In a dramatic turn of events on the first Monday of October 2025, the spotlight fell on Nazar Mohamed and his son Azruddin Mohamed, who were indicted on 11 serious charges including gold smuggling, tax evasion, and conspiracy to commit money laundering. This father-son duo is now accused of running an unprecedented criminal enterprise in Guyana, raising questions about their connections with high-ranking officials and the political elite. The charges, spanning from 2017 to 2024, implicate two successive governments, with leaders at various levels reportedly cultivating close ties with the Mohameds. Their alleged criminal activities were seemingly overlooked for years, with their names evoking both fear and reverence in equal measure. The author reflects on the surreal nature of being entangled in this web of corruption and questions the integrity of the friendships and protections that once shielded the Mohameds. The article also delves into the political ramifications of their indictment, particularly in light of Azruddin Mohamed’s foray into politics and his bold stance against the Exxon oil contract. The author raises critical questions about the timing of the charges and the sudden cooperation between the Guyanese and U.S. governments, suggesting that collusion may have replaced cooperation. The piece concludes with a call for Guyanese citizens to reflect on these developments and consider the broader implications for their nation’s future.
博客
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Barbados’ privacy blind spot and why cybersecurity isn’t enough
In today’s digital age, businesses and public officials often conflate data protection with cybersecurity, leading to significant oversights in handling personal information. While cybersecurity focuses on safeguarding systems and networks from unauthorized access and attacks, data protection is fundamentally about the lawful and ethical management of personal data. This distinction is crucial, especially under frameworks like the Barbados Data Protection Act, 2019 (DPA), which mandates transparency and respect for individual rights.
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Police Search for Suspect in Attempted Robbery
The Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda has issued an urgent appeal to the public for assistance in identifying a suspect involved in an attempted robbery at a convenience store in St. John’s. The incident occurred on the morning of October 7, 2025, at approximately 9:54 a.m., when a lone male entered the store located at the junction of Temple and New Streets, allegedly armed with a firearm. The store owner’s quick response in raising the alarm forced the suspect to flee the scene on foot. According to police reports, the suspect is described as a dark-complexioned male, approximately 5 feet 11 inches tall, with a slim build. He was last seen wearing a red T-shirt, short blue jeans, a black and red tam, black rubber slippers with white stripes, and an orange mask covering his face. Additionally, he was carrying a black knapsack. Authorities are urging anyone with information to contact the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) at 462-3913, 911, or the nearest police station. The public is also reminded to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities promptly. This incident highlights the ongoing challenges faced by law enforcement in ensuring public safety and underscores the importance of community cooperation in combating crime.
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Teachers remain fuel for any educational advancement, says minister
In a heartfelt address following World Teachers Day on October 3, Education Minister Octavia Alfred underscored the indispensable role of teachers in the success of educational reform and technological advancement. She emphasized that no matter how ambitious policies or modern infrastructure may be, the true catalysts of change are the educators who stand at the forefront of classrooms every day. ‘It is you, our teachers, who turn policy into practice, transform curriculum into life experiences, and shape students into not just future workers but responsible citizens today,’ Alfred stated. She acknowledged the evolving global education landscape, driven by digital learning, the demand for new skills, and pressing social and environmental challenges. Despite these complexities, teachers worldwide are adapting to new technologies, addressing diverse learning needs, and tackling social issues, often with limited resources. Alfred praised their resilience, creativity, and unwavering commitment, calling them role models of dedication and sacrifice. She also highlighted the distinction between technology and human connection, noting that while AI can process data, only teachers can inspire understanding, instill values, and nurture empathy. Alfred reaffirmed her ministry’s commitment to supporting teachers through enhanced training, professional development, and fair recognition, stating that true educational transformation begins with the human touch of educators.
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Mother-to-child HIV transmission ending in Barbados – WHO
Barbados is on track to become the 12th Caribbean nation to achieve official recognition for eliminating mother-to-child transmission of HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B by the end of 2025. This milestone follows a pre-assessment conducted by the Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO), which highlighted significant progress and dedication across the island’s healthcare system. The certification process, expected to conclude by year-end, mirrors successful efforts in Belize, Jamaica, and St Vincent and the Grenadines in 2024. Cuba set the precedent a decade ago as the first country globally to eliminate both HIV and syphilis transmission from mother to child. Last week, a PAHO team, accompanied by a regional laboratory expert, collaborated with Barbados’ national health team to conduct a comprehensive pre-assessment. The review, designed to identify gaps and challenges, included visits to key health facilities such as the Queen Elizabeth Hospital, polyclinics, and private medical centers. The delegation evaluated services for pregnant and lactating women, inspected laboratories, and reviewed HIV services, maternal and child clinics, vaccination programs, and disease surveillance systems. Dr. Amalia Del Riego, PAHO/WHO Representative for Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean Countries, emphasized the significance of this achievement, stating that it reflects the strength of Barbados’ HIV and maternal health services and its commitment to ensuring every child has a healthy start in life. PAHO’s support aims to strengthen health systems, promote health equity, and prevent missed opportunities for disease prevention. WHO certification confirms a country’s ability to deliver high-quality, accessible care to pregnant women and newborns, safeguarding them from HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B transmission.
