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  • Late-Night Shooting in Caye Caulker Leaves One Man Hospitalised

    Late-Night Shooting in Caye Caulker Leaves One Man Hospitalised

    BELIZE – A violent evening unfolded across Belize on February 13th, 2026, with two separate shooting incidents occurring within hours of each other, resulting in two men being hospitalized and multiple suspects detained.

    The first episode transpired in the tranquil tourist destination of Caye Caulker Village. At approximately 9:00 p.m., local law enforcement responded to alerts of gunfire in the Bahia precinct. During their investigation, officers intercepted a golf cart en route to the island’s medical facility. Inside, they discovered 22-year-old Dominic Castillo suffering from a severe injury consistent with a gunshot wound to his back.

    Mr. Castillo received initial emergency treatment at the Caye Caulker Clinic before being airlifted to the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital in Belize City for advanced care. Medical authorities have reported his condition as stable. A significant breakthrough in the case occurred with the confiscation of a loaded 9mm firearm. This led to the immediate apprehension of 29-year-old Javan Moody, who is currently held for questioning regarding the weapon’s involvement.

    In a concurrent development, the capital city of Belize witnessed its own act of gun violence. Around 10:00 p.m. on Cleghorn Street, 49-year-old security guard Justo Pinelo became the victim of a shooting. He sustained injuries and was promptly transported to a medical center for treatment. Law enforcement officials confirmed the detention of two juveniles believed to be connected to this assault.

    Authorities are actively pursuing investigative leads for both cases but have not indicated any connection between the two geographically distinct events. These incidents have sparked renewed community concern regarding public safety and gun violence in the region.

  • Monorath: Duizenden vreemdelingen zonder geldige verblijfsstatus drukken zwaar op voorzieningen

    Monorath: Duizenden vreemdelingen zonder geldige verblijfsstatus drukken zwaar op voorzieningen

    Suriname’s Justice and Police Minister Harish Monorath has officially acknowledged a significant migration challenge, revealing that thousands of foreign nationals reside in the country without proper documentation. The minister’s statements came during a National Assembly session in response to inquiries from opposition member Ingrid Karta-Bink regarding foreign citizen registration and mounting pressure on public services.

    Minister Monorath identified citizens from Cuba, Haiti, Venezuela, and the Dominican Republic as the primary groups entering Suriname legally through tourist cards or CEA forms, but subsequently failing to regularize their immigration status. The minister highlighted a concerning pattern of ‘significant inflow versus limited outflow,’ noting that flights regularly arrive with 180-200 Cuban passengers while departing with fewer than 30 individuals.

    Government data suggests tens of thousands of Cuban nationals alone may have remained in Suriname without proper registration since 2019. While Surinamese law provides clear pathways for temporary residence permits (6-24 months), work authorization, and eventual naturalization, thousands have bypassed these legal requirements, creating substantial strain on the national budget.

    The unregistered migrant population has generated multidimensional consequences, particularly within healthcare and social services. Hospitals continue to provide medical care regardless of documentation status, with treatment costs reaching approximately $900 daily per patient. Additional indirect costs accumulate through traffic accidents and other emergencies that ultimately burden state resources.

    Minister Monorath expressed particular concern about children of undocumented migrants who remain outside the education system, potentially violating international child rights obligations. The minister referenced ongoing consultations with relevant agencies regarding a report to be presented in Geneva.

    In response to the crisis, interministerial discussions are underway between Foreign Affairs, Public Health, Labor, and Defense ministries to better coordinate migration and residence policies. Minister Monorath confirmed that comprehensive policy proposals addressing broader immigration and population challenges will soon be presented to the president, emphasizing the urgent need for structural solutions from financial, legal, and social perspectives.

