Carib Scope

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  • OM Nederland: Boete banken bepaald door ernst en omvang zaak

    OM Nederland: Boete banken bepaald door ernst en omvang zaak

    Three major Surinamese financial institutions have reached substantial settlements with Dutch prosecutors following a comprehensive money laundering investigation initiated in 2018. The resolution concludes a prolonged examination into suspicious cash transportation practices through Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport.

    Hakrinbank will pay €166,000 in penalties, while both Finabank and De Surinaamsche Bank face fines of €124,500 each. These financial sanctions were determined through meticulous assessment of multiple factors: the substantial volume of funds involved, severity of regulatory violations, and the specific nature of the offenses classified as negligent money laundering.

    The case originated from a significant April 2018 incident where Dutch Financial Intelligence and Investigation Service (FIOD) authorities intercepted €19.5 million in cash at Schiphol Airport. The substantial currency shipment, originating from the three Surinamese banks, was destined for Hong Kong when seized by customs officials.

    According to the Dutch Public Prosecution Service, the banks demonstrated insufficient oversight regarding the origin of the transported cash. Particular concerns were raised about inadequate monitoring of exchange office clients who subsequently conducted business with the banks, creating potential channels for illicit fund movement.

    This investigation forms part of a broader, multi-agency probe launched in 2016 involving Dutch Customs, FIOD, Royal Marechaussee military police, De Nederlandsche Bank (Dutch central bank), and the Public Prosecution Service. The collaborative effort focused on identifying potential money laundering operations utilizing bulk cash transportation through Schiphol’s aviation infrastructure.

    The determined penalties reflect consideration of maximum corporate fine categories, varying scales of involved amounts, and acknowledgment that the banks acted without criminal intent. Prosecutors emphasized this constitutes negligent money laundering—a less severe form of financial crime—with no evidence suggesting the entire €19.5 million possessed criminal origins.

    Following the settlement agreements, the seized funds will be returned to the respective financial institutions, concluding one of the Caribbean region’s significant cross-border financial oversight cases.

  • Bajans told brace for global recession risk

    Bajans told brace for global recession risk

    Barbados Finance Minister Ryan Straughn has issued a stark warning that the world, including his island nation, faces imminent recession should oil prices escalate to the speculated $200 per barrel threshold. Delivering the national budget address in the House of Assembly, Straughn emphasized that temporary cost-of-living measures implemented by the government provide only limited protection against the coming energy crisis.

    The minister revealed that current economic projections indicate oil prices could skyrocket to between $150 and $200 per barrel if geopolitical tensions continue to intensify. “No matter how you look at it,” Straughn stated, “if any of these scenarios materialize, the world, which includes Barbados, will likely go into recession.”

    Straughn delivered a sobering assessment of the government’s fiscal limitations, declaring: “There’s no fiscal response the Government of Barbados could undertake on its own to absorb the impact if any of these scenarios played out. The mathematics just doesn’t work.” Instead, he called for a comprehensive societal response involving government, households, and private sector cooperation.

    The finance minister outlined specific conservation measures, urging citizens to carpool, combine errands into single trips, and utilize public transportation during peak hours. For electricity conservation, he recommended switching off unused lights and appliances, installing solar lighting where possible, and maintaining air conditioning units at 24-25 degrees Celsius.

    Businesses received directives to audit refrigeration and cooling systems, adopt solar solutions, and reduce energy consumption after operating hours. Straughn emphasized that companies reducing their energy footprint now would gain competitive advantages when prices eventually normalize.

    Highlighting the connection between energy costs and food prices, Straughn encouraged support for local agriculture and domestic food production. “Every dollar kept in the local food economy is a dollar that does not depend on imported fuel to reach our table,” he noted, revealing that Barbados spent $519 million on fuel imports even during the pandemic’s peak lockdowns.

    Despite the grim projections, the minister expressed confidence in national resilience, invoking his grandmother’s wisdom: “God helps those who help themselves.” He concluded that Barbados would overcome the challenges through collective action and shared commitment to energy conservation and local production.

  • New courts to fast-track gun cases, ease legal backlog

    New courts to fast-track gun cases, ease legal backlog

    In a significant move to combat firearm-related crimes and enhance public safety, the Barbadian government has announced the establishment of two specialized gun courts as part of its latest budgetary measures. Finance Minister Ryan Straughn revealed during Monday’s Budget address that these courts will operate on a dual-track system: one court will exclusively handle recent firearms offences, while the second will focus on clearing the substantial backlog of cases predating 2025.

