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巴哈马

  • Tributes for ‘kind hearted and loving’ teen car crash victim

    Tributes for ‘kind hearted and loving’ teen car crash victim

    A profound sense of grief has enveloped the local community following the tragic death of 18-year-old Chanell Adderley, who lost her life in a devastating vehicular accident earlier this week. The incident occurred during the early hours of Monday morning when the car she was traveling in collided with a stationary wooden pole along Prince Charles Drive.

    According to official police reports, two male occupants sustained injuries in the collision and were promptly transported to a medical facility for treatment. Their current medical status remains undisclosed to the public.

    The sudden passing of the young woman has generated an outpouring of emotional tributes across social media platforms, with friends and family members collectively remembering her as an exceptionally compassionate and affectionate individual. Darvinette Hanna, a close friend, expressed her profound shock and disbelief, recalling their recent outing to watch the Avatar film together as a cherished final memory.

    Lothario Adderley, the young woman’s uncle, emotionally described the tragedy as resembling a nightmare, addressing his niece directly in his online memorial: “SIP baby. Uncle love you so much.”

    Another friend, identified only as Katara, provided an especially moving testimony, characterizing Adderley as both a sisterly figure and personal sanctuary. She credited the deceased with providing unwavering emotional support during challenging times, noting: “You never let me give up on myself, even when I wanted to. You encouraged me, pushed me, and believed in me when I didn’t believe in myself.” Katara concluded her tribute with a solemn pledge to persevere in her personal endeavors as a testament to their friendship.

    This tragic incident represents the sixth recorded traffic fatality within the nation this year, according to official documentation maintained by The Tribune.

  • Several PLP nomination races are heating up

    Several PLP nomination races are heating up

    The Progressive Liberal Party’s candidate selection process entered a vigorous phase yesterday as eleven aspirants presented their cases before the party’s Candidates Committee, signaling intense internal competition ahead of the upcoming general election. The PLP headquarters transformed into a vibrant political arena with dozens of supporters creating a festive atmosphere through music, Junkanoo rushes, and enthusiastic chanting while adorned in party regalia.

    In the Freetown constituency, a notable contest emerged between incumbent MP Wayne Munroe and long-time party member Ormanique Bowe, who arrived with substantial supporter presence. Ms. Bowe, a local business owner, emphasized her role as a maternal figure for the constituency, expressing strong confidence in her nomination prospects. Mr. Munroe responded to the challenge with philosophical acceptance, acknowledging competition as a sign of party strength while maintaining his belief in being the optimal candidate.

    The St. Anne’s constituency witnessed three contenders—Keno Wong, Latorna McPhee, and Chris Saunders—vying for nomination. Mr. Wong, former chairman of the National Neighbourhood Watch Council, cited community encouragement as his motivation, while Mr. Saunders, a veteran journalist, referenced the unexpected political shift in Georgia as inspiration for potential change despite previous electoral setbacks.

    Former Senator Robyn Lynes adopted a strategic approach by expressing openness to any available constituency rather than challenging sitting MPs, emphasizing her decision emerged from financial stability, family preparedness, and spiritual guidance rather than personal ambition. Meanwhile, Tasha Bullard-Hamilton presented her vision for Bimini and The Berry Islands, highlighting ancestral connections and presenting comprehensive development plans addressing healthcare, education, and infrastructure.

    Several incumbent MPs including Wayde Watson (Bain and Grants Town), Zane Lightbourne (Yamacraw), Patricia Deveaux (Bamboo Town), and Lisa Rahming (Marathon) also underwent the committee review process. The party announced intentions to ratify its second candidate batch on Thursday, expected to include Sylvanus Petty, Kirk Cornish, Clay Sweeting, and Bradley Fox Jr.

  • Immigration trainee fired over bribery voice notes

    Immigration trainee fired over bribery voice notes

    The Bahamas Department of Immigration has terminated Trainee Immigration Officer Alex K Riley following the circulation of compromising voice recordings that allegedly capture solicitation of bribes. Director of Immigration Stephen Laroda issued an immediate dismissal notice dated January 16, severing all employment ties with the officer.

    The disciplinary action follows the emergence of viral audio content featuring an unidentified male voice making explicit demands for monetary compensation. While authorities haven’t officially confirmed the voice belongs to an immigration officer, the recordings contain specific threats regarding intensified enforcement activities against Haitian nationals if financial demands remain unmet.

    In the controversial recordings, the voice states: ‘Now you going down to 150. Alex, by tomorrow let that whole 500 be there. I saved your life. Don’t make it hard for Haitians around there.’ The speaker further implies protection from immigration raids while warning that non-compliance would trigger increased enforcement presence.

