标签： Barbados

A leading advocate against domestic violence has highlighted the alarming trend of victims remaining in abusive relationships due to mounting financial pressures and a lack of affordable housing. Barbara Daniel-Goddard, Chair of Advocates Against Domestic Abuse (AIDA), emphasized that for low-income earners, the high cost of living and limited housing options make it nearly impossible to escape abusive partners. Speaking to Barbados TODAY, she revealed that many victims earn as little as $24,000 annually, while average monthly rents hover around $1,000. After accounting for utilities, transportation, and childcare, these individuals are left with no financial leeway to seek independence.

A shooting incident in Silver Hill, Christ Church, on Thursday evening has left a man seriously injured, exacerbating the growing concerns among residents about unchecked violence in their community. The victim was seated on the front steps of a residence when two assailants emerged from a vehicle and opened fire, striking him multiple times. He was rushed to a medical facility in a private car for urgent treatment. This latest episode of violence has deepened the sense of fear and despair among Silver Hill residents, who describe gunshots and gang activity as a regular occurrence. Many expressed skepticism about the possibility of improved public safety, given the escalating crime rates. A local shop owner lamented the emotional numbness that has set in after years of persistent violence, recounting a recent shooting outside his establishment. Another resident, who was caring for her mother during the incident, described hearing around ten gunshots, expressing her fear for the future of Barbados. On Friday morning, a group of middle-aged men gathered near a shop, discussing the surge in gang-related activity with visible frustration. One man remarked, ‘Every action has a reaction,’ while another highlighted the ease with which firearms are obtained, even by those recently released from prison. The community’s distrust of official crime statistics was also evident, with residents suggesting that the actual number of shooting deaths far exceeds the reported figure of 39 murders this year. This incident follows the tragic killing of a 12-year-old boy in March, who was caught in the crossfire during a basketball game. The recurring violence has left Silver Hill residents feeling increasingly desensitized and hopeless about the future.

Amaro Delano Wilson, a 29-year-old resident of B101 Pondside, Bay Street, St. Michael, Barbados, who was reported missing on October 30th, 2025, has been successfully located and is confirmed to be safe. The Barbados Police Service expressed their gratitude to the public and media for their crucial assistance in resolving this case. Authorities emphasized the importance of continued community cooperation in addressing such matters in the future. The incident highlights the effectiveness of collaborative efforts between law enforcement and the public in ensuring the safety and well-being of individuals.

The Barbados Police Service has issued a public appeal for assistance in locating Marlon Orion King, alias ‘Mulan’, who is sought for questioning regarding serious criminal activities. King, whose last known residence is in Airy Hill, St George, is described as having a brown complexion, a medium build, and standing approximately five feet ten inches tall. Authorities have urged King to voluntarily present himself at the Criminal Investigation Department, District ‘B’, Boarded Hall, St George, with legal representation if he chooses. The police have provided multiple contact options for the public to report any information on King’s whereabouts, including the District ‘B’ Police Station at 437-4311 or 437-4775, the Police Emergency line at 211, Crime Stoppers at 1-800-8477, or the nearest police station. Additionally, the police have emphasized that harboring or aiding wanted individuals is a serious offense, and those found guilty may face legal consequences.

A 61-year-old Canadian citizen, Halston Norman Spence, has been detained at Dodds Prison in Barbados following his arrest and subsequent charges related to the importation and trafficking of cannabis. The Barbados Police Service’s Narcotics Unit apprehended Spence, a resident of Brandon Gates Drive, Mississauga, Ontario, in connection with offenses committed on October 26, 2025. The charges against him include possession of cannabis, trafficking, intent to supply, and importation of the substance. Authorities reported that the seized drugs weighed approximately 31.6 kilograms, with an estimated street value of BDS$252,800. Spence appeared before Magistrate Douglas Frederick in the District ‘F’ Magistrates’ Court on October 31, where he entered a plea of not guilty. The case has been transferred to the District ‘B’ Magistrates’ Court, with a hearing scheduled for November 5, 2025. Spence remains in custody at Dodds Prison pending further legal proceedings.

