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  • FLASH : The Haitian Coast Guard repels a major armed attack at sea

    FLASH : The Haitian Coast Guard repels a major armed attack at sea

    In a dramatic maritime confrontation, Haitian security forces successfully repelled a significant armed assault on commercial shipping near Port-au-Prince on December 23, 2025. The incident unfolded when a Coast Guard patrol vessel, providing security for a convoy of 13 merchant sailboats en route to La Gonâve Island, came under coordinated attack from five hostile watercraft manned by heavily armed combatants in the Gressier sector.

    Responding to the intensity of the assault, Haitian authorities immediately deployed additional naval assets including REMBO-class patrol boats as reinforcement. The ensuing engagement evolved into sustained combat operations lasting several hours as Coast Guard units battled the determined assailants.

    The counteroperation yielded significant tactical successes for government forces. Naval personnel neutralized one terrorist vessel through destruction and captured another intact. Multiple attackers were eliminated during the exchange of fire, though official casualty counts remain undisclosed.

    Tragically, the conflict claimed the life of one civilian sailor aboard the escorted merchant convoy. No Coast Guard personnel sustained injuries during the extended engagement, according to official statements.

    The decisive military action resulted in the complete restoration of maritime security in the affected zone. Coast Guard vessels maintained protective escort duties throughout the incident, ensuring the safe passage of commercial traffic. Normal maritime commerce has since resumed operations without further disruption.

  • Belize City Tours: Are We Missing History?

    Belize City Tours: Are We Missing History?

    BELIZE CITY – A prominent historian has raised serious concerns about the quality and depth of historical tours in Belize City, arguing that visitors are receiving an incomplete and superficial understanding of the nation’s rich cultural heritage. Nicholas Sanchez, a respected historian, has publicly criticized the current state of city tours, claiming they fail to adequately represent Belize’s complex colonial past and cultural evolution.

    Sanchez’s criticism stems from a personal experience dating back to 1988 when he received what he describes as an unsatisfactory city tour following his mother’s funeral. “I wasn’t pleased with what I got for a fifty dollar city tour,” Sanchez recalled. “They showed me the Bliss Lighthouse and Tomb, the Swing Bridge and the Paslow Building, the courthouse, St. John’s Cathedral and Government House – five things. And that was a city tour.”

    The historian emphasized that Belize City contains significantly more historical depth than what typical tours present. He described the extensive areas of the old colonial city that remain unexplored in conventional tours, including Mapp Street, Freetown Road, Newton Barracks, Wilson Street, Collet Canal, Yarborough Bridge, and Caesar Ridge Road – all rich with historical significance.

    Sanchez has expressed willingness to train tour guides to improve the quality of historical storytelling, noting that proper guidance could simultaneously educate Belizeans about their heritage while creating sustainable livelihood opportunities. “I will have so much to impart to these young people,” Sanchez stated. “This is about teaching Belizeans not only their history, but how to make a living off their history.”

    The critique comes amid growing concerns about cultural preservation and accurate historical representation in tourism-dependent economies. Industry experts suggest that enhanced guide training could significantly improve visitor experiences while providing more meaningful engagement with Belize’s complex historical narrative.

  • Dominican Republic deploys 48,000 personnel for nationwide Christmas safety operation

    Dominican Republic deploys 48,000 personnel for nationwide Christmas safety operation

    SANTO DOMINGO – In a comprehensive nationwide initiative to combat holiday-related fatalities, the Dominican Republic has activated an extensive Christmas security operation mobilizing over 48,000 personnel. The strategic deployment, orchestrated by the Emergency Operations Center (COE), establishes 1,301 fixed and mobile assistance stations strategically positioned across high-risk zones. This intervention specifically targets the reduction of traffic accidents—a predominant cause of mortality in the nation—along with alcohol poisoning incidents and food-related emergencies during the festive season.

    The operational framework incorporates a substantial fleet of 250 ambulances, specialized vehicle rescue and extrication units, mobile automotive workshops, and pre-hospital care facilities. Enhancing emergency response capabilities, three helicopters have been deployed with support from first responders, medical professionals, police and military units, and trained volunteers. COE Director Juan Manuel Méndez García emphasized the necessity of public responsibility throughout the celebrations while announcing a subsequent operational phase from December 30, 2025, through January 1, 2026.

