In a coordinated crackdown on controlled substances, the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda executed two successful operations on Friday, February 21, 2026, resulting in significant seizures of THC-infused products. The first operation, conducted around 2:00 p.m. along Sir George Walter Highway, involved a multi-unit task force comprising the Narcotics Division, K-9 Unit, and Customs Enforcement Unit. Authorities confiscated forty-five packages of THC-laced gummies from a targeted premises, subsequently detaining one individual for interrogation at Police Headquarters. Simultaneously, a parallel operation on Old Parham Road yielded an additional eleven packages of THC by-products. Both investigations remain active as law enforcement continues to pursue all leads. Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the principal psychoactive component in cannabis, induces mind-altering effects including euphoria, sensory distortion, memory impairment, and anxiety. Health experts caution that edible THC products present unique risks due to delayed onset of effects, potentially leading to dangerous overconsumption and adverse reactions such as tachycardia, dizziness, and impaired cognitive function. The Royal Police Force reaffirmed that unauthorized possession, distribution, and consumption of controlled substances violate national laws, emphasizing their commitment to enforcing drug regulations.
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“Wanted man” Mitchell in police custody
Dareo Theo Mitchell, a resident of Chelston Gardens on Culloden Road in St Michael, Barbados, has voluntarily surrendered to law enforcement authorities. Mitchell had been the subject of an official wanted bulletin issued on January 18, 2026, in connection with multiple serious criminal investigations.
The suspect presented himself at the Oistins Police Station this past Friday, accompanied by his legal representative. According to police statements, Mitchell is currently cooperating with investigators and providing assistance to advance their ongoing criminal probe.
The Barbados Police Service has formally acknowledged the public’s cooperation and media support throughout this investigation. Law enforcement officials expressed appreciation for the community’s vigilance and assistance in this matter, highlighting the successful collaboration between citizens and authorities in addressing serious criminal cases.
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Buitenlands beleid moet meer opleveren voor Suriname
Suriname’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, International Trade and Cooperation (BIS) has initiated a strategic pivot in diplomatic approach, emphasizing concrete developmental outcomes over traditional diplomatic engagements. The shift was announced during the MOFA Networking Reception held Friday at Ballroom Prince, attended by President Jennifer Simons, diplomatic corps members, government officials, business representatives, and civil society organizations.
Foreign Minister Melvin Bouva articulated the new direction, stating that diplomacy must explicitly contribute to economic growth and sustainable development. The event, themed ‘Engaging partners and building relationships: Architecture for sustainable development through International Cooperation,’ served as a platform to deepen international relations and stimulate new collaborations.
“We have gathered all key actors to discuss the direction of our foreign policy and particularly the concrete results that must emerge from it,” Minister Bouva emphasized. He described the reception as a strategic moment to transform diplomatic conversations into measurable outcomes, adding that discussions must evolve into commitments, and commitments into actions and results.
The gathering featured addresses by French Ambassador Nicolas de Lacoste, who discussed existing cooperation between France and Suriname, and Gail Meyer, representative of the Corps of Honorary Consuls in Suriname, who highlighted the crucial role of honorary consuls in strengthening international economic and diplomatic ties.
While the reception itself produced no immediate policy decisions, the ministry views it as a catalyst for future collaborative projects. The contacts established during this first 2026 edition are expected to evolve into investments, projects, and new partnerships throughout the year.
The ministry clarified that the networking reception is not an isolated event but part of a broader strategy to position Suriname more effectively within regional and international cooperation frameworks. The ultimate objective remains clear: international cooperation must deliver tangible benefits for Surinamese society.
Minister Bouva concluded with a mission statement: “Our mission is simple: to make Suriname shine. A better Suriname begins with each of us.”
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Police set to relocate to new $35.8M Gros Islet headquarters
The Royal Saint Lucia Police Force has initiated a significant operational transition, relocating its Gros Islet division from the Human Resource Development Centre to a newly constructed, purpose-built facility in Massade. This strategic move concludes the force’s prolonged dependence on leased accommodations, establishing a permanent base of operations designed for modern law enforcement needs.
This advanced divisional headquarters will accommodate a substantial contingent of personnel, having absorbed 25% of the force’s most recently graduated officers. Senior police leadership emphasizes that this reinforced staffing level will substantially augment the division’s capacity to maintain security and engage with the local community effectively.
During the formal inauguration on February 19, Deputy Commissioner of Police Ronald Philip addressed attending officers, framing the relocation as a profound opportunity rather than a mere change of venue. He challenged the division to embrace the facility as a catalyst for elevated professional standards, describing it as one of the most contemporary police stations in the English-speaking Caribbean. Philip articulated a vision for the headquarters to become a benchmark for professionalism, a paradigm of community-oriented policing, and a institution recognized for its inclusivity, accessibility, and responsiveness to public needs.
Echoing this sentiment, Gros Islet Parliamentary Representative Kenson Casimir highlighted the station’s design philosophy, which prioritizes operational efficiency, enhanced service delivery, and the provision of a secure, professional working environment for officers dedicated to daily community service.
