Carib Scope

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  • US warship docks in Trinidad amid fears of military aggression in the Caribbean

    US warship docks in Trinidad amid fears of military aggression in the Caribbean

    The arrival of the USS Gravely, a United States warship, in Trinidad and Tobago has reignited debates over military aggression and regional stability in the Caribbean. While Trinidadian Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar emphasized the necessity of US collaboration in combating drug trafficking and crime, Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley voiced concerns over the militarization of the region, urging dialogue to preserve peace. Mottley, addressing her party’s annual conference, highlighted the Caribbean’s vulnerability to external threats, including the presence of US military vessels and the impending Hurricane Melissa. She called for adherence to the Caribbean Community’s (Caricom) founding principle of maintaining the region as a ‘zone of peace.’

    This development follows the Trump administration’s announcement of intensified military operations in the Caribbean, including the deployment of the USS Gerald R Ford, the world’s largest aircraft carrier, as part of a counter-drug initiative. Critics argue that these actions could serve as a pretext for a potential land invasion of Venezuela. Recent US military strikes in international waters, which resulted in the deaths of Trinidad and Tobago nationals, have further fueled tensions. The US has yet to provide evidence supporting its claims of drug trafficking.

    Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar defended the US presence, citing Trinidad and Tobago’s severe crime and drug-related challenges. She emphasized the benefits of joint training exercises and infrastructure upgrades facilitated by the US military. However, former Caricom leaders, including PJ Patterson and Bruce Golding, have called for a reduction in military buildup to avoid destabilizing the region.

    Mottley, a staunch advocate for the rule of law, condemned extrajudicial killings and unilateral military actions, urging disputes to be resolved through the United Nations. She stressed the importance of negotiation and peaceful conflict resolution, warning against conflating law enforcement with military intervention. As the Caribbean grapples with these complex issues, the region’s leaders remain divided on the best path forward to ensure safety and stability.

  • Two women escape serious injury in Mike Town, Manchester crash

    Two women escape serious injury in Mike Town, Manchester crash

    In a harrowing incident on Sunday morning, two women narrowly avoided severe injuries after their vehicle veered off the road and overturned in Mike Town, Manchester. The accident occurred shortly after 8:00 am when the driver reportedly lost control of the car, causing it to leave the roadway and collide with a tree. Emergency services swiftly responded to the scene, and the women were transported to a nearby hospital for medical treatment. While details surrounding the cause of the crash remain under investigation, authorities have confirmed that both individuals are currently receiving care and are expected to recover. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of road safety and vigilance while driving.

  • #EyeOnMelissa: McKenzie urges Jamaicans to heed warnings as Hurricane Melissa nears

    #EyeOnMelissa: McKenzie urges Jamaicans to heed warnings as Hurricane Melissa nears

    As Hurricane Melissa, now a Category 4 storm, approaches Jamaica, authorities are intensifying efforts to ensure public safety. Desmond McKenzie, Minister of Local Government and Community Development, has issued a stern warning to citizens, urging them to take the impending threat seriously and adhere to all official directives.

    McKenzie emphasized that the hurricane is moving steadily towards the island, albeit at a slow pace. He highlighted the importance of public cooperation, stating that effective disaster response relies on collective action. ‘This is not the time for complacency. We have been providing Jamaicans with ample notice through daily press briefings,’ he said.

    The minister revealed that mandatory evacuation orders will be issued for certain vulnerable communities, with announcements expected soon. He stressed that while the government is fully prepared to respond, individual responsibility is crucial. ‘The people must buy into the instructions being given. Our destiny is in our hands if we act wisely,’ McKenzie added.

    In preparation for the storm, all emergency shelters have been activated, with three already accommodating evacuees. The government continues to monitor the situation closely, urging citizens to stay informed and take necessary precautions to safeguard lives and property.

  • Cutting style with Amayiah Thomas

    Cutting style with Amayiah Thomas

    At just 14 years old, Amayiah Thomas is already making waves as a professional cosmetologist while nurturing her dream of becoming a footballer. A third-form student at Chaguanas North Secondary School, Amayiah has been honing her cosmetology skills for four years, inspired by her mother, Akeela Flanders, who is a seasoned hairstylist. Specializing in unique braid styles, weaves, ponytails, and nail services, Amayiah has transformed her early exposure to her mother’s craft into a thriving skill set. Her journey began by assisting her mother with clients, which allowed her to master intricate braiding techniques. Recognizing her talent, her mother enrolled her in professional courses to refine her skills and earn certification. Beyond cosmetology, Amayiah is also an aspiring footballer, having trained with the U-14 national team before pursuing opportunities abroad. Despite her introverted nature, she finds joy in dancing and cherishes the unwavering support of her mother, who has been her biggest cheerleader. Amayiah’s passion for cosmetology lies in the confidence she instills in her clients, whether for weddings, graduations, or personal transformations. However, her path hasn’t been without challenges, as she often faces skepticism from adults who doubt her abilities. To other young individuals, she offers this advice: ‘Always listen to those who support you, keep your head up, and never stop believing in yourself.’ Her mother, Akeela, echoes this sentiment, urging parents to support their children’s ambitions, as they never know when a life-changing opportunity might arise. While cosmetology is her current focus, Amayiah’s ultimate goal remains a career in football, showcasing her determination to excel in multiple fields.

  • #EyeOnMelissa: Braeton residents concerned over uncollected garbage ahead of potential flooding

    #EyeOnMelissa: Braeton residents concerned over uncollected garbage ahead of potential flooding

    Residents of Braeton, a community in Portmore, St Catherine, Jamaica, are raising alarms over the prolonged absence of garbage collection services as Tropical Storm Melissa approaches the island. Reports indicate that waste has been left uncollected for over a week, leaving the neighborhood littered with accumulating trash. The situation has sparked fears among locals that the uncollected garbage could obstruct drainage systems, exacerbating the risk of severe flooding.

