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  • Storm victims living in tents had been evicted — Peters

    Storm victims living in tents had been evicted — Peters

    A stark housing crisis has emerged in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, 18 months after Hurricane Beryl’s devastation, with opposition Senator Keisal Peters revealing that numerous residents across the islands continue to inhabit temporary tents due to profound property shortages. The situation is particularly acute on Union Island, where displaced populations have occupied public infrastructure, including a community hard court now colloquially dubbed ‘Tent City.’

    This occupation has had tangible community repercussions, notably preventing the Union Island Secondary School from participating in the local netball championship due to the lost facility access. The parliamentary representative for the Southern Grenadines, Minister Terrence Ollivierre, confirmed the ongoing crisis, stating he had to implore tent residents to find alternative housing to restore community access to the court.

    The political discourse surrounding the delayed recovery has intensified. Minister Ollivierre directly challenged the previous Unity Labour Party (ULP) administration’s claims that a significant portion of damaged homes had been repaired or reconstructed. He cited figures from Deputy Prime Minister St. Clair Leacock indicating that many individuals remain in paid accommodations on the mainland, suggesting resettlement efforts are far from complete.

    In response, Senator Peters, who served as Minister of National Mobilisation in the former government, provided critical context. She explained that a resettlement subcommittee was established post-Beryl and uncovered a distressing trend: many affected individuals on Union Island were originally mainland migrants who moved for work. Peters alleged that numerous landlords seized the hurricane as an opportunity for ‘divine intervention,’ evicting tenants en masse and leaving them with no property to return to, thereby exacerbating the homelessness crisis.

  • Energy authorities confirm full restoration of national power system

    Energy authorities confirm full restoration of national power system

    SANTO DOMINGO – Authorities in the Dominican Republic have successfully restored and stabilized the country’s National Interconnected Electric System (SENI) following a significant nationwide power disruption that occurred earlier on Monday. The system reached full operational status at 11:53 p.m. that evening after an intensive recovery operation.

    Energy and Mines Minister Joel Santos confirmed that technical teams immediately launched a comprehensive investigation into the root causes of the widespread outage once system stability was achieved. The ministry has pledged to publicly disclose its findings through official channels upon completion of the forensic analysis.

    The restoration process was executed under stringent technical protocols to ensure frequency stability, maintain precise balance between power generation and consumption demand, and facilitate the gradual synchronization of electrical circuits nationwide. Minister Santos maintained continuous oversight from the Control Center throughout Monday, directing coordinated efforts with senior officials from key energy sector institutions.

    Critical coordination occurred between the Dominican Electricity Transmission Company (ETED), the Superintendency of Electricity, the National Energy Commission (CNE), and the Unified Council of Electricity Distribution Companies (CUED). Authorities emphasized that their collaborative, real-time supervision was instrumental in achieving an orderly and secure restoration process, preventing potentially damaging unsynchronized reconnections and protecting critical infrastructure.

    Minister Santos reiterated the government’s commitment to technical responsibility and transparency, stating: ‘Our paramount objective remained the safe restoration of service with technical responsibility and transparency to the public,’ thereby reaffirming the sector’s dedication to ensuring the reliability and stability of the national grid.

  • Brittons Hill hand Paradise first loss

    Brittons Hill hand Paradise first loss

    The landscape of the Barbados Football Association Premier League underwent a dramatic transformation this Sunday following a series of pivotal matches at the Wildey Technical Centre. The headline event saw Brittons Hill United deliver a stunning 3-2 victory to previously unbeaten league leaders Paradise, a result that catapults Kickstart Rush into the unique position of being the competition’s only undefeated side.

    The evening’s marquee clash between Paradise and Brittons Hill erupted into immediate action. Barbados international Sheran Hoyte continued his scintillating scoring form, netting his fifth goal in three matches to give Paradise a third-minute lead. The advantage was short-lived, however, as Vincentian striker Steven Pierre atoned for an earlier miss by capitalizing on a defensive error to equalize. After a period of intense end-to-end action, Brittons Hill seized control in the second half. Tshane Lorde’s powerful header in the 63rd minute put them ahead before a clinically taken 74th-minute penalty extended their lead to 3-1. A late consolation goal from Paradise’s Jaron Oughterson in added time proved insufficient to alter the outcome.

