A violent robbery occurred in the early hours of Thursday morning on Fort Road, leaving a man severely injured and robbed of his belongings. The incident took place near Percival’s Service Station at approximately 4:15 a.m., when two assailants reportedly ambushed the victim as he was walking along the road. The attackers physically assaulted the man, stole his mobile phone, and took an undisclosed amount of cash before fleeing the scene on foot. Emergency services promptly transported the injured victim to a nearby hospital for medical treatment. Despite an extensive search operation by local law enforcement, the suspects remain at large. Authorities have launched a full-scale investigation to apprehend the perpetrators and ensure public safety. The community has been urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the police. This incident has raised concerns about security in the area, prompting calls for increased police patrols and preventive measures.
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Man Sues Government Over Unpaid Vehicle Sale
A legal battle has emerged as Dylan Simon, a former employee of Hadeed Motors, has filed a lawsuit against the government, alleging unpaid compensation of $135,000 for two vehicles he sold to them. Simon claims he sold a Nissan X-Trail and a pickup truck to the government but faced persistent delays in receiving payment. Despite repeated visits to the Treasury to collect the owed amount, he was met with frustration and inaction. The case, initially filed on November 16, 2022, has experienced multiple postponements but is finally set to be heard today in the High Court. Simon is being represented by attorney Warren Cassell. This lawsuit highlights potential inefficiencies in government procurement processes and raises questions about accountability in public transactions. The outcome of this case could set a precedent for similar disputes in the future.
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OPINION: The End of Free-Market Hypocrisy? What America’s U-Turn Means for the Caribbean?
For decades, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank pressured Caribbean nations to privatize essential services, framing it as a prerequisite for economic development. However, recent actions by the United States government have starkly contradicted this long-standing narrative. In August 2025, the U.S. acquired a 10% stake in Intel, followed by equity positions in four other strategic companies, marking a significant shift toward state capitalism. This move has unmasked what many see as a double standard in global economic policy, where free-market fundamentalism was less about sound economics and more about geopolitical power. Caribbean nations, which were forced to privatize their assets under harsh conditions, now have every reason to feel both vindicated and outraged.
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Minister Garcia-Ramirez Named Global Ambassador for Inclusion
The Ministry of Human Development, Family Support and Gender Affairs in Belize has announced the nomination of Hon. Thea Garcia-Ramirez as the country’s Global Ambassador to the Global Coalition for Inclusion. The nomination was formally presented by Mr. Marshall Nuñez, Vice Chair of Special Olympics Belize, during a courtesy visit to the Minister. This prestigious recognition highlights Minister Garcia-Ramirez’s unwavering dedication to fostering inclusion, equality, and the empowerment of individuals with disabilities across Belize.
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Harold Lovell Backs Independent Probe into $15 Million Vehicle Scandal
Harold Lovell, the former Finance Minister of Antigua and Barbuda, has urged for a comprehensive and independent investigation into a $15 million vehicle procurement scandal. Lovell highlighted concerns over fairness, accountability, and transparency, emphasizing the need for an impartial inquiry to address the allegations. The scandal involves the purchase and distribution of hundreds of vehicles without Cabinet approval, raising serious questions about governance and oversight. Lovell stressed that no individual should be judged in the court of public opinion, calling for a fair process where all facts are properly examined. He criticized the selective use of information to exonerate some while targeting others, particularly in media discussions. Lovell also expressed unease about key figures allegedly involved in the scandal remaining unaccountable, underscoring the importance of holding all public officials to the same standards. He framed the investigation as a critical step toward restoring public trust in government accountability. Linking the scandal to broader governance issues, Lovell warned that without true transparency and justice, corruption will continue to thrive. As of now, the government has not responded to Lovell’s call for an independent probe.
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National Eye Clinic in Saint Lucia resumes surgeries
The Ministry of Health, Wellness, and Elderly Affairs in Saint Lucia has announced the resumption of surgeries at the National Eye Clinic, marking a pivotal step in restoring comprehensive eye care services within the public health sector. This development follows a temporary halt in surgical procedures in March 2023 due to infrastructural challenges. The recommencement of surgeries began on October 8, 2025, with 17 successful pterygium cases already completed and cataract surgeries scheduled to follow shortly.
A thorough assessment of the previous facility led to a phased enhancement program, resulting in significant upgrades to the clinic. These improvements include infrastructural advancements such as the identification of an alternative space, redesigning and retrofitting the area, and installing additional lighting and air conditioning units. The upgraded facility now features an operating theatre, a preoperative room, a recovery room, three examination rooms, a small pharmacy, and a sterilisation room.
The clinic is now equipped with cutting-edge technology, including an ophthalmic surgical system for cataract and retina procedures, a phaco-emulsifier, an anesthesia machine, an eye surgical microscope, and laser machines. A highly skilled team, comprising three ophthalmologists, an optometrist, a medical internist, and five nurses, has been trained to operate the new equipment and ensure efficient patient flow and infection control.
Since its commissioning on December 2, 2024, the clinic has been serving approximately 60 to 70 patients daily. The Ministry of Health has expressed gratitude to the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) for their support in ensuring the safety of the operating theatre through environmental testing.
The National Eye Clinic offers a wide range of services, including diabetic retinopathy screening and treatment, general eye examinations, surgeries for pterygium and cataracts, internal medicine services, and community outreach programs. Eye care services are available Monday to Friday, with surgeries conducted Monday to Thursday and outpatient visits on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.
