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  • Prime Minister Browne Receives Farewell Visit from Indian High Commissioner

    Prime Minister Browne Receives Farewell Visit from Indian High Commissioner

    In a significant diplomatic engagement, Prime Minister Gaston Browne of Antigua and Barbuda hosted a farewell meeting with outgoing Indian High Commissioner Dr. Amit Telang, marking a pivotal moment in bilateral relations between the two nations. The Prime Minister characterized the occasion as “bittersweet,” acknowledging both the satisfaction of Dr. Telang’s new assignment in New Delhi and the regret surrounding his premature departure from the Caribbean nation.

    During the extensive discussions, Prime Minister Browne emphasized India’s role as an inspirational model for small island states seeking resilient prosperity amidst global transformations. He particularly highlighted India’s extraordinary economic trajectory over the past decade, recognizing its emergence as a dominant global economy. The leadership of Antigua and Barbuda expressed strong interest in deepening bilateral cooperation as both countries continue their developmental journeys.

    A central focus of the dialogue involved enhancing people-to-people connections and facilitating improved mobility between the two countries to bolster trade and business development. While existing visa arrangements were acknowledged, both parties identified potential for expanding access mechanisms to accommodate increased travel for entrepreneurs, investors, and academic exchanges. The Prime Minister stressed that enhanced mobility would significantly contribute to trade expansion, cultural exchange, and long-term economic partnership strengthening.

    High Commissioner Telang reciprocated the sentiments, expressing profound appreciation for the hospitality extended by the government and citizens of Antigua and Barbuda. He characterized his tenure as remarkably productive, noting substantial intensification of cooperation between the nations during his service. The High Commissioner additionally commended Antigua and Barbuda’s successful organization of the SIDS Summit and extended India’s support for the upcoming Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting.

    The discussions yielded concrete developments in bilateral cooperation, particularly regarding renewable energy initiatives. The High Commissioner confirmed advanced negotiations concerning solar energy projects, revealing that Indian companies had already conducted exploratory visits and were finalizing proposals for submission through diplomatic channels. This cooperation aligns with Antigua and Barbuda’s strategic priorities in renewable energy infrastructure development and reducing fossil fuel dependency.

    Prime Minister Browne welcomed the prospective solar energy partnership, emphasizing his administration’s commitment to securing financing and technical partnerships through India’s solar development programs. The government’s dedication to achieving energy stability through clean, reliable solutions for national sustainability was reiterated as a core policy objective.

    Concluding the meeting, Prime Minister Browne extended best wishes for Dr. Telang’s future endeavors while encouraging his continued advocacy for Antigua and Barbuda within Indian diplomatic circles. The Prime Minister expressed confidence that incoming diplomatic representation would build upon the established foundation of cooperation, fostering deeper friendship and mutually beneficial progress between the nations.

  • Interior Minister denies existence of organ trafficking network in Dominican Republic

    Interior Minister denies existence of organ trafficking network in Dominican Republic

    SANTO DOMINGO – Dominican Interior Minister Faride Raful has officially refuted claims of organ trafficking networks operating within the country, calling for public responsibility to prevent unnecessary panic. The declaration came during Monday’s weekly session of the Citizen Security Plan, presided over by President Luis Abinader.

    Minister Raful acknowledged ongoing investigations into human trafficking and violent criminal activities in the Cibao region while clarifying that no substantiated evidence supports the existence of organized organ harvesting operations. The minister specifically addressed viral social media speculation connecting recent child disappearances to alleged organ trafficking rings, stating these claims remain entirely unverified by official channels.

    Regarding the December 31 disappearance of three-year-old Brianna Genao in Puerto Plata, authorities confirmed search operations continue through coordinated efforts among multiple security agencies. FBI agents who provided investigative support have concluded their field deployment, though interagency cooperation persists. Simultaneously, the case of Roldani Calderón, who vanished in Jarabacoa, remains actively investigated with no predetermined closure date until resolution is achieved.

  • FLASH : 30 weapons and a large quantity of ammunition seized in the stronghold of «Barbecue»

    FLASH : 30 weapons and a large quantity of ammunition seized in the stronghold of «Barbecue»

    In a decisive blow against organized crime, Haitian National Police (PNH) special forces units conducted a major tactical operation on January 19, 2026, targeting the Delmas 2 district stronghold of notorious gang leader Jimmy Chérisier, known as “Barbecue.” The operation, which targeted the leader of the “Viv Ansanm” terrorist coalition, resulted in significant tactical gains for law enforcement.