    An ecstatic Brittons Hill coach Richard Forde hailed the performance as one of the finest in his tenure, attributing the victory to disciplined organization and rigorous training sessions. ‘This was one out of the top drawer. It was a magnificent game that we played tonight,’ Forde stated, emphasizing the strategic groundwork laid in preparation.

    In the night’s final fixture, Kickstart Rush maintained their unbeaten status but were forced to share points in a tense 0-0 stalemate with arch-rivals Weymouth Wales. Both sides squandered critical opportunities, with Wales seeing a second-half shot cleared off the line and multiple chances go astray in the final quarter. While disappointed not to secure all three points, Kickstart coach Renaldo Gilkes acknowledged the quality of the reigning champions and highlighted the positive of remaining unbeaten.

    The day’s action commenced with UWI Blackbirds securing a narrow 1-0 win over Bagatelle through a Jadon McCollin goal, marking their third consecutive victory and signaling a potential resurgence after a slow start to their campaign.

    These results precipitate a significant reshuffling of the league table. Paradise retains top position with 16 points, but Kickstart Rush now sits just one point behind in second. Ellerton holds third with 13 points, while Brittons Hill’s triumph pushes them into fourth, overtaking defending champions Wales who drop to fifth.

  • Security : Kidnapping foiled, 8 dead including 2 police officers

    Security : Kidnapping foiled, 8 dead including 2 police officers

    In a dramatic pre-dawn operation on February 23, 2026, Haitian National Police (PNH) successfully intercepted a planned kidnapping in the Delmas 48 district of Port-au-Prince, resulting in eight fatalities including two police officers. The violent confrontation unfolded across multiple neighborhoods as specialized police units engaged armed kidnappers traveling in two SUVs.

    According to official reports, the criminal group was preparing to blockade their target’s vehicle using their SUVs when police intervention disrupted their operation. The suspects abandoned their initial plan and fled through the metropolitan area. Two assailants were fatally wounded during pursuit in Delmas 31, while the remaining four were cornered by law enforcement reinforcements in Delmas 17 after deploying multiple specialized units.

    The subsequent firefight resulted in the neutralization of all six kidnappers, including identified individuals Dumorin Job and Kenny, alias ‘Kalash,’ who sustained fatal injuries during exchanges of gunfire with police.

    Security forces confiscated three vehicles from the operation – a Nissan Patrol, Toyota RAV4, and Canter truck – along with eight firearms comprising four assault rifles, four pistols, and substantial ammunition. Authorities also recovered the intended victim’s Toyota Prado, which had been specifically targeted by the kidnapping group.

    The tactical victory came at significant cost to the PNH, with two officers killed in action – one from the elite SWAT Team and another from the Intervention Brigade (BI). Three additional officers sustained injuries and are currently receiving medical treatment.

    The Haitian National Police reaffirmed its determination to combat kidnapping networks that continue to paralyze socio-economic activities in the capital. In an official statement, the PNH emphasized its ongoing commitment to nationwide operations aimed at restoring public order and ensuring citizen security.

  • International flights in loss of safety buffer distance over Guyana’s air space

    International flights in loss of safety buffer distance over Guyana’s air space

    The Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) has suspended two air traffic controllers and initiated a formal investigation following a significant aviation incident earlier this month. Two international flights violated mandatory separation protocols while traversing Guyanese airspace, creating a potentially hazardous situation.

    According to Aviation Minister Deodat Indar, the incident occurred when the mandated 10-mile safety buffer between aircraft was compromised, shrinking to approximately five miles. The event was logged around 1 AM on February 16, 2026, and involved United Airlines Flight UAL860, traveling from São Paulo, Brazil to Washington D.C. at 34,000 feet, and Turpial Airlines Flight VTU9905, en route from Guyana to Venezuela while climbing to 36,000 feet. Data from open-source aircraft tracking services confirmed the proximity alert.

