Carib Scope

标签： Trinidad and Tobago

特立尼达和多巴哥

  • ‘Green Machine’ edge way to boys’ national intercol semis

    ‘Green Machine’ edge way to boys’ national intercol semis

    In a fiercely contested national intercol quarterfinal match characterized by physical intensity and dramatic late-game ejections, St Augustine Secondary School advanced to the SSFL boys’ semifinals with a narrow 1-0 victory against Carapichaima East Secondary. The decisive moment occurred in the sixth minute when captain Giovanni Hospedales converted a penalty kick with clinical precision after a handball violation in the box.

    The match escalated dramatically in the 88th minute when a physical altercation between St Augustine’s Elijah Baptiste and Carapichaima’s Keilon Forde resulted in straight red cards for both players. The incident began when Baptiste’s attempted control of a long ball resulted in accidental contact with Forde, who responded with a retaliatory strike to the head. The confrontation required intervention from both teams and technical staff to restore order.

    Despite being reduced to ten men, St Augustine maintained their defensive composure during extended stoppage time. Goalkeeper Tyrese Henry faced a critical moment when his clearance attempt rebounded off an attacker, creating a dangerous scramble in the penalty area that was ultimately cleared by his defenders.

    Carapichaima East had earlier appealed for a penalty seconds after halftime when Damarion Boswell went down under pressure from Raeland Dillon, but referee Jovann Peters dismissed the claims. St Augustine created several additional scoring opportunities, with Mikel Murray missing a close-range chance in the 54th minute and Hospedales seeing a long-range effort saved by Carapichaima goalkeeper Jayden Meharris, who delivered multiple impressive stops throughout the match.

    The victory sets up a semifinal confrontation between St Augustine and south zone champions Naparima College, who demonstrated their offensive prowess with a 4-0 win in their zonal final. The upcoming match will determine which team advances to the national championship final.

  • First Citizens launches Google Pay

    First Citizens launches Google Pay

    In a landmark move for Caribbean banking, First Citizens Group has officially launched Google Pay services in Trinidad and Tobago, marking the first deployment of Google’s mobile payment platform in the nation. The December 3 announcement positions the financial institution at the forefront of digital payment innovation in the region.

    Group CEO Jason Julien characterized the launch as a strategic commitment to advancing the country’s digital transformation ecosystem. “As a forward-thinking financial institution, First Citizens is proud to deliver Google Pay to Trinidad and Tobago,” Julien stated. “This initiative elevates payment methodologies through smarter, safer and frictionless digital experiences that align with our customers’ evolving lifestyles.”

    The newly implemented service enables customers to create digital wallets linked directly to their First Citizens credit or prepaid cards, facilitating secure contactless payments both in physical stores and online marketplaces. The bank emphasized the dual benefits for consumers and merchants, noting that retailers can expect accelerated checkout processes, diminished fraud risks, and enhanced digital-first customer experiences.

    From a technical perspective, Google Pay operates through near-field communication (NFC) technology, allowing users to complete transactions by simply holding their enabled devices near contactless terminals. The system also supports online checkout integration and peer-to-peer transactions without requiring balance transfers, maintaining direct linkage to existing card products.

    Security architecture employs tokenization technology that generates virtual account numbers for each transaction instead of transmitting actual card details. Additional protection layers include device PIN requirements, passcode verification, and biometric authentication through fingerprint or facial recognition systems.

    The introduction signals significant behavioral shifts from traditional card-based payments toward phone-enabled transactions, reflecting broader digital transformation trends in the Caribbean banking sector. First Citizens’ deployment establishes a new benchmark for digital payment infrastructure in the region while potentially influencing neighboring markets’ adoption timelines.

  • Signal Hill reawaken Tobago’s football power

    Signal Hill reawaken Tobago’s football power

    In a dramatic reshaping of Trinidad and Tobago’s football landscape, Signal Hill Secondary School has emerged as a formidable force that has permanently altered the competitive dynamics of the Secondary Schools Football League (SSFL). Under the guidance of head coach Downie Marcelle, the Tobago-based team came within touching distance of claiming the 2025 premiership title, ultimately falling 2-1 to traditional giants Naparima College in their November 27 showdown.