  • HAPPENING NOW: NODS, Minister Turner Convene Emergency Meeting Over Cooks Landfill Oil Spill

    HAPPENING NOW: NODS, Minister Turner Convene Emergency Meeting Over Cooks Landfill Oil Spill

    Antigua’s National Office of Disaster Services (NODS) has initiated a high-level emergency response to address a significant environmental incident at Cooks Landfill. The agency has convened senior emergency management officials and Minister for Social and Urban Transformation Rawdon Turner to coordinate containment and mitigation efforts following the reported oil spill.

    The emergency coordination meeting represents the government’s initial multi-agency response to the developing situation. While specific details regarding the spill’s volume, origin, and environmental impact remain under assessment, the mobilization of top-level officials indicates the incident’s potential severity.

    Minister Turner’s involvement highlights the cross-governmental approach to the crisis, combining disaster management expertise with social and urban policy considerations. The collaboration suggests concerns about potential impacts on nearby communities and infrastructure, though official statements await further investigation.

    Environmental monitoring teams are expected to deploy to assess contamination risks to local ecosystems and water sources. The emergency response protocol activation follows established procedures for hazardous material incidents, though the full scope of the response will depend on ongoing situation assessments.

    Additional operational details, including containment strategies and public safety measures, are anticipated as the coordinated response effort progresses throughout the coming hours.

  • Vanderpool, Lake turn the tables at Anglican sports

    Vanderpool, Lake turn the tables at Anglican sports

    In a remarkable display of athletic prowess and team resurgence, the Canon Laurie Anglican Infant and Primary School Track Championships concluded on February 11th at the Daren Sammy Cricket Ground. The event witnessed spectacular reversals of fortune, with Vanderpool Primary ascending from last place in 2025 to claim this year’s championship title with 272 points, while Lake Infant School narrowly captured their division’s victory by a mere two-point margin.

    The primary school competition saw Vanderpool dominate with a commanding 272-point performance, substantially outpacing Vaughan (239 points) and dethroning previous champions Patterson (237 points). Weekes Primary trailed significantly with 133 points. The infant school division delivered even greater drama as Lake’s 113-point total barely edged out defending title holders King (111 points), followed by Collymore (84 points) and James (67 points).

    Vanderpool’s triumph was propelled by exceptional individual performances, particularly from Under-13 sensation Shadane James who demonstrated near-complete dominance across multiple events. James secured three gold medals in the 80m (11.5s), 150m (22.9s), and 300m (52.9s), consistently outperforming Vaughan’s Adele Clercin who managed to claim gold in the 600m (2:21.6) ahead of James’ silver medal finish.

    The Under-13 boys’ division witnessed distributed excellence with Patterson’s Kernil Euratice, Weekes’ Rahziel Alphonse, and Weekes’ Sherwayne Price each securing one gold and one silver medal. Alphonse triumphed in the 1200m (4:43.2) while Vanderpool’s Gehani Francis captured the 600m (2:07.9). Vaughan’s Je’Van Fulgence claimed the 300m title in 50.3 seconds.

    Under-11 competition featured shared honors between Vanderpool’s Hilarian Smith Jr, Kieran Dupre, and Vaughan’s Hayden Isidore. Dupre took the 80m (12.1s) while Isidore claimed the 150m (22.6s). Smith secured gold in the 600m (2:29.3) after finishing second in the 300m to Vaughan’s Nahiem Justin (55.1s).

    Patterson’s Nella Moncherry dominated the Under-11 girls division with victories in both the 80m (12.4s) and 150m (24.4s), while teammate Jhamia Albertine captured gold in the 300m (1:04.3) and 600m (2:41.0). Younger divisions saw Lake’s athletes excel with Liliana Joseph (Under-9 girls), Kimari George and Anton St Marthe (Under-9 boys), and Kamaria Harrow and Kerryson Andrew (kindergarten 40m) all claiming victories.

