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  • PM: US Marines improving radar surveillance in Tobago

    PM: US Marines improving radar surveillance in Tobago

    Trinidad and Tobago’s Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar has confirmed the presence of United States military personnel in Tobago, characterizing their mission as technical assistance for radar surveillance enhancement at the island’s airport. The disclosure came during a media interaction following a laptop distribution event at Penal Secondary School on November 27.

    Persad-Bissessar clarified that US Marines are actively supporting improvements to runway infrastructure and radar capabilities at the Arthur NR Robinson International Airport. ‘They will help us to improve our surveillance and intelligence we gather…the narco traffickers in our waters and outside our waters,’ the Prime Minister stated, emphasizing the counter-narcotics focus of the cooperation.

    This development forms part of broader US military activities across the southern Caribbean initiated in August, which initially involved three guided missile destroyers and has since expanded to include nuclear submarines, amphibious assault vessels, and the aircraft carrier USS Gerald R Ford with its strike group. The 22nd US Marine Expeditionary Unit recently conducted joint exercises with Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force personnel.

    The military cooperation occurs under the framework of the Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA) signed between both nations in December, facilitating bilateral military coordination. Persad-Bissessar explicitly denied any offensive intentions toward Venezuela, asserting, ‘Trinidad has not been asked to be a base for any war against Venezuela.’

    This stance has generated significant political controversy domestically and regionally. Opposition Leader Pennelope Beckles has filed a motion condemning the Prime Minister’s statements as ‘inflammatory’ and damaging to Trinidad and Tobago’s international standing. The motion calls for reaffirmation of commitment to CARICOM and international law.

    Persad-Bissessar’s position notably diverges from the traditional CARICOM consensus maintaining the Caribbean as a zone of peace, placing her at odds with regional leaders including Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley and St Vincent and the Grenadines Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves. The Prime Minister has additionally predicted potential CARICOM fragmentation, alleging interference by regional leaders in member states’ elections—a claim particularly directed at Gonsalves regarding upcoming elections in St Vincent and the Grenadines.

  • I Love Jamaica Telethon raises $65m for Hurricane Melissa relief

    I Love Jamaica Telethon raises $65m for Hurricane Melissa relief

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Jamaica’s national recovery initiative for Hurricane Melissa devastation has received an extraordinary financial infusion, with the recently concluded “I Love Jamaica” Telethon generating over $65 million in donations and pledges. The monumental fundraising achievement was confirmed by Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, Olivia “Babsy” Grange.

    The virtual benefit concert, broadcast worldwide on Sunday through both traditional media and digital platforms, featured performances by approximately 30 of Jamaica’s most celebrated musical talents spanning reggae, dancehall, and gospel genres. This cross-genre collaboration created a powerful demonstration of cultural solidarity.

    Minister Grange disclosed that $45.76 million has already been secured in the official Support Jamaica account, with an additional $19.97 million in committed pledges scheduled for collection in the coming days. The minister expressed profound appreciation for the widespread support from both local and international contributors.

    “Our heartfelt gratitude extends to every individual donor across the island and diaspora, corporate Jamaica, and global supporters standing with our communities most severely affected by this catastrophic hurricane,” Minister Grange stated during her address.

    The production represented a collaborative endeavor between Jamaica’s entertainment industry and government ministries. Minister Grange specifically acknowledged the extraordinary contributions from performing artists, sports personalities, media broadcasters, and corporate sponsors including Red Stripe and Digicel.

    Corporate partners emphasized the telethon’s significance in showcasing national resilience. Sean Wallace, Red Stripe’s Head of Commerce, noted the event highlighted the unwavering strength of Jamaican unity, reaffirming his company’s commitment to long-term community recovery efforts.

    Nicholette McFarlane, Digicel’s Head of Marketing, characterized participation as both an honor and privilege, emphasizing the powerful display of global Jamaican solidarity.

    The national relief program continues to accept public contributions through official portals at supportjamaica.gov.jm and japromise.org. Additionally, mobile donations are being processed via text messaging system: Text “GIVE” to 876-444-5501 ($150 donation), 876-444-5502 ($1,000 donation), or 876-444-5503 ($5,000 donation).