    The raid culminated in the complete destruction of a property belonging to the gang leader, along with heavy equipment utilized by the criminal organization. Police spokesperson Frantz Lerebours confirmed that at least six gang members were killed during intense firefights, though several wounded militants managed to escape the scene. Multiple vehicles associated with the gang were also destroyed in the operation.

    Law enforcement officials secured a substantial arsenal of weaponry including five surveillance drones, eight pistols, eighteen 12-gauge shotguns, three AR-15 rifles, and one .22 caliber rifle. The seizure included massive ammunition stocks in 5.56mm, 12-gauge, 7.62mm, .38 caliber, and 9mm calibers.

    Investigators also uncovered disturbing evidence of impersonation tactics with the recovery of official-looking UDMO uniforms in cream and blue colors, complete with Police Inspector rank insignia. The operation additionally yielded multiple bulletproof vests, tear gas grenades, and a plastic bag containing small denomination Haitian gourdes (2, 10, and 25 gourdes), suggesting extensive criminal financial operations.

  • Firearm Found in American Businessman’s Luggage at PGIA

    Firearm Found in American Businessman’s Luggage at PGIA

    An American entrepreneur faced temporary detention at Belize’s Philip Goldson International Airport (PGIA) over the weekend when security screening revealed a concealed firearm within his luggage. Law enforcement officials confirmed the incident occurred following the businessman’s arrival via private aircraft for commercial purposes.

    Authorities reported the traveler claimed to have inadvertently forgotten the weapon was packed in his baggage. The Belize Police Service conducted comprehensive background verifications and consulted with United States diplomatic representatives before determining the appropriate course of action.

    Assistant Superintendent Smith, who supervised the case, provided detailed justification for the decision. “After thorough investigation and confirmation from U.S. Embassy officials that the individual wasn’t a person of interest, we exercised discretionary authority to release him while confiscating the firearm,” Smith stated.

    The police representative further elaborated on the reasoning behind accepting the traveler’s explanation. “Given that no rational person would voluntarily submit to security screening while aware of possessing a prohibited weapon, his account appeared credible. He received formal cautioning and reprimand before being permitted to depart,” Smith added.

    When questioned about the legal basis for bypassing mandatory Supreme Court bail requirements in such cases, Smith emphasized that police discretion has been routinely implemented within the country’s judicial framework for extended periods.

  • City Council declares solid waste emergency, to ask govt for help

    City Council declares solid waste emergency, to ask govt for help

    The Georgetown Mayor and City Council has officially declared a limited state of emergency regarding solid waste management in Guyana’s capital, marking a critical turning point in the city’s ongoing sanitation crisis. The emergency declaration, passed during a statutory council meeting on Monday, January 19, 2026, enables the immediate reassignment of non-essential municipal staff to sanitation duties and initiates the development of a comprehensive strategy seeking financial and operational support from central government.

    Mayor Alfred Mentore outlined an ambitious multi-pronged approach that includes rapid deployment of additional equipment, short-term hiring of garbage collection contractors, and identification of illegal dumping hotspots. The administration plans enhanced enforcement measures against litterbugs and establishment of temporary garbage drop-off sites across commercial districts, markets, hospitals, schools, and densely populated residential areas.

    The emergency declaration emerged against a backdrop of political tensions, with only 13 of 30 councilors attending the critical meeting—10 from A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) and three from the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPPC). Earlier that day, APNU councilors had boycotted a separate meeting called by Local Government Minister Priya Manickchand, who has repeatedly expressed skepticism about the mayor’s motives since her appointment following September 2025 elections.

    Despite these tensions, Mayor Mentore emphasized willingness to ‘throw politics through the window’ and collaborate with the PPPC-led central government. He envisioned the Georgetown cleanup initiative serving as a pilot model for other locally governed areas in Guyana, requiring ‘hand-in-glove arrangement between the city and the government.’

