标签： Saint Lucia

The Royal Saint Lucia Police Force (RSLPF) is poised to enhance its K9 unit with the addition of a new police dog early next year. This development comes as the force continues its investigation into the untimely death of K9 Officer Tyson earlier this year. Police Commissioner Verne Garde confirmed during a press conference on October 30 that arrangements have been finalized with French authorities for the donation of the new K9. The official handover is scheduled for January 26, 2026. Preparations are already in progress to ensure a seamless integration, including specialized training for handlers and the establishment of formal operational protocols for canine management. Additionally, Commissioner Garde has requested formal transportation arrangements for the K9 through the Office of the Permanent Secretary, and a budget has been allocated for the construction of a new K9 facility at La Toc within the Police Training School. Meanwhile, the RSLPF remains committed to uncovering the cause of Tyson’s death. While initial toxicology reports ruled out rat bait poisoning, further comprehensive tests are being conducted to determine the exact cause. Assistant Commissioner of Police Dr. Mashama Sealy assured that a detailed report will be provided once the results are available. Despite this loss, the RSLPF’s K9 unit remains active, with K9 Voyu currently assisting in narcotics detection, search operations, and security duties.

The National Skills Development Centre (NSDC) is commemorating its 25th anniversary by reflecting on its transformative journey in upskilling Saint Lucians while setting the stage for an ambitious future. During a press briefing on October 28 at its Bisee headquarters, General Manager Dr. Selma St Prix unveiled plans to evolve NSDC into a collegiate institution, bridging secondary and tertiary education, particularly in technical and vocational fields. ‘We want to collegiate the NSDC,’ she stated, emphasizing the institution’s commitment to at-risk youth under its corporate social responsibility framework. The new structure will align with both technical and academic frameworks, enabling seamless progression for students from technical institutes to NSDC and onward to Sir Arthur Lewis Community College. NSDC, established at the turn of the century and officially launched in February 2021, has gained recognition locally and internationally despite financial challenges. The institution is actively fundraising to enhance its facilities and expand its programs. Recent initiatives include the launch of the Choiseul arts and crafts center and collaborations with international partners like Sandals University. NSDC offers a diverse range of courses, from culinary arts to information technology, and aims to attract more male students by introducing cutting-edge programs in mobile app development, virtual reality, gaming, and artificial intelligence. To mark its silver jubilee, NSDC hosted a church service, a games night, and will hold a fundraising show on November 8, auctioning off the skills of professional men to corporate sponsors. Proceeds will improve the accessibility of NSDC’s building. Over the past 25 years, NSDC has trained thousands in hospitality, tourism, construction, agriculture, and more, earning praise from employers for its transversal and life skills training. Dr. St Prix recently participated in a World Bank panel on improving young men’s educational outcomes, underscoring NSDC’s commitment to innovation and excellence.

Sir Calixte George, a distinguished agronomist, educator, and statesman from Saint Lucia, will be honored with the Doctor of Laws (LLD) (Honoris Causa) by the University of the West Indies (UWI) during its 2025 graduation ceremonies. This recognition celebrates his over six decades of public service, scientific research, and contributions to national development. Sir George, an alumnus of St. Mary’s College, earned his BSc in Agriculture from the University College of the West Indies and an MSc in Soil Science from the University of Reading, UK. His career includes pivotal roles such as Chief Research Officer and Acting Chief Agricultural Officer in Saint Lucia’s Ministry of Agriculture, and Executive Director of the Caribbean Agricultural Research and Development Institute (CARDI). He also transformed the banana industry as Managing Director of the Saint Lucia Banana Growers’ Association and played a key role in establishing the Windward Islands Banana Development and Exporting Company Limited (WIBDECO). Beyond agriculture, Sir George served in various governmental roles, including President of the Senate and Leader of Government Business, and was instrumental in liberalizing telecommunications in the OECS. Knighted as a Commander of the Order of Saint Lucia, he continues to contribute to public life through his writings and autobiography. The UWI’s recognition of Sir George and other honorees reflects its commitment to celebrating excellence and innovation across the Caribbean.

Yannick Leon, a port police officer employed by the Saint Lucia Air and Sea Ports Authority (SLASPA), has been formally charged and remanded in custody in connection with a major narcotics importation case. The drugs, valued at over $1.3 million, were discovered during a July 16, 2025, operation at Port Castries Seaport. Leon allegedly attempted to clear a fraudulent barrel shipment using forged documents, including a fake Letter of Authorisation. A subsequent search revealed 19 sealed metal cans containing 266 packs of cannabis resin (hashish), weighing approximately 26.8 kilogrammes. Leon faces multiple charges, including Importation of a Controlled Drug, Possession with Intent to Supply, Fraudulent Evasion, Forgery, and Uttering a False Document. Initially detained and later released pending further investigation, Leon was re-arrested on October 27 following extensive evidence gathering and forensic analysis. The case highlights the importance of inter-agency cooperation in disrupting organised criminal activities. Leon is set to remain in custody until December 9, 2025, as investigations continue.

A tragic incident unfolded in Garrand, Babonneau, Saint Lucia, on the evening of October 28, when 26-year-old British national Kenrelle O’Flaherty was fatally shot. The Royal Saint Lucia Police Force (RSLPF) reported that officers from the Babonneau Police Station were dispatched to the scene after receiving reports of a lifeless body along the roadway at approximately 10:50 p.m. Upon arrival, law enforcement discovered O’Flaherty with visible gunshot wounds. A medical practitioner later pronounced him dead at the scene. O’Flaherty, a resident of Anguilla, was reportedly visiting Saint Lucia at the time of the incident. The RSLPF has initiated a homicide investigation to uncover the circumstances surrounding his death. Authorities are urging anyone with relevant information to contact the Major Crimes Unit at 456-3754 or 456-3756, or to submit an anonymous tip via the Crime Hotline (555) or the RSLPF Crime Hotline App. The investigation remains ongoing as law enforcement seeks to bring clarity and justice to this devastating event.