Financed through a Build, Own, Lease, Transfer (BOLT) agreement valued at approximately $35.86 million, the project was a collaborative venture between the Saint Lucian government and NIPRO, a subsidiary of the National Insurance Corporation. NIPRO Chairperson Everistus Jn Marie noted the project’s completion was achieved despite significant challenges, including global supply chain disruptions, extensive hurricane season rainfall, and competitive shortages in labor and materials amid a broader construction surge. Remarkably, the development was finalized without exceeding its initial contractual budget.
With interior furnishings and fittings now complete, the station is poised for imminent occupancy by police personnel. The successful BOLT model employed for this project is already slated for replication in the planned Vieux Fort Administrative Complex, signaling continued partnership between NIPRO and the government.
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St Kitts and Nevis tourism to double by 2027 – WIC News
The Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis is positioning itself for unprecedented tourism growth through two landmark developments scheduled for completion by late 2027. Strategic infrastructure enhancements at Port Zante and the innovative Symbol of Love Monument project are expected to fundamentally reshape the nation’s tourism economy and global positioning.
Port Zante is undergoing comprehensive upgrades to establish home-porting capabilities for major cruise operators, with P&O Cruises confirmed as the primary operator. This strategic shift will transition the destination from a transit port to a cruise itinerary starting point beginning November 2027. The transformation will see passengers arriving by air, utilizing local accommodation, dining establishments, and entertainment venues before embarking from the newly enhanced facility.
Tourism Minister Marsha Henderson emphasized the economic implications of this development: ‘Home-porting generates substantially greater economic impact than traditional cruise calls. Passengers will extend their stays, generating increased hotel occupancy, restaurant revenue, and tour bookings while creating sustained demand for transportation and retail services.’
Concurrently, the US$30 million Symbol of Love Monument and Museum project at Fort Thomas represents a sophisticated cultural tourism initiative. Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew describes the complex as a ‘world-class cultural and educational landmark’ designed to establish St. Kitts and Nevis as ‘The Island of Love’ and premium wedding destination. The development will feature two museum facilities—the Caribbean Museum of History and the International Museum—alongside a ceremonial monument space specifically designed for wedding ceremonies.
Industry analysts project these complementary developments could potentially double tourism numbers by 2027, creating a synergistic effect between cruise tourism and cultural attractions. The infrastructure investments position St. Kitts and Nevis as an emerging strategic hub in the Eastern Caribbean tourism market, offering both recreational and cultural experiences that extend beyond traditional beach tourism.
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Hurley to answer murder and other charges
A 27-year-old Barbadian man is set to face judicial proceedings this Saturday morning on serious criminal allegations including homicide and firearms violations. Khalil Lavaar Hurley, currently documented as without permanent residence, was formally charged in connection with two distinct January incidents that shocked local communities.
The most severe charges stem from the January 9th incident at Worthing Beach in Christ Church parish, where Hurley stands accused of fatally shooting Andre Parris alongside unlawful firearm possession during the altercation. Court documents indicate this beachfront confrontation resulted in the tragic death that has concerned local residents and authorities.
Additionally, Hurley faces separate charges from a subsequent incident on January 19th at Headley Land in Bank Hall, St. Michael. These allegations include willful property destruction targeting belongings of Samantha Chassang and further illegal firearm usage during the event, suggesting a pattern of armed violence.
The District ‘A’ Criminal Court will convene to hear the prosecution’s case against Hurley, who remains in custody awaiting trial. Legal experts note the gravity of simultaneous murder and firearms charges within Barbados’ judicial system, particularly given the two-week span between alleged offenses.
Local law enforcement officials have emphasized their continued investigation into both incidents while encouraging community members with additional information to come forward. The consecutive nature of these serious allegations has prompted discussions about public safety protocols in affected neighborhoods.
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Murder Trial for Willikies Man Set for June 1
The judicial proceedings against Dexter Scotland, accused in the fatal shooting of Isaac in Willikies village, are advancing with a trial date now formally set for June 1st. The case stems from a violent incident that occurred on the evening of June 4th, 2023, outside a local establishment.
According to the prosecution’s case, the victim was subjected to a multi-shot assault at approximately 8 p.m., sustaining critical injuries from gunshots to the head and torso. Emergency services transported Isaac to the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre, where he received intensive medical care for nearly a week before succumbing to his wounds.
The judicial process continues to move forward, with a case management hearing scheduled for March 13th. This preliminary session will address procedural matters and evidentiary preparations ahead of the formal trial proceedings. The upcoming trial will examine the circumstances surrounding the alleged homicide and determine the defendant’s culpability under the law.
The community of Willikies has been awaiting judicial resolution in this case, which represents another instance of gun violence being addressed through the Antiguan legal system. The court’s scheduling indicates the matter is progressing through standard judicial channels toward resolution.
