support through its annual two-day Walk for the Cure event in Saint Lucia. The initiative, now in its 12th year, is part of the broader Breast Cancer Awareness Month activities and is held across various countries where CIBC operates. This year’s event faced a slight delay due to logistical challenges, including the late arrival of the signature pink T-shirts worn by participants. The first walk took place on November 9 in Gros Islet, attracting a large number of participants, with the second installment scheduled for November 16 in Vieux Fort. Funds are raised through partnerships, sponsorships, and the sale of T-shirts, with all proceeds benefiting Faces of Cancer and the Saint Lucia Cancer Society. These organizations are dedicated to supporting cancer patients, survivors, and their families, while also raising awareness and advocating for improved care systems. Nigel Ollivierre, CIBC Country Head, expressed optimism about surpassing this year’s fundraising target, emphasizing the event’s growing impact. Participants, including survivors and their families, shared heartfelt stories of resilience and solidarity, highlighting the importance of community support in the fight against cancer. Saint Lucia remains unique in the Caribbean for hosting two separate Walk for the Cure events annually, further amplifying its commitment to the cause.
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Four men charged over gun, 30 rounds of ammo found in car
Four individuals—Sharome Dopwell, Erel Hector, Dakari Hector, and Ashroy Patterson—have been remanded into custody following charges related to the possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition. The charges stem from an incident on November 7 at Walvaroo, Sion Hill, where the men were allegedly found with a Polymer80 pistol and 30 rounds of 9mm ammunition, both without the necessary licenses under the Firearms Act. The accused appeared before Chief Magistrate Colin John at the Serious Offences Court in Kingstown on Monday, November 10, 2025. While Patterson pleaded guilty to both charges, the other three defendants entered not guilty pleas. Inspector of Police Renrick Cato, the prosecutor, accepted Patterson’s guilty plea but emphasized that the prosecution would continue against the remaining defendants. Cato objected to bail for all four men, citing the severity of the charges and concerns that their release could interfere with the ongoing investigation, which reportedly involves advanced technology. Additionally, Dopwell is already on bail for a separate firearm-related offense. Defense counsel Grant Connell acknowledged the challenges in securing bail and requested a short adjournment, but the court adjourned the matter to Monday for a bail review.
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Canadian Woman Found Dead in Bullet Tree
A tragic incident has shaken the peaceful community of Bullet Tree Village in Belize’s Cayo District. On the morning of November 10, 2025, the lifeless body of 65-year-old Canadian expatriate Marty Thorne was discovered on her property. Thorne, a long-time resident of Belize and a respected spa owner, was found with visible injuries, prompting an immediate police investigation. The caretaker of her property alerted authorities after failing to locate her during a routine check. Scenes of crime personnel swiftly processed the area, and her body has been sent for a post-mortem examination to determine the exact cause of death. While initial observations suggest stab wounds, investigators have yet to confirm this or identify a motive or suspect. Thorne’s death has left the community in mourning. Michael Waight, her neighbor and close friend, expressed profound grief, describing the scene as deeply unsettling. Authorities have not established any direct links to recent burglaries in the area but have assured residents of heightened surveillance, including police-operated cameras and active patrols. The investigation remains ongoing as the community seeks answers to this shocking tragedy.
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STATEMENT: Waste management authorities on illegal dumping on Cochrane Road
The Dominica Solid Waste Management Corporation (DSWMC) has issued a stern warning to the public, urging an immediate halt to all illegal waste disposal activities. While acknowledging temporary disruptions in waste collection schedules, the DSWMC assures that efforts are underway to resolve these issues promptly. The corporation emphasizes the importance of public patience and cooperation during this period, highlighting the severe health risks associated with illegal dumping. Improper waste disposal not only creates public health hazards but also fosters environments conducive to the proliferation of rodents, rats, maggots, and scavenging animals, thereby threatening public sanitation. The DSWMC advocates for source separation of waste at homes and businesses to manage waste volume effectively and reduce its attractiveness to disease vectors. The call to action is clear: cease illegal dumping immediately and adopt responsible waste management practices to safeguard public health and sanitation.
