Nigel ‘Bounty’ Pinder, a 49-year-old resident of Cox Hill, St Philip, has been remanded to Dodds Prison following his appearance in the District C Magistrates’ Court. Pinder faces a series of grave charges, including multiple counts of murder and conspiracy to murder. The allegations span a period from June 2023 to January 2024, involving the deaths of Randy Brathwaite, Junior Taitt, and Shane Renaldo Parris. Pinder is accused of directly committing these murders as well as conspiring with others to carry out the killings. Appearing before Acting Magistrate Angela Knight under heavy police escort, Pinder was represented by Senior Counsel Angella Mitchell-Gittens. As the charges are indictable, no plea was required at this stage. The case has been adjourned, with Pinder scheduled to reappear in court on October 8. The proceedings have drawn significant attention due to the severity and complexity of the charges.
标签： Barbados
巴巴多斯
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Triple murder and murder plot charges laid against St Philip man
A 49-year-old man from St Philip, Barbados, has been formally charged with three counts of murder and two counts of conspiracy to commit murder. Nigel Pinder, a resident of Cox Hill, was apprehended by the Barbados Police Service in connection with the deaths of Randy Brathwaite, Junior Taitt, and Shane Renaldo Parris. Additionally, Pinder is accused of orchestrating plots to murder both Taitt and Parris. The charges stem from a series of alleged crimes spanning from June 2023 to January 2024. According to authorities, Brathwaite and Taitt were killed between June 27, 2023, and December 5, 2023, while Parris was murdered on January 13, 2024. The conspiracies to murder Taitt and Parris are believed to have occurred in June 2023 and January 2024, respectively. Pinder is set to appear before the District ‘C’ Magistrates’ Court, located at the Oistins Magistrates’ Court, on Monday to face these charges. The case has drawn significant attention due to the severity of the allegations and the timeline of the incidents.
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Showcase of innovation and enterprise at St James expo
Entrepreneurs from across Barbados seized the opportunity to expand their ventures and forge valuable connections at the Emerging Entrepreneurs Manufacturing and Services Trade Fair and Expo, held on Saturday at the Hoytes Village Playing Field in St James. The event, organized by Barbados Trust Loans Ltd. in collaboration with the Office of the Supervisor of Insolvency, showcased the diversity of micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) on the island. Beyond its business focus, the family-friendly expo also featured a dedicated kids’ zone, ensuring inclusivity for all attendees.
Ayesha Coppin, Business Development Officer at Barbados Trust Loans Ltd., shared insights into the initiative’s origins with Barbados TODAY. ‘Our Emerging Entrepreneurs programme launched last year, initially closing Broad Street to create a vibrant market for local entrepreneurs. Participants from various sectors showcased their offerings, inspiring us to host pop-up fairs across the island. Our most recent event was held in Weymouth in June,’ she explained. Coppin emphasized the programme’s inclusive nature, stating, ‘These events are not exclusive to our clients; we actively invite the public and other entrepreneurs to participate and display their services.’
The expo featured a diverse array of booths, highlighting retail, manufacturing, agri-processing, and arts and crafts. Notable displays included intricate graphite-based designs by Victoria Haniff and Syriah Griffith, participants in the Community Arts Programme facilitated by the Community Development Department. Adding a competitive edge, a cook-off was staged between parliamentary representatives for St James: Minister of Educational Transformation Chad Blackman and Minister Sandra Husbands, who oversees higher education and technical training.
Entertainment was a key highlight, with a karaoke competition and performances by local artists Tionne Hernandez, Brucelee Almightee, and Mole. Alethea Thompson, Acting Project Manager of the National Insurance and Social Security Service’s self-employment team, underscored the event’s community engagement value. ‘We’ve brought our office to the playing field, and we’re thrilled to have registered individuals for self-employment and issued self-employment cards,’ she said. Thompson added, ‘We addressed numerous queries, as self-employed individuals often need clarity on our services and benefits.’
The expo not only provided a platform for business growth but also strengthened community ties, reflecting Barbados’ commitment to fostering entrepreneurship and innovation.