The public is encouraged to contact the clinic for appointments, and those on the waiting list for surgeries will be notified about their preoperative procedures and surgery dates. The Ministry has reaffirmed its commitment to delivering high-quality services through the National Eye Clinic.
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Police Officer Denied Bail After Firearm Conviction
The High Court has denied bail to Karim Warner, a 37-year-old police officer currently serving a one-year prison sentence for firing a gun in public. Justice Stanley John emphasized that the High Court lacks the authority to grant bail in such cases, directing that any bail applications must be submitted to the Court of Appeal. Warner was convicted on October 1 by Senior Magistrate Ngaio Emanuel following an incident on December 3, 2023, near Emerald Cove Resort in Willikies. During the altercation, Warner allegedly fired 12 rounds at a car involved in a dispute over a leased vehicle. Court evidence revealed that Warner blocked the vehicle with his Lexus, ordered the occupants out, and proceeded to fire at the car, causing significant damage to the rear door, trunk, and front wheel. A female passenger testified that she was so terrified during the incident that she urinated on herself. Warner defended his actions as an attempt to protect his property, but the magistrate deemed the use of 12 rounds “highly excessive.” Warner broke down in tears upon receiving the guilty verdict. His case will now proceed to the Court of Appeal for further consideration.
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Entrepreneurs now have extra time to apply for Phillip Nassief Entrepreneurship Challenge and win up to $20,000
The GEMS Foundation has announced an extension of the application deadline for the 2025 Phillip Nassief Entrepreneurship Challenge, now set for December 8, 2025. This decision aims to provide more entrepreneurs across Dominica with the opportunity to participate, particularly during the busy Creole season, which sees many small businesses engaged in food, hospitality, culture, tourism, and entertainment. The Foundation emphasized its commitment to ensuring fair and accessible participation for all entrepreneurs after the festivities conclude. Supported by the Dominica Association of Industry and Commerce (DAIC), the competition honors the legacy of the late Phillip Nassief by fostering entrepreneurial spirit and innovation. The initiative focuses on empowering small enterprises in Dominica’s hospitality and tourism sectors, including food and beverage, agro-processing, wellness, technology, transportation, and marketing. Following the extended submission window, the judging process will conclude on January 28, 2026, with seven finalists advancing to the LIVE Ultimate Pitching Challenge on February 19, 2026. Finalists will receive mentorship from seasoned professionals to refine their business models and presentations. The top three winners will receive monetary awards: EC$20,000 for first place, EC$15,000 for second, and EC$10,000 for third, aimed at supporting business growth and sustainability. The GEMS Foundation encourages all applicants to review and complete their submissions by the new deadline. Further details and applications are available at www.gems.dm/foundation or via @gemsfoundation on social media.
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U.S. Envoys Rush to Save Fragile Gaza Ceasefire After Weekend Violence
In a bid to prevent the collapse of a fragile ceasefire in Gaza, U.S. envoys have urgently arrived in Israel following a surge in violence that claimed at least 30 lives over the weekend. The recent escalation began with a Palestinian attack that resulted in the deaths of two Israeli soldiers, prompting retaliatory airstrikes by Israel that killed 28 people in Gaza. This violence threatens to unravel the week-old truce brokered by former President Donald Trump.
Residents of Gaza expressed deep concern over the potential for further bloodshed. A displaced businessman from Gaza City shared his despair, stating, ‘I felt my heart dropping to the ground; I felt the ceasefire collapse.’
U.S. officials, including Trump’s advisers Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff, met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to advance the peace plan. Vice President J.D. Vance is expected to join discussions on regional security by Tuesday. Additionally, U.S. representatives are set to meet with Hamas leaders in Egypt to advocate for restraint and progress in the negotiations.
The next phase of the peace plan involves Hamas relinquishing the bodies of remaining hostages and establishing a new governing body in Gaza that excludes Hamas representation. However, Hamas leaders have firmly rejected any foreign control or disarmament, posing significant challenges to the ongoing talks.
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Schools participation a highlight of La Magéwit Festival
The vibrant community of La Resource in Dennery was awash in royal blue last Friday as the Cultural Development Foundation (CDF) celebrated the annual La Magéwit Flower Festival. The event, deeply rooted in Saint Lucian culture, commenced with a solemn church service at St Michael’s Parish Church. Representatives from various La Magéwit groups delivered heartfelt songs and prayers, setting a reverent tone for the festivities. Fr Ignatius Dominic-Savio Cétoute, addressing the congregation, expressed his aspiration for the establishment of Magéwit groups in every community, emphasizing the festival’s unique significance to Saint Lucia. He also lauded educators for fostering student involvement in this cherished tradition. The festival’s origins were traced back to its patron, Saint Margaret Mary Alacoque, a 17th-century French nun, adding historical depth to the celebration. The service concluded with a recessional song performed by the Dennery group. Among the attendees were notable dignitaries, including the Ambassador-Designate of Venezuela, Her Excellency Leiff Liubliana Escalona Barrueta, and several Saint Lucian ministers. Post-service, a colorful parade led by La Magéwit groups, including many students, wound through the community before culminating at the La Resource Playing Field. There, societies from across the island showcased their talents, guided by MC George ‘Fish’ Alphonse. Performances, blending traditional dances and songs, paid homage to the La Magéwit flower while playfully rivaling the La Rose festival. Each act concluded with the spirited chant, ‘Viv La Magéwit,’ echoing the community’s pride and joy.