  • PAHO and CARPHA formalize partnership to enhance health initiatives across the Caribbean

    PAHO and CARPHA formalize partnership to enhance health initiatives across the Caribbean

    In a significant move to address pressing public health challenges, the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) and the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) have formally solidified their partnership through a new Framework Agreement spanning 2026 to 2030. This strategic accord establishes a comprehensive operational blueprint designed to unify health initiatives across Caribbean nations, enhancing systemic coordination and multilateral partnerships during a period of escalating health demands and constrained resources.

    The five-year pact enables both organizations to operate cohesively under the PAHO–CARICOM Joint Subregional Cooperation Strategy, prioritizing the strengthening of health infrastructures, advancing emergency readiness, and elevating health outcomes for Caribbean communities. The agreement reinforces a longstanding collaboration founded upon shared responsibility, mutual accountability, and a unified vision for regional health advancement.

    During a virtual signing ceremony, PAHO Director Dr. Jarbas Barbosa emphasized the operational value of the framework: “This Agreement enables PAHO and CARPHA to jointly develop regional strategies and action plans, implement health programmes aligned with strategic objectives, and deliver technical cooperation tailored to country-specific needs. It further establishes a transparent structure for subsidiary agreements, ensuring accountability and results-driven implementation.”

    Echoing this sentiment, CARPHA Executive Director Dr. Lisa Indar stressed the critical importance of strategic resource utilization: “Caribbean nations rightly expect limited technical cooperation resources to be deployed with maximum efficiency and strategic impact. This can only be realized through intensified collaboration, streamlined execution, reduced duplication, and minimized operational burden on Member States.”

    Historically, PAHO has provided extensive support to CARPHA across multiple domains, including the development of a Caribbean regulatory system, expansion of laboratory capabilities, climate resilience and environmental health initiatives, management of non-communicable diseases, and risk communication and emergency preparedness—particularly in foodborne disease response.

    Both organizations have expressed strong commitment to translating this renewed framework into measurable improvements in public health outcomes throughout the Caribbean region in the years ahead.

  • Unstoppable Jn Baptiste victorious at Laborie Girls

    Unstoppable Jn Baptiste victorious at Laborie Girls

    Jn Baptiste House delivered a commanding performance at the Laborie RC Girls’ Primary School track championships held Tuesday at Phillip Marcellin Ground, establishing an insurmountable lead that left other houses competing for secondary positions. According to school principal Donna Peter-Joseph, the athletic showcase commenced punctually and concluded ahead of schedule, with Jn Baptiste accumulating a remarkable 712 points through exceptional performances across multiple age divisions.

    The competition for second place intensified during the afternoon relay events, where Jn Panel House narrowly surpassed Roland House in the final relay to secure runner-up position with 520 points. Roland House finished third with 510 points, marking another disappointing result for the team.

    Jn Baptiste’s victory was propelled by outstanding performances in the Under-13 and Under-7 categories, complemented by Kishanie O’Reilly’s dominant showing in the Under-11 division. Despite Jn Panel’s sweeping victories in both Under-11 and Under-9 categories, Jn Baptiste maintained consistent excellence throughout the competition.

    In senior events, Amirah St Aimee led Jn Baptiste to victory in the 80m and 150m races, while Roland’s Eleanor Emmanuel claimed gold in the 300m. The 600m event saw Roland’s Leona Edward withstand fierce competition from Jn Baptiste athletes Leannie Francois and Jeanique McFarlane. Relay events were split between houses, with Jn Panel taking the 4×75 and Jn Baptiste securing the 4×300.

    The Under-11 division featured intense rivalry between O’Reilly (Jn Baptiste) and L’Anore Belasse (Jn Panel), with each athlete claiming multiple medals. Meanwhile, Jn Panel’s Saige Edward and Danielle Jn Charles dominated the Under-9 category, while Louisiana Simeon achieved double gold for Jn Baptiste in the Under-7 division.

    The event concluded successfully at 2:45 PM following the traditional parents’ relay, marking another incident-free edition of the annual championships.