    Minister Indar emphasized that despite the breach, neither aircraft declared an emergency nor was there any risk of collision. Modern commercial aircraft of this type typically cruise at speeds between 8-9 miles per minute, making precise separation critical. The minister expressed particular concern about publicizing the event, noting that Guyana’s aviation authorities had recently earned significant praise for their management standards. The suspended controllers have been removed from active duty pending the investigation’s outcome, which aims to determine the root cause of the procedural failure.

  • FTC alerted to SurePay’s new 30-cent over-the-counter payment fee

    FTC alerted to SurePay’s new 30-cent over-the-counter payment fee

    A proposed convenience fee by bill payment processor SurePay (Barbados) has ignited a significant consumer rights debate, drawing scrutiny from the nation’s fair trade regulator. Effective March 16, the company plans to implement a VAT-inclusive 30-cent charge on all over-the-counter cash and cheque bill payments, a move it attributes to escalating operational costs associated with handling physical currency and processing cheques.

    The Barbados Consumer Empowerment Network (BCEN) has formally petitioned the Fair Trading Commission (FTC) to conduct a comprehensive review of the fee’s fairness, necessity, and proportionality. BCEN Executive Chair Maureen Holder articulated deep concerns that the seemingly nominal charge would disproportionately impact vulnerable demographics, including seniors, low-income households, and individuals with limited digital access. Holder emphasized that for these groups, counter services are not a premium convenience but an essential utility, and layering additional fees exacerbates existing financial strains from rising living costs.

    In response to inquiries, FTC Chief Executive Officer Brian Reece confirmed the agency’s awareness of the emerging situation but declined to comment on any potential regulatory action. Reece stated the commission must first be guided by thoroughly grounded facts and legal principles before making any determination on the merits of the case.

    The controversy highlights a broader tension between national digitalization efforts and financial inclusivity. BCEN argues that penalizing in-person transactions creates a discriminatory two-tier system, effectively charging a premium for essential services to those who are least able to transition to digital platforms. This, they contend, runs counter to national goals of financial inclusion and consumer protection. The central demand from consumer advocates is for absolute transparency: a clear justification for the fee’s necessity, evidence that alternative cost-saving measures were explored, and safeguards against the gradual accumulation of small charges that incrementally increase the cost of living.

  • Medals, personal best times for Vincy swimmers in Barbados meet

    Medals, personal best times for Vincy swimmers in Barbados meet

    A contingent of four elite swimmers from St. Vincent’s Black Sands Swim Squad made waves at the recently concluded Barbados National Long Course Swimming Championships, delivering a series of commanding performances that yielded an impressive collection of medals and numerous personal achievements.

    Leading the team’s remarkable success was Kione Deshong in the Boys 13–14 division, who emerged as a standout performer. Deshong dominated the competition, securing a total of six medals: two gold, three silver, and one bronze. His exceptional showing was further highlighted by achieving personal best times in four of his events, demonstrating significant technical progress and competitive prowess.

    In the highly competitive Boys 15–17 age category, Matthew Ballah delivered a masterclass in consistent excellence. Ballah’s powerful performances earned him two gold medals and two bronze medals, complemented by two personal best times. His achievements underscore his development as a formidable competitor in regional swimming circles.

    Teammate Seth Byron, also competing in the Boys 15–17 group, made valuable contributions to the team’s overall medal count. Byron captured two bronze medals while achieving one personal best time, showing notable improvement and competitive spirit throughout the championship meet.

    Completing the team’s successful campaign was Zariel Nelson, who added another bronze medal to the squad’s collective achievement while also recording one personal best time, rounding out an exceptionally successful competition for the Vincentian delegation.

    The athletes now turn their attention to the upcoming SAC Invitational Swim Meet, scheduled to take place at Shrewsbury Aquatic Centre in Ratho Mill from February 26th to March 1st. Organizers are encouraging families and supporters to attend the event and provide enthusiastic support as these talented swimmers continue their competitive season.

  • Two Arrested in Corozal Gas Station Robbery

    Two Arrested in Corozal Gas Station Robbery

    In a swift law enforcement response to armed robbery, Corozal police have successfully apprehended and formally charged two local residents following a February 18th gas station holdup. The arrested individuals have been identified as 20-year-old Jair Rancharan and 37-year-old Armando Villanueva, both from Corozal Town.