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Cabinet Backs $40M Reset Wellness Tourism Project in Freetown
The government of Antigua and Barbuda has granted official endorsement to Reset Wellness Antigua, a substantial tourism initiative designed to position the dual-island nation as a premier destination in the rapidly expanding global wellness sector. The project received full cabinet support following a formal presentation by its principals, marking a strategic pivot from conventional sun-and-sand tourism toward experiential, high-value travel experiences.
Strategically situated at Harmony Hall at Brown’s Bay Mill in Freetown near Non-Such Bay, the development will integrate luxury wellness offerings with the archipelago’s pristine natural environment. The project represents a conscious effort to attract visitors seeking extended stays and premium services while maintaining ecological sensitivity through low-density construction and sustainable design principles.
The development promises significant economic benefits through job creation, with an estimated 150-200 direct employment opportunities during construction phases, predominantly filled by local workers. Upon completion within a 24-month timeframe, the facility is projected to generate 80-120 permanent positions across diverse sectors including wellness services, culinary operations, administration, and property maintenance.
Environmental sustainability forms a cornerstone of the project’s architecture, incorporating advanced features such as solar energy integration, passive cooling systems, green roofing, native vegetation restoration, and comprehensive stormwater management infrastructure.
The initial development phase will utilize five acres of the twelve-acre property, featuring approximately 172 units developed under the Citizenship by Investment Programme framework. The project represents a capital investment exceeding US$40 million, with the government offering concessions aligned with CBI legislation to facilitate development.
Cabinet officials characterized the initiative as integral to a broader national strategy targeting high-quality, sustainable tourism investment. The project aims to capitalize on growing consumer interest in wellness and experiential travel while enhancing Antigua and Barbuda’s competitive positioning in the premium tourism market.
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1,500 Tires a Day Go To The Landfill
The Caribbean nation of Antigua and Barbuda is confronting a severe environmental challenge as its primary waste facility struggles under mounting pressure from discarded tires. Cook’s Landfill, the country’s sole official waste disposal site, is receiving approximately 1,500 tires per day alongside six tons of solid waste and 30,000 gallons of sewage, creating critical capacity and environmental concerns.
Maurice Merchant, Director General of Communications, revealed during a post-Cabinet briefing that tire disposal has emerged as a particularly pressing issue. Unlike conventional household waste, tires present unique environmental hazards including heightened fire risks and extremely slow decomposition rates, prompting government officials to explore innovative management strategies.
The Cabinet is actively investigating technological solutions to divert tires from the landfill system. Among the options under consideration is the ‘Burning Flames Highway’ technology, which incorporates shredded tire material into road construction under environmentally regulated conditions. This approach could simultaneously address waste reduction and infrastructure development needs.
Additionally, authorities are examining waste-to-energy conversion systems that could alleviate landfill burdens while generating usable power. Merchant characterized these technologies as longer-term strategic solutions currently undergoing comprehensive assessment.
The scale of the problem becomes starkly evident when considering that the daily tire influx equates to a full set of passenger car tires every fifteen minutes continuously. This challenge is particularly acute for small island nations like Antigua and Barbuda, where limited land availability compounds waste management difficulties.
While the government continues investing in traditional landfill infrastructure—including bulldozers, excavators and compactors—officials acknowledge that more sustainable solutions must form part of their long-term planning. As deliberations continue, residents and environmental stakeholders await decisive action to modernize the island’s waste management systems in line with population growth and contemporary ecological standards.
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Government in Talks with New Fixed-Base Operator for Antigua
The Caribbean nation of Antigua and Barbuda is progressing through advanced negotiations with an undisclosed fixed-base operator (FBO) to significantly upgrade its private aviation infrastructure. This strategic move aims to position the dual-island state as a premier destination for corporate and high-net-worth travel within the region.
Maurice Merchant, the Director General of Communications, publicly verified the ongoing discussions during a recent post-Cabinet briefing. While confirming that talks are advancing constructively, Merchant emphasized the government’s decision to withhold the identity of the prospective company until a final agreement is formally ratified. “There have been further discussions,” Merchant stated, “but as the discussions continue, the government believes that it would be premature to disclose who these principals are until everything has been finalized.” He assured that a full public disclosure will follow the conclusion of negotiations.
The establishment of a new FBO is anticipated to bring substantial enhancements to Antigua’s aviation sector. These improvements are projected to include state-of-the-art ground handling services, expanded hangar capacity, comprehensive aircraft maintenance, and premium passenger amenities tailored for executive jets. Fixed-base operators are essential service providers in the aviation ecosystem, offering critical support such as refueling, parking, and concierge services for private and corporate aircraft.
This initiative underscores the government’s dedicated focus on leveraging private sector investment to bolster its tourism and business travel industries. Although specific details regarding the investment scope and contractual terms remain confidential, the active negotiations signal a committed effort to stimulate economic development through aviation sector expansion. Government officials have indicated that further official updates will be provided upon the finalization of all contractual agreements.