标签： Dominica

In a significant blow to drug trafficking operations, law enforcement authorities have incinerated a substantial cache of illegal narcotics, including cocaine and cannabis, with an estimated street value of EC$53 million. The destruction took place at Morne Bruce on Wednesday as part of Police Week, a campaign aimed at reinforcing public confidence in the police force and showcasing their relentless efforts to combat crime. Superintendent Delvin Jno Jules, in charge of the Southern Division, emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, ‘We are destroying cocaine and marijuana to demonstrate our commitment to keeping the streets clean and safe.’ The seized drugs included EC$52 million worth of cocaine and EC$1.2 million worth of cannabis, marking a major victory in the ongoing Operation Clean Street. Acting Police Chief Lincoln Corbette underscored the message sent to criminals, declaring, ‘We will not back down. These dangerous substances will be tackled head-on, and the fruits of your illegal labor will be destroyed.’ The operation also saw the disposal of 348 antiquated firearms and smoke grenades, part of a broader strategy to enhance regional security. Minister for National Security Rayburn Blackmoore praised the efforts, highlighting the confiscation of EC$89 million worth of drugs over the past year and the implementation of CARICOM’s firearms roadmap to address illegal arms trafficking. The police force’s dedication to training and modernization was also commended, ensuring they remain equipped to handle contemporary challenges.

The 2025 Police Week in Dominica commenced with a solemn Church Service at La Plaine, marking the start of a week dedicated to honoring law enforcement and addressing pressing security challenges. Minister for National Security, Rayburn Blackmoore, emphasized the urgent need for collective action to combat gun violence, which he described as the most significant threat to the nation’s civility and security. Speaking at the official launch event on Monday, Blackmoore highlighted the government’s commitment to equipping the police with necessary resources, including the establishment of a specialized unit focused on investigating and apprehending suspects. He stressed that tackling gun violence requires a unified effort from all sectors of society, including families, schools, churches, and peer groups, to foster character development and instill core values. Finance Minister Dr. Irving McIntyre also addressed the gathering, acknowledging the challenges faced by police officers and expressing his personal respect and appreciation for their dedication to protecting the community. He urged officers to uphold integrity, fairness, and professionalism while enhancing partnerships with the community, emphasizing that effective policing relies on trust and cooperation.

The Government of Dominica has announced a significant change in its urban traffic management strategy, aiming to alleviate congestion in the capital city of Roseau. Starting January 1, 2026, the government will implement a new system that limits reserved parking areas and introduces fees for authorized reserved parking permits. This initiative is part of a broader effort to streamline traffic flow and reduce overcrowding in the city center. Current holders of authorized reserved parking permits are notified that all existing permits will be discontinued effective December 26, 2025. The public is encouraged to submit new applications for reserved parking permits to the Dominica Transport Board, c/o the Office of the Chief of Police, located on Bath Road in Roseau. Both individuals and businesses, including current permit holders, are urged to apply promptly to secure their parking permits under the new system. This policy shift reflects the government’s commitment to improving urban infrastructure and enhancing the quality of life for residents and visitors alike.

The Commonwealth of Dominica Police Force (CDPF) has announced a significant step in its ongoing efforts to combat crime and enforce the law. Today, a formal destruction of confiscated illegal drugs will take place at Morne Bruce, starting at 2:30 PM. This operation is being conducted under strict court directives and established safety protocols to ensure the secure and proper disposal of the substances. The CDPF has emphasized that access to the immediate area will be restricted during the procedure to maintain safety and security. In a public statement, the police force reiterated its commitment to protecting citizens, upholding the rule of law, and enhancing public safety. This initiative underscores the CDPF’s dedication to eradicating illegal drug activities and fostering a safer community.

Dominica joined the global community in celebrating International Men’s Day on November 19, 2025, under the theme ‘Celebrating Men and Boys.’ This annual event, observed worldwide, aims to acknowledge the positive impact men have on society and to highlight issues related to men’s health and well-being. The concept of International Men’s Day was first proposed in the 1960s but was officially established on November 19, 1999, by Dr. Jerome Tellucksing in Trinidad and Tobago. Dr. Tellucksing selected this date to honor his father’s birthday and to commemorate the unity displayed by the Trinidad and Tobago men’s football team in 1989. In Dominica, the Business Professional Women (BPW) organization marked the occasion by recognizing 19 men for their significant contributions to the community across various fields. An awards ceremony was held to honor these individuals, showcasing their dedication and achievements.

On November 13, 2025, the Rotary Club of Dominica hosted a prestigious ceremony at the Dominica State College (DSC) to induct new members into the college’s Interact Club. The event, held at DSC, showcased the enthusiasm of young individuals committed to Rotary’s values of service, leadership, and community engagement, according to a press release from the organization. During the ceremony, numerous DSC students took the Interact pledge, officially joining one of Rotary’s most vibrant youth leadership programs. The Rotary Club of Dominica expressed its enthusiasm for the deepening partnership with the college and commended the students for their dedication to the principle of ‘service above self.’

In addition to the induction, the Rotary Club of Dominica awarded three academic scholarships to deserving DSC students. These scholarships honored exceptional academic performance, active community involvement, and financial need. The recipients were celebrated for their resilience, integrity, and commitment to creating a positive impact both on campus and in their local communities. The scholarship winners included Jonty Vidal, who received the Reginald Gomez-Burke Memorial Scholarship; Carina Monica Harve, awarded the Victor Josse Scholarship; and Keturah Charles, the recipient of the John Archibald Scholarship.

The event highlighted the Rotary Club’s unwavering commitment to youth development in Dominica. By supporting young leaders through leadership initiatives and educational grants, the club aligns with its broader mission of fostering community growth. Programs like the Interact Club and the scholarship scheme represent strategic investments in the island’s future, empowering promising individuals to contribute meaningfully to national progress.

The Rotary Club of Dominica also expressed gratitude to the DSC administration for their continued collaboration. It extended congratulations to all new Interact Club members and scholarship recipients, expressing eagerness to witness their growth, community service, and contributions to a brighter future for Dominica.

The Fisheries Department under the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Blue and Green Economy has unveiled its comprehensive plans for World Fisheries Day 2025, observed globally on November 21. This year’s theme, “Small-Scale Fisheries: Building Blue Economies,” highlights the pivotal role of coastal communities and the urgent need for sustainable marine resource management. Honorable Jullan Defoe, Minister for Fisheries and the Blue Economy, will deliver the keynote address, broadcast live on Dominica Broadcasting Station (DBS). The event, scheduled for November 21 at the Roseau Fisheries Complex, will commence at 9:30 AM and feature a recognition ceremony, panel discussions, and award presentations for competitions such as the poster contest and biggest catch contest. The proceedings will be streamed live via Government Information Services (GIS) and Emo News, ensuring nationwide participation. A significant highlight of the ceremony will be the handover of fishing equipment and safety gear to local fisher groups by the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), as part of the BIOSPACE Project supported by the European Union. The panel discussion, moderated by Chief Fisheries Officer Mr. Derrick Theophille, will include experts Mr. Norman Norris, Mr. Harold Guiste, and Mr. Simon Walsh, addressing critical topics such as marine protected areas, small-scale fisheries, and coral conservation. Preceding the main event, students from Massacre, Roseau, and Goodwill Primary Schools will attend an educational Marine Awareness Session in Soufriere on November 19, where they will explore the Soufriere-Scott’s Head Marine Reserve (SSMR) and visit the Coral Rescue Centre. The Fisheries Division encourages public participation in the celebrations, urging citizens to support local fisheries and contribute to marine conservation efforts.