    Chief Sanitation Officer Walter Narine highlighted alarming statistics showing a 16% increase in garbage production over five years, now reaching 184 tonnes daily. He attributed this surge to growing migrant populations and proliferation of supermarkets, noting garbage trucks now must make three trips per constituency instead of one. Narine warned that ‘the current system can’t continue’ without structural changes.

    The council supported Narine’s proposal to hire small contractors with prompt payment through a petty-cash system, addressing previous contractor unwillingness to work due to payment delays. Meanwhile, concerns were raised about holding larger garbage collection companies accountable for their performance lapses.

    The resolution represents a significant municipal response to what Councilor Clayton Hinds described as a waste disposal crisis affecting specific areas of Georgetown, though he characterized the emergency as affecting only ‘a small area’ of the city.

  • Belizeans Recognised for Promoting Peace and Unity

    Belizeans Recognised for Promoting Peace and Unity

    BELIZE CITY, January 19, 2026 – Distinguished Belizeans spanning multiple sectors have received international recognition for their dedication to fostering social harmony at the World Leader Summit of Love and Peace. The prestigious gathering, orchestrated by the Federation of Love and Peace (FOWPAL), convened global figures to advance dialogues on compassion, non-violence, and international unity.

    The event saw the participation of high-profile national leaders including Prime Minister John Briceño and Belize City Mayor Bernard Wagner, alongside government ministers, diplomatic envoys, and civil society representatives. In a ceremony highlighting humanitarian contributions, the organization bestowed its Compass Clock of Conscience Award upon multiple citizens for their impactful societal work.

    Esteemed awardees encompassed a diverse cross-section of Belizean professionals: Jermaine Burns of the Belize Defence Force; Karen Simplis, a lecturer at the University of Belize; Dr. Anya Moguel, a specialist in palliative medicine; cultural advocate Karen Vernon; Joycelyn Lopez, Executive Director of the Inspiration Center; Michele Irving, founder of the women’s empowerment group POWA; and former political leader Moses “Shyne” Barrow.

    During his address, Barrow emphasized the urgent worldwide necessity for reconciliation and peace, citing ongoing conflicts in regions including Ukraine, Gaza, Sudan, and Venezuela. “Across the globe, warfare continues to fracture nations and communities. This makes our mission of promoting love and peaceful coexistence more critical than ever,” he stated.

    The Compass Clock of Conscience, an emblem created by FOWPAL, symbolizes the alignment of personal integrity with purposeful action. It serves as a reminder for individuals and leaders to adhere to ethical principles in their pursuit of societal welfare. This award has historically been granted to international advocates of peace and social well-being.

  • Government provides update on Marie’s Fish Shack

    Government provides update on Marie’s Fish Shack

    The Department of Crown Lands has issued a comprehensive statement addressing public concerns regarding the future of Marie’s Fish Shack, a longstanding local establishment operating on state-owned property at Reduit Beach. This clarification comes amid ongoing development of the $1.3 billion Mount Pimard Beach Park project, a transformative tourism initiative currently underway.

    While acknowledging the restaurant’s significant role within the local community, officials emphasize that the business has operated unofficially on Crown Lands without formal approval from the Commissioner of Crown Lands, as required by law. The government stresses the necessity of compliance with legal frameworks governing state-owned properties, particularly those within areas designated for national development.

    The Mount Pimard development, a partnership between the Government of Saint Lucia and A’ILA Resorts, represents one of the island’s most substantial tourism investments. The multiphase project will eventually feature a family hotel, adults-only wellness resort, luxury villas, residential units, a shopping boulevard, and one of the island’s largest conference centers. The first phase, TheLifeCo holistic wellness resort, is scheduled to open imminently.

    Contrary to perceptions of eviction, authorities describe the action as a strategic relocation to an enhanced site within the same beach area. The new location offers superior amenities including dedicated parking, security services, sanitation facilities, recreational areas, dining spaces, and a children’s playground. Notably, the beach park design from its earliest conceptual stages incorporated provisions for a dedicated fish restaurant, specifically considering Marie’s operations.

    The completed beach park facility, constructed by A’ILA Resorts, has been formally transferred to the National Conservation Authority (NCA) which will oversee its operations. The government encourages local entrepreneurs interested in commercial opportunities within the new development to contact the NCA directly.