A 27-year-old woman from St Michael, Barbados, has been formally charged in connection with the importation and trafficking of cannabis valued at over $35,000. Krystal Debra Harewood, residing at 2nd Avenue, Parris Gap, Westbury Road, was arrested by the Narcotics Unit of the Barbados Police Service following the alleged offenses on October 29, 2025. Harewood faces multiple charges, including possession of cannabis, trafficking of cannabis, intent to supply, and importation of cannabis. Authorities reported that the seized drugs weighed approximately 4.4 kilograms, with an estimated street value of $35,200. Harewood appeared before Magistrate Douglas Frederick in the District ‘F’ Magistrates’ Court on October 31, where she pleaded guilty to all charges. She was granted bail set at $4,000, and the case has been adjourned to the District ‘B’ Magistrates’ Court, with proceedings scheduled to resume on February 12, 2026.

The vibrant fishing community of Oistins became a beacon of national pride on Thursday evening as residents, fisherfolk, and government officials convened for a momentous event. The Berinda Cox Fish Market hosted the unveiling of a ‘Wall of Honour’ and the launch of a new publication titled *Oistins: Its History & Evolution Residents’ Perspective*. This book meticulously documents the community’s profound history and its pivotal role in Barbados’ development. The occasion was part of the *We Gatherin’ 2025* initiative, with Christ Church taking center stage to celebrate its heritage. Senator Dr. Shantal Munro-Knight, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office with responsibility for Culture, delivered the keynote address, emphasizing the event’s significance in honoring the unsung heroes of Barbadian society. She described it as a milestone that underscores the contributions of ordinary individuals who form the backbone of the nation. Dr. Munro-Knight announced two major commitments: making the Oistins Heritage Tour a permanent fixture on the national cultural calendar and distributing the new book across schools and libraries to preserve and share the community’s stories. Minister Wilfred Abrahams, Member of Parliament for Christ Church East, highlighted Oistins’ historical and economic importance, calling it the commercial capital of Barbados. He stressed the need to invest in the fishing industry, which sustains the nation’s economy and food production. The Wall of Honour, featuring generations of fishing families and those lost at sea, stood as a poignant tribute. Dr. Shelly-Ann Cox, Chief Fisheries Officer, praised the community’s dedication to preserving its heritage. The event concluded with attendees reflecting on Oistins’ enduring legacy as a cornerstone of Barbadian identity.

The Friends of Democracy (FOD) political party has called on the Barbados Water Authority (BWA) to implement a 50 per cent discount on water bills for residents of St Lucy, who have been grappling with a severe water crisis for over five years. During a community outreach event in Durham, St Lucy, on October 25, party members engaged with locals who reported that their tap water was discoloured, foul-smelling, and unfit for consumption. One resident likened the water’s appearance to ‘the colour of mauby’ and shared that drinking it often led to nausea and stomach discomfort. Others revealed that bathing caused skin irritation and that household water filters turned dark brown within days of use. ‘We’re paying for water we can’t use for drinking or cooking,’ a resident lamented. ‘It’s unjust that we have to buy bottled water while still paying full water bills.’ FOD President Karina Goodridge emphasized that clean water is a fundamental right, not a privilege, and condemned the situation as a failure in essential service delivery. The party urged the BWA and the government to act swiftly, asserting that the lives of St Lucy residents should be valued equally to those in other parishes. They also demanded that the proposed discount remain in place until the crisis is resolved, highlighting the financial burden of purchasing bottled water alongside high water bills. The FOD expressed disappointment in the lack of action from local representatives and the opposition, stating, ‘It’s deeply troubling that after five years, no meaningful steps have been taken. The people of St Lucy deserve leadership that prioritizes their health and dignity.’ The party vowed to continue advocating for a resolution until all affected communities receive the same clean, safe, and reliable water supply enjoyed by other Barbadians. ‘Water is life,’ the FOD concluded, ‘and the people of Durham and St Lucy have waited long enough.’