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  • Surinamese police intercept fuel smuggled from Guyana

    Surinamese police intercept fuel smuggled from Guyana

    In a significant crackdown on cross-border crime, Surinamese law enforcement authorities have intercepted a substantial shipment of smuggled fuel originating from neighboring Guyana. The operation culminated in the arrest of a gas station proprietor in the Nickerie district, located near the strategic Corentyne River border.

    According to an official statement released by the Suriname Police Corps, the interception followed a meticulously planned surveillance operation targeting illicit cross-border activities. Officers initially identified a truck loaded with fuel whose distinctive coloration matched specifications used exclusively in Guyana. The vehicle was initially spotted parked at a local gas station on Ramadhar Rajaramweg in the Corantijnpolder district.

    Police temporarily withdrew from the scene for preliminary assessments, but upon returning discovered the truck had been moved. Investigators immediately suspected the owner, identified as LR (36), had relocated the contraband to his secondary gas station facility in the Henar district. With coordinated assistance from Paradise police units, authorities successfully intercepted the vehicle on Ir. Mn. Ataoellahweg in Henar.

    The subsequent inspection revealed four large square barrels containing approximately 4,000 liters (nearly 880 imperial gallons) of illegal fuel concealed on the truck bed. Both the gas station owner and his employee, MM (39), who were present inside the vehicle, were promptly arrested and transported to Paradise police station for processing. The truck and its illicit cargo were impounded as evidence in the ongoing investigation.

    Following consultation with the Public Prosecution Service, the primary suspect has been remanded in custody pending further investigation, while his employee has been released. The case has now been transferred to the West Region Detective Department for comprehensive investigation, highlighting the seriousness with which Surinamese authorities are treating cross-border fuel smuggling operations.

  • AZP voert samen met Leiden en Den Haag 15 complexe neurochirurgische operaties uit

    AZP voert samen met Leiden en Den Haag 15 complexe neurochirurgische operaties uit

    Paramaribo Academic Hospital (AZP) has achieved a significant milestone in neurosurgical care through its seventh collaborative mission with Dutch medical specialists. From December 2nd, a joint team comprising neurosurgeons from Leiden, The Hague, and Suriname successfully performed fifteen complex brain and spinal procedures on patients with severe neurological conditions.

    The surgical interventions included advanced spinal reconstructions and delicate brain operations, with four pediatric cases among those treated. Several patients presented with existing neurological deficits, while others received preventive care to avoid impending damage. The mission featured a multidisciplinary approach that integrated expertise from maxillofacial surgeons from AZP, The Hague, and Utrecht University Medical Center.

    This ongoing partnership between Suriname’s neurosurgical program and the University Neurosurgical Center Holland has enabled increasingly sophisticated procedures to be performed locally. The collaboration has now progressed to training Surinamese medical professionals, with one candidate currently undergoing specialized training at the Dutch center.

    The surgical team was led by Professor W. Peul, working alongside Surinamese neurosurgeons Dr. H. Kort and Dr. R. Tjong Tjin Joe. They received operational support from Dutch neurosurgeons Dr. R. Nandoe Tewarie and Dr. W. Moojen for the brain surgeries. Critical assistance was provided by various AZP departments including operating theater staff, intensive care units, neurocare teams, and temporary Dutch operating room assistants.

    The Surinamese Ministry of Health provides structural support for this partnership, recognizing its vital role in developing local medical capabilities. The primary benefit remains that patients can now receive high-quality neurosurgical care within their own country, eliminating the need for expensive and logistically challenging medical referrals abroad.

  • Santo Domingo joins prestigious Assouline travel book series

    Santo Domingo joins prestigious Assouline travel book series

    NEW YORK – In a significant cultural achievement, the Dominican Republic has secured a position within the world of luxury travel publishing. Tourism Minister David Collado announced on Tuesday that the nation’s capital, Santo Domingo, is now featured in the exclusive Assouline book collection, marking a pivotal moment for the country’s international prestige.

    The official launch event, held in New York City, was presided over by Minister Collado and Alexandre Assouline, president of the eponymous publishing house. The gathering attracted prominent figures from the tourism sector, cultural commentators, and influential voices from the creative industries.

    Founded in Paris in 1994, Assouline has established itself as the definitive publisher of high-end, artisanal coffee-table books. Its collections are synonymous with luxury, chronicling iconic global destinations, legendary fashion brands, and artistic movements. These volumes are treated as collectible art objects, gracing the interiors of five-star hotels, exclusive boutiques, and private libraries worldwide. Inclusion in this curated series signifies a destination’s arrival on the global cultural stage, placing Santo Domingo in the company of the world’s most admired cities.

