标签： Barbados

For the first time in a decade, Barbados experienced a September without a single gun-related homicide, according to the Criminal Justice Research and Planning Unit. This unprecedented lull in deadly shootings, which analysts attribute to heightened police patrols, was short-lived as murders surged again in October. Senior Research Analyst Kirt Goodridge highlighted the significance of this development in an interview with Barbados TODAY, noting that September is traditionally a quiet month for homicides, averaging three per year over the past decade. However, this year marked a stark departure from the norm, with zero reported gun deaths in September. Goodridge suggested that increased police presence in high-risk neighborhoods may have contributed to this temporary decline, though he cautioned that such measures are not sustainable in the long term. Official statistics reveal a fluctuating trend in gun-related deaths over the years, with 2025 recording 40 fatal shootings so far, compared to 34 in 2024. The Barbados Police Service had intensified surveillance in June, labeling the rise in gun violence as ‘domestic terrorism’ and vowing to dismantle criminal networks. Despite the September success, October saw a rise in major crimes, including murder, kidnapping, and robbery. Acting Commissioner of Police Erwin Boyce acknowledged a marginal 2% decrease in overall crime but expressed concern over the 13% year-on-year increase in major offenses. While sex-related and property crimes saw slight declines, the overall crime picture remains mixed, underscoring the need for continued focus on reducing violent crime.

A groundbreaking study has highlighted the alarming connection between the surge in violent behavior among young men and the absence of fathers, coupled with the weaponization of child visitation disputes. The research underscores how fractured family structures and the lack of positive male guidance are leaving boys susceptible to negative street influences. Conducted by the Criminal Justice Research and Planning Unit, the study analyzed the social histories of 47 individuals under 25 who are currently on remand in prison. Senior research analyst Kirt Goodridge revealed that 66% of these young men were raised in female-headed households, with 57% reporting family incarceration, often for serious crimes. The majority of these households were located in St Michael (51%) and Christ Church (26%). While 44% of respondents described their communities as peaceful, a staggering 63% had witnessed violent incidents, including shootings, fights, and murders. Goodridge emphasized the pivotal role of fathers in shaping young men’s development, noting that the absence of male role models often leads boys to seek guidance from peers who glorify violence and machismo. He called for family-strengthening programs, judicial reforms to prevent the weaponization of child visitation, and educational reforms to ensure young men remain in school until the age of 18. Research officer Melanie Banfield echoed the need for family-based interventions, advocating for mentorship programs and sustained engagement to curb youth offending.

The Barbados Meteorological Services (BMS) has activated a Flash-Flood Watch for the island, anticipating significant rainfall on Friday, November 7. In a recent advisory, the BMS highlighted the potential for severe flooding in low-lying and flood-prone regions, with weather conditions expected to worsen overnight and persist into Saturday. Authorities have cautioned that additional alerts or warnings may be issued as the situation evolves. Residents are strongly advised to remain vigilant, monitor updates from the BMS, and adhere to instructions from emergency management officials to ensure safety during this weather event.

In response to the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa, Digicel Group and the Digicel Jamaica Foundation have initiated a robust humanitarian effort to aid recovery in Jamaica’s hardest-hit regions. The joint initiative, titled ‘Reconnecting Jamaica,’ aims to distribute nearly 12,000 care packages to residents in the most affected western parishes, including Westmoreland, St Elizabeth, Hanover, St James, and Trelawny. To date, over 1,500 food care packs have been delivered, with an additional 10,000 set for distribution in the coming days. These packages contain essential supplies such as water, rice, oil, and other staples, alongside hygiene kits and solar-powered lighting solutions like LED lanterns and emergency bulbs for households still without electricity. Furthermore, hardware certificates are being provided to enable residents to purchase construction materials locally, fostering sustainable rebuilding efforts within their communities.

Marcelo Cataldo, CEO of Digicel Group, emphasized the company’s commitment to Jamaica’s recovery, stating, ‘Our responsibility extends beyond business; we’re focused on restoring hope and supporting government efforts.’ The Digicel Foundation, a cornerstone of community development for nearly two decades, has mobilized staff and volunteers island-wide to coordinate relief distribution. Additional support includes the distribution of SIM cards with data plans to relief workers, complimentary prepaid and postpaid plans for affected customers, and mobile charging stations on Digicel buses to help residents stay connected.

Collaborating with the Jamaican government, Digicel is also addressing environmental and health needs by supplying items such as foggers, testing tablets, and medical equipment. A regional crowdsourcing campaign and donation bins at Digicel’s Kingston headquarters further encourage contributions to the relief efforts. Charmaine Daniels, CEO of the Digicel Foundation, highlighted the initiative’s broader mission: ‘Reconnecting Jamaica is about restoring dignity and stability. These care packages symbolize solidarity and long-term support.’

Stephen Murad, CEO of Digicel Jamaica, praised the dedication of the network teams working tirelessly to restore connectivity and assist in relief distribution. ‘Reconnecting Jamaica is our sole focus,’ he said. ‘We’re proud of our teams who embody the spirit of the Digicel family by standing with our customers in their time of need.’

A significant disruption unfolded in Wildey, St Michael, early Friday morning when a truck transporting heavy equipment struck overhead utility wires, triggering a major traffic jam and a power outage. The incident occurred shortly after 6 a.m. near the Rubis Service Station. According to Valenta, the station’s assistant supervisor, the bucket attached to the truck snagged the wires as it approached the corner, resulting in a utility pole splitting in half and a subsequent loss of electricity. ‘Barbados Light & Power responded promptly, shutting off the power supply. We’re now operating on our generator, ensuring uninterrupted service for our customers. We have sufficient fuel to meet demand,’ Valenta explained. Repair teams from Barbados Light & Power and telecommunications provider Flow remain on-site, working diligently to restore services. Meanwhile, traffic in the area is moving at a snail’s pace, with authorities advising motorists to exercise caution as restoration efforts continue.

RBC Capital Markets hosted its 11th annual Charity Day on Tuesday, themed ‘Powered by Purpose, United for Kids.’ This global initiative brings together employees to support organizations dedicated to improving children’s lives and strengthening communities. For the 2025 edition, RBC pledged a substantial US$7 million donation to over 70 youth-focused organizations across 13 countries, funding programs that aim to create brighter futures and more resilient communities. In a notable partnership, the Capital Markets team in Limegrove, Holetown, selected the Cancer Society as its 2025 charity recipient. The Cancer Society is renowned for its comprehensive approach to cancer prevention, detection, care, and wellness. RBC’s US$50,000 donation will specifically support childhood cancer treatment. Tanya Tempro, representing RBC Capital Markets, emphasized the significance of the day, stating, ‘This is an opportunity to strengthen our ties with non-profits, showcasing the collective impact of our efforts and engaging in activities that align with our mission to help clients thrive and communities prosper.’ She highlighted the need for individualized, multimodal treatment plans and compassionate care for children and their families. Dr. Greg Padmore, accepting the donation on behalf of the Cancer Society, detailed the organization’s multifaceted support for families affected by childhood cancer. This includes financial aid for medical expenses, free transportation to hospital appointments, and assistance with nutritional and educational needs. The Society also covers medication costs and facilitates overseas travel for treatment. Over the years, the Cancer Society has been a steadfast supporter of the Children’s Ward at Queen Elizabeth Hospital, donating essential appliances, books, games, and toys to enhance the care environment. Dr. Padmore expressed gratitude to RBC Capital Markets for their partnership, which eases the burden on families navigating childhood cancer.