博客

In a chilling act of violence, a family of four was brutally attacked in their home in Friendship Village, San Fernando, during the early hours of October 10. The assailants, armed and ruthless, stormed the residence while the family was asleep, leaving three dead and one critically injured. The victims included Gracelyn Ramberan, 48, her husband Vijai Rampersad, and their 25-year-old son Randy Rampersad. Randy’s wife, Kimberly Rampersad, survived the attack but remains in critical condition. The incident has sent shockwaves through the usually peaceful village, marking a grim end to a week that saw at least 12 murders across the country. Relatives of the victims expressed their devastation and confusion, stating they have no clue as to the motive behind the attack. Gracelyn was killed inside the house, while Randy managed to stumble outside before collapsing and dying on the road. Vijai and Kimberly were rushed to San Fernando General Hospital, where Vijai succumbed to his injuries nine hours later. The police, who arrived at the scene shortly after the shooting, reported that the gunmen entered through the front door and opened fire indiscriminately. No arrests have been made, and investigations are ongoing. The community, known for its close-knit nature, is now grappling with fear and uncertainty. This tragedy follows the recent murder of 13-year-old Mariah Seenath in the same area, though residents do not believe the two incidents are connected. A candlelight vigil is planned for October 11 to honor Seenath’s memory, as the community seeks to heal from these devastating losses.

In a world increasingly fragmented by division, the essence of humanity—compassion, empathy, and care—takes center stage as communities across the globe celebrate cultural and spiritual festivals. This past weekend, significant numbers of people commemorated two pivotal events: the Ogun Festival and Divali. These celebrations not only honor tradition but also invite deeper reflection on what it truly means to be human. Divali, often associated with the lighting of deyas, home cleaning, and feasting, was given a profound twist this year. The National Council of Indian Culture introduced the theme of ‘Loka Sangraha’—Welfare of the World—encouraging participants to embrace a broader sense of responsibility toward humanity. At a yagna (prayer) led by Pandita Geeta Vaahini, the president of the Hindu Prachaar Kendra, attendees were reminded of the importance of social harmony and collective well-being, core tenets of the goddess Lakshmi, who is central to Divali. Similarly, the Ogun Festival, honoring the warrior god Ogun, emphasized themes of resilience, creativity, and generational wealth. Ogun, a deity of iron and steel, symbolizes the clearing of life’s obstacles through personal responsibility and adherence to Ifa/Orisa principles. Both festivals underscore the interconnectedness of life, urging participants to honor ancestors while fostering unity among the living, the unborn, and those who have passed. As the flickering lights of deyas and flambeaux illuminate the night, they serve as a reminder that prayer must be accompanied by action. Only through collective effort can we reclaim our humanity and build a safer, more functional world. Dara E Healy, a performing artist and founder of the Idakeda Group, emphasizes that these festivals are not just cultural events but calls to action for a better future.

Police Commissioner Allister Guevarro made his inaugural official visit to Tobago on October 10, marking a significant step in bolstering the island’s security framework. Guevarro, whose nomination was unanimously approved by Parliament on June 13 and officially appointed on June 18, engaged in high-level discussions with Chief Secretary Farley Augustine and other key stakeholders to address pressing security concerns. The meeting, held at the Office of the Chief Secretary, focused on proactive strategies to enhance law enforcement, including the deployment of temporary police units in high-risk areas and leveraging advanced intelligence to guide operations. Augustine highlighted the persistent issue of boat and engine thefts, which continue to plague Tobago’s coastal communities. Additionally, the establishment of a coastal and riverine branch was proposed to safeguard marine spaces, including the ecologically significant Buccoo Reef Marine Park. The Tobago House of Assembly (THA) reiterated its dedication to collaborating closely with the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) to address emerging security challenges. Commissioner Guevarro acknowledged the positive trends in recent crime statistics but stressed the importance of sustained vigilance and strategic partnerships. The meeting was attended by THA Chief Administrator Denese Toby-Quashie, Tobago Division ACP Oswain Subero, Snr Supt Earl Elie, and other senior officers.