    Minister Collado articulated that the new volume is a tribute to ‘the essence, history, and elegance of the First City of the Americas,’ thereby highlighting its profound heritage and value as a premier tourist destination. Demonstrating immense anticipation, the book achieved a rare feat by selling out its inventory twice across all Assouline global stores ahead of its formal release—a testament, as Collado noted, to the surging international fascination with Dominican culture, history, and way of life.

    The project was brought to life through the editorial direction of Rossana Rivera, with critical contributions from Patricia Read, Manuel García Arévalo, Manuel García, and Juan Mubarack. Their collaborative efforts encompassed content development, meticulous visual curation, and narrative storytelling. This publication provides Santo Domingo with an unparalleled platform for global promotion, aligning seamlessly with the Ministry of Tourism’s strategic objective to enhance the nation’s profile within elite markets and the most exclusive luxury travel media.

  • CARICOM member states have lost tourism competitiveness- former CDB President

    CARICOM member states have lost tourism competitiveness- former CDB President

    A stark warning about the declining competitiveness of Caribbean Community (CARICOM) tourism sectors was issued by Professor Compton Bourne, former President of the Caribbean Development Bank. Speaking at a World Trade Centre Georgetown panel discussion on December 2, 2025, the renowned economist revealed that CARICOM member states are rapidly losing market share to non-CARICOM Caribbean destinations that offer superior infrastructure, more favorable tax regimes, and enhanced visitor experiences.

    Professor Bourne identified the Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico as primary beneficiaries of this shift, noting these nations have dramatically expanded their tourism infrastructure through modernized hotels, improved transportation networks, and diversified tourism products emphasizing heritage attractions. Unlike CARICOM nations, these competitors have implemented significantly lower taxes and levies that directly impact stay-over visitors, creating substantial price advantages.

    The economist criticized CARICOM governments for prioritizing revenue collection over tourism sector growth, noting that intra-regional travel faces particularly heavy taxation. “The behavior of governments is like if the tourism demand is not price sensitive so that you can simply add taxes to the product and people will buy the same quantity. That is not so. They shift to other destinations,” Bourne stated, revealing he had previously delivered similar warnings to CARICOM Heads of Government.

    For emerging tourism destinations like Guyana, Professor Bourne recommended strategic positioning as a “product innovator” leveraging its unique biodiversity. He emphasized that success requires addressing critical infrastructure gaps including quality accommodations, efficient internal transportation, rest stops, and multilingual guides capable of serving non-English speaking visitors from South America and Latin America.

    Additionally, Bourne proposed developing virtual exports of entertainment and sports as lucrative alternatives to traditional tourism. He stressed that successful online delivery would require reliable technological infrastructure, strict adherence to scheduling, and high-quality production standards to compete effectively in digital marketplaces currently constrained by physical venue limitations.

  • U.S. Ambassador reveals Biden administration pressured Dominican Republic to keep Haiti border open

    U.S. Ambassador reveals Biden administration pressured Dominican Republic to keep Haiti border open

    SANTO DOMINGO – In a significant diplomatic disclosure, U.S. Ambassador to the Dominican Republic Leah Campos acknowledged on Tuesday that the Biden administration had applied political pressure to prevent the closure of the Dominican-Haitian border. The revelation came during her address at an American Chamber of Commerce (AMCHAMDR) luncheon in the Dominican capital.

    Ambassador Campos clarified that Washington’s position was motivated by escalating security concerns stemming from Haiti’s intensifying crisis. She articulated that the instability in Haiti represents a direct security challenge that transcends borders, potentially affecting both the Dominican Republic and the United States. This geopolitical reality formed the basis for the diplomatic engagement with Dominican authorities.

    The ambassador emphasized her dedicated collaboration with President Luis Abinader and private sector representatives to develop strategic solutions addressing these security threats. ‘My commitment remains firm in partnering with President Abinader and the business community to mitigate this danger and contribute to Haiti’s stabilization,’ Campos stated. ‘Our ultimate objective is achieving a peaceful and secure environment for the Haitian population, which they rightfully deserve.’

    Beyond border security discussions, Ambassador Campos expressed appreciation for President Abinader’s administration regarding its efforts in combating transnational crime. She specifically acknowledged measurable progress in addressing drug trafficking, money laundering operations, and human trafficking networks through enhanced bilateral cooperation in recent years.