    This telethon marks the initial phase of the broader “I Love Jamaica” fundraising campaign, with planned physical benefit concerts scheduled in international cities with significant Jamaican populations including London, New York, and Miami.

  • Man held for murder in Castara – TOURIST STABBED TO DEATH

    Man held for murder in Castara – TOURIST STABBED TO DEATH

    Tobago authorities are pursuing a homicide investigation following the fatal stabbing of American tourist Christopher Brown in the coastal village of Castara. The 44-year-old Colorado resident was ambushed on a darkened pathway off Depot Road Wednesday night, allegedly by a 26-year-old Scarborough man who mistakenly identified him as a romantic rival.

    According to homicide investigators, the suspect had attended a weekly drumming session on Castara’s beachfront where he confronted his girlfriend about her apparent interaction with another attendee. Leaving in anger, the man reportedly concealed himself along an unlit track where he later attacked Brown with multiple stab wounds, leaving the weapon embedded in the victim’s back.

    Police confirmed the assailant contacted his girlfriend afterward, apparently believing Brown was the individual who had sparked their earlier argument. Authorities note the actual person of interest shared similar physical characteristics with the deceased tourist.

    Brown had been vacationing with his girlfriend at Castara Retreats resort and was scheduled to return to Colorado Thursday. Following the beach gathering, he had inexplicably returned toward the drumming session alone shortly before the attack.

    Tourism Secretary Tashia Burris condemned the violence as a “horrific act” while emphasizing Castara’s historically safe environment. Local tourism association president Bertill Taylor expressed community trauma, stressing the perpetrator was an outsider from Rockly Vale. Taylor highlighted longstanding infrastructure concerns regarding Depot Road, which lacks lighting and maintenance despite being a frequent access route to Little Bay beach.

    The incident marks Tobago’s ninth homicide this year, occurring just days after another fatal shooting in Mason Hall. Tourism representatives expressed concern about the season’s already declining bookings, hoping the tragedy wouldn’t further deter visitors to what they describe as a vibrant, community-policed destination.

  • MLSS deepens partnership with World Food Programme to boost post-Hurricane relief

    MLSS deepens partnership with World Food Programme to boost post-Hurricane relief

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — In a significant escalation of disaster response capabilities, Jamaica’s Ministry of Labour and Social Security (MLSS) has deepened its strategic partnership with the World Food Programme (WFP) to address widespread devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa. This reinforced collaboration marks a critical phase in the nation’s recovery trajectory.

    The revitalized alliance features a comprehensive WFP proposal to deliver essential support to approximately 200,000 Jamaican citizens over a three-month duration. This ambitious initiative, valued at an estimated US$30 million, encompasses multi-faceted assistance including nutritional aid, financial support, logistical coordination, and emergency telecommunications infrastructure.

    Current distribution efforts have successfully delivered 24,500 specialized food kits across severely impacted parishes including St Elizabeth, St James, Trelawny, and Westmoreland. Each nutritionally balanced kit provides sustenance for a three-person household throughout one week. With operational capabilities expanding, the WFP has outlined plans to reach an additional 46,000 beneficiaries in the immediate future.

    Minister of Labour and Social Security Pearnel Charles Jr emphasized the transformative impact of this partnership, noting substantially enhanced capabilities for real-time needs assessment and rapid response coordination. The integration with Jamaica’s advanced Household Disaster Impact and Needs Assessment (JHDINA) digital platform has been particularly instrumental, facilitating 22,340 detailed household evaluations to guide data-driven resource allocation.

    The collaboration has additionally enabled comprehensive evaluation of the MLSS Community Feedback Mechanism, identifying operational gaps and implementing improvements to better serve hurricane-affected communities. This systematic approach has strengthened government-led accountability frameworks, ensuring transparent assistance distribution to the most vulnerable populations.

    Substantial material support has been provided through the WFP’s contribution of critical operational assets including transport trucks, power generators, forklifts, modular storage units, pallet systems, and specialized sector equipment. Strategic establishment of seven emergency staging areas in key locations such as Montego Bay, Kingston, and Black River has created a network for rapid deployment of relief supplies to affected regions.