    Complementary preventive measures include circulation restrictions imposed by Intrant (National Institute of Traffic and Land Transport) on heavy cargo vehicles during peak travel dates. The institution has intensified nationwide vehicle inspections, executing over 2,200 checks at major transport terminals. Simultaneously, Digesett (General Directorate of Traffic Safety and Land Transport) has reinforced road surveillance and implemented mandatory breathalyzer testing for intercity bus drivers.

    To facilitate public mobility, OPRET (Office for the Reorganization of Transport) has published special holiday schedules for the Santo Domingo Metro and cable car systems. Concurrently, OMSA (Metropolitan Office of Bus Services) will adjust bus operating hours from December 23, 2025, to January 7, 2026, including modified services on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve, and New Year’s Day.

  • Jones waarschuwt voor ‘vergaande bevoegdheden’ in milieuwet

    Jones waarschuwt voor ‘vergaande bevoegdheden’ in milieuwet

    In a heated session at De Nationale Assemblee, opposition parliamentarian Ebu Jones of the National Democratic Party (NDP) launched scathing criticism against the proposed Sustainable Nature Management Act, warning of constitutional violations and potential foreign interference in Suriname’s natural resources.

    Jones articulated fundamental objections to the legislation during Monday’s debate, characterizing it as granting “abnormal, unprecedented, and far-reaching powers” to the National Environmental Authority (NMA). The lawmaker emphasized that Suriname’s constitution explicitly mandates that natural resources and their revenues must benefit the nation’s overall development—a principle he believes the proposed legislation undermines.

    The parliamentarian expressed particular concern over provisions that would allow revenues from natural resources, including carbon credits, to flow directly to concession holders rather than national development funds. “This effectively diverts money from society and central authority that should instead be deployed for national development,” Jones stated, making clear his intention to block such arrangements.

    Jones further raised alarms about potential foreign influence, suggesting international organizations and foreign powers might use non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to gain control over Suriname’s natural wealth. He warned that such influences could become institutionalized through legislation, requiring heightened vigilance.

    Addressing President Jennifer Simons directly, Jones urged extreme caution in selecting advisors on this matter, warning against opening doors to structures that would divert funds from society.

    The politician asserted that environmental policy should remain with the government—which bears political responsibility and answers to parliament—rather than being delegated to an authority. He criticized provisions making the NMA central to policy preparation, effectively rendering the government dependent on an authority, which he deemed constitutionally improper.

    Jones also identified contradictions between the proposed legislation and existing environmental framework laws, noting that concepts, responsibilities, and powers weren’t consistently aligned, potentially creating legal complications.

    Additional criticisms focused on granting investigative powers to the NMA, which Jones called unacceptable since economic crime investigation and prosecution traditionally fall under police and public prosecutor jurisdiction. He also expressed concerns about the environmental fund gaining expanded capabilities, including loan provision authority, through what he described as “surreptitious means.

    Following unanimous criticism during initial debate, further proceedings have been postponed indefinitely while initiators and legal experts continue refining the legislation.

  • Transport Ministry Steps Up Holiday Road Safety Enforcement

    Transport Ministry Steps Up Holiday Road Safety Enforcement

    In a decisive move to combat seasonal road dangers, the Ministry of Transport has launched intensified nationwide enforcement operations during the Christmas period. With historical data showing alarming spikes in traffic fatalities linked to alcohol consumption and long-distance travel, authorities are deploying enhanced patrols and checkpoints across highway networks.

    Chester Williams, Chief Executive Officer of the transport authority, confirmed the escalation of enforcement measures, particularly during evening hours and weekends. “Our wardens are deployed nationwide targeting motorists with demonstrated propensity for serious violations,” Williams stated, emphasizing the strategic focus on impaired driving prevention.

    The operation has already yielded multiple arrests for driving under influence and related offenses. Williams acknowledged the cultural context of increased alcohol consumption during yuletide celebrations while emphasizing non-negotiable safety protocols. “We understand this is a season of celebration, but we must ensure highway safety for all users,” he noted.

    Issuing a stark warning to potential offenders, Williams articulated the ministry’s clear directive: “If you drink, don’t drive. If you drive, don’t drink.” He further confirmed coordinated efforts with police departments to maintain maximum visibility on roadways throughout the holiday period.

    Motorists should anticipate increased checkpoints and possible delays, which authorities characterize as necessary preventive measures. Williams urged public cooperation and patience, framing brief inconveniences as collateral benefits of comprehensive safety assurance. The ministry maintains that these interventions are crucial for preventing traditional seasonal tragedies on the roads.

