标签： Suriname

In a recent development, law enforcement authorities have apprehended two 17-year-old suspects, identified as H.K., alias ‘Boeger,’ and G.T., alias ‘Papie,’ on charges of fraud and armed robbery. The duo, who were taken into custody, have reportedly confessed to their crimes, according to a statement released by the police Public Relations department.

On October 11, a distressing incident unfolded on the Corantijn River, situated between Apoera and Nieuw Nickerie, when a boat reportedly sank. According to initial reports, all eight individuals on board managed to escape unharmed and found refuge on a nearby small island. The Maritime Police of Nickerie and the Nieuw Nickerie Police were promptly notified following the distress call. Emergency services are now mobilizing to evacuate the stranded passengers from the island as swiftly as possible. The cause of the boat’s sinking remains unclear, prompting authorities to launch a thorough investigation into the incident. Fortunately, there have been no reports of injuries or missing persons at this stage.

In a pressing open letter to President Jennifer Simons, the village leaders of Apoera, Washabo, and Section have called for urgent measures following the partial collapse of the bridge over the Coppenamerivier near Witagron. The leaders emphasized the need for emergency provisions and long-term structural solutions to restore accessibility to West Suriname. They highlighted that despite repeated warnings, heavily loaded trucks, particularly from the timber industry, have continued to use the bridge, disregarding safety regulations. This negligence has left local businesses and workers without income once again. The letter also demanded clarity on potential compensation for affected entrepreneurs and criticized the unfair burden placed on communities that already benefit little from timber concessions. The leaders proposed two immediate solutions: deploying a pontoon at Witagron for safe transport of people and goods, and expediting the restoration of the road connection between Apoera and Nickerie, including the construction of a bridge over the Kaboerie Creek. They warned that without swift action, the region risks economic isolation, severely impacting supply chains and daily life. The letter concluded with a plea for the president’s prompt attention to ensure the region remains safe, accessible, and economically viable.

A heartbreaking incident unfolded on Thursday along Cocobiacoweg, where a 1-year-old child tragically lost their life. Authorities have detained a 15-year-old boy, a relative of the victim, on suspicion of involvement in the crime. The case has been transferred to the Kapitale Delicten (Capital Crimes) unit for further investigation, according to police reports. Preliminary findings reveal that the teenage suspect, who had been staying with his uncle and aunt for several days, reportedly became agitated and claimed a family member was “possessed.” In a state of confusion, he damaged parts of the home, assaulted his aunt with a hammer, and then proceeded to the kitchen, where he used a sharp object to inflict multiple stab wounds on the infant, who was seated in a high chair. Neighbors, including a nurse, rushed to assist after hearing screams. The door had to be forced open with the help of bystanders, as the home was locked. The suspect, still holding the weapon, was subdued and restrained by the men. Tragically, the child showed no signs of life, and a doctor officially confirmed the death. The victim’s body has been seized by the Public Prosecutor’s Office for an autopsy, while the injured woman has been hospitalized. The suspect, who remained incoherent and disoriented, was taken into police custody for questioning and has been detained pending further investigation.

During the celebration of Maroon Day on October 10, the traditional authority of the Marrons, represented by Captain Johannes Niavai, articulated three significant demands. These include renaming Stoelmanseiland, recognizing land rights for Marrons and Indigenous peoples, and establishing a Marron Cultural Center in Paramaribo. Niavai emphasized the need to rename Stoelmanseiland, currently named after Philip Samuel Stoelman, a commander of the Redi Musu who hunted escaped enslaved individuals. He suggested renaming it after Boni or Boston Bendt, the latter being a Jamaican deportee who joined the Marrons and played a pivotal role in the peace treaties of 1760 and 1762 between the colonial administration and the Marrons. Niavai also urged the government to acknowledge the land rights of Marrons and Indigenous peoples, highlighting the importance of unity in this struggle. Additionally, he advocated for a dedicated cultural center for the Marrons in Paramaribo, similar to Sana Budaya for the Javanese community and the Lalla Rookh building for the Hindustani community. The ceremony at the Square of October 10, 1760, included libations and wreath-laying to commemorate the first peace treaty between the Dutch colonial administration and the escaped enslaved individuals. President Jennifer Simons and Vice President Gregory Rusland unveiled a plaque inscribed with the text: ‘Peace concluded with the Marrons behind Auca Dorp Bongodoti between the colonial administration and the runaway slaves. National holiday. Freedom is a right.’

Ramdien Sardjoe, a towering figure in Surinamese politics, marked his 90th birthday with an intimate gathering at his home on Friday. The former Vice President, Speaker of the National Assembly, and ex-chairman of the Progressive Reform Party (VHP) is widely regarded as one of the nation’s most influential political leaders. Currently serving as the honorary chairman of the VHP, Sardjoe’s legacy continues to inspire generations. Mahinder Jogi, a current member of the National Assembly, praised Sardjoe as “one of the great sons of the country,” highlighting his lifelong dedication to Suriname and the VHP. Jogi emphasized Sardjoe’s wisdom, calm demeanor, and unwavering commitment to ethical leadership, which have left an indelible mark on the nation’s political landscape. Known for his bridge-building approach and advocacy for national unity, Sardjoe remains a revered figure among the VHP’s supporters and the broader Surinamese community. As he celebrates this significant milestone, tributes pour in from across the country, honoring his enduring contributions to Suriname’s development.