  • #EyeOnMelissa: Pagee residents upset over distance of shelters as hurricane approaches

    #EyeOnMelissa: Pagee residents upset over distance of shelters as hurricane approaches

    As Hurricane Melissa looms over Jamaica, the residents of Pagee, a small fishing village in St Mary, are grappling with the challenges of relocating to emergency shelters. The nearest designated shelter is situated several kilometres away in Trinity, a distance that has sparked frustration and concern among the community. Barrington, a local resident, voiced his discontent, stating, ‘We used to have Kirk Church nearby, but now we’re told to go to Trinity Primary School, which is far from here.’ While Barrington has opted to stay with a friend rather than seek refuge in a shelter, he expressed deep worry for vulnerable members of the community, particularly the elderly and those with health issues, who may find the journey arduous or unaffordable. ‘They’ll either have to spend money they don’t have on transportation or risk staying home and facing flooding,’ he remarked, as he hurried to a part of the village with electricity to charge his phone.

  • Police thump Jabloteh 4-0, Rangers vs Phoenix postponed

    Police thump Jabloteh 4-0, Rangers vs Phoenix postponed

    The 2025 Trinidad and Tobago Premier Football League (TTPFL) Tier I kicked off with a commanding performance by Miscellaneous Police, who secured a resounding 4-0 victory over San Juan Jabloteh at the Dwight Yorke Stadium in Bacolet, Tobago. Kwesi Allen was the star of the match, scoring two first-half goals to set the tone for his team. Allen opened the scoring in the fourth minute with a swift strike, followed by a stunning finish in the 35th minute to complete his brace. Jem Gordon added a third goal just before halftime in the 43rd minute, while former national team captain Joevin Jones sealed the win with a goal in the 69th minute. The match showcased Miscellaneous Police’s dominance, particularly against a youthful Jabloteh side. Meanwhile, the second match of the doubleheader between Terminix La Horquetta Rangers and FC Phoenix was postponed due to flight disruptions caused by unexpected airspace restrictions. TT Football Association executive secretary Yale Antoine described the situation as a ‘force majeure’ event, praising the professionalism of all teams involved despite the challenges.

  • Man found not guilty of shooting at cousin in 2019

    Man found not guilty of shooting at cousin in 2019

    In a landmark verdict on October 21, Marcus Pollard was acquitted of all charges related to a 2019 shooting incident involving his cousin, Raquel Charles. The jury delivered a unanimous not-guilty verdict after nearly two hours of deliberation in the Hall of Justice, Port of Spain, presided over by Justice Sherene Murray-Bailey. Pollard had faced charges of shooting with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, possession of a firearm, and possession of ammunition. The prosecution alleged that Pollard fired a single shot at Charles near her head on Blanchisseuse Road, Arima, on March 19, 2019, following a verbal altercation. A spent 9mm casing recovered at the scene was confirmed by the Forensic Science Centre, but no firearm or ammunition was found on Pollard, his vehicle, or his home. Pollard maintained his innocence, claiming that Charles fabricated the story due to family tensions and jealousy. He admitted to being in the area but denied firing a weapon. The defense highlighted the lack of forensic evidence, including gunshot residue or fingerprint analysis, and inconsistencies in Charles’ account compared to first responders’ statements. Prosecutors relied on Pollard’s 2019 police interview, where he acknowledged being in the area but denied the allegations. The defense team, led by attorneys Suneesh Singh, Mikkell Samaroo, and Kimberly Mackhan, successfully argued that the state’s case was implausible due to the absence of physical evidence and inconsistencies. The jury ultimately returned not-guilty verdicts on all counts, clearing Pollard of all charges.

  • Trinidad and Tobago queens shine in South Korea

    Trinidad and Tobago queens shine in South Korea

    Meguella Simon, a multifaceted talent from Trinidad and Tobago, has added another remarkable achievement to her illustrious career by securing the position of second runner-up at the 48th Mrs Woman of the Universe pageant held in South Korea on October 18, 2025. This prestigious event, which celebrates married, widowed, or single mothers aged 18-55, saw Simon break barriers as the first black woman to rank in the top five in the competition’s 48-year history. Alongside her pageant success, Simon was also crowned Mrs Superstar, a testament to her diverse talents and contributions to the arts, education, and community service. Simon, a teacher with two master’s degrees in education and Carnival studies, has previously made history as the first virtual Calypso Queen and has excelled as an actress, pannist, radio announcer, and model. She also served as the former president of the Lions Club of San Fernando. Reflecting on her journey, Simon described the experience as a transformative learning opportunity, emphasizing her commitment to using her platform to empower others. She expressed pride in representing Trinidad and Tobago and hinted at future participation in pageants, though her immediate focus is on preparing for Carnival 2026. This year’s event also featured two other Trinidadian delegates: Candace Picton-Friday, who earned the title of Mrs First Lady, and Aliana Seepersad, who won Best National Costume in the Miss Woman of the Universe category. Local director Alveada Meah praised the trio for their grace and excellence, highlighting their role in placing Trinidad and Tobago on the global stage. The pageant continues to inspire women worldwide, with applications now open for the next edition.

  • #EyeOnMelissa: JN Group offices likely to remain closed on Monday

    #EyeOnMelissa: JN Group offices likely to remain closed on Monday

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Jamaica National (JN) Group has issued a public advisory regarding the potential closure of its local offices on Monday, October 27, as Hurricane Melissa advances toward the island. The group emphasized that its emergency response systems are fully operational to ensure the safety of employees, customers, and assets during the severe weather event.