Carib Scope

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  • Israeli forces storm UNRWA in East Jerusalem, replace UN flag with Israeli flag

    Israeli forces storm UNRWA in East Jerusalem, replace UN flag with Israeli flag

    Israeli security forces and municipal officials conducted a forceful incursion into a United Nations facility in occupied East Jerusalem, operated by the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA). The operation involved a significant deployment of resources, including motorcycles, trucks, and forklifts. Upon arrival, the forces severed all communication lines from the compound.

    According to a daily briefing from the office of UN Secretary-General António Guterres, the Israeli personnel confiscated furniture, information technology equipment, and other property from the site. In a highly symbolic act, the UN flag flying over the premises was removed and replaced with the Israeli flag.

    The Secretary-General issued a strong condemnation of the unauthorized entry into the UNRWA-managed Sheikh Jarrah compound. He underscored that UN premises are inviolable and possess immunity from any form of interference under international law. This protection, he stated, is firmly established by the Convention on the Privileges and Immunities of the United Nations and was recently reaffirmed by the International Court of Justice (ICJ), which prohibits any executive, administrative, judicial, or legislative action against UN assets.

    Guterres called upon Israel to immediately implement all necessary measures to restore the sanctity of UNRWA’s premises and to cease any further actions against these protected sites. This demand is rooted in Israel’s obligations under the UN Charter and its broader international commitments.

    The context for this escalation traces back to October 2023, when Israel accused several UNRWA staff members of involvement in the October 7 Hamas-led attacks. Israel subsequently suspended the agency’s operations within its territory, allegations which UNRWA has consistently denied. A report from Al Jazeera notes that the ICJ later found Israel’s claims against the agency to be unsubstantiated. Following the allegations, major donors, including the United States, withdrew funding. Since the start of the year, UNRWA has complied with Israeli directives to vacate its premises and halt all activities within Israel, leaving the Sheikh Jarrah compound unused until today’s events.

  • FLASH : Kenyan reinforcements have arrived in Port-au-Prince (video)

    FLASH : Kenyan reinforcements have arrived in Port-au-Prince (video)

    PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti – In a significant reinforcement of international security efforts, Haiti welcomed 230 specialized Kenyan police officers on December 8, 2025. The arrival marks the fifth contingent deployed from Kenya to support the Caribbean nation’s ongoing battle against armed gangs.

    Laurent Saint-Cyr, President pro tempore and Coordinator of Haiti’s Transition Council, personally received the officers at Toussaint Louverture International Airport. The specialized unit joins the multinational Gang Repression Force (FRG) operating within the country’s security framework.

    The Kenyan delegation, led by Deputy National Security Advisor Joseph Boinett and Principal Deputy Inspector General James Kamau, received high-level welcomes from Haitian defense leadership. The reception committee included Commander Godfrey Otunge of the GSF, Lieutenant General Derby Guerrier of the Haitian Armed Forces, and Acting Police Director Vladimir Paraison. Diplomatic representatives from Canada, France, and Kenya’s Consul General in Haiti were also present.

    Concurrently, a rotation of 100 Kenyan officers concluded their mission and departed for home. Transition Council Coordinator Saint-Cyr acknowledged their service while assuring remaining troops of continued harmonious collaboration between Haitian authorities and international forces.

    GSF Commander General Otunge emphasized operational improvements based on lessons from previous multinational missions in Haiti. ‘We have learned from the experience of the Multinational Mission in Haiti to make this new Force more effective,’ Otunge stated, committing to work in Haiti’s best interests.

    Joseph Boinett conveyed President William Ruto’s personal message: ‘Kenya will stand with the Haitian people to guarantee peace and stability during this transitional phase.’ The declaration reinforces Kenya’s commitment to the international stabilization effort.

    The new arrivals join existing contingents from Guatemala, El Salvador, the Bahamas, and Jamaica. Commander Otunge noted their deployment coincides with critical expansion of the GSF’s mandate, positioning them to ‘play a vital role in strengthening, consolidating, and accelerating the progress already achieved.’

