Tobago West MP Joel Sampson has confirmed that the Community-Based Environmental Protection and Enhancement Programme (Cepep) and the Unemployment Relief Programme (URP) will persist in Tobago, despite plans to phase them out in Trinidad. Speaking during the budget debate in Parliament on October 17, Sampson emphasized that these initiatives remain under the jurisdiction of the Tobago House of Assembly (THA), which has no intention of discontinuing them. He highlighted that URP is managed by the Division of Infrastructure, Quarries and Urban Development, while Cepep falls under the Division of Community Development, Youth Development and Sport. Sampson noted that since the THA took office in 2021, the programmes have been restructured to produce meaningful outcomes, including revenue-generating workshops and agricultural units. He acknowledged that central government funding has been insufficient, but the THA has creatively addressed the shortfall using unspent balances. Sampson reassured Tobagonians employed in these programmes that their jobs are secure, emphasizing that they operate under a proper structure rather than a political contract. This announcement comes after Finance Minister Devendranath Tancoo revealed plans to eliminate Cepep and URP in Trinidad to curb state funding of criminal gangs, promising better-paid, full-time jobs for affected workers. Sampson also praised the government’s budget, calling it one of the most comprehensive in THA history, with Tobago receiving $3.724 billion, or 6.3% of the national budget.
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OpenAI halts MLK videos as deepfakes of dead celebrities spark outrage
OpenAI has temporarily suspended its Sora 2 artificial intelligence tool from creating videos featuring civil rights icon Martin Luther King Jr. following complaints from his estate about disrespectful depictions. The decision was announced in a joint statement by OpenAI and King’s estate on Thursday, emphasizing the need to strengthen safeguards for historical figures. This move comes amid growing outrage from families of deceased celebrities and leaders over the tool’s ability to generate realistic videos without consent. Reports from The Washington Post revealed that some users had created offensive content, including videos of King making monkey noises during his iconic ‘I Have a Dream’ speech. Since its launch on September 30, Sora 2 has been used to reanimate other deceased figures such as Bob Marley, Malcolm X, Michael Jackson, Elvis Presley, and Amy Winehouse, sparking widespread criticism. OpenAI acknowledged the importance of free speech but stated that public figures and their families should have control over how their likenesses are used. The company has introduced a mechanism allowing authorized representatives or estate owners to request the exclusion of their likenesses from AI-generated videos, referred to as ‘Sora cameos.’ OpenAI expressed gratitude to Bernice King, King’s daughter, businessman John Hope Bryant, and the AI Ethics Council for facilitating constructive dialogue. The tool, which has topped download charts since its release, has faced backlash from Hollywood and the creative industry over its opt-out policy for copyrighted content. Disney, in particular, sent a strongly worded letter to OpenAI asserting its copyright rights. Amid the controversy, OpenAI has pledged to provide more granular control to rights holders. While the tool has reportedly refused requests for videos featuring Disney or Marvel characters, clips from other franchises and Japanese anime series continue to circulate widely.
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China and US agree to fresh trade talks
In a significant development aimed at de-escalating trade tensions, China and the United States have agreed to hold another round of negotiations in the coming week. This decision comes as the two global economic powerhouses strive to avert another round of retaliatory tariffs that could further strain their already fraught relationship. The announcement follows a recent phone call between Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng and US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, described by both sides as “candid, in-depth, and constructive.” The talks are expected to take place in person, with both parties emphasizing the urgency of resolving their ongoing trade dispute. The backdrop to these negotiations includes Beijing’s recent imposition of stringent controls on its rare earths industry, a move that prompted US President Donald Trump to threaten 100% tariffs on Chinese imports. Trump had also previously hinted at canceling his planned meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping at the upcoming Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in South Korea. However, in a recent interview with Fox News, Trump confirmed that the meeting with Xi would proceed, acknowledging that the proposed tariffs were unsustainable. The rare earths issue remains a critical point of contention, as these materials are essential for a wide range of technologies, from smartphones to military equipment. US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer also participated in the call, underscoring the high stakes of the negotiations. Both nations appear to be cautiously optimistic about finding a resolution, though the path forward remains uncertain.