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We Gatherin’ St James delivers vibrant health and wellness showcase
The St James to de World Health and Wellness Extravaganza, a marquee event of the We Gatherin’ St James initiative, brought culture, community, and cricket to the forefront on Saturday at Trents playing field. Designed for families, the event featured a variety of stalls offering food, health tips, and wellness activities, all under the parish’s cricket-themed banner. The day began with a panel discussion led by historians and cricket legends Morris Greenidge, Hartley Richards, and Philo Wallace, who highlighted St James’ storied cricketing heritage. A standout moment was the recognition of road tennis champion Sheldene Walrond, hailed by MC Astra Babb as a symbol of perseverance, strength, and community spirit, inspiring youth across Barbados. The evening transitioned into a vibrant musical celebration, showcasing diverse talents. Reniece Bonnett and Skyy Dowridge, accompanied by Sisters in Harmony, delivered a memorable rendition of Purple Rain. The Breaking Point Band, led by Peach Bless and Asanta Blossom, energized the crowd with reggae beats, while Deejay Scott Le Roc kept the audience engaged with classic hits. The Mighty Gabby ignited the stage with soca anthems like Jack and Hit It, followed by Adrian Clarke’s crowd-pleasing performances. Rising stars Quon and DoeJay brought Crop Over energy with Bartender, while Asanta Blossom returned to showcase her versatility. Shanta Prince and Marvay further electrified the night, culminating in a surprise mini-concert by Hypasounds. The event concluded with General Edwin Yearwood’s hit medley, leaving attendees on a high note. The extravaganza was a dynamic celebration of St James’ talent, culture, and community spirit.
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Supreme Counselling launches pop-up series to confront youth violence
The Supreme Counselling for Personal Development (SCPD) has introduced a groundbreaking community outreach initiative, ‘Reach One, Save One,’ designed to foster positive change, strengthen family bonds, and empower the youth of Barbados. The program’s inaugural event took place at Bush Hall Community Park on Saturday, offering residents interactive activities, informational sessions, and private consultations with professional counsellors.
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PM at UN: ‘Indifferent’ world deepening humanitarian crises
In a powerful address to the United Nations General Assembly, Prime Minister Mia Mottley of Barbados issued a stark warning about the escalating global suffering caused by indifference and unchecked violence. Speaking at the 80th session of the 193-nation assembly, Mottley highlighted the dire humanitarian crises in Sudan and Gaza, urging world leaders to take immediate action. She began by drawing attention to the conflict in Sudan, where 260,000 people have been trapped in the city of El Faso for 500 days. ‘While political progress stalls, those who attempt to escape are killed, and those who remain inside are starved,’ she stated, emphasizing that the world must not ignore this unfolding horror. Turning to the Middle East, Mottley condemned the ongoing violence in Gaza, describing it as ‘genocidal destruction.’ She called for the release of hostages taken on October 7 but stressed that the disproportionate attacks on Palestinians and the blockade of humanitarian aid are unacceptable. Mottley argued that sustainable peace cannot be achieved through military might but only through justice and dialogue. Quoting Roman historian Tacitus, she said, ‘They plunder, they butcher, they ravish, they make it desert and call it peace.’ The Prime Minister also highlighted urgent funding needs, citing UNICEF estimates of $66 million required in Gaza and $200 million in Sudan over the next three months for essential services. She concluded her speech with a poignant image of a young Palestinian girl carrying her sister through the rubble in Gaza, calling it a symbol of hope and resilience. ‘If a six-year-old can push past all the physical and emotional pain and still find hope, then we as leaders have a duty to summon that spirit,’ Mottley declared.
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Barbados, China celebrate 76 years of the People’s Republic at Hilton reception
In a grand celebration held at the Hilton Barbados Resort on September 25, the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Barbados commemorated the 76th Anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China. The event, attended by dignitaries, diplomats, and distinguished guests, highlighted the enduring partnership between China and Barbados while reflecting on China’s remarkable journey since 1949. Ambassador Zheng Bingkai, representing the Chinese Embassy, delivered a speech that underscored China’s transformation into a global leader in economic development, technology, and social progress. He emphasized China’s historic achievements, including lifting nearly 800 million people out of poverty and its contributions to global peace, climate action, and international collaboration. Ambassador Bingkai also reaffirmed China’s commitment to sustainable development and a shared future for humanity, while celebrating the strong bilateral ties with Barbados. Representing the Government of Barbados, the Honorable William Duguid extended warm congratulations to China on behalf of Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley and Minister of Foreign Affairs Kerrie Symmonds. Duguid acknowledged China’s global impact and its critical role in supporting Barbados’ development, particularly in renewable energy, healthcare, agriculture, public transport, and education. He highlighted specific initiatives, such as the introduction of electric buses, the redevelopment of the National Stadium, and the contributions of Chinese medical teams. Duguid also praised China’s scholarship programs and educational exchanges, which have provided young Barbadians with valuable opportunities for growth. The evening concluded with a vibrant cultural showcase featuring traditional and modern Chinese performances, symbolizing the importance of cultural exchange in fostering mutual understanding. The event served as a testament to the shared aspirations of China and Barbados, with both sides expressing optimism for continued cooperation in trade, technology, sustainable development, and cultural exchange, benefiting not only their nations but also the global community.