    The incident unfolded at approximately 2:27 PM at the Western Gas Station located in the Chula Vista district. According to Assistant Superintendent of Police Stacy Smith, two male suspects entered the establishment, with one brandishing a firearm. The assailants threatened the attendant and demanded the day’s revenue, which was subsequently handed over before their escape from the scene.

    Police initiated an immediate investigation utilizing multiple technological resources. CCTV footage analysis combined with coordinated ground operations and aerial drone surveillance led to the capture of both suspects within approximately sixty minutes of the crime.

    Evidence recovery proved significant: Rancharan was found in possession of a .38 caliber revolver containing six live rounds, while Villanueva carried what investigators believe to be the stolen currency. ASP Smith revealed the recovered firearm may be connected to a previous December 2025 security guard robbery case.

    Rancharan faces additional weapons-related charges including unlicensed firearm possession, unlawful ammunition possession, and possession of a weapon with removed serial identification.

    ASP Smith emphasized the growing importance of technological integration in modern policing, noting that aerial drone systems provide superior surveillance coverage compared to traditional ground personnel alone. She confirmed that drone technology is being increasingly deployed for both reactive criminal investigations and proactive crime prevention initiatives.

  • Will Stricter Bail Stop Staine from Being a Hot Target?

    Will Stricter Bail Stop Staine from Being a Hot Target?

    Belizean authorities are pursuing enhanced judicial measures following a violent shooting incident that injured four individuals, including a man previously known to law enforcement. The event occurred on Friday evening at a basketball court within the Lake Independence area, prompting immediate police response and subsequent strategic evaluations.

    Assistant Superintendent of Police Stacy Smith officially identified the victims as 22-year-old Jahreem “32” Staine, 22-year-old Devon Parham, along with Anthony Reyes and Tyrique Westby, both 27 years old. According to ASP Smith, preliminary investigation reveals that a solitary assailant emerged from concealed positions behind court bleachers before discharging multiple rounds toward a group congregated near the sporting facility.

    Critical evidence includes surveillance footage currently undergoing meticulous forensic examination. “The surveillance camera and the footage are being meticulously scrutinized with a view to apprehending these assailants or this assailant,” Smith stated during the official briefing.

    The incident represents another potentially targeted attempt on Staine’s life, raising substantial concerns regarding public safety protocols and judicial oversight. In response, law enforcement agencies are preparing formal applications to the High Court seeking imposition of significantly stricter bail conditions for Staine, who was already under court-mandated restrictions.

    ASP Smith elaborated on existing judicial constraints: “I know that the conditions of his bail included that he ought not to be in certain places around certain times. Certainly that matter will be addressed, which I anticipate will be be at the high court; it’ll certainly be for more stringent provisions to be placed.” This development occurs alongside recent legal proceedings involving other high-profile cases within the region, reflecting broader law enforcement initiatives to address recurring violence.

  • Four Men Charged in Belmopan Anti-Drug Operation

    Four Men Charged in Belmopan Anti-Drug Operation

    In a significant law enforcement operation targeting narcotics distribution, Belizean authorities have apprehended four individuals following a meticulously planned intelligence-driven mission in the nation’s capital. The operation, executed in the Las Flores sector of Belmopan, marks a continued effort by police to disrupt local drug supply chains.

    According to official statements from Assistant Superintendent of Police Stacy Smith, the strategic intervention occurred on the afternoon of February 18, 2026, at approximately 2:40 p.m. on Girasol Street. The police action resulted in the detention and subsequent charging of four male suspects: Kenny Sosa (23), Deandre Lara (20), Paulino Ortiz (35), and Milton Ortiz (25).

    Law enforcement officials confirmed the seizure of substantial illicit substances during the operation. The confiscated materials included 1.40 grams of a white powder suspected to be cocaine and a more considerable quantity of 120 grams of cannabis, discovered within a residential yard where the group had congregated.

    The defendants now face serious criminal allegations under Belize’s drug trafficking legislation, specifically charged with possession of controlled substances with demonstrated intent to supply. This charge indicates prosecutors believe the recovered narcotics were destined for distribution rather than personal consumption. The case continues to develop as authorities investigate potential connections to broader narcotics networks operating in the Belmopan region.