    The specialized judicial approach aims to accelerate trial proceedings and strengthen deterrence against gun violence. Minister Straughn emphasized that “these dedicated gun courts would allow gun-related cases to be heard more quickly and reduce the backlog in the justice system,” acknowledging the Barbados Police Service’s effectiveness in apprehending offenders while recognizing the need for judicial efficiency.

    Complementing these judicial reforms, the government announced substantial fiscal incentives to boost security measures. Beginning next month, CCTV security surveillance systems and burglar alarms will be exempt from customs duties and value-added tax (VAT) on importation or installation. Additionally, from April 1, dashcams and GPS devices will receive duty- and VAT-free status for one year, encouraging widespread adoption among motorists.

    The finance minister urged insurance companies to provide benefits for policyholders who install dashcams, noting that the 2024 policy change ending police response to minor accidents has proven successful. He specified that devices should have a minimum of 30 gigabytes of storage to facilitate accident adjudication.

    Infrastructure improvements include plans for a new police station at Six Roads Civic Centre, representing the initial phase of upgrading accommodations for the Barbados Police Service. The comprehensive package of measures demonstrates the government’s multifaceted approach to addressing crime through judicial reform, technological adoption, and infrastructure enhancement.

  • Grenada’s Ministry of Agriculture acknowledges IICA’ role in supporting growth of agricultural sector

    Grenada’s Ministry of Agriculture acknowledges IICA’ role in supporting growth of agricultural sector

    Grenada’s agricultural sector has entered a new era of institutional collaboration with the inauguration of the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture’s (IICA) shared office space with the Partnership Initiative for Sustainable Land Management (PISLM). The ceremony, attended by senior government officials and regional representatives, marks a significant advancement in Caribbean agricultural cooperation.

    Minister of Agriculture, Lands and Forestry Honorable Lennox Andrews emphasized the strategic importance of physical presence for international partners during his address. “When our partners are here, accessible and integrated, collaboration becomes easier, coordination improves, and implementation is accelerated,” Andrews stated. The minister explicitly rejected viewing international organizations as external actors, instead characterizing them as “integral partners in achieving our national agricultural objectives.”

    The minister articulated a vision of regional self-reliance, noting that while international partnerships remain valuable, Caribbean nations must increasingly “look within – to our own institutions, our own technical capacity, and our own regional networks – to craft solutions that are suited to our realities.” This approach comes at a time when geopolitical pressures make regional strategies increasingly necessary.

    Three concrete projects demonstrate the practical implementation of this partnership:

    The Water Resource Management and Improved Irrigation initiative, developed with Global Water Partnership-Caribbean, will provide water access to 25 farmers managing 75 acres in La Poterie through dam construction and four miles of pipeline infrastructure.

    A Seamoss Drying Facility and Packaging House in La Calome, primarily funded by the Food and Agriculture Organization, will establish three drying structures and include grinding equipment for powdered seamoss production.

    A planned Memorandum of Understanding between IICA Grenada, the Ministry of Agriculture, and the Rural Development Unit aims to strengthen organizational and technical capabilities within the apiculture sector through the Grenada Association of Beekeepers.

    Gregg Rawlins, IICA’s Eastern Caribbean States representative, characterized the office opening as “a new chapter in the story of IICA in Grenada” that builds upon 45 years of service to the agricultural sector. The organization’s technical cooperation has consistently focused on enhancing agricultural resilience, competitiveness, and sustainability through strategic institutional partnerships.

    Technical Specialist Gregory Delsol detailed IICA’s comprehensive approach, encompassing capacity building, value chain strengthening, and initiatives in agricultural health and food safety. These include African Swine Fever preparedness programs, EU-funded SPS projects, support for MSME trade readiness, territorial development programs, family farming initiatives, and research in white potato cultivation.

    The new facility at #594 Concordia House, Archibald Avenue, St. George’s also serves as PISLM headquarters, reinforcing institutional commitment to environmental sustainability and climate resilience across the Caribbean region.

    Dr. Ronen Francis, PISLM Executive Director, framed the inauguration as representing “institutional maturity, political confidence and a decisive step forward for Caribbean cooperation on land, soil and climate resilience,” signaling a transformative moment in regional agricultural development.

  • Nexa: Call for nominations

    Nexa: Call for nominations

    Nexa Credit Union has officially initiated its nomination process for three key governance bodies, inviting committed members to participate in shaping the institution’s future leadership. The financial cooperative is seeking candidates for election to its Board of Directors, Credit Committee, and Supervisory Committee, with a submission deadline set for March 26, 2026.

    The Board of Directors position offers members the opportunity to influence strategic direction and governance policies, while the Credit Committee plays a crucial role in lending decisions and credit risk management. The Supervisory Committee serves as the internal watchdog, ensuring regulatory compliance and financial integrity across the organization’s operations.