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Sarah-Ann Benjamin rings in 105 surrounded by loved ones
Sara-Ann Benjamin, a beloved centenarian renowned for her warmth and generosity, marked her 105th birthday on Friday at The View Senior Citizens’ Home in Barbados. Born in Montserrat, Benjamin was joined by family, friends, caregivers, and Cynthia Forde, Member of Parliament for St Thomas, to celebrate her extraordinary milestone. Benjamin, a mother of three, worked tirelessly as a housekeeper in Montserrat before relocating to England, where she took on various jobs to support her family. She later returned to Montserrat and eventually settled in Barbados, where she became a cherished figure in her community. Known for her exceptional baking skills, Benjamin catered numerous weddings, christenings, and church events, earning fame for her signature bread and potato puddings. Her grandson, Carl Ifill, fondly recalled her as a pillar of the community, emphasizing her open-door policy in their village of Delvin, Montserrat. “She didn’t have much, but whatever she had, she shared,” Ifill said. “Her home was always open to anyone in need, and her generosity inspired me to give back.” Ifill also credited his grandmother for nurturing his love of music, noting her role as a strong alto in the Seventh-day Adventist Church choir and her encouragement for him to learn the piano and sing. Cynthia Forde, a former elder affairs minister, praised Benjamin as a symbol of Barbados’ elderly population, highlighting their hard work, traditional diets, and strong values as the foundation of the nation’s progress. “Our foreparents worked the land, raised large families, and built communities with love and sacrifice,” Forde said. She urged younger Barbadians to embrace the lessons of the past, emphasizing that longevity is not solely a genetic blessing but also a result of discipline and care. Forde also commended The View Senior Citizens’ Home, describing it as a model of excellence in elder care and a testament to the importance of providing comfort and dignity to seniors.
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Celebrating service, flavour and festivity at Hilton’s ‘Beyond the Banquet’
On Friday evening, Hilton Barbados Resort transformed the traditional hotel experience into an immersive showcase of its offerings during the ‘Beyond the Banquet’ event. From the moment guests stepped inside, it was evident that the night was more than just a culinary affair. The lobby was alive with the soothing melodies of saxophonist Zukeli Inniss, while the hotel’s hospitality team greeted attendees with warm smiles and trays of exquisite bites. The event was a sensory journey, highlighting the resort’s commitment to exceptional service and ambiance. Guests were treated to a variety of culinary delights, including perfectly grilled skewered shrimp, succulent Bajan-style pigtails, and refreshing snow cones. The mixology team kept the cocktails flowing, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience for all. Inside the main banquet area, Executive Chef José Gutiérrez and Chef Banquets David Brome set the tone for the festive season with Christmas music and enchanting lighting. The evening’s host, Teresa Nicholls, Director of Catering & Events, kept the atmosphere lively, while the carving station offered a selection of mouthwatering meats paired with delectable sides. A tribute to Oistins featured seasoned fish alongside creamy macaroni pie, while a dedicated dessert station overflowed with sweet indulgences. Bea Dottin, Assistant Marketing Manager, explained the event’s purpose: ‘Beyond the Banquet is our way of showcasing our revamped banquet menus and holiday offerings, giving guests a taste of what to expect when hosting events with us.’ Annmarie Thompson, Director of Sales and Marketing, expressed gratitude to loyal clients, celebrating recent milestones such as the property’s 20th anniversary and accolades like ‘Great Place to Work’ and ‘Best Business’ by BCCI. The event encapsulated the essence of Hilton Barbados’s top-tier service and hospitality.
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Youth leader urges unity, consistent support at parade
The Kensington Oval in Barbados was alive with energy and vibrancy on Friday evening as the National Youth Parade showcased the talents and spirit of the nation’s youth. Featuring dynamic performances from the Barbados Fire Cadets, Barbados YouthAdvance Corps, Girl Guides, and other organizations, the event celebrated the resilience and determination of young Barbadians. Amid the festivities, Caleb Brathwaite, President of the Barbados Youth Development Council (BYDC), delivered a poignant address, urging leaders and stakeholders to deepen their commitment to supporting the younger generation.