  • One arrested for break-and-enter, theft from Home Affairs Ministry

    One arrested for break-and-enter, theft from Home Affairs Ministry

    Authorities in Guyana have apprehended a 48-year-old individual following a significant security breach at the Ministry of Home Affairs headquarters in Georgetown. The incident occurred during the predawn hours of Monday, with the burglary taking place between 3:00 AM and 4:55 AM local time.

    According to official reports from the Guyana Police Force, the perpetrator gained unauthorized access to the government building through an eastern-side washroom window on the lower level, which investigators found deliberately opened. Once inside, the suspect systematically ransacked both the middle and lower sections of the ministry premises.

    Surveillance footage obtained from the ministry’s closed-circuit television system captured the intruder moving through the facility while carrying a substantial black travel bag. The stolen items included multiple electronic devices such as laptop computers, electronic tablets, digital cameras, along with personal belongings of ministry staff members.

    The comprehensive CCTV evidence documented the suspect’s exit strategy, showing the individual leaving via a northern fire escape before scaling the eastern perimeter fence. The perpetrator was observed proceeding eastward along Croal Street while carrying the bag containing the stolen items.

    Law enforcement officials confirmed the recovery of several stolen articles following the arrest of the primary suspect. The investigation remains ongoing as authorities work to determine whether additional individuals were involved in the security breach and to assess the full scope of compromised materials.

    The Ministry of Home Affairs, responsible for national security and public safety matters, has initiated a comprehensive review of its security protocols in response to the incident.

  • Housing minister Launches “The St. George” A low Income home starting at EC$117,000

    Housing minister Launches “The St. George” A low Income home starting at EC$117,000

    The Antigua and Barbuda government has launched an innovative affordable housing solution specifically designed to address the dual challenges of housing accessibility and climate resilience. Housing Minister Maria Bird-Browne presented ‘The St. George’ model during parliamentary budget debates, highlighting its significance for low-income families previously excluded from traditional housing programs.

    Priced at EC$117,000 (approximately US$43,300), this structurally advanced home represents a strategic approach to sustainable urban development. The minister emphasized that the design specifically targets citizens who fall below the EC$150,000 income threshold for conventional housing assistance but still require secure, permanent accommodation for their families.

    Engineered with cutting-edge construction technology, The St. George incorporates heavy steel reinforcement throughout its structure, making it both earthquake resistant and capable of withstanding extreme weather conditions. The model has undergone rigorous wind-tunnel testing to ensure durability in tropical climate scenarios.

    The two-bedroom, two-bathroom layout features modern architectural elements while maintaining practical functionality. Its modular design philosophy allows for future expansion as family needs evolve, creating what Minister Bird-Browne described as ‘a generational home that can grow alongside its inhabitants.’

    This initiative directly supports the government’s ‘People-Centered Growth and Development’ agenda, providing immediate availability for pre-approved applicants with budgets under EC$120,000. The housing solution represents a significant advancement in making climate-resilient architecture accessible to lower-income segments of the population.

  • Minister Browne unveils EC$130,000 starter home called Argenta

    Minister Browne unveils EC$130,000 starter home called Argenta

    The Antiguan government has introduced a new affordable housing solution targeting working families caught in a financial eligibility gap. Housing Minister Maria Bird-Browne unveiled ‘The Argenta’ during the 2026 Budget Debate—a two-bedroom, two-bathroom home priced at EC$131,000 (approximately US$48,500).

    Minister Bird-Browne identified a critical market failure affecting citizens who earn too much to qualify for government-assisted HAPPI programs yet insufficiently to afford existing market-rate housing. ‘Many residents simply don’t earn enough for the models we have on the market,’ she stated, highlighting that these individuals remain trapped in rental cycles despite stable employment.