  • Education : Presentation of preliminary results of the National Preschool Survey

    Education : Presentation of preliminary results of the National Preschool Survey

    Haiti’s Ministry of National Education and Vocational Training (MENFP) has initiated a comprehensive three-day workshop to present preliminary findings from the groundbreaking National Preschool Education Survey. The event, which commenced on December 1st, 2025, brings together educational technicians, departmental directors, international partners, and stakeholders to analyze critical data collected from 480 preschool facilities across the nation between May and June 2025.

    Education Minister Augustin Antoine inaugurated the workshop by emphasizing the collaborative effort behind this milestone achievement. “This presentation represents the culmination of ten months of dedicated work by our Directorate of Preschool Education, supported technically and financially by UNICEF,” Minister Antoine stated. He additionally acknowledged the Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation (AECID) for their financial backing and praised expert Professor Alain Mingat for his exceptional contribution to the survey’s execution.

    The comprehensive assessment evaluated multiple operational dimensions within Haiti’s preschool system, including infrastructure quality, educational support mechanisms, staff training protocols, nutritional programs, safety standards, and community engagement practices. The survey also examined linguistic approaches balancing Creole and French instruction, funding sources, and per-student expenditure patterns.

    Minister Antoine highlighted research demonstrating that children with preschool experience significantly outperform their peers in primary education. “Early childhood education serves as a strategic foundation for building a more equitable, inclusive, and resilient society,” he asserted, reaffirming his commitment to expanding quality early education opportunities nationwide.

    UNICEF Representative Geetanjali Narayan commended the survey’s completion, noting that “sharing these results constitutes an essential step toward developing a data-driven national early childhood education policy.” She called for additional international partners to support MENFP in policy formulation and implementation.

    Spanish Ambassador Marco Peñin reinforced his nation’s dedication to Haitian educational initiatives, stating that preschool education “forms an essential pillar for children’s cognitive, social, and emotional development.” He emphasized the particular importance of early educational support in facilitating language transition from Creole to French within Haiti’s unique multilingual context.

    The workshop’s final sessions, scheduled for December 3rd, will focus on analyzing investment scenarios for strengthening Haiti’s preschool education subsystem, with participation from technical, financial, and public funding institutions.

  • Gun Violence Claims Another Young Life in Lake I

    Gun Violence Claims Another Young Life in Lake I

    The Belize City community of Lake Independence is confronting another devastating incident of gun violence following the fatal shooting of fifteen-year-old Eric Reyes on December 1, 2025. The adolescent was cycling his bicycle along Park Street, merely meters from his residence, when an unidentified assailant opened fire. Emergency medical personnel at Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital subsequently pronounced Reyes deceased upon arrival.

    Assistant Superintendent of Police Stacy Smith confirmed that patrol officers stationed in the Saint Martin Area responded to reports of gunfire approximately at 10:00 p.m. The responding unit discovered Reyes’ motionless body displaying visible gunshot wounds. Preliminary investigation indicates the victim was accosted by a lone gunman during what appeared to be an indiscriminate attack.

    The tragedy exposes profound social vulnerabilities within the community. Reyes had discontinued formal education in recent years and resided as primary caregiver for his paralyzed mother under financially constrained circumstances. Police authorities have explicitly stated no evidence connects the adolescent to gang-related activities, deepening the mystery surrounding the shooting’s motivation.

    This incident represents the second recent homicide targeting vulnerable demographics following the earlier shooting of an elderly community member. ASP Smith emphasized the police department’s commitment to combating violent crime while acknowledging practical limitations in maintaining comprehensive area surveillance despite reinforced patrols involving Belize Defense Force personnel.

    Law enforcement officials are urging community cooperation through vigilant reporting of suspicious activities. The investigation continues with authorities pursuing all available leads to identify the perpetrator and establish a definitive motive for the seemingly random act of violence.

  • Anti-Crime Operations Intensify Ahead of Christmas

    Anti-Crime Operations Intensify Ahead of Christmas

    Belizean law enforcement authorities have initiated a comprehensive security mobilization in response to growing public safety concerns during the holiday season. The strategic operation involves redeploying administrative personnel to active street patrol duties, significantly increasing visible police presence across communities.

    Assistant Superintendent of Police Stacy Smith, serving as Staff Officer, confirmed the implementation of enhanced security measures designed specifically for the Christmas period. The department has developed multi-layered operational strategies that will unfold progressively throughout the coming weeks as the year concludes.