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Ag CoP: No officials in ‘safe houses’ after US Embassy alert
Acting Commissioner of Police Junior Benjamin has confirmed that tactical police units in Trinidad and Tobago are on heightened alert following a security advisory issued by the US Embassy. However, Benjamin firmly denied rumors circulating online that senior public officials, including the Prime Minister and Attorney General, have been relocated to safe houses. He emphasized that such claims are baseless and urged the public to rely only on credible sources for information. The US Embassy’s alert coincides with increased US military presence in the South Caribbean, reportedly targeting anti-narcotics operations. Recent incidents include the destruction of five small boats and a narco-submarine off Venezuela’s coast, resulting in 29 fatalities. President Trump’s designation of Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro as a narco-terrorist, accompanied by a $50 million bounty, has fueled speculation about potential US intervention in Venezuela. Benjamin reassured the public that the heightened alert is a precautionary measure and that there is no cause for panic. Defence Minister Wayne Sturge echoed this sentiment, stating that Trinidadians need not worry. The US Embassy has advised US nationals to avoid government facilities and remain vigilant, while also recommending enrollment in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program for updates. Opposition MP Stuart Young has called on the Prime Minister to address the nation and provide clarity amid growing concerns.
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Businessman accused of failing to deliver vehicles to buyers
A 44-year-old businessman from St Catherine, Jamaica, has been formally charged with fraudulent conversion following allegations of failing to deliver vehicles to customers who had paid deposits. Lloyd Thompson, a resident of Balmetto East Fort, is accused of defrauding two individuals between April and August 2023. According to reports from the Discovery Bay Police, one complainant paid $2.4 million for a Toyota Coaster, while the other handed over $1 million as a deposit for a Toyota Hiace bus. After making the payments, both customers reportedly attempted to contact Thompson to complete the transactions but were met with evasion. Thompson allegedly provided explanations that raised suspicions, prompting the victims to file police reports. Following investigations, Thompson was apprehended in connection with similar complaints within the Kingston police area. An identification parade was conducted, during which both complainants positively identified him. He was formally charged on Friday, and his court date is currently being finalized.
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Israel’s Netanyahu says will run for PM in next year’s election
In a televised appearance on the right-wing Channel 14, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed his intention to run in the November 2026 elections. When questioned about his candidacy and prospects for victory, Netanyahu confidently responded, ‘Yes’ to both inquiries. The announcement comes as Netanyahu, leader of the Likud party, continues to navigate a politically charged landscape. Netanyahu, who has served as Israel’s prime minister for over 18 years since 1996, holds the record for the longest tenure in the role. His leadership has been marked by significant achievements and controversies alike. In the most recent elections, Likud secured 32 seats in the Knesset, with its ultra-Orthodox allies and the Religious Zionism alliance adding 18 and 14 seats respectively, marking a strong showing for the far-right bloc. However, Netanyahu’s current term has been overshadowed by a contentious judicial overhaul plan that ignited widespread protests across Israel. Additionally, his handling of the ongoing conflict triggered by Hamas’s October 7, 2023 attack from Gaza has drawn sharp criticism, particularly from families of hostages. Despite these challenges, Netanyahu remains a formidable figure in Israeli politics as he prepares for another electoral bid.
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Man charged after alleged attempted bribery of cops
KINGSTON, Jamaica — A 28-year-old man, Michael Jones of Haining Crescent, Kingston 5, has been formally charged with violating the anti-corruption act following an alleged attempt to bribe police officers during a routine traffic stop on Friday. The incident occurred around 11:40 am during a National Coordinated Roadblock operation, where Jones was observed driving a Toyota Axio without wearing a seat belt. Upon being signaled to stop, Jones failed to produce a valid driver’s license, prompting officers to prepare traffic citations. It is alleged that Jones then retrieved an envelope containing money from his vehicle and offered it to the officers in an attempt to avoid penalties. The police swiftly apprehended Jones, who was later charged after an interview. Authorities have reiterated that attempting to bribe a member of the Jamaica Constabulary Force is a grave criminal offense, emphasizing that such actions will be prosecuted rigorously. This case underscores the ongoing efforts to combat corruption within the law enforcement system and serves as a stark reminder to the public of the severe consequences of such misconduct.
