Carib Scope

标签： Saint Kitts and Nevis

圣基茨和尼维斯

  • Police in St Kitts issue warning after reports about women being targeted at social events

    Police in St Kitts issue warning after reports about women being targeted at social events

    Authorities in St. Kitts have initiated a formal investigation following multiple reports of women being drugged at bars and social events, resulting in subsequent sexual assaults. The Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force confirmed through an official statement that their Special Victims Unit is actively pursuing these cases with utmost seriousness.

    Law enforcement officials emphasized their commitment to identifying perpetrators while ensuring victims receive comprehensive support and access to justice. The police force issued detailed safety guidelines urging public vigilance, particularly for women attending social gatherings. These recommendations include avoiding acceptance of drinks from strangers, maintaining visual contact with beverages during preparation, and never leaving drinks unattended.

    Additional protective measures suggest attending events with trusted companions, maintaining group cohesion, and being wary of individuals who attempt isolation or pressure increased alcohol consumption. The advisory specifically notes that anyone experiencing sudden disorientation, unusual intoxication, or suspected drink tampering should immediately seek assistance from friends, event staff, or security personnel before contacting police.

    While no arrests have been made thus far, investigators encourage potential victims or individuals with relevant information to come forward through official channels including local police stations, confidential hotlines, or direct communication with the Special Victims Unit. All reports will be handled with strict confidentiality and sensitivity according to official assurances.

    The police statement concluded by emphasizing that community cooperation remains essential for preventing these offenses and ensuring public safety throughout St. Kitts and Nevis.

  • End of Year Message from Dr Carla Barnett, Secretary-General of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM)

    End of Year Message from Dr Carla Barnett, Secretary-General of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM)

    In her annual year-end message, Dr. Carla Barnett, Secretary-General of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), delivered a comprehensive assessment of the region’s tumultuous year while highlighting significant institutional progress. The address, disseminated from the CARICOM Secretariat in Georgetown, Guyana on December 22, 2025, acknowledged the devastating impacts of Hurricane Melissa which followed closely on the heels of 2024’s Hurricane Beryl, causing substantial destruction in Jamaica and Haiti. Dr. Barnett emphasized that recovery efforts would demand considerable resources and extended timeframes given the scale of devastation.

    Beyond natural disasters, the Secretary-General noted that unprecedented geopolitical tensions had threatened regional export earnings, peace, and sovereignty throughout the year. Despite these compounded challenges, Dr. Barnett highlighted the Community’s characteristic resilience, with member states collaborating urgently to address critical post-hurricane needs and implementing creative solutions to safeguard economic stability and livelihoods.

    Significant institutional advancements were achieved in regional integration, particularly through the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME) framework. Barbados, Belize, Dominica, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines committed to full free movement of persons among themselves, establishing foundations for enhanced economic activity and people-to-people connections. The development of a comprehensive CARICOM Industrial Policy and Strategy progressed substantially, aiming to strengthen productive capacity, innovation, and economic diversification across member states.

    Agricultural initiatives under the 25 by 2025+ strategy demonstrated production growth despite climate-related setbacks, while cultural celebrations during CARIFESTA XV in Barbados showcased regional artistic talent. Democratic processes remained robust with seven Member States and five Associate Members conducting peaceful general elections throughout the year.

    The Secretary-General emphasized ongoing commitments to human capital development, particularly focusing on youth and women’s participation in economic activities and decision-making processes. Future priorities include examining Artificial Intelligence implications for regional business practices, expanding physical and digital connectivity, strengthening disaster resilience, and enhancing food and nutrition security programs.

    Dr. Barnett expressed gratitude to CARICOM citizens, Secretariat staff, international partners, civil society organizations, private sector representatives, labor movements, and the Caribbean diaspora for their sustained advocacy and engagement. She concluded with confidence in the Community’s ability to address forthcoming challenges, referencing strategic outcomes from Heads of Government meetings in Barbados and Jamaica covering trade, security, foreign policy coordination, reparations, governance, human development, and climate change initiatives.

  • Probe underway into Central College Street blaze

    Probe underway into Central College Street blaze

    BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – Fire and Rescue Services personnel are receiving widespread praise for their rapid intervention that contained a significant fire incident on College Street Ghaut Sunday evening, December 22, preventing what could have become a catastrophic neighborhood event.

    The emergency response was activated shortly after 9:00 p.m. when reports alerted authorities to flames erupting in the area. Multiple units from the St. Kitts and Nevis Fire and Rescue Services were immediately deployed to the location.