    The Argenta represents the first of two new models launched by the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CHAPA) to address this specific income bracket. Designed with climate resilience as a priority, the structure incorporates heavy steel stirrups tied throughout the framework to withstand extreme weather events. Minister Bird-Browne described the design as both ‘very beautiful modern’ and functionally durable.

    This initiative responds to persistent public demand for housing ownership rather than perpetual renting. ‘People want to own something so that, whatever they pay monthly, it becomes their asset in the long run,’ the Minister explained. The program immediately opens applications to Antiguans and Barbudans seeking stability through homeownership beneath conventional lending thresholds.

  • One Detained After Orange Walk Man Shot Dead

    One Detained After Orange Walk Man Shot Dead

    Authorities in Orange Walk Town have taken a person of interest into custody as part of an active homicide investigation following the deadly shooting of 45-year-old Beris Neemaya Anglin on Saturday night. The incident occurred late in the evening, with multiple neighbors reporting hearing a series of gunshots approximately at 11:00 p.m.

    According to Assistant Superintendent of Police Stacy Smith, Anglin’s common-law wife made the grim discovery of his body inside their residence, described as a white concrete house. Crime scene investigators documented substantial evidence, recovering multiple 9mm shell casings and projectiles from the premises.

    The victim sustained extensive injuries from the attack, with gunshot wounds documented across his face, right hand, left foot, abdominal area, upper right shoulder, and back. The investigation has revealed a significant development: Anglin had been formally charged earlier on Saturday for a drug-related offense. ASP Smith confirmed that the suspect had been granted station bail and was scheduled to appear before the magistrate court on the day following the shooting.

    While the investigation remains in its early stages, authorities acknowledge that no clear motive has been established at this time. Police officials indicate that interrogation of the detained individual will be crucial for determining potential connections to the crime and advancing the investigation. The case continues to develop as forensic analysis and witness interviews proceed.

  • Ceremony to Honour V.C. Bird Scheduled for Tuesday in St. John’s

    Ceremony to Honour V.C. Bird Scheduled for Tuesday in St. John’s

    Antigua and Barbuda will pay solemn tribute to its founding father Sir Vere Cornwall Bird during a commemorative wreath-laying ceremony scheduled for Tuesday morning. The National Festivals Office has organized the annual event to honor the enduring legacy of the nation’s architectural visionary.

    The ceremony will commence at 8:00 AM on December 9th at the prominent V.C. Bird Bust situated on Market Street. This strategically located monument serves as the traditional gathering point for official observances dedicated to the national hero.

    Government representatives, cultural ambassadors, and citizens from across the twin-island nation are expected to assemble in unified tribute. The event underscores Bird’s monumental contributions to shaping both the political framework and social fabric of modern Antigua and Barbuda.

    This annual observance forms an integral part of the nation’s calendar of official ceremonies, serving as a perpetual reminder of Bird’s pioneering role in steering the country toward independence and self-determination. The National Festivals Office has extended an open invitation to all residents to attend and witness this significant moment of national remembrance.

  • Pringle says UPP would remove all import taxes on electric and renewable-energy vehicles

    Pringle says UPP would remove all import taxes on electric and renewable-energy vehicles

    In a significant policy announcement during the 2026 National Budget debate, United Progressive Party (UPP) Leader Jamale Pringle declared that an opposition-led government would completely eliminate all taxation on new electric and renewable-energy vehicles. Pringle positioned this initiative as a central component of the party’s comprehensive clean-energy strategy, directly challenging the current administration’s environmental policy implementation.

    The opposition leader argued that excessive import duties and multiple layers of government-imposed costs are substantially hindering the nation’s transition to sustainable transportation. He noted that while many citizens are eager to adopt electric mobility solutions due to escalating fuel prices and growing environmental consciousness, financial barriers created by existing tax structures make such conversions prohibitively expensive for ordinary families.