  • Prefab Home Transport Rules Halt Deliveries

    Prefab Home Transport Rules Halt Deliveries

    A regulatory overhaul governing the transit of fully assembled prefabricated homes on national highways has triggered a delivery standstill, leaving numerous local builders stranded with completed properties unable to reach their destinations. The updated transportation protocols impose stringent limitations on structural conveyance methods, effectively placing multiple housing projects in indefinite suspension.

    In response to the escalating crisis, Ministry of Transport Chief Executive Chester Williams convened emergency discussions with construction representatives to explore interim solutions pending policy reassessment. The dialogue yielded several potential remedies, including implementing police-escorted convoys and authorizing nighttime transportation windows specifically for homes already awaiting delivery.

    Williams defended transport operators against negligence allegations, citing video evidence from recent incidents. “Examination of both event recordings clearly demonstrates full compliance with permit specifications,” Williams stated, emphasizing that the transported units featured appropriate lighting and maintained front-rear escort vehicles. He further contended that “evidence suggests the accidents occurred independently of nighttime transportation factors.”

    Current regulations mandate that homes exceeding twenty feet in width must undergo disassembly for transport, while narrower structures qualify for whole conveyance. Williams acknowledged the regulatory catch-22 facing builders: “Requiring demolition of completed homes for piecemeal transport would unfairly double consumer costs. We’re pursuing assisted transport mechanisms as a equitable solution.”

    The ministry confirmed that any permanent regulatory modifications will require Cabinet-level authorization. Meanwhile, construction associations have committed to public awareness initiatives, including informational campaigns and explanatory materials regarding prefab home transportation protocols as negotiations continue.

  • Chantel Crump’s Parents Spend Christmas Still Searching for Truth

    Chantel Crump’s Parents Spend Christmas Still Searching for Truth

    The parents of nine-year-old Chantel Crump continue to endure an agonizing wait for answers regarding their daughter’s mysterious death, as international forensic testing extends the investigation into its ninth month. Despite the child’s burial in June, definitive conclusions remain elusive, creating a painful limbo for the grieving family.

    Authorities have confirmed that results from a second autopsy are currently in police possession but will remain confidential until the next court hearing, anticipated in February. The family’s repeated requests for early access to these findings have been formally denied, exacerbating their distress and prolonging the search for closure.

    Initial post-mortem examinations conducted by local pathologists proved inconclusive, failing to establish a definitive cause of death. This uncertainty prompted investigators to dispatch critical biological samples and toxicology evidence abroad for specialized analysis. Subsequent testing conducted weeks later similarly revealed no clear indications of strangulation, drowning, sexual assault, or visible traumatic injuries.

    Chantel, a Grade Four student at Five Islands Primary School, was reportedly taken from near her Grace Farm residence on March 12, 2025. Her remains were discovered over 48 hours later in wooded terrain at Weather Hills. The judicial process has advanced with Angela Mejia, a 20-year-old woman, facing murder charges and having made two court appearances to date.

    The extended forensic investigation highlights both the complexities of modern criminal pathology and the emotional toll on families awaiting resolution. As the community continues to seek answers, this case underscores the challenges inherent in resolving criminological mysteries that require international scientific collaboration.

  • Boek: Corruptie in Suriname

    Boek: Corruptie in Suriname

    A groundbreaking investigation into Suriname’s governance patterns has traced the roots of contemporary corruption directly to Dutch colonial administration practices. Researcher Nizaar Makdoembaks, in his comprehensive study “Corruption in Suriname,” presents compelling evidence that the nation’s current governance challenges represent an institutional inheritance from its colonial past.

    Through exhaustive archival research conducted in both Netherlands and Surinamese repositories, Makdoembaks documents how colonial governance established patterns of misconduct that persist today. The study reveals that from the earliest days of Dutch rule under Governor Van Aerssen van Sommelsdyck through the mid-20th century (1880-1956), colonial administration was characterized by systemic conflicts of interest, double standards, and self-enrichment practices that would have been unacceptable in the Netherlands itself.

    The colonial system created an institutional culture where norm violations became routine, with social position determining sanction risks rather than the severity of offenses. Lower-level officials faced severe punishment for minor infractions—sometimes culminating in tragic suicides—while influential figures enjoyed protection and even rewards for significant malfeasance. This established a fundamental inequality in law application that became embedded in Suriname’s governance DNA.