    Prospective candidates must complete the official Nexa Credit Union Limited Self-Nominating Form, available through the institution’s administrative channels. This extended nomination timeline provides ample opportunity for members to consider their qualifications and prepare comprehensive applications.

    The nomination drive reflects Nexa Credit Union’s commitment to member-driven governance and democratic principles inherent in the credit union movement. These volunteer positions enable members to contribute directly to the financial cooperative’s stewardship while gaining valuable governance experience.

    NOW Grenada, while publishing this announcement, has clarified that it bears no responsibility for contributor opinions or statements presented in relation to this nomination process. The media outlet has established reporting mechanisms for addressing content concerns.

  • Court of Appeal dismisses Mohameds’ case of bias against Home Affairs Minister in extradition case

    Court of Appeal dismisses Mohameds’ case of bias against Home Affairs Minister in extradition case

    In a significant judicial ruling, the Guyana Court of Appeal has unequivocally dismissed allegations of political bias against Home Affairs Minister Oneidge Walrond regarding her authorization of extradition proceedings against political figures Azruddin Mohamed and his father Nazar “Shell” Mohamed. The unanimous decision, delivered by Chancellor of the Judiciary Roxane George-Wiltshire on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, found the case “has absolutely no merit” and upheld the minister’s compliance with statutory requirements under the Fugitive Offenders Act.

    The court determined that Minister Walrond merely executed an administrative function in accordance with legal provisions when issuing the Authority To Proceed (ATP) on October 30, 2025. Chancellor George-Wiltshire emphasized that the appellants failed to substantiate claims that the process was tainted by political prejudice, stating that “bias does not arise” in circumstances where the minister fulfills statutory obligations without discretion between competing parties.

    The ruling also addressed and rejected the application for a stay of extradition committal proceedings pending appeal to the Caribbean Court of Justice, suggesting that matter should be directed to the regional judicial body. Furthermore, the court clarified that the ultimate decision regarding extradition rests with the judicial system—specifically the magistrate and potentially the Court of Appeal—rather than the minister.

    The appellate court additionally dismissed arguments concerning potential delegation of ministerial authority, noting that any cabinet minister would similarly operate within the same governmental framework. The court awarded substantial costs of GY$1.5 million each to the Minister of Home Affairs and the Attorney General, reinforcing the lack of merit in the appellants’ claims.

    The case originated from committal proceedings currently before Principal Magistrate Judy Latchman, who issued arrest warrants for the Mohameds on October 31, 2025. The appellants had contended that political statements made during the 2025 election campaign by President Irfaan Ali, Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo, Attorney General Anil Nandlall, and Minister Walrond demonstrated institutional bias against them, particularly as Azruddin Mohamed leads the opposing We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) political party.

  • CCJ President Proposes International Climate Injuries Compensation Fund

    CCJ President Proposes International Climate Injuries Compensation Fund

    In a significant development for climate justice, Caribbean Court of Justice President Justice Winston Anderson has formally proposed the creation of an International Climate Injuries Compensation (ICIC) Fund during his address at the Inter-American Seminar on Climate Emergency and Human Rights in Brasilia on March 16, 2026. The landmark proposal calls for mandatory financial contributions from major corporate polluters to provide crucial compensation for devastating weather-related damages experienced by vulnerable nations.

    The seminar, jointly hosted by the Inter-American Court of Human Rights and Brazil’s Supreme Court, served as a platform to discuss the implications of the Court’s recent Advisory Opinion on climate emergency. While acknowledging this legal framework establishes government obligations to regulate climate-harming corporations, Justice Anderson emphasized that practical mechanisms remain insufficient for addressing urgent recovery needs following catastrophic events like Hurricane Melissa in October 2025.

    Justice Anderson expressed particular disappointment with the existing Fund for Responding to Loss and Damage (FRLD) established under the Paris Agreement, noting its inadequate capitalization and limited compensation capabilities. He highlighted the stark disparity between Jamaica’s eligible compensation of approximately $20 million versus the actual damages of $6-7 billion from recent climate disasters.

    The proposed ICIC Fund would operate under a ‘Polluter Pays’ principle, requiring multinational corporations exceeding specific greenhouse emission thresholds to contribute mandatorily through their operating states. Modeled after the International Maritime Organisation’s successful compensation framework for oil pollution, the fund would possess legal personality enabling affected parties to pursue claims directly in countries where climate disasters cause significant harm.

