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The tragic death of 38-year-old Avanelle Abraham has left her family in shock and prompted them to issue a stark warning to women about the importance of vigilance and discernment in their daily lives. Abraham’s body was discovered on November 16 by residents of Maraj Street in Chaguanas, who heard a single gunshot and found her lying motionless with a gunshot wound to the left side of her head. A grey cushion was placed beneath her legs, and her cellphone and silver Kia Cerato were missing. Police reported that a silver car was seen speeding away from the scene shortly after the shooting occurred around 5:15 pm.

Abraham, described by her family as a cheerful and ambitious mother, was an interior decorator and had recently opened her own hair salon in Chaguanas. Despite being on extended leave from her job at Massy Motors due to a medical issue, she worked as a rideshare driver to support herself and her 16-year-old son. Her son, described as academically strong and reserved, was planning to surprise her with a visit the weekend she was killed. Relatives said the two shared an exceptionally close bond, often described as ‘best friends.’

Abraham’s family expressed disbelief at the circumstances of her death, noting her fearless personality and past actions, such as chasing an armed robber to retrieve her bag during a previous incident. They believe her murder was not a robbery but something more sinister, given her proximity to home and the way she was dressed. In their grief, they urged women to remain cautious and prayerful, emphasizing the need for awareness in today’s world.

Despite their sorrow, Abraham’s family remains hopeful for justice, trusting both the police and divine intervention. They have called on anyone with information about the silver car seen fleeing the scene to contact the Homicide Bureau or call 800-TIPS.

Police Commissioner Allister Guevarro has issued a stark warning to illegal quarry operators, emphasizing that those engaging in unlicensed aggregate processing and quarrying will face severe legal consequences. Speaking at the Police Training Academy in St James on November 17 during the passing-out parade of 126 new police officers, Guevarro drew a parallel between illegal quarrying and unlicensed firearm possession, stating, ‘If you do not have an FUL (firearms users’ licence), would you walk around with a firearm? No, because you will be charged with possession. Similarly, if you lack a licence for quarrying, you open yourselves to prosecution.’ He concluded with a stern admonition: ‘Do not break the law. Or the vengeance of Moko will fall on you.’

The commissioner’s remarks came in response to recent statements by the TT Aggregate Producers Alliance (TTALPA), whose members claimed they were ‘comfortable’ operating without formal licences following discussions with the Ministry of Energy. However, Minister of Homeland Security Roger Alexander denied knowledge of any such talks, asserting, ‘If a conversation was held, it would trickle down from one ministry to another. I have not heard anything, so I stand with the commissioner on this.’

This issue has gained traction following the October arrest of quarry operator Danny Guerra and several others for unlawful aggregate processing. Guerra was later released on $50,000 bail. Earlier this month, quarry operators in Turure, Sangre Grande, staged protests, alleging unfair targeting by law enforcement while other prominent operators continue to function without licences. The situation underscores the ongoing tension between regulatory enforcement and the quarrying industry.

San Fernando is set to commemorate its 37th anniversary as a city on November 18 with a series of events highlighting its rich cultural heritage and civic achievements. The celebrations, under the patronage of Mayor Robert Parris, will include an interfaith service, the unveiling of public art, and a formal civic reception. Four distinguished individuals and an institution will be honored with the keys to the city for their contributions to culture, business, public service, and community legacy. The day will begin with an interfaith service at the Krishna Mandir, marking the first time in 37 years the service is held at a non-Christian place of worship. Mayor Parris emphasized the city’s multicultural identity, stating, ‘San Fernando is a multicultural society, and hosting the service at the mandir reflects the unique diversity that defines us.’ The unveiling of The First People’s Statue and a collection of promenade art by renowned artist Russell Banfield will follow, depicting the Harris Promenade across various eras. The celebrations will culminate with a civic reception at City Hall, where keys to the city will be presented to Joshua Regrello, Guinness World Record holder for the Longest Marathon Playing Steelpan; Imran ‘GI’ Beharry, a dominant force in Chutney Soca and Caribbean entertainment; Diane Seukeran, former San Fernando West MP and the first woman to lead the Energy Chamber; and JE Guide Funeral Home & Crematorium Ltd, an 80-year-old institution. Mayor Parris also highlighted the revitalization of Harris Promenade, achieved through volunteerism and business sponsorship, without any city funds. He addressed recent public debates over charitable groups feeding the homeless on the Promenade, clarifying that food distribution must follow an ordered structure to ensure public health and safety. Despite reduced budget allocations, Parris noted San Fernando’s progress in cultural, infrastructural, tourism, and educational development. Plans include operationalizing the transfer of San Fernando Hill to the City Corporation and attracting cruise ship passengers via the Water Taxi from Port of Spain. Parris also welcomed the restoration of the long-abandoned Supreme Court building on the Promenade and appealed for urgent assistance to restore the burnt-out San Fernando Police Station and the Carnegie Free Library. Reflecting on the city’s history and culture, Parris expressed pride in leading San Fernando at this moment of renewed volunteerism and civic pride, wishing all residents a happy City Day and City Month.