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Antigua and Barbuda Urged to Stay Alert as Tropical System Nears Caribbean
A low-pressure system situated over 1,000 miles east of the Windward Islands is rapidly gaining strength and could evolve into a tropical depression within the next 24 hours, meteorologists have warned. Currently designated as Invest AL95, the system is moving west-northwest across the central tropical Atlantic and has a 90% likelihood of developing into a more significant weather event within the next 48 hours. Forecasters predict that if the system continues to intensify, it could pass near or north of the northern Leeward Islands between Thursday and Friday, potentially unleashing heavy rainfall, strong winds, and turbulent seas across the northeastern Caribbean. While the precise trajectory and intensity remain uncertain, residents of Antigua and Barbuda, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Anguilla, and the British Virgin Islands are being advised to remain vigilant and stay updated with official weather bulletins. Regional meteorological agencies and disaster management teams are poised to issue further advisories as the situation unfolds. The potential storm underscores the importance of preparedness in the face of unpredictable weather patterns, particularly in vulnerable island nations.
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UWI biosecurity centre proposes national waste-energy revamp
The Centre for Biosecurity Studies (CBS) at the University of the West Indies (UWI) has urged the Mia Mottley administration to implement a robust policy action plan aimed at overhauling Barbados’ waste, energy, and environmental legislation. This recommendation comes as the island nation grapples with mounting challenges posed by climate change, tourism, and trade vulnerabilities.
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DR Customs chief declares logistics the nation’s ‘new economic axis’ in address to UASD students
In a recent address at the Autonomous University of Santo Domingo (UASD), Yayo Sanz Lovatón, Director General of Customs (DGA) in the Dominican Republic, highlighted the logistics sector as the nation’s ‘new economic axis.’ Speaking to students from the Faculty of Economic and Social Sciences, Sanz Lovatón emphasized the sector’s exponential growth over the past five years and its promising future. He urged students in economics, foreign trade, and related fields to focus on logistics, citing its increasing strategic importance. The Customs Director also revealed that the DGA is the country’s second-largest tax collector, contributing an average of 22.64% to state revenue between 2021 and 2024 and 3.4% to the GDP in 2024. Under Sanz Lovatón’s leadership, the DGA has collected RD$195.203.32 million as of September 2025, a 6.08% increase from the previous year, with accumulated revenue surpassing RD$1.15 trillion over five years. Sanz Lovatón attributed the logistics boom to the DGA’s operational efficiency, particularly the ’24-Hour Dispatch’ program, which has processed over 90,000 containers in less than a day, benefiting more than 8,000 importers. He also credited the new Customs Law 168-21 and the Logistics Centers and Operators Law 30-24 with attracting major global corporations to establish regional distribution hubs in the Dominican Republic. Additionally, exports exceeded US$13 billion in 2024, reinforcing the trade sector’s role as the largest generator of foreign currency. UASD Rector Editrudis Beltrán Crisóstomo praised Sanz Lovatón for his contributions to the university, particularly the support provided to UASD interns within the Customs administration. The lecture was part of UASD’s academic program celebrating its 487th anniversary.
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COMMENTARY: Don’t Let Emails Control Your Day or Your Life.
In today’s fast-paced professional landscape, email remains a cornerstone of communication. However, the deluge of daily messages often leads to inefficiency, wasted time, and diminished productivity. Many professionals find themselves bogged down by email, struggling to focus on their core objectives. This article provides actionable strategies to optimize email usage, both as a sender and receiver, while leveraging Microsoft Outlook’s features to streamline the process.
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Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority Showcases Cultural Strength at International Arts Festival in New Orleans
The Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority (ABTA) made a significant impact at the International Arts Festival in New Orleans, showcasing the twin-island nation as a premier Caribbean destination and a vibrant cultural hub. Represented by Arah Robins, Marketing and Public Relations Executive, and Annie Liverpool-Charles, Sales and Marketing Officer, ABTA emphasized the nation’s rich cultural identity and its commitment to sustainable tourism. The delegation participated in the Sister City Summit, engaging in high-level discussions with global tourism leaders to promote Antigua and Barbuda’s unique blend of natural beauty and cultural depth, from Carnival to Culinary Month and Art Week. Robins, featured as a panelist at Gallier Hall, highlighted how cultural tourism benefits local communities, ensuring that traditions like Culinary Month and Art Week create income opportunities for artisans and entrepreneurs. Beyond formal discussions, ABTA connected with U.S. audiences through radio appearances and activations, including a raffle for round-trip tickets to Antigua and Barbuda and rum punch tastings. The delegation also met with New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell, strengthening ties for future collaborations. The festival, which spanned three days, featured performances by international artists and concluded with a concert at Congo Square, attended by over 5,000 people. For Antigua and Barbuda, the event was a strategic platform to share cultural heritage, reinforce diaspora connections, and promote sustainable tourism, positioning the islands as a destination where tradition and community benefits are central to the visitor experience.