    Justice Anderson first introduced this innovative concept during his keynote address at the CANARI Partners Forum in Barbados this January. The Caribbean Court of Justice, inaugurated in 2005 and currently presided over by Justice Anderson, serves as both a regional trade court and final appellate jurisdiction for several Caribbean nations, representing a profound expression of regional independence and judicial maturity.

  • Family Fun Ride to Promote Down Syndrome Awareness Set for Sunday

    Family Fun Ride to Promote Down Syndrome Awareness Set for Sunday

    ST. JOHN’S, Antigua – The Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre has announced its forthcoming World Down Syndrome Awareness Family Fun Ride, set to take place on Sunday, March 22, 2026. This community-focused initiative is designed to foster public awareness and promote inclusive participation for all residents.

    In a strategic partnership with the Antigua and Barbuda Cycling Federation and the advocacy group Good Humans 268 Inc., the event aims to merge health consciousness with community solidarity. The organizers have emphasized that the activity is entirely free and welcomes individuals across all age groups and physical capabilities.

    To guarantee universal access, the event will feature a stationary bicycle on-site, accommodating those unable to participate in the traditional ride. Special prize categories will further incentivize involvement and celebrate participant effort.

    The ride will commence at 8:00 a.m. along LIAT Road in Coolidge, St. George’s. Organizers are encouraging attendees to bring friends and family, highlighting the event’s dual mission: raising visibility for people with Down syndrome and strengthening community bonds through shared public engagement.

  • New Jersey firefighters train with Grenada to strengthen emergency response

    New Jersey firefighters train with Grenada to strengthen emergency response

    A collaborative firefighting initiative between New Jersey emergency responders and Grenadian authorities has yielded significant improvements in the Caribbean nation’s disaster preparedness. For the past week, seasoned firefighters from the American state conducted intensive hands-on training sessions with members of the Royal Grenada Police Force Fire Department, exchanging critical lifesaving methodologies and enhancing joint emergency response protocols.

    This bilateral cooperation program, established in 2018 as an annual undertaking, has evolved into a cornerstone of Grenada’s emergency management framework. The partnership extends beyond knowledge sharing to include substantial material support, with previous donations comprising essential firefighting apparatus and a fully operational fire engine. These resources have substantially augmented Grenada’s capacity to combat blazes affecting key national infrastructure, including St. George’s University and Maurice Bishop International Airport.

    Superintendent Kenneth Gill, commanding officer of the RGPF Fire Department, emphasized the program’s transformative impact: ‘The immense value of continuous training and skill acquisition cannot be overstated. Our personnel who receive this advanced instruction now possess the capability to disseminate these techniques throughout our organization, creating a multiplier effect that enhances our overall operational readiness.’

    Retired Newark Deputy Chief Mike Nasta, a participating instructor, commended Grenadian firefighters’ professional attributes: ‘The collaboration with Grenadian crews has been exceptionally productive. They demonstrate remarkable aptitude, enthusiasm, and dedication to their craft. It’s been a privilege to contribute to their ongoing professional development.’

    The initiative, supported by the U.S. Embassy in Grenada, represents a growing transnational relationship between emergency services that continues to strengthen annually. All participants have expressed commitment to maintaining this vital partnership, which directly supports frontline responders protecting communities and critical assets across Grenada.

  • “The Bricks That Started This Building Were Laid by Women”

    “The Bricks That Started This Building Were Laid by Women”

    BELIZE CITY – The Young Women’s Christian Association (YWCA) of Belize commemorated seven decades of transformative community service with special celebrations this week, highlighting its enduring legacy as a cornerstone of social development.

    The organization marked this significant milestone by hosting an open day at its Belize City headquarters, inviting citizens to explore its extensive programming and profound societal impact. The event featured health screenings and opportunities to engage with public health officials, demonstrating YWCA’s ongoing commitment to holistic community wellness.

    Bernadette Ellis, Vice President of YWCA Belize, reflected on the organization’s foundational principles during the anniversary events. ‘The bricks that started this building were laid by women,’ Ellis stated, emphasizing the pioneering role of female leadership in establishing the institution’s legacy. ‘We maintain immense pride in our current position and the continuous impact we generate across generations.’

    The commemorative activities commenced with a special worship service at Wesley Church on Sunday, followed by Monday’s open house event. Ellis further clarified the organization’s inclusive philosophy, noting membership extends to all community members seeking to contribute, particularly welcoming high school and sixth form students eager to engage in community service.

    Since its establishment in 1956, YWCA Belize has served as a critical force in national development, providing educational programs, advocacy initiatives, and support services that have empowered countless Belizean women and families to build more prosperous futures. The organization continues to adapt its services to address contemporary challenges while honoring its seven-decade tradition of community empowerment.