    While criminal investigators have not established connections between recent violent incidents, police leadership acknowledges concerning patterns in both property crimes and violent offenses. The tragic homicide of Eric Reyes has particularly heightened community apprehensions about public safety.

    Police administrators emphasize that the intensified visibility strategy serves a dual purpose: providing tangible security reassurance to citizens while simultaneously demonstrating zero tolerance for criminal activity. The operational overhaul aims to create a deterrent effect against potential offenders through consistent patrol coverage.

    The Belize Police Department’s seasonal security initiative focuses on enabling peaceful holiday celebrations for all citizens while maintaining rapid response capabilities to address emerging threats. This proactive approach represents the department’s commitment to adaptive policing methods tailored to evolving criminal trends and seasonal patterns.

  • Double Murder Suspect, A Cop, Returns to Court

    Double Murder Suspect, A Cop, Returns to Court

    A Belize City courtroom became the focal point of a developing judicial drama as Orvin Justin Williams, a 25-year-old police officer, made his second appearance before a magistrate. The defendant stands accused of committing a brutal double homicide that has sent shockwaves through the Hattieville community.

    The alleged crimes date back to September 15th, when according to investigative reports, Williams allegedly targeted his former mother-in-law, 57-year-old Paula Belisle, and her twin brother Paul Esquillano. Official documents indicate the victims were present at a residential property on Ysaguirre Boulevard when an assailant arrived by vehicle, approached the premises, and discharged multiple rounds from a firearm before making a swift escape.

    Forensic teams recovered five 9mm shell casings from the crime scene, while surveillance footage from nearby cameras provided crucial evidence in identifying the suspected perpetrator. Medical authorities confirmed Paula Belisle succumbed to her injuries en route to the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital, while Paul Esquillano was pronounced dead at the location.

    The case has drawn significant public attention due to Williams’ law enforcement background and family connections. His father serves as a retired police officer, while two brothers currently maintain active duty within the department. This familial association with police work has added layers of complexity to the proceedings.

    Williams initially faced detention two weeks following the incident but secured release after declining to cooperate with investigators. However, subsequent evidence gathering led to his re-arrest within seven days, culminating in formal murder charges for both deaths.

    The judicial process continues to unfold with the next hearing scheduled for January 12, 2026, as prosecutors prepare their case against the accused officer.

  • BWS Opens Treatment Facilities to Media

    BWS Opens Treatment Facilities to Media

    In response to mounting public apprehension regarding drinking water safety and wastewater management, Belize Water Services (BWS) has launched a comprehensive transparency initiative by granting media access to its critical treatment facilities. This unprecedented move comes directly after the Statistical Institute of Belize’s MICS7 survey revealed concerning data about the nation’s water infrastructure.

    Chief Operations Officer Sanjay Kashwani personally guided journalists through two pivotal operations: the Belmopan Wastewater Treatment Plant and the Double Run Water Treatment Plant in Sandhill. The tour aimed to demonstrate BWS’s operational protocols and quality control measures amidst growing citizen concerns about wastewater leakage in Belmopan and drinking water safety nationwide.

    The utility company addressed specific infrastructure challenges, particularly highlighting the aging pipeline system in Belmopan. Constructed in the 1970s using asbestos cement materials, these pipelines were not designed to support modern urban development. Recent incidents, including pipe damage caused by foreign embassies, have exacerbated system vulnerabilities. Repairing a single section in the Bullfrog area required a $300,000 investment with extensive construction efforts.

    Belmopan Mayor Pablo Cawich joined the inspection, acknowledging resident complaints about sewer odors near the Bullfrog Lift Station. The mayor explained how collapsed infrastructure had necessitated manual wastewater removal using trucks to prevent environmental contamination.

    BWS managers provided detailed technical explanations of their treatment processes. Wastewater undergoes a 37-day purification cycle through four specialized ponds, progressing from anaerobic bacterial treatment to final UV disinfection before being safely returned to the Belize River. For drinking water, engineers demonstrated the complete treatment chain from raw water intake through flocculation, filtration, and disinfection stages.

    The utility’s laboratory technicians showcased daily testing protocols that monitor chlorine levels and contaminant presence to ensure compliance with national standards. District Manager Reina Gonzalez emphasized the company’s commitment to customer health and safety, noting significant infrastructure investments including $10 million in plant upgrades pre-COVID and millions more in pumping station improvements.

    BWS has announced additional network upgrades scheduled for next year across both water and wastewater systems, reaffirming their dedication to maintaining modern, reliable water services for all Belizeans.