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Saint Lucia reigns supreme in OECS table tennis
The Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Table Tennis Championships concluded on November 9 in Grenada, with Team Saint Lucia emerging as the undisputed champions in both the men’s and women’s team categories. The Saint Lucian athletes showcased exceptional skill, securing victories across multiple events and solidifying their dominance in the tournament. In the men’s team competition, Leshon Francis, Manie Eleuthere, Dawitt Nurse, and Khamari Harris delivered a flawless performance, defeating Grenada, Antigua & Barbuda, and Martinique in the group stage. They continued their winning streak in the semifinals against St Vincent & the Grenadines and triumphed over Martinique in the final. Eleuthere and Francis remained unbeaten throughout the competition. The women’s team, comprising Shatal Charles, Zarianna Anthony, Daniella Symphorien, and Cherese Darcheville, also claimed victory, with Charles maintaining an unbeaten record. In doubles events, Eleuthere and Francis clinched the men’s doubles title after a thrilling final against Martinique, while Charles and Anthony secured the women’s doubles crown. Despite strong performances in singles and mixed doubles, Saint Lucia’s athletes faced stiff competition, with Antigua & Barbuda’s Stuti Kashyap claiming the women’s singles title. Shatal Charles and Leshon Francis were honored as the tournament’s Most Valuable Players (MVPs). The event, held at the Grenada Youth Centre in Grand Anse, highlighted the region’s growing talent in table tennis.
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Protected Green Turtle Found Dead in Marine Reserve
A tragic incident unfolded on Friday, November 10, 2025, when a protected green sea turtle was discovered dead within the Gladden Spit and Silk Cayes Marine Reserve (GSSCMR) in Belize. The discovery was made during a routine patrol conducted by rangers from the Southern Environmental Association (SEA). The turtle, identified as a tagged Chelonia mydas (Green Turtle), exhibited injuries consistent with a boat propeller strike, according to SEA officials. Green turtles are legally protected in Belize, and this incident has reignited concerns about boating practices in marine conservation zones. In a statement, SEA emphasized the importance of responsible boating, urging the public to adhere to no-wake and no-entry zones and to reduce speeds in protected areas. Conservation advocates have long warned that boat strikes pose a significant threat to marine life, particularly in heavily trafficked coastal regions. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges faced in safeguarding vulnerable marine species.
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Plenary session wraps, Ambassador Chu Moaming outlines China’s imminent 5-year plan for Economic and Social Development
In a recent press briefing at the Chinese Embassy in Morne Daniel, Dominica, His Excellency Ambassador Chu Maoming highlighted the successful conclusion of the Fourth Plenary Session of the 20th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC). The session, held in Beijing on October 23, marked a pivotal moment as it adopted the Recommendations for formulating the 15th Five-Year Plan for Economic and Social Development. This plan, the 15th in a series since 1953, underscores China’s commitment to sustained growth and global leadership. Ambassador Chu emphasized that the 14th Five-Year Plan, now concluding, has propelled China’s GDP beyond RMB 130 trillion, with significant advancements in artificial intelligence and new energy sectors. China’s transformation from the ‘world’s factory’ to a global innovation powerhouse was also noted, alongside its high-standard opening-up policies, including a reduced foreign investment negative list and a lowered overall tariff level to 7.3 percent. The Belt and Road Initiative, involving over 150 countries and 30 international organizations, has further cemented China’s role as a key driver of global economic growth, contributing approximately 30 percent. Looking ahead, the 15th Five-Year Plan aims to address global challenges such as unilateralism, protectionism, and regional instability, offering a message of consistency and stability. Ambassador Chu outlined seven main objectives for the next five years, focusing on high-quality development, technological self-reliance, cultural progress, and environmental sustainability. China’s strategic alignment with Belt and Road partners will be strengthened, with enhanced cooperation in trade, investment, green development, and digital transformation. Additionally, China will intensify efforts in pollution control, ecosystem restoration, and carbon emission reduction, aiming to peak carbon emissions and transition to eco-friendly practices. The 15th Five-Year Plan not only charts a course for China’s future but also provides a beacon of certainty in an increasingly volatile world.
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Where Is Nawat? MU Executive Dismissed After Viral Heated Confrontation
The 2025 Miss Universe pageant has been rocked by controversy following the dismissal of Nawat Itsaragrisil, a key executive, after a heated confrontation with Miss Mexico, Fátima Bosch, during the sashing ceremony. The incident, which was broadcast live, has sparked widespread criticism and raised questions about Itsaragrisil’s leadership. During the ceremony, Itsaragrisil accused Bosch of failing to promote Thailand, called her a ‘dumbhead,’ and ordered security to remove her. This led to several contestants walking out in solidarity with Bosch. Miss Universe president Raúl Rocha announced the decision to restrict Itsaragrisil’s involvement in the competition, stating, ‘We had, unfortunately, trusted MGI, and that trust has failed under the unfortunate leadership of Nawat.’ Itsaragrisil later issued a tearful public apology during the opening ceremony, acknowledging the pressure he was under but insisting he did not intend to harm anyone. However, his comment, ‘Are you happy?’ directed at the candidates, particularly Miss Mexico, who did not applaud, was seen as dismissive by body language experts. The pageant is still set to proceed on November 21 in Thailand, but the fallout from this incident continues to dominate discussions.