    An immigration representative confirmed to The Tribune that the dismissal resulted from an investigation, though the exact nature of the probe—whether internal or involving law enforcement—remains unclear. This incident occurs amid heightened scrutiny of alleged misconduct within Bahamian law enforcement agencies, following a separate investigation into police officers allegedly soliciting bribes from tourists during traffic stops.

  • UB, Disney extend Leading LIGHT programme to Abaco

    UB, Disney extend Leading LIGHT programme to Abaco

    The University of The Bahamas, in collaboration with Disney Cruise Line, is expanding its Leading LIGHT tourism and hospitality training initiative to Abaco next month, marking the program’s second phase implementation. This development follows the program’s successful inaugural launch in Eleuthera in February 2024.

    The 10-week intensive program, administered through UB’s Continuing Education and Lifelong Learning (CeLEARN) division, aims to enhance leadership capabilities and workforce preparedness within the hospitality sector. This strategic expansion occurs as The Bahamas experiences sustained growth in tourism arrivals.

    University officials confirmed the dual-island rollout during a recent press conference. UB President Dr. Robert J Blaine III highlighted the tangible outcomes from the Eleuthera cohort, noting that graduates acquired critical job-readiness skills and accessed new economic opportunities. He emphasized the institution’s dedication to national development, particularly through educational investments in the Family Islands.

    Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs Ms. Maria Woodise-Oriakhi explained that the program’s second phase deliberately focuses on the personnel who shape the tourism experience. She stressed that quality visitor interactions fundamentally influence both guest impressions and how effectively local communities benefit from tourism-driven economic growth.

    Initial results from the Eleuthera launch demonstrated significant impact, with 120 participants gaining essential hospitality competencies. Many graduates subsequently secured new employment, achieved promotions, or launched entrepreneurial ventures.

    Disney Cruise Line regional public affairs director Mr. Joey Gaskins characterized the initiative as part of the company’s comprehensive commitment to investing in port community development. He expressed gratitude for the partnership with UB in strengthening Bahamian professional capacity.

    The program curriculum encompasses technology integration, customer service excellence, and soft skills development. Each island cohort will accommodate 25 participants through live, synchronous learning sessions. Training specialist Dr. Willisa Nyobi Mackey confirmed that participants will receive completion certificates, a fully-funded educational experience courtesy of Disney Cruise Line, and a stipend acknowledging their program commitment.

  • Illegal charters warned: ‘We’re coming for you’

    Illegal charters warned: ‘We’re coming for you’

    The Bahamas is escalating its maritime enforcement operations against a proliferation of unlicensed foreign fishing charter vessels, with authorities warning that hundreds of illegal operators are now under investigation. This aggressive stance follows last week’s apprehension of the Rayne Check, a vessel allegedly conducting unauthorized sports fishing charters in Bahamian waters—marking the third such seizure within 13 months.

    Mike Cenci, a senior law enforcement advisor with WildAid and veteran investigator with three decades of experience combating illegal fishing practices, revealed that the scale of unauthorized charter operations has reached critical levels. “It’s out of control,” Cenci stated, emphasizing that systematic enforcement would require sustained effort to effectively reverse the trend. The recent seizure operation, which involved multiple government agencies including the newly established Maritime Revenue Unit, signals a coordinated approach to maritime law enforcement.

    The financial impact of these illegal operations is substantial. The Rayne Check was reportedly charging clients $45,000 for five-day fishing excursions, translating to approximately $9,000 daily. After accounting for operational expenses, investigators estimate profit margins could reach $6,500 per day for unauthorized operators. More significantly, the cumulative effect of hundreds of such vessels operating without licenses potentially costs the Bahamian economy millions annually in lost revenue and fisheries value.

    Paul Maillis, Secretary of the National Fisheries Association, characterized the enforcement actions as “an exciting time for Bahamian fishermen,” noting that the consistent application of maritime laws represents a significant shift in policy implementation. Beyond economic considerations, Maillis highlighted the damage to The Bahamas’ international reputation when visitors participate in illegal charters without consequence.

    Environmental sustainability concerns are equally pressing. Cenci warned that the sophisticated equipment employed by these charters enables unsustainable harvesting levels that threaten marine resource viability. “Remove the healthy marine resources,” he cautioned, “and it becomes Haiti in terms of the likely economic and social fall-out.”

    Enforcement strategies have evolved to include monitoring social media platforms where illegal charters advertise services. Authorities confirmed active surveillance of Instagram and Facebook posts to identify vessels promoting unauthorized Bahamian fishing trips before they even clear customs.

    The government’s reinforced approach has garnered support across multiple ministries—national security, finance, and agriculture and marine resources—demonstrating political commitment to addressing the issue. Both Cenci and Maillis encouraged public participation through reporting suspicious operations, emphasizing that continued vigilance and cooperation are essential to preserving The Bahamas’ marine ecosystem and protecting legitimate local fishing industries.