    The significance of Signal Hill’s campaign extends far beyond their final-match disappointment. Their seismic victory over Presentation College on October 11 at Manny Ramjohn Stadium served as a watershed moment that compelled Trinidad coaches to scout the Tobago outfit with unprecedented seriousness. Naparima’s coach Angus Eve resorted to intensive video analysis to decode Signal Hill’s high-intensity, aggressive style—a testament to their disruptive impact on the established football order.

    Marcelle’s philosophy centers on structured gameplay rather than raw athleticism, implementing clear pressing triggers, purposeful transitions, and a continuity system fed by his Ball Blasters Youth Academy—recent national U-17 club champions. This methodology has produced a squad where most starters share championship pedigree and tactical cohesion.

    The psychological dimension of their campaign proved equally crucial. Marcelle’s innovative approach included team-building exercises at the beach and cricket matches to maintain rhythm during postponed fixtures. The team adopted Jamaican reggae artist Popcaan’s ‘Firm and Strong’ as their anthem following the Presentation victory, creating an emotional soundtrack that fueled their conviction throughout the season.

    While acknowledging the legendary legacy of former coach Bertille St Clair—whose teams built Signal Hill’s reputation through bullish brilliance and produced talents like current national team coach Dwight Yorke—Marcelle recognizes that tangible silverware remains the final hurdle to full restoration of the fear factor associated with Signal Hill’s glory days.

    With the Tobago Zone Intercol finals against Speyside Secondary approaching at Dwight Yorke Stadium, and their sights firmly set on making history as Tobago’s first SSFL premiership champions in 2026, Signal Hill has delivered an unambiguous message to Trinidad’s football establishment: the rising tide of Tobago football represents a permanent shift in the balance of power.

  • PM, UNC mourns as Daphne Phillips dies

    PM, UNC mourns as Daphne Phillips dies

    The United National Congress (UNC) and Trinidad and Tobago’s political community are mourning the passing of Dr. Daphne Phillips, a foundational member and former government minister who died on December 3. Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, who served alongside Phillips in former Prime Minister Basdeo Panday’s cabinet from 1995-2001, issued an emotional tribute through the UNC, honoring her late colleague’s multifaceted legacy.

    Dr. Phillips distinguished herself as Minister of Community Development, Culture and Women’s Affairs during her tenure, simultaneously holding the portfolio of Minister in the Ministry of Community Empowerment, Sport and Consumer Affairs. Her career spanned multiple domains including academia, nursing, and policymaking, earning her recognition as both a mentor and patriot.

    Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar emphasized Phillips’ unwavering commitment to national development, noting her pioneering work in community empowerment, women’s advancement, family strengthening, and cultural enrichment. Phillips’ political journey began with the People’s Popular Movement (PPM) under Michael Als before merging with the newly formed UNC in 1991, where she remained a steadfast supporter throughout the party’s evolution.

    This loss represents the second recent tragedy for the UNC following the November murder of councilor Romona Victor, who was killed by her common-law husband in a murder-suicide incident. The consecutive losses have created a somber period for the political organization as it remembers two significant contributors to its mission and values.

  • Nicholas Paul golden in men’s sprint at Bolivarian Games

    Nicholas Paul golden in men’s sprint at Bolivarian Games

    Trinidad and Tobago’s cycling team has made an impressive mark at the Bolivarian Games in Ayacucho-Lima, Peru, with standout performances from Nicholas Paul and Makaira Wallace. On December 2, Paul secured the country’s first gold medal by dominating the men’s sprint event at the Costa Verde Pan-American Complex in Lima.

    Paul faced Colombian competitor Kevin Quintero in the final, defeating him in consecutive rides to claim victory. This triumph followed his exceptional qualifying round on December 1, where he posted the fastest time of 9.686 seconds. Colombian cyclists Cristian Ortega and Quintero recorded the next best times of 9.955 and 9.997 seconds respectively.