    Investigative reporting confirms the destroyed property was an unoccupied wooden structure that previously served as the professional offices of the deceased Dr. Claxton. The derelict building had been abandoned for some time prior to the incident.

    Fire suppression teams executed a coordinated attack on the blaze, utilizing water and chemical retardants to combat the advancing flames. Reinforcement was provided by an auxiliary fire tender from Robert L. Bradshaw International Airport, enhancing operational capacity at the scene.

    Despite confronting difficult firefighting conditions, crews successfully subdued the conflagration by approximately 10:00 p.m. Bystanders documented the intense firefighting efforts through mobile video recordings during the operation. Official reports confirm no casualties or injuries resulted from the incident.

    While the abandoned structure suffered total destruction, the strategic containment efforts successfully protected adjacent properties from damage. Authorities have launched a formal investigation to establish the precise origin and circumstances that ignited the fire.

  • Nevis Companies Registry Strengthens Digital Service Delivery Through Online Companies Registry System Training

    Nevis Companies Registry Strengthens Digital Service Delivery Through Online Companies Registry System Training

    The Nevis Companies Registry has taken a significant step toward digital modernization by completing an intensive training program for its Online Companies Registry System (OCRS) E-Services Portal. The week-long instructional sessions, conducted from December 15-19, 2025, equipped both internal staff and external stakeholders with advanced digital capabilities for streamlined corporate governance.

    Under the leadership of Registrar of Companies and Legal Counsel Mr. Dé-Jono Liburd, the training adopted a phased approach to ensure targeted skill development. Initial sessions focused on internal registry personnel, followed by engagements with key government agencies including Inland Revenue, Social Security, and Financial Services departments. The final phase extended training to private sector professionals including legal firms and financial service providers operating throughout Nevis.

    The comprehensive curriculum provided hands-on experience with the OCRS platform’s core functionalities, covering user registration protocols, company name reservation procedures, business registration processes, and post-registration management tasks such as amendments, annual returns, and digital payment processing.

    The initiative received regional support through CARICOM representative Mr. Jeshaun Montoute and technical expertise from Mr. Alexandr Iacovlev, Director of UK-based Caseflow Systems Ltd. Montoute emphasized the program’s alignment with CARICOM’s broader objective of enhancing regional business efficiency through digital transformation. “This system represents a strategic shift from manual processing to secure digital platforms, enabling faster, more transparent services while supporting the free movement of businesses within the CARICOM region,” he stated.

    Mr. Liburd confirmed plans for ongoing virtual training through CARICOM’s digital learning platform to ensure sustained adoption and optimization of the OCRS system. The Nevis Island Administration’s commitment to technological advancement positions the jurisdiction as an emerging leader in digital corporate services within the Caribbean community.

  • Premier Brantley Lobbies Federal Government for Reduction in the VAT, Customs Duty Rates

    Premier Brantley Lobbies Federal Government for Reduction in the VAT, Customs Duty Rates

    In a significant parliamentary address, Nevis Premier Honourable Mark Brantley has issued a compelling call for comprehensive tax reforms within the Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis. Delivering his official response to the 2026 Federal Budget in the National Assembly, the Premier and Federal Opposition Leader urged the Drew administration to reconsider current taxation structures, particularly targeting Value Added Tax (VAT) and Customs Duty regimes.

    Premier Brantley’s proposal centers on reducing the current 17% VAT rate, suggesting a gradual reduction to potentially 10% over time. His recommendations are grounded in observable economic patterns, noting that temporary VAT relief periods consistently generate substantial consumer activity and business engagement. The Premier referenced Nevis’s own experience with a six-month VAT reduction period, during which the island maintained stable tax receipts while experiencing increased consumption levels—indicating that lower rates might actually stimulate broader economic activity without diminishing government revenue.

    Beyond VAT reform, Brantley advocated for restructuring seasonal duty-free concessions into a more equitable year-round system. He highlighted regional models where minimum threshold exemptions operate continuously, providing consistent relief to lower-income households rather than creating seasonal consumption spikes. The Premier emphasized that such innovative fiscal policies could drive sustainable economic development and growth across the federation.

    While acknowledging his non-economist background, Brantley expressed confidence in local expertise, specifically mentioning the potential for collaborative analysis between the Ministry of Finance and the Chamber of Industry and Commerce to develop viable implementation strategies. His address framed tax reform as both an economic necessity and an opportunity to enhance the federation’s regional competitiveness, given that current VAT rates rank among the highest in the Caribbean region.