  • Bahamian family on Family Feud

    Bahamian family on Family Feud

    In a remarkable display of cultural pride and familial unity, the Beneby family recently brought Bahamian representation to the national stage of Family Feud Canada after residing in Toronto for nearly sixteen years. Shalah Beneby characterized their participation as an electrifying and surreal journey that commenced when entertainment industry producers identified her brother Sherod’s dynamic audition tape. The selection process culminated in their family being chosen from thousands of applicants following a comprehensive Zoom interview. The experience unfolded within the CBC Broadcasting studios where the family quickly adapted to the production’s rapid pace, live audience energy, and intricate behind-the-scenes mechanics while proudly displaying the Bahamian flag throughout the recording. Their episode aired on January 15, 2026, featuring a competitive matchup against a two-time champion team. Although the family didn’t secure the monetary prize, Ms. Beneby emphasized that their selection alone constituted a significant victory. The appearance reinforced their tradition of family game nights while creating an enduring memory that highlighted their distinctive personalities, shared humor, and profound familial bonds. For Canada’s emerging Bahamian community, this representation carried profound cultural significance, demonstrating how heritage transcends geographical boundaries through media platforms.

  • Walker: Bahamas is a valued partner, not just another pretty island

    Walker: Bahamas is a valued partner, not just another pretty island

    Amid recent shifts in US immigration policy, American Ambassador Herschel Walker has emphatically reinforced the United States’ commitment to its strategic alliance with The Bahamas. Speaking at the 35th annual Bahamas Business Outlook held at Baha Mar, Ambassador Walker characterized the relationship as extending far beyond conventional diplomatic ties, describing The Bahamas as a “valued friend and partner” rather than merely another picturesque Caribbean destination.

    The ambassador articulated a vision of sustained bilateral cooperation focused on addressing shared challenges including narcotics trafficking, unauthorized migration, cybersecurity vulnerabilities, and supply chain disruptions. He emphasized that American engagement transcends temporary assistance, instead prioritizing long-term investments designed to foster sustainable development and economic empowerment for Bahamian citizens.

    Walker highlighted concrete examples of US-backed economic initiatives, including his recent inspection of Royal Caribbean’s $200 million Beach Club development. He additionally referenced the resumed SpaceX booster landings in Exuma Sound, suggesting this collaboration could potentially elevate The Bahamas into a significant participant within the burgeoning space economy.

    These reaffirmations follow the United States’ implementation of a temporary suspension on immigrant visa processing for approximately 75 nations, including The Bahamas. Importantly, this policy adjustment does not affect non-immigrant, student, or business visas for Bahamian applicants, preserving travel access under existing bilateral agreements.

    In related developments, Bahamian Foreign Affairs Minister Fred Mitchell addressed migration concerns, explicitly advising citizens residing unlawfully in the United States to regularize their status or return home. Minister Mitchell acknowledged the sovereign right of nations to establish entry requirements, provided they are implemented fairly without racial or discriminatory bias, while simultaneously emphasizing that lawful migration pathways to the US remain accessible through proper procedures.

  • ‘ Zero VAT on food as long food as long as PLP in govt’

    ‘ Zero VAT on food as long food as long as PLP in govt’

    NASSAU, BAHAMAS – Economic Affairs Minister Michael Halkitis has declared that a zero Value Added Tax (VAT) rate on all unprepared grocery items will become a permanent fixture if the ruling Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) retains power following the upcoming general election. The announcement came during an Office of the Prime Minister press briefing where Halkitis emphatically stated, ‘As long as the Progressive Liberal Party is in power, VAT on grocery will be zero.’

    The minister’s comments addressed mounting speculation about whether the administration’s recent VAT elimination—reducing the tax from five percent to zero—represented a temporary measure or enduring policy. Halkitis positioned the move as part of the government’s broader tax reduction agenda and ongoing initiatives to alleviate the nation’s high cost of living pressures.

    The opposition Free National Movement has characterized the VAT exemption as a strategically timed election tactic. Halkitis refuted these claims, maintaining that Prime Minister Philip Davis has consistently advocated for complete VAT removal on food items and that strengthened public finances now enable this fiscal change. ‘We feel very confident that we can, because of the growth that we experienced in the economy, absorb any revenue loss associated with this reduction,’ Halkitis asserted, referencing October’s International Monetary Fund assessment which noted economic improvement.

    The policy shift is projected to reduce government revenues by approximately $15 million annually. This follows previous VAT adjustments: the tax stood at 12% under the former Free National Movement administration, was reduced to 10% in 2022 by the Davis government (while controversially expanding to previously exempt breadbasket items), and was then cut to 5% on groceries in January 2025 before the current elimination.