    Makdoembaks, a former physician and author of twenty studies on former Dutch colonies, demonstrates how these colonial-era practices created the administrative culture that independent Suriname inherited. While acknowledging that new autonomous forms of corruption emerged post-independence, the research establishes that these cannot be understood separately from their colonial foundations. The book provides detailed documentation of diverse corruption manifestations, showing how colonial governance established patterns of cronyism and misconduct that continue to influence Surinamese politics today.

  • DOMDA highlights activities for Diabetes Awareness in November

    DOMDA highlights activities for Diabetes Awareness in November

    The Dominica Diabetes Association (DOMDA) concluded an exceptionally productive Diabetes Awareness Month in November 2025, according to Public Relations Officer Richie Ferrol. The organization implemented a comprehensive series of initiatives designed to elevate public consciousness about diabetes prevention and management while promoting healthier lifestyles across the Caribbean nation.

    DOMDA’s month-long campaign featured strategically coordinated activities outlined in a specially created November Calendar of Events, which was disseminated through the association’s official communication channels. The programming combined educational components with practical health interventions, creating multiple touchpoints for community engagement.

    A highlight of the awareness drive was the official launch of DOMDA’s press campaign commemorating World Diabetes Day, which reinforced the organization’s longstanding commitment to advocacy, education, and support services for individuals living with diabetes. The campaign emphasized the importance of early detection through regular screening and promoted sustainable lifestyle modifications as crucial preventive measures.

    The association’s ‘Go 10,000 Steps Challenge – Stay Fit, Stay Healthy’ initiative encouraged both individuals and families to incorporate consistent physical activity into their daily routines. This program specifically addressed exercise as a fundamental strategy for both diabetes prevention and management.

    Throughout November, DOMDA executed extensive outreach programs and media campaigns that disseminated vital information about diabetes risk factors, healthy nutrition practices, and the critical importance of community support systems for those affected by the condition.

    Ferrol expressed profound gratitude to DOMDA’s network of partners, dedicated volunteers, and the general public for their enthusiastic participation. The organization pledged to maintain the positive momentum generated during the 2025 awareness month, reaffirming its commitment to continued advocacy and expanded support services throughout Dominica.

  • CPSO reaffirms commitment to CSME and regional integration

    CPSO reaffirms commitment to CSME and regional integration

    The Caribbean Community’s private sector has emerged as a pivotal institutional partner in advancing regional economic integration, with the CARICOM Private Sector Organisation (CPSO) achieving formal associate status within the Caribbean Community framework in October 2020. This strategic alignment has enabled coordinated advocacy and project development aimed at realizing the full potential of the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME).

    Regional business leaders from Trinidad & Tobago, Jamaica, Barbados, Guyana, and across the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States have issued a collective statement affirming the CSME’s demonstrated economic benefits. According to their assessment, the single market framework has substantially boosted intra-regional commerce, strengthened supply chain resilience, generated significant foreign exchange earnings, and stimulated economic activity throughout member states.

    The vision for regional economic integration traces its origins to the historic 1989 Declaration of Grand Anse, which initiated the process culminating in the 2001 Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas that formally established the CSME. Launched in 2006, this ambitious initiative continues to represent a relevant development aspiration for Caribbean nations seeking expanded economic scale and enhanced opportunities for their citizens.

    Caribbean business organizations emphasize the complementary nature of intra-regional trade and external commercial relationships, particularly with the United States as the bloc’s principal external trading partner. These dual trading dimensions are viewed as mutually reinforcing components that enhance economic diversification and resilience.

    Amid current global economic volatility, private sector representatives stress the critical importance of policy stability, investor confidence, and constructive intergovernmental engagement. The collective statement underscores the particular relevance of regional solidarity expressed through the ‘stronger together’ principle, positioning CARICOM as an essential platform for transforming economic vulnerabilities into strategic assets through deeper integration.

    The regional business community acknowledges its vital role in CSME enhancement efforts, recognizing the mechanism’s importance for collective sustainability in an increasingly fragmented global economy. Signatory organizations expressed appreciation for the inclusive framework extended by CARICOM leadership and reaffirmed their commitment to collaborative implementation of the single market vision.

    The statement concludes with seasonal goodwill messages to Caribbean citizens and anticipations for continued dialogue regarding regional advancement and security.