    Officials maintain that while celebrating Marie’s contributions and desiring her continued success, adherence to legal protocols remains essential for maintaining equitable business practices across all sectors. The government asserts that this approach ultimately strengthens both the national tourism product and the broader Saint Lucian economy.

  • Tourist dies after suspected fall on ferry

    Tourist dies after suspected fall on ferry

    Authorities in St. Vincent and the Grenadines have initiated a formal investigation into the tragic death of a senior American tourist aboard an inter-island ferry. The incident occurred Sunday during transit between the capital city of Kingstown and the Grenadines archipelago.

    The deceased has been identified as 73-year-old David John Hyde. Medical personnel pronounced him dead at the scene, with preliminary evidence suggesting injuries potentially consistent with a significant fall. A district medical officer attended to the case immediately following the incident.

    In an official communiqué, the Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force indicated that while initial findings point to accidental trauma, the precise cause of death remains undetermined. A comprehensive post-mortem examination has been scheduled to establish conclusive medical and factual evidence surrounding the fatality.

    Law enforcement officials are actively appealing to the public for assistance, urging any individuals with potentially relevant information to come forward. Witnesses or persons with knowledge of the event are encouraged to contact emergency services at 911 or 999, the dedicated tip line at 784-456-1810, or their nearest police station. Authorities have guaranteed complete confidentiality for all information provided to aid the ongoing investigation.

  • Health Ministry Urges Vaccination as Measles Nears Border

    Health Ministry Urges Vaccination as Measles Nears Border

    The Belize Ministry of Health and Wellness has issued an urgent public health advisory following confirmation of twelve measles cases in neighboring Guatemala. Health authorities are calling upon citizens to immediately verify their vaccination status, particularly as two affected Guatemalan departments—Izabal and Petén—share direct borders with Belize.

    Dr. Natalia Beer, Technical Advisor for Maternal and Child Health at the Ministry, disclosed that Belize received official notification through the International Health Regulations system on January 9. She emphasized the extreme contagious nature of measles, describing it as one of the most rapidly spreading viral diseases known. Vaccination remains the singular effective defense against transmission.

    Current immunization coverage in Belize falls below the critical 95% threshold required for robust herd immunity. The Ministry provides routine measles protection through the MMR vaccine administered at 12 and 18 months of age, with the MR vaccine available for older children and adults. Health officials specifically advise that travelers and those uncertain about their vaccination history should seek immunization promptly.

    Measles transmission occurs through airborne particles that can remain infectious in enclosed spaces for up to two hours after an infected individual has departed. Early symptoms typically manifest as fever followed by a distinctive rash, though individuals may spread the virus for four days prior to visible symptoms appearing. Potential long-term complications include rare but fatal neurological conditions that can emerge years after initial infection.

    Dr. Beer referenced a tragic case in the United Kingdom where an 18-year-old woman died from complications stemming from childhood measles infection—a preventable outcome with vaccination costing less than one dollar. While Belize experienced measles outbreaks between March and May of last year, no current outbreaks have been confirmed. However, immunization gaps continue to pose significant vulnerability to renewed transmission.

  • Scam website posing as ‘Arrive Antigua’ charge US$100 per traveler

    Scam website posing as ‘Arrive Antigua’ charge US$100 per traveler

    Government authorities have issued a critical public advisory concerning digital immigration procedures, specifically targeting deceptive third-party websites. Officials emphasize that the singular authentic portal for submitting mandatory online arrival documentation remains the legitimate government domain (https://www.arrivecan.gc.ca/). This warning highlights a growing trend of sophisticated phishing operations where unauthorized platforms meticulously replicate official government webpages to appear genuine. These fraudulent sites often utilize similar color schemes, logos, and interface designs to create a false sense of legitimacy, ultimately misleading users into paying superfluous and illegal processing fees. Beyond financial exploitation, these sites pose significant data privacy risks, potentially harvesting sensitive personal and travel information for malicious purposes. The advisory underscores that no external commercial service is authorized to collect government processing fees for arrival documentation. Travelers and immigrants are urged to exercise extreme vigilance by verifying URL authenticity before submitting any information or payments. This alert forms part of a broader governmental initiative to enhance cybersecurity around essential public services and protect citizens from digital fraud targeting official administrative processes.