    Brian Bogart, Representative for the WFP Caribbean Office, confirmed the organization’s sustained engagement throughout the crisis timeline. “The WFP maintained full commitment to supporting national emergency response protocols even prior to Hurricane Melissa’s landfall. Our operations are fully embedded within national systems to ensure multilateral support aligns precisely with Government of Jamaica priorities,” Bogart stated.

    Current achievements include emergency food kit distribution to over 35,000 vulnerable individuals, with preparations underway to double this reach within coming days. Collective efforts between MLSS, WFP, and the Jamaica Defence Force have distributed 59,320 food packages nationwide, leveraging WFP’s logistical expertise, supply chain management, and digital assessment technologies.

    Both organizations have formally reaffirmed their commitment to sustaining support throughout Jamaica’s ongoing recovery process, demonstrating unprecedented cooperation in post-disaster rehabilitation efforts.

  • JLP scraps annual conference for 2025

    JLP scraps annual conference for 2025

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — In an unprecedented move signaling a shift from decades of political tradition, the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) has officially called off its scheduled 2025 Annual Conference. The decision emerged from a unanimous vote during the party’s Standing Committee assembly on November 18, as confirmed by Senator Abka Fitz-Henley, Chairman of the JLP Communication Taskforce.

    The resolution will proceed to the JLP’s Central Executive for final ratification at their December 7 convening. This marks the first cancellation of the party’s hallmark November event in recent history, breaking with customary political gatherings that typically serve as platforms for policy announcements and membership mobilization.

    Senior party representatives emphasize that this strategic reallocation of resources stems from the urgent need to address Jamaica’s recovery trajectory in Hurricane Melissa’s aftermath. The catastrophic weather event inflicted substantial damage across the island nation, compelling a unified governmental and societal response.

    Rather than channeling funds and organizational energy into conference preparations, the JLP will pivot全部 focus toward disaster relief initiatives, infrastructure rehabilitation, and community support programs. The party’s leadership asserts that national rebuilding efforts must take precedence over political ceremonies during this critical recovery period, demonstrating institutional adaptability in times of crisis.

  • $47m ‘creepy’ ganja bust in Central – 2 held

    $47m ‘creepy’ ganja bust in Central – 2 held

    In a series of coordinated anti-narcotics operations, Trinidad and Tobago law enforcement authorities have successfully intercepted substantial quantities of illicit drugs with a combined street value exceeding $67 million. The most significant seizure occurred in Central Trinidad, where specialized police units confiscated over 413 kilograms of high-potency Colombian marijuana known as “Creepy” strain.

    The operation, conducted between 1:00 PM and 4:30 PM on Wednesday, was executed by the Special Investigations Unit (SIU) with support from the Inter-Agency Task Force. Acting on precise intelligence, officers raided a residential property under the Emergency Powers Regulation of 2025, discovering ten crocus bags and five garbage bags filled with compressed marijuana packets. The confiscated narcotics, with an estimated value of $47.6 million, represent one of the largest single drug seizures in recent operations.

    Police Commissioner Allister Guevarro personally commended the operating teams, emphasizing the effectiveness of inter-agency collaboration. “Today’s operations demonstrated the power of true teamwork across our units,” Guevarro stated. “Your skill, discipline, and initiative were evident in every task, enabling the precise and professional execution of complex missions.”

    Earlier the same day, SIU officers conducted a separate operation along the Churchill Roosevelt Highway, intercepting a vehicle containing 40 packets of the same Colombian strain weighing approximately 20.74 kilograms, valued at $4.4 million. This interception resulted in the arrest of the driver.

    These operations followed another significant drug bust at the ANR Robinson International Airport in Tobago, where authorities seized $16 million worth of cocaine and apprehended two female suspects.

    The term “Creepy” marijuana refers to a potent variant developed in Colombia’s Cauca region from genetic stock originally native to the United States and Europe. This strain contains THC concentrations 15-25% higher than traditional marijuana, producing more intense psychoactive effects. THC (delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol) is the primary psychoactive compound responsible for marijuana’s characteristic high.

