A tragic incident unfolded in Bella Vista on Saturday morning, November 10, 2025, when Marcus Che, a 35-year-old Guatemalan barber, was fatally shot inside his barbershop. The shooting occurred at approximately 11:47 a.m., according to Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Stacy Smith. An unidentified assailant, wearing a full-face motorcycle helmet, entered the establishment and fired multiple shots, fatally wounding Che before fleeing the scene on a motorcycle. Police have detained one individual believed to possess information relevant to the investigation and are analyzing surveillance footage for potential leads. While the motive remains unclear, investigators are exploring multiple theories. The incident has heightened concerns in the Bella Vista community, which has recently experienced a surge in violent crimes, reportedly tied to drug trafficking. ASP Smith emphasized that operational measures are being implemented to address the rising crime rates.
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West Indies to take on Afghanistan T20I series in UAE
Cricket West Indies (CWI) has confirmed a three-match T20 International series against Afghanistan, set to take place in January 2026 in the United Arab Emirates. The matches will be held at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium, with the first game scheduled for January 19, followed by the second on January 21, and the third on January 22. This series is seen as a crucial preparatory step for both teams ahead of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, which begins in February. Miles Bascombe, CWI’s Director of Cricket, highlighted the significance of the series, stating that it offers an ideal opportunity for the West Indies team to refine their strategies and build confidence in subcontinental conditions, similar to those they will face in India and Sri Lanka. On the other hand, Naseeb Khan, CEO of the Afghanistan Cricket Board, emphasized the strategic value of the series for Afghanistan, noting that it provides a perfect platform to finalize their lineup and enhance their preparations for the upcoming global event. Both teams are expected to gain invaluable experience and game time from this high-stakes series, which will play a pivotal role in their World Cup readiness.
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Staatsolie schenkt Stichting Matoekoe moderne werkruimte voor pupillen
On Monday, November 10, 2025, Stichting Centrum Matoekoe celebrated the official opening of its new workspace in a festive ceremony. This modern facility marks a significant milestone in the foundation’s mission to enhance vocational day programs for its pupils. The project was made possible through a substantial investment of approximately USD 140,000 by Staatsolie Maatschappij Suriname N.V., a leading energy company in Suriname.
Stichting Matoekoe provides care, guidance, and education to children, youth, and young adults with developmental disorders. The organization equips them with practical skills in various crafts to foster independence and self-sufficiency. Over 25 pupils daily engage in activities such as candle-making and ceramics, which not only enhance their abilities but also generate personal income.
The previous workspace no longer met modern standards for safety, hygiene, and creative development. To address this, a new building was constructed, featuring two fully equipped workshops and a dedicated space for instructors. One workshop is designed for candle production, while the other serves as a ceramics studio, complete with worktables and pottery wheels. The new facility provides a fresh, safe, and inspiring environment that elevates both the learning experience and the quality of production.
During the inauguration, Delano Hoogvliets, Director of Stichting Matoekoe, expressed gratitude to Staatsolie for its support and commitment to social responsibility. “This investment demonstrates that sustainable development is not just about oil and energy but also about empowering people,” Hoogvliets remarked.
The completion of this workspace lays the foundation for a sustainable learning and production program at Stichting Matoekoe. Staatsolie aims to make a direct contribution to the future of young individuals with developmental disorders, fostering their growth and integration into society.
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Gonsalves says book of ‘NDP plans’ is a joke
Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves of St. Vincent and the Grenadines has dismissed a book titled “New Democratic Party’s Plans for St. Vincent and the Grenadines” as a spoof. The book, which appeared in a campaign video released by his party on Sunday, was filmed at the Prime Minister’s Official Residence during a meeting with party members and Jamaican artist Christopher Martin. Gonsalves revealed that the book, which he received that same morning, contains six chapters of mostly blank pages, mocking the opposition party’s ideas. He described the document as a work of nonfiction by a fictitious author, Godwin Fryay, and criticized the New Democratic Party (NDP) for its lack of substantive content. The Prime Minister’s comments came after he was nominated for the 11th time as a candidate for North Central Windward in the upcoming national election. Gonsalves, 79, is leading the Unity Labour Party in its bid for a sixth consecutive five-year term in the general election on November 17.
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Bexon bask in $1 500 glory after T10 Smash Up triumph
The Bexon Oval Super Stars emerged victorious in the South Castries Cricket Association/National Lotteries Authority T10 Smash Up, securing a $1,500 prize after a thrilling 25-run win over the Morne Crusaders in the final. The match, held on Tuesday, November 4 at Mindoo Phillip Park, marked the culmination of a stellar campaign for the Bexon side. Jaden Elibox was named the batsman of the final, delivering a standout performance with 38 runs off just 18 balls, including four sixes, as Bexon posted a formidable total of 111-4 in their 10 overs. Theo Edward also played a pivotal role, scoring 28 runs from 17 balls and taking 3 wickets for 12 runs, earning him the titles of bowler and MVP of the final. Despite a valiant effort from the Morne Crusaders, who scored 26 runs from Ephron Charles, they fell short, finishing at 89-7 and taking home $1,000 for second place. The Forestierre Kataharrs secured third place with a $400 prize. Lee John of the Crusaders was named the tournament MVP for his leading wicket tally, while Stephen Naitram of Forestierre topped the run charts.