  • STATEMENT: CARICOM Election Observation Mission to the general election of Barbados

    STATEMENT: CARICOM Election Observation Mission to the general election of Barbados

    The CARICOM Election Observation Mission (CEOM) has formally endorsed the credibility and transparency of Barbados’ February 11, 2026 General Election, concluding that the electoral outcome authentically represents the democratic will of the Barbadian populace. This three-member delegation, comprising senior electoral officials from Antigua and Barbuda, Belize, and Jamaica, conducted comprehensive oversight activities following an official invitation from the Barbadian government.

    During pre-election assessments, the Mission engaged in extensive consultations with key national stakeholders including Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley, Opposition Leader Ralph Thorne, leaders of minority political parties, civil society representatives, and electoral authorities. These discussions revealed several systemic concerns regarding voters’ list accuracy, accessibility for disabled citizens, campaign financing mechanisms, and media access equity. Despite these challenges, the Mission acknowledged the Electoral and Boundaries Commission’s concerted efforts to address logistical issues preceding election day.

    On February 11, CEOM monitors observed electoral proceedings across nineteen constituencies, noting generally peaceful and orderly voting conditions. Polling stations opened punctually at 6:00 a.m. with adequate security presence and properly trained staff. While voter enthusiasm was evident, turnout rates appeared notably subdued throughout the day. The Mission documented inconsistencies in polling station configurations and identified accessibility barriers for elderly and disabled voters, though assistance protocols were generally implemented when required.

    The vote counting process, though transparent and legally compliant, revealed operational inefficiencies due to centralized ballot transportation that prolonged result tabulation. The Mission witnessed ballot boxes being transported under police escort to counting centers where tallying occurred simultaneously in the presence of party agents, with results subsequently transmitted to media outlets.

    In its preliminary assessment, the CEOM recognized the professional conduct of polling staff and security personnel while recommending three key improvements: enhanced physical accessibility at polling stations, decentralized counting procedures to accelerate result announcements, and comprehensive voters’ list management reforms. A detailed final report will be submitted to the CARICOM Secretary-General for distribution to Barbadian authorities and relevant stakeholders in the coming weeks.

  • Officials cheer JetBlue’s added Boston-Saint Lucia flight

    Officials cheer JetBlue’s added Boston-Saint Lucia flight

    Saint Lucia’s tourism sector receives significant connectivity boost as JetBlue announces the introduction of a second weekly nonstop flight from Boston to the Caribbean destination. The new service, scheduled to commence on February 15, 2026, will operate every Saturday at 11:40 AM through April 25, effectively doubling air access from the Massachusetts region.

    Tourism authorities have identified insufficient airlift capacity as a critical constraint amid growing visitor numbers. Louis Lewis, CEO of the Saint Lucia Tourism Authority, emphasized that this expansion provides travelers from Boston and surrounding areas with twice the opportunities to experience the island during the peak winter season. The development addresses mounting concerns about meeting escalating demand while combating shortages in both flight availability and accommodation.

    The airline’s decision follows successful negotiations during last year’s strategic roadshow initiative, where tourism officials presented destination performance metrics to major carriers including JetBlue, Delta, and American Airlines. According to Business Intelligence Manager Javan Lewis, the expansion directly correlates with strong yield indicators and demonstrated demand from the Boston catchment area.

    Marketing efforts have played a pivotal role in driving this growth. Dexter Percil, Head of Global Marketing, attributed the successful early implementation of the “Come to Your Senses” campaign to accelerated booking patterns observed between September and December. The promotional strategy emphasizes Saint Lucia’s dual appeal as a romance destination and soft adventure hub, with enhanced wellness tourism promotions planned as new resort properties become operational.

    While celebrating improved air connectivity, officials acknowledge that hotel capacity remains an ongoing challenge. The anticipated opening of new properties, including LifeCo by A’ila, is expected to gradually alleviate accommodation constraints and support the island’s sustainable tourism development.