    Pringle characterized the current taxation approach as fundamentally contradictory to the government’s publicly stated commitments on climate resilience and renewable energy adoption. He emphasized that the UPP’s proposed tax elimination would extend beyond symbolic gesture to deliver tangible benefits: dramatically reducing ownership barriers, stimulating competitive pricing among automotive dealerships, and positioning the nation to capitalize on global advancements in sustainable transport technology.

    The policy proposal was framed as particularly vital for a small island nation facing disproportionate vulnerability to climate change impacts while maintaining heavy dependence on imported fossil fuels. Pringle described electric vehicle incentivization as ‘common sense’ policy that would simultaneously address environmental concerns and reduce household energy expenditures.

    This automotive initiative forms part of a broader UPP renewable energy platform that includes removing restrictions on residential solar power systems and creating more favorable investment conditions for clean technology ventures. Pringle concluded that meaningful climate action must originate with practical, affordable pathways for citizens rather than international rhetoric unmatched by domestic policy implementation.

  • BEL Chairman Marshalleck Resigns After Five Years

    BEL Chairman Marshalleck Resigns After Five Years

    Belize Electricity Limited (BEL) has announced the forthcoming departure of its Board Chairman, E. Andrew Marshalleck, S.C., effective December 31, 2025. Marshalleck will conclude his five-year leadership tenure that witnessed substantial advancements in the nation’s power infrastructure.

    Appointed to the Board in December 2020, Marshalleck’s chairmanship was marked by significant strategic achievements. Under his guidance, BEL executed critical enhancements to the national grid, most notably expanding generation capacity by 30 megawatts and boosting transmission substation capacity by 92 MVA. These infrastructural investments yielded a dramatic improvement in system reliability, reducing network outages by more than 30 percent compared to pre-2021 performance metrics.

    A landmark accomplishment during his term was the finalization of Belize’s inaugural power purchase agreement for a utility-scale solar energy facility, signaling a strategic pivot toward renewable energy sources.

    In a formal statement reflecting on his service, Marshalleck expressed gratitude for his tenure, stating: ‘I am grateful for the opportunity to have served and for the chance to meet and work with many of the talented managers and employees of BEL … they, together with the people of Belize, deserve a truly successful BEL.’

    The company’s announcement did not specify reasons for the leadership transition. Marshalleck’s successor will be Lyn Young, the former Chief Executive Officer of the utility company.

  • Services, vehicles, guns, ammo excluded from VAT-free shopping

    Services, vehicles, guns, ammo excluded from VAT-free shopping

    The Inland Revenue Department (IRD) has unveiled comprehensive operational guidelines for the nation’s inaugural VAT Zero-Rated Day scheduled for this Friday, marking the New Democratic Party administration’s first implementation of this fiscal policy measure. This temporary tax suspension represents a significant consumer stimulus initiative targeting non-commercial purchases across multiple retail sectors.

    The tax exemption framework specifically applies to transactions involving VAT-registered businesses supplying eligible tangible goods to non-commercial consumers. Critical eligibility requirements mandate that all tax-exempt products must be physically present in merchant inventory at close of business on Thursday, with both sale and full payment processing occurring exclusively during Friday’s designated tax holiday period.

    Comprehensive eligibility categories encompass consumer electronics (televisions, computers, smartphones), household appliances (refrigerators, stoves, washing machines), food and beverages including alcoholic items, clothing and footwear, furniture selections, building materials, automotive parts excluding complete vehicles, cosmetics and toiletries, alongside general merchandise including toys, books and kitchenware.

    The exclusion list maintains several significant categories outside the tax relief program. All service-based transactions remain fully taxable, including tourism and hospitality services. Prepared meals and beverages from restaurants, hotels and similar establishments remain subject to standard VAT rates. Additional exclusions encompass motor vehicles, tobacco products, firearms and ammunition, with hire purchase arrangements similarly excluded from tax exemption benefits.

    The IRD has expressed anticipation for seamless implementation of this economic stimulus measure, encouraging public participation while emphasizing strict adherence to published guidelines for both retailers and consumers.