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Trump says US to repatriate survivors of strike on ‘drug-carrying submarine’ in Caribbean
In a significant development in the ongoing U.S. military campaign against drug trafficking, President Donald Trump announced on Saturday that the United States had targeted and destroyed a suspected drug-smuggling submarine in the Caribbean. The operation resulted in the deaths of two individuals, while two others were apprehended and are being repatriated to their home countries, Ecuador and Colombia, for prosecution. Trump described the vessel as a ‘very large drug-carrying submarine’ loaded with fentanyl and other narcotics, emphasizing its interception on a known narcotrafficking route. This strike, announced on Friday, marks the latest in a series of U.S. military actions aimed at disrupting the flow of illegal drugs from Latin America to the United States. Since September, at least six vessels, primarily speedboats, have been targeted in the Caribbean, with some allegedly originating from Venezuela. While Washington claims these operations are delivering a decisive blow to drug trafficking, critics argue that the lack of evidence regarding the identities of those killed—at least 27 so far—raises legal and ethical concerns. Experts have pointed out that such summary killings are unlawful, even if the targets are confirmed drug traffickers. The origin of the submarine remains undisclosed, though semi-submersibles, often constructed in clandestine jungle shipyards, have long been used to transport cocaine from South America, particularly Colombia, to Central America or Mexico, typically via the Pacific Ocean.
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Huthi rebels raid UN building in Yemen
In a concerning development, Huthi rebels in Yemen forcibly entered a United Nations (UN) compound in Sanaa on Saturday, according to a UN official. Jean Alam, spokesperson for the UN Resident Coordinator for Yemen, confirmed the incident, stating that 15 international staff members were present at the time. Alam assured that all personnel were safe and had contacted their families, emphasizing that the UN is taking all necessary measures to address the situation. This latest raid follows a similar incident on August 31, when Huthi forces stormed UN offices and detained over 11 employees, accusing them of espionage for the United States and Israel. UN Secretary-General Stephane Dujarric condemned the accusations as ‘dangerous and unacceptable,’ reiterating calls for the release of 53 detained UN colleagues. The Huthi leader, Abdelmalek al-Huthi, had previously claimed to have dismantled a spy network linked to humanitarian organizations like the World Food Program and UNICEF. The ongoing conflict in Yemen, now in its tenth year, has exacerbated one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises, with the UN reporting the arrest of 21 personnel since August 31, 2025, alongside 23 NGO workers. In September, the UN humanitarian coordinator relocated from Huthi-controlled Sanaa to Aden, the interim capital of Yemen’s internationally recognized government.
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UPDATE: Trinidad police on high alert after US Embassy warns Americans to avoid its facilities
In response to a security alert issued by the United States Embassy, the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) has intensified protective measures nationwide to ensure the safety of citizens and government officials during the Divali holiday weekend. The US Embassy, in a notice released on Saturday, advised American citizens to avoid its facilities in Trinidad and Tobago, citing a ‘heightened state of alert.’ It also recommended that nationals remain vigilant, stay informed through reliable news sources, and report any suspicious activities to local authorities. Acting Commissioner of Police Junior Benjamin reassured the public that there is no immediate cause for alarm. He emphasized that the TTPS has implemented additional security protocols to safeguard both citizens and foreign nationals, as well as critical infrastructure. Benjamin stated, ‘We are going to support as much as we can in terms of having our officers briefed, but we really do not want to create any scare among the citizenry. We stand in support of ensuring the safety and security of all persons.’ He further revealed that he had convened a briefing with the heads of all TTPS operational units to ensure the protection of government officials. While acknowledging that there had been no specific discussions with the Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force or Coast Guard on this matter, Benjamin expressed confidence in the collaborative efforts of all national security agencies. ‘We always operate as a team, and therefore I am certain we have the support of all agencies under homeland security,’ he added.