  • APUA Addresses environmental conditions at the Roberts Building in Cassada Gardens

    APUA Addresses environmental conditions at the Roberts Building in Cassada Gardens

    The Antigua Public Utilities Authority (APUA) has issued a formal response to public concerns regarding environmental conditions at its former headquarters, the Roberts Building in Cassada Gardens. In an official statement, the utility provider clarified that despite public speculation, the presence of mold within the facility has not been scientifically verified through multiple independent assessments.

    Over a two-year period spanning from 2023 to 2025, APUA commissioned several comprehensive environmental evaluations to address employee and public concerns. These investigations included testing requested by the Aviation Department through the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), supplemented by two additional independent assessments initiated by APUA management.

    The PAHO assessment, while not detecting mold presence, identified moisture accumulation within a baseboard area. The recommended remediation involved removing twelve inches around the affected section, which was promptly completed. Another independent evaluation identified localized fungus within sheetrock materials, which was subsequently addressed through professional remediation protocols including enhanced ventilation systems, sealing of central air ducts, and thorough cleaning of air conditioning units.

    As part of ongoing maintenance efforts, deep cleaning of the entire Roberts Building was conducted in February 2025, with an additional specialized cleaning of the Planning Department completed in December 2025 following further environmental testing. Current improvement works are progressing according to schedule and are expected to conclude within the next two to three weeks. Upon completion, a final comprehensive cleaning will be performed, followed by an independent reassessment to verify the building’s environmental condition.

    APUA officials noted that some visible discoloration observed within the facility has been attributed to moisture accumulation related to the aging infrastructure of certain fixtures, particularly during periods of intense heat. These occurrences have been characterized as sporadic and limited in scope rather than widespread issues.

    The Authority emphasized that employee and customer health safety remains its highest priority, confirming that all professional recommendations received to date have been fully implemented. APUA maintains its commitment to continuous monitoring and responsible management of environmental conditions across all its facilities.

  • STATEMENT: Commonwealth of Dominica Police Force, rules for Carnival saftey

    STATEMENT: Commonwealth of Dominica Police Force, rules for Carnival saftey

    The Commonwealth of Dominica has unveiled detailed regulatory measures for the upcoming Carnival 2026 celebrations, emphasizing the importance of responsible participation while preserving cultural traditions. Scheduled for February 16-17, 2026, the festivities will operate within strictly defined hours to ensure public safety and orderly conduct.

    Official carnival operations will commence at 4:00 a.m. on Monday, February 16th, continuing until 11:00 p.m., with Tuesday’s celebrations running from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Authorities have mandated that all participants maintain decent attire and orderly behavior throughout the designated periods.

    Specific regulations address traditional carnival costumes, particularly rope and sensay outfits. Individuals wearing these costumes must complete registration with the Dominica Festival Commission by February 9th, 2026, and display their registration number visibly at all times during events. The government has explicitly stated that unregistered costume wearers will not be considered decently clothed.

    Mask-wearing permissions will be limited to daytime hours between 8:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. during carnival days. An exception exists for Jouvert celebrations, where participants may use paint and coloring matter exclusively during the early morning hours of February 16th from 4:00 a.m. to 8:00 a.m.

    Prohibited items include weapons, lighted torches, fireworks, glass bottled drinks along carnival routes, and military-style uniforms. Noise restrictions prohibit loud music or instruments outside carnival hours and within 25 meters of critical facilities including police headquarters, fire stations, hospitals, and designated noise abatement zones.

    Law enforcement personnel and Special Constables retain authority to arrest without warrant, detain offenders for up to 48 hours, and maintain order by recording details of disorderly individuals. Violators face substantial penalties including fines up to $1,000 or imprisonment for six months.

    The Dominican government concludes with an appeal for collective responsibility, encouraging citizens to celebrate within legal boundaries while honoring the cultural significance of carnival traditions.