    Paul’s path to gold included quarterfinal success against Chile’s Robert Castillo and a semifinal advancement due to the disqualification of Venezuela’s Alberto Torres. Quintero also progressed by overcoming his compatriot Ortega.

    Meanwhile, rising star Makaira Wallace contributed to Trinidad and Tobago’s medal count with a bronze in the women’s keirin on December 1. Wallace finished second behind Colombia’s Juliana Rendon in her classification ride to reach the final, where she claimed third place behind gold medalist Stefany Cuadrado of Colombia and Venezuela’s Jalymar Rodriguez.

    Wallace continued her strong form on December 2, qualifying third fastest in the women’s sprint with a time of 11.273 seconds. Colombian cyclists Cuadrado and Luna Alvarez led qualifying with times of 10.722 and 11.238 seconds respectively. Wallace then defeated Venezuela’s Carleany Martinez in the quarterfinals to advance to the semifinals.

  • PNM mourns death of Garvin Simonette

    PNM mourns death of Garvin Simonette

    Trinidad and Tobago’s political landscape is mourning the loss of former temporary senator Garvin Simonette, who passed away on December 2 following health-related complications. The prominent legal professional and political figure came from a distinguished lineage of public service, being the son of the People’s National Movement’s inaugural general secretary Nicholas Simonette and Hummingbird Medal Silver recipient Irma “Mother Ipyana” Simonette.

    Simonette’s political journey began with his initial appointment as temporary government senator in 2016, followed by another term in 2018. His parliamentary service extended until August 2019, during which he established himself as a meticulous researcher known for delivering scholarly discourses during legislative debates.

    The former senator’s career encountered significant turbulence in August 2019 when revelations emerged about a prior drunk driving charge in the United States. This disclosure prompted his immediate resignation from the Senate and subsequent deselection as public administration minister-designate, a position he was scheduled to assume following the cancellation of his swearing-in ceremony.

    Beyond politics, Simonette built an impressive legal career specializing in company, commercial, and taxation law. His professional expertise gained recognition not only within Trinidad and Tobago but across regional and international legal circles, where he was respected for his technical proficiency and professional conduct.

    The PNM party memorialized Simonette as an individual deeply committed to national development, emphasizing his family’s legacy of social activism and his personal dedication to serving as an effective representative for his constituents.

  • TPP’s Williams-Orr: Radar is ‘Christmas gift’ for Crown Point

    TPP’s Williams-Orr: Radar is ‘Christmas gift’ for Crown Point

    A controversial US military-grade radar installation at Tobago’s ANR Robinson International Airport has ignited both concern and unexpected celebration within the Caribbean community. Certica Williams-Orr, Tobago People’s Party member and former THA councillor, characterized the advanced surveillance system as an early “Christmas gift” for Crown Point residents during a December 2nd political gathering in Bon Accord.

    The radar, identified as resembling Northrop Grumman’s AN/TPS-80 ground/air task-oriented radar (G/ATOR), represents cutting-edge military technology currently deployed by both the US Marine Corps and Air Force. According to manufacturer specifications, the system provides comprehensive 360-degree surveillance capabilities with advanced threat detection for cruise missiles, hypersonic weapons, ballistic missiles, and both manned and unmanned aircraft.

    The installation process revealed significant transparency issues within Tobago’s governance structure. Chief Secretary Farley Augustine acknowledged learning about the radar deployment through media and WhatsApp reports rather than official channels, while Prime Minister Keith Rowley initially treated the matter as classified national security information.

    Defence Minister Wayne Sturge addressed growing public apprehension during a November 29th media conference, emphasizing the system’s domestic security applications. He clarified that the primary function involves identifying illegal flights and drone operations associated with drug trafficking networks targeting the island.

    Augustine subsequently received assurances from central government authorities that the radar would not be utilized by US forces for offensive operations against any nation. The technological deployment occurs amid ongoing production to satisfy both US military requirements and select international customers, positioning Tobago at the forefront of regional security infrastructure.

    Williams-Orr’s festive metaphor during her public address highlighted the unusual nature of the security upgrade: “Brothers and sisters, Bon Accord/Crown Point, you have