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Immigrants with chronic illnesses may face US Visa hurdles
Individuals from Saint Lucia and other nations aiming to relocate to the United States may face visa or green card denials if they suffer from chronic health conditions such as diabetes or heart disease. This new directive, issued by the US State Department, has been disseminated to American embassies and consulates globally. The policy broadens the criteria under which visa applicants are evaluated, extending beyond the traditional focus on financial dependency to include a range of health issues. Conditions like cardiovascular and respiratory diseases, diabetes, cancers, neurological disorders, and obesity are now considered potential indicators that an individual might become a long-term burden on public resources. For Saint Lucia, this policy is particularly impactful given the island’s high prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs). In 2021, the adult diabetes rate was approximately 11.7%, and over 80% of deaths were linked to chronic illnesses such as heart disease, cancer, respiratory complications, and diabetes. Consular officers are now mandated to assess an applicant’s long-term health prospects and potential medical needs. While the policy is expected to most affect those seeking permanent migration, its application to temporary visas for tourism or study remains unclear. This development marks a significant shift towards stricter health-based screening in immigration eligibility determinations.
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Soufrière win U16 schools’ netball title
In a nail-biting showdown at the Beausejour Gymnasium on Friday, November 7, Soufrière Comprehensive Secondary School (SCSS) emerged victorious over St Joseph’s Convent (SJC) with a 24-23 win in overtime, successfully defending their Under-16 Girls’ Schools Netball title. The match, which ended in a 19-19 tie after regulation time, saw both teams deliver flawless performances in the extra frame, consisting of two five-minute halves. Kheryss Ferguson of SCSS was instrumental, converting all five of her shots, while Naija Ferdinand, the Under-16 national captain for SJC, made all four of her attempts. Ferguson, the goal shooter, scored 13 out of 18 shots in regulation, supported by goal attack Indiana James, who made 6 out of 13. On the opposing side, SJC’s goal shooter Iyana William scored 7 out of 9, and Ferdinand, the goal attack, made 12 out of 14. Ferdinand, who was the tournament’s most accurate shooter with an impressive 86.3% conversion rate (38/44), also earned accolades as the best attacking player of the final and the tournament MVP, receiving a $300 prize from the Ministry of Youth Development & Sports. Faith Leon of SCSS was named the best defensive player of the final, while Kenisha Biscette of SJC took home the title of best centre player. In the third-place match, Saint Lucia Sports Academy (SLSA) defeated Castries Comprehensive Secondary School (CCSS) 18-7, with Ahmani Wilfred and Isabella Emelienne leading the charge for SLSA.
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Qatar 2025 World Cup : 3 defeats, 16 goals conceded, end of the dream for Haiti
On November 10, 2025, Haiti’s U-17 national team, the Grenadiers, faced Venezuela in their final group stage match of the FIFA U-17 World Cup in Qatar. Despite a spirited effort, Haiti succumbed to a 4-2 defeat, marking the end of their World Cup journey. The match, held at the Aspire Zone sports complex in Doha, saw Haiti finish last in Group E with zero points, having conceded 16 goals and scored only four across three matches. Venezuela, the group’s undefeated leader, dominated early with goals from Diego Claut in the 6th minute and John Mancilla via a penalty in the 14th minute. Haiti fought back with a goal from Da-Benz Jacquet in the 41st minute and an equalizer from Woodson Félix in the 72nd minute. However, Venezuela’s David Garcia sealed the win with two late goals, including a penalty in stoppage time. Haitian coach Eddy César made four changes to the starting lineup, but substitutions in the final minutes failed to alter the outcome. The Haitian Football Federation praised the team’s resilience, stating, ‘Haiti leaves this competition with its head held high, standing tall and looking its opponent in the eye.’ Despite the disappointment, the federation expressed pride in the young Grenadiers’ efforts and vowed to continue improving the team’s quality for future competitions.
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Jabez Edward, 23, fatally shot in Bexon
Authorities in Bexon are currently probing the tragic shooting death of a 23-year-old man, identified as Jabez Edward, over the weekend. The incident, suspected to be linked to gun violence, occurred on Saturday, November 8. According to initial reports from St. Lucia Times, Edward was targeted by an unidentified assailant, sustaining multiple gunshot wounds, including one to his leg. Despite being rushed to OKEU Hospital, he tragically succumbed to his injuries. A video circulating on social media over the weekend allegedly captured Edward in a heated verbal altercation, during which he appeared to be wielding a firearm. Family members and friends of the deceased have expressed profound sorrow and disbelief. His sister shared, ‘I will miss everything about him,’ while a close friend remembered Edward as ‘being good to me.’ The investigation remains ongoing as authorities seek to uncover the full circumstances surrounding this fatal incident.
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UWP cheers election call, says SLP has run out of ideas
In a spirited address to United Workers Party (UWP) supporters in Anse La Raye, Opposition Leader Allen Chastanet launched a scathing critique of Prime Minister Philip J Pierre’s administration, asserting that the Labour government had “run out of ideas” and was compelled to call for a general election. Speaking at the “UWP Ring the Bell – Anse La Raye/Canaries Public Meeting” on Sunday night, Chastanet accused the government of failing to deliver on key promises, leaving it with no alternative but to “ring the bell” for elections scheduled for December 1. Chastanet highlighted the incomplete St. Jude Hospital project, which he claimed had consumed $400 million over successive administrations, as a glaring example of the government’s inefficiency. He also criticized the administration for failing to present a promised Citizenship by Investment (CIP) report to Parliament and for escalating the national debt to over $5 billion within four and a half years. Chastanet urged voters to prioritize “delivery over deception” and pledged that a UWP government would remove the 2.5% levy, reduce cooking gas prices, introduce health insurance, and finally open St. Jude Hospital. Earlier in the evening, former tourism minister and UWP candidate Dominic Fedee rallied supporters with promises of progress and long-term planning, emphasizing the need for a bipartisan “vision plan” for Anse La Raye/Canaries that would transcend political cycles. Fedee encouraged supporters to turn out in full force on election day and to bring family members along to vote.