  • Warner Park to celebrate 100 years of sporting excellence

    Warner Park to celebrate 100 years of sporting excellence

    The historic Warner Park Sporting Complex in Basseterre, Saint Kitts, is poised to commemorate a remarkable century of sporting heritage in April 2026. This iconic venue, renowned for hosting premier cricket matches, football games, tennis tournaments, and netball competitions alongside world-class music concerts and cultural events, will celebrate its 100th anniversary with a series of special events scheduled throughout the coming year.

    During recent parliamentary budget deliberations, Honourable Samal Duggins, Member of Parliament for Saint Christopher Four, unveiled ambitious plans for both the centenary celebrations and a comprehensive redevelopment of the facility. The minister confirmed that a detailed schedule of commemorative activities will be announced by the end of January 2026, marking the beginning of a year-long celebration of the stadium’s legacy.

    The government’s vision extends beyond mere celebration, encompassing a complete transformation of the multipurpose sporting complex. Minister Duggins announced plans for a state-of-the-art indoor basketball facility, upgraded football stadium, modern indoor netball and volleyball complex, enhanced tennis facilities, and a revitalized cricket stadium. This redevelopment initiative is grounded in the recognition that sports serve as a powerful catalyst for social transformation, youth empowerment, and national pride.

    The Warner Park redevelopment project represents a strategic investment in the nation’s sporting infrastructure, aiming to position Saint Kitts as a premier destination for international sporting events while fostering economic growth and global engagement. The century-old stadium has witnessed countless moments of athletic triumph and national celebration, and these enhancements will ensure its continued significance for generations to come.

  • PM Browne rebuts Trinidad leader’s comments, defends CARICOM record

    PM Browne rebuts Trinidad leader’s comments, defends CARICOM record

    A diplomatic rift has emerged between Caribbean leaders following critical remarks by Trinidad and Tobago’s Prime Minister about regional approaches to US relations. Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar of Trinidad and Tobago suggested during a public address that US travel restrictions imposed on Antigua and Barbuda and Dominica resulted from their criticism of the Trump administration. Her comments implied that Caribbean nations should exercise caution when engaging with Washington, describing the United States as her country’s largest trading partner.

    In a robust rebuttal, Antigua and Barbuda Prime Minister Gaston Browne issued a detailed response defending both his nation’s diplomatic record and the value of CARICOM cooperation. Browne emphasized that his government has never questioned any member state’s sovereign right to manage bilateral relationships according to their national interests. However, he asserted that no CARICOM member should challenge another’s legitimate engagement with international partners on matters affecting its citizens.

    The Antiguan leader presented substantial economic data to counter claims of CARICOM’s unreliability as a partner. He revealed that Trinidad and Tobago generated over $1.1 billion in foreign exchange from trade with CARICOM nations in 2024 alone, making the regional bloc its second-largest export market after the United States. Browne highlighted that Trinidad maintains the only consistently positive trade balance within CARICOM since the organization’s establishment in 1973.

    Browne further contextualized this economic relationship by noting the regional sacrifices made through the Common External Tariff system, which protects Trinidad’s manufacturing sector. In 2023, CARICOM members collectively forgone approximately $142.7 million in customs revenue by sourcing goods from Trinidad under this protection mechanism—a financial sacrifice borne by Caribbean consumers in the spirit of regional solidarity.

    The Prime Minister also addressed security cooperation, noting Trinidad’s benefit from CARICOM-led initiatives against organized crime through intelligence sharing and coordinated law enforcement. Browne firmly rejected characterizations of Antigua and Barbuda as anti-American, detailing his nation’s record of collaboration with the US on security, immigration, and multilateral engagement through international organizations.

    This exchange highlights ongoing tensions within CARICOM regarding foreign policy approaches, particularly toward Venezuela where Persad-Bissessar has supported US hardline positions and naval actions in the Caribbean—positions that diverge from other member states. Browne concluded by asserting that maintaining respectful relations with global partners and advocating for regional unity remain complementary rather than contradictory objectives.

  • St. Kitts and Nevis joins CAF, opening door to new development financing

    St. Kitts and Nevis joins CAF, opening door to new development financing

    In a significant move for regional economic development, the Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis has officially become a shareholder member of the Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean (CAF). This strategic accession, confirmed during CAF’s Board of Directors meeting in Panama City, positions the dual-island nation alongside Haiti as the latest Caribbean members to join the financial institution.

    The incorporation enables St. Kitts and Nevis to access tailored development financing solutions specifically designed for small island developing states facing climate vulnerabilities. The membership provides the Federation with streamlined access to technical assistance programs, knowledge-sharing initiatives, and flexible funding mechanisms aligned with national development priorities.