    While consumers have welcomed the relief, major supermarket chains have expressed practical concerns about implementation timelines. Debra Symonette, president of Super Value, indicated her 13-store chain might require an extension beyond the April 1 deadline to adjust pricing across thousands of items representing 80% of sales. Minister Halkitis dismissed these concerns, expressing confidence that retailers’ modern automated systems would facilitate compliance within the standard three-month adjustment period. He additionally urged retailers to refrain from price gouging, emphasizing ongoing global affordability challenges.

  • Former cop cries at guilty verdict

    Former cop cries at guilty verdict

    In a landmark verdict that has sent shockwaves through the Bahamian law enforcement community, former Assistant Police Superintendent Sonny Miller was convicted on ten drug-related charges for his involvement in a sophisticated narcotics smuggling operation. The emotional proceedings saw the 47-year-old former Police Staff Association chairman break down in tears as Deputy Chief Magistrate Shaka Serville delivered the guilty verdict, describing the case as extraordinary and unforgettable.

    The conviction stems from a June 2022 operation where authorities intercepted 181 pounds of cocaine and 31 pounds of marijuana with an estimated street value exceeding $1.4 million on the remote island of Acklins. The investigation, a collaborative effort between the Royal Bahamas Police Force and the United States Coast Guard, revealed Miller’s alleged participation in receiving narcotics transported via aircraft from Venezuela.

    Critical testimony came from two Colombian nationals, Christhian Gaviria Aragon and Christhian Garcia Aristizabal, who previously pleaded guilty to drug trafficking charges in 2023. Both received reduced 46-month sentences in exchange for their cooperation with prosecutors. Aragon provided particularly damning evidence, alleging that Miller threatened him at gunpoint when a Coast Guard helicopter appeared during the operation, claiming he feared for his life during the encounter.

    During the two-month trial, the prosecution presented compelling video evidence showing Miller’s police vehicle repeatedly leaving and returning to the crime scene with doors and rear hatch open. A silver tin was visibly positioned near the vehicle’s door, contradicting Miller’s testimony that he was merely performing his duties as the officer in charge of Acklins.

    Miller maintained his innocence throughout the proceedings, testifying that he had approached the suspects tactfully after discovering them unloading drugs from an aircraft. He claimed he requested backup and drew his firearm to effect arrests upon hearing an approaching helicopter. The former superintendent further alleged improper conduct during his interrogation, including being denied food and medication.

    Magistrate Serville ultimately found the accounts of the Colombian nationals and other officers more credible than Miller’s version of events. Defense attorney Bjorn Ferguson’s argument that the prosecution was attempting to “ride a parade of inferences to a conviction” was rejected in the final verdict.

    Miller has been remanded to the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services pending sentencing scheduled for February 24, with his distraught family members expressing their anguish on the courthouse steps. The former high-ranking officer retains the right to appeal within seven days of sentencing.

  • Watson: I will step down as GM of ZNS if nominated

    Watson: I will step down as GM of ZNS if nominated

    In a significant political development, Clint Watson, the General Manager of ZNS and prospective candidate for the Southern Shores constituency, has publicly committed to stepping down from his current executive role should he successfully obtain the Progressive Liberal Party’s (PLP) nomination. Watson made this declaration to journalists immediately following his interview session with the PLP Candidates Committee at the party’s headquarters on Tuesday evening.

    Emphasizing his determination and preparedness for the electoral battle, Watson stated, ‘My fundamental objective is to venture out and achieve victory. I possess the requisite capabilities and strategic approach to secure a win.’ He characterized the committee interview as a constructive dialogue focused primarily on articulating his visionary roadmap for Southern Shores and addressing the critical needs of its residents.

    Reflecting on his presentation, Watson expressed strong confidence, noting, ‘I feel exceedingly positive about the proceedings. My discussion centered on a pragmatic and continuously evolving development plan for the constituency. I articulated our commitment to sustaining a legacy of renewing hope and expanding opportunities for the people of Southern Shores. Conveying this message was effortless because it reflects the tangible work we are already engaged in—it isn’t fabricated; it’s reality.’

    Watson received robust endorsement from former Tall Pines MP Leslie Miller, who was present during the media interaction. Miller lauded Watson as ‘among the most exceptional candidates within our ranks’ and emphatically declared, ‘He is the ideal representative for Southern Shores. No alternative candidate could surpass his qualifications and dedication. I will exclusively campaign for Clint Watson and no other individual.’

    This political activity occurs against a backdrop of ongoing friction within the Southern Shores PLP branch. Tensions escalated during a contentious meeting on January 5th that culminated in heated exchanges between supporters of Watson and those of his rival, Obie Roberts—the PLP’s deputy chairman and son of former party chairman Bradley Roberts. Roberts, who was also interviewed by the committee on the same evening, opted not to engage with the press.

    Amidst these internal dynamics, Watson reaffirmed his belief in unity through shared purpose. ‘When you operate with a clear sense of mission, unity naturally follows because you present a coherent plan for the people,’ he asserted, underscoring his campaign’s philosophy of collective progress over division.