    All seized evidence remains in police custody as investigations continue, with multiple suspects currently in custody facing drug trafficking charges.

  • Digicel TT to spend $20m on upgrades

    Digicel TT to spend $20m on upgrades

    Digicel TT has unveiled a major $20 million infrastructure investment aimed at revolutionizing its telecommunications network across Trinidad and Tobago. The comprehensive upgrade strategy involves decommissioning the outdated 2G network by December 31, 2025, while simultaneously enhancing data capabilities and network resilience.

    CEO Pieter Verkade confirmed the company’s substantial commitment to technological advancement, stating that this investment demonstrates Digicel’s long-term dedication to the Trinidad and Tobago market. The modernization initiative includes multiple components: upgrading mobile sites, reinforcing critical infrastructure, and transitioning important fiber lines underground for enhanced protection against environmental factors.

    The infrastructure overhaul has already produced tangible results with seven new mobile sites becoming operational. An additional twenty sites are scheduled for completion by early 2026, significantly expanding coverage and improving data transmission speeds nationwide. This expansion directly addresses growing consumer and enterprise demand for high-quality internet and reliable communication services.

    For enterprise and government clients, the network enhancements promise strengthened uptime capabilities, improved cybersecurity measures, and infrastructure capable of supporting data-intensive operations. The technological improvements specifically target the increasing requirements for connectivity and data-driven business processes.

    The 2G network retirement represents a strategic reallocation of spectrum resources toward next-generation technologies. Digicel began preparing customers for this transition three years ago, distributing over 700 upgraded devices at no cost to ensure seamless migration. Customers still utilizing 2G-exclusive handsets are encouraged to visit Digicel stores to obtain compatible replacement devices while inventory remains available.

    This $20 million investment constitutes part of Digicel’s broader commitment to Trinidad and Tobago, where the company has invested over $1.2 billion since its establishment. The current upgrades aim to deliver a more robust, future-ready network that maintains high performance standards amid escalating data consumption patterns.

    Verkade emphasized that these efforts ultimately focus on constructing a modern, resilient telecommunications framework that will support Trinidad and Tobago’s digital transformation for years to come, ensuring reliable service quality and enhanced customer experiences across all user segments.

  • TTSEC warns investment scams on the rise

    TTSEC warns investment scams on the rise

    The Trinidad and Tobago Securities and Exchange Commission (TTSEC) has issued a critical public advisory regarding an alarming proliferation of sophisticated investment scams. In an official statement released November 27, the financial regulatory authority detailed how fraudsters are deploying increasingly advanced tactics, including artificial intelligence-generated content, to deceive potential victims.

    According to the TTSEC, modern investment scams employ a multi-faceted approach to gain victims’ trust. Fraudsters create convincing fake social media profiles using stolen imagery and minimal personal information. These operations frequently promise unrealistic financial returns, such as generating $30,150 from a $2,000 investment within mere hours, to entice victims with impossible guarantees.

    The commission highlighted that scammers typically migrate conversations to private messaging platforms like WhatsApp or Telegram after initial contact. There, impersonators posing as legitimate investment representatives provide false assurances using fabricated documentation. The TTSEC specifically warned about scammers’ growing use of AI technology to create convincing fake documents, profiles of high-ranking officials, and even counterfeit video messages featuring supposed institutional leaders.

    Other red flags include urgent deposit requests to ‘secure limited spots,’ false claims about fee-free investments, and completely fabricated investment platforms that display exaggerated account balances to simulate profitable returns. Victims often face subsequent demands for substantial withdrawal fees exceeding $1,000, followed by additional payment requests.

    The advisory further cautioned against sharing sensitive personal information, including ID card images, credit card details, passwords, or bank PINs with unknown individuals. Scammers may also request funds through third-party money transfer services, potentially implicating victims in money laundering schemes.

    The TTSEC emphasized that these operations frequently employ fake testimonials and staged social media content to create false social proof. They maintain persistent pressure through multiple communication channels and typically cease all contact when victims express doubts or request refunds.

    The commission urges the public to exercise extreme skepticism toward unsolicited investment opportunities, particularly those promoted through social media or messaging applications. Verification of registration status for any individual or entity can be conducted through the TTSEC’s official website at https://www.ttsec.org.tt/registration/registered-companies-individuals-and-securities/

    Suspicious activities should be reported immediately to marketcomplaints@ttsec.org.tt.

  • Excessive heat predicted for upcoming dry season in Barbados

    Excessive heat predicted for upcoming dry season in Barbados

    BASSETERRE, St Kitts – Climate scientists are issuing urgent warnings about the Caribbean’s upcoming dry season, projecting unprecedented heat stress that will severely test the region’s infrastructure and population. Dr. Cedric Van Meerbeeck, a prominent climatologist at the Caribbean Institute for Meteorology and Hydrology, presented a sobering assessment during the 2025 Dry Season Caribbean Climate Outlook Forum, indicating that the period from December 2025 through May 2026 will create substantial challenges across multiple sectors.

    The forecast indicates that the traditional dry season will be characterized by excessive heat with limited cooling periods, creating conditions that will significantly impact agricultural productivity, public health systems, and tourism operations. The most critical period is expected during April and May 2026, when temperatures are projected to reach their peak intensity.

    A significant complicating factor involves Sahara dust patterns, which scientists cannot yet accurately predict. This atmospheric dust absorbs moisture and creates stable inversion layers that suppress rainfall, potentially exacerbating drought conditions throughout the region. Particular concern exists for the Windward Islands, including Dominica, Grenada, St. Lucia, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines, where drought-like conditions are anticipated.

    The health implications are particularly alarming, with projections indicating increased hospital visits due to heat-related illnesses, water-borne diseases, and respiratory conditions. The absence of nighttime cooling will prevent natural temperature recovery, leading to cumulative physical fatigue and heightened vulnerability among populations with pre-existing health conditions.

    While December 2025 through February 2026 may offer some respite with relatively comfortable temperatures, this period will still be warmer than historical averages. The transition into April and May will feature rapid warming trends, making heat waves increasingly probable. Vulnerable populations and livestock will face escalating risks as the season progresses, with heat stress episodes expected to become more frequent and intense toward the season’s conclusion.

  • Jamaica to get healthcare boost with arrival of Chinese naval hospital ship — Tufton

    Jamaica to get healthcare boost with arrival of Chinese naval hospital ship — Tufton

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — In a significant development for hurricane-stricken Jamaica, the Chinese naval hospital ship Silk Road Ark has arrived in Jamaican waters, bringing substantial medical reinforcement to the Caribbean nation. The vessel, carrying 104 specialized medical personnel, represents a major international effort to support Jamaica’s healthcare system following the devastation of Hurricane Melissa.

    Jamaica’s Minister of Health and Wellness, Dr. Christopher Tufton, confirmed the ship’s arrival during a Thursday press briefing, noting that the medical vessel reached Jamaican territorial waters on November 22 and is currently stationed at Pedro Keys. The ship is scheduled to relocate to Falmouth Pier during the upcoming weekend, where it will begin operations.

    The medical contingent aboard includes 60 physicians, 32 nursing professionals, pharmaceutical experts, and technical staff, creating a comprehensive healthcare delivery capability. Dr. Tufton emphasized that this infusion of medical expertise will significantly enhance Jamaica’s capacity to provide critical healthcare services during the recovery period.

    Minister Tufton expressed profound gratitude to the Chinese government for their timely assistance, stating: “This medical floating vessel, complete with personnel and equipment, represents exactly the type of support we need as we work to rebuild our healthcare infrastructure. The Office of the Chief Medical Officer is coordinating with the Chinese medical team to develop the most effective approach for patient treatment and clinical support.”

    The Chinese medical mission joins similar efforts from multiple nations including the United Kingdom, United States, India, Spain, and Israel, all of which have dispatched medical teams to assist Jamaica in its post-hurricane recovery. This collective international response highlights the global solidarity in addressing the healthcare challenges posed by natural disasters in the Caribbean region.