    CAF Executive President Sergio Díaz-Granados emphasized the institution’s regional commitment, stating: ‘Saint Kitts and Nevis and Haiti are joining a homegrown development bank established by the region for the region. CAF serves as more than a financial institution—it functions as a bridge enhancing connectivity between Latin America and the Caribbean.’

    The Panama City meeting proved substantially productive, with CAF approving approximately $3.175 billion in new regional operations. These funds will support critical infrastructure projects including electricity grid modernization, water security enhancements, sustainable transportation systems, and financial assistance programs for vulnerable communities and small-to-medium enterprises.

    This expansion triples CAF’s Caribbean shareholder representation compared to 2023 levels, following recent incorporations of Saint Lucia, The Bahamas, Antigua and Barbuda, and Grenada. The institution now counts six Caribbean shareholder nations, with additional countries progressing through membership procedures.

    Concurrently, Barbados achieved compliance requirements to transition to full membership status, joining Trinidad and Tobago as the second CARICOM nation to attain complete CAF membership. This development signals strengthening regional integration and enhanced financial cooperation throughout the Caribbean basin.

  • Parson’s Ground resident charged after social media video threat sparks police investigation

    Parson’s Ground resident charged after social media video threat sparks police investigation

    BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – Law enforcement authorities in St. Kitts and Nevis have brought multiple criminal charges against Anamba Wattley, a resident of Parson’s Ground, following a comprehensive investigation into a threatening video disseminated through social media platforms. The Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force (RSCNPF) confirmed the development after the video triggered significant public alarm.

    The police investigation, conducted between December 17 and 20, 2025, culminated in Wattley’s arrest on December 18 in the Rosemary Lane area of Basseterre. Initial charges were filed for Unlawful Communication related to the threatening content. Concurrently, police executed a search warrant at Wattley’s Parson’s Ground residence, resulting in the seizure of evidence and subsequent additional charges for Possession of Cannabis with Intent to Supply.

    On December 20, Wattley was formally charged with Incitement specifically tied to the December 17 video publication that had circulated widely and drawn police scrutiny. In an official statement released Sunday, the RSCNPF detailed that the individual responsible for creating and distributing the video containing threats against civilians was identified through what they described as ‘prompt and targeted investigative work.’

    The police force utilized the occasion to reassure both residents and international visitors that the twin-island nation remains a secure destination. Authorities emphasized that isolated incidents of unlawful behavior would not compromise public safety, particularly during the ongoing Christmas and Carnival celebrations. The statement further underscored the department’s strict policy regarding threats of violence, whether communicated through physical actions, verbal statements, or digital platforms.

    ‘When language transcends mere expression to actively encourage or instruct criminal behavior, it becomes a law enforcement matter,’ the RSCNPF statement clarified. ‘Legal intervention does not require actual harm to occur before authorities take action. Social media platforms do not provide immunity from accountability, and individuals who attempt to incite violence will encounter rapid legal repercussions.’

    The incident has demonstrated the police force’s operational readiness and investigative capabilities, with officials noting continued collaboration with community partners, event organizers, and stakeholders to ensure seasonal safety for all.

  • Corsairs against Our America

    Corsairs against Our America

    The Bolivarian Alliance for the Peoples of Our America (ALBA-TCP) has issued a forceful condemnation of United States military operations in the Caribbean, characterizing the seizure of a Venezuelan oil tanker as an act of “piracy” that threatens regional stability.

    Member states including Venezuela, Cuba, Nicaragua, Dominica, Antigua and Barbuda, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Grenada, and Saint Lucia jointly denounced what they described as the unlawful hijacking of a second vessel carrying Venezuelan petroleum. According to the alliance, US military personnel acting as “privateers” intercepted the ship in international waters and illegally detained its crew.

    The organization asserts this operation violates multiple international legal frameworks, including the United Nations Charter, fundamental principles of international law, and the Convention for the Suppression of Unlawful Acts against the Safety of Maritime Navigation. ALBA-TCP framed the incident as part of a broader pattern of neocolonial domination that seeks to impose an anarchic international order where force overrules established norms.

    The alliance expressed full solidarity with Venezuela’s government and pledged support for diplomatic and legal actions through multilateral bodies. They demanded immediate cessation of these practices and accountability under international law. The declaration emphasized that such actions represent not merely an attack on Venezuela but a direct aggression against all nations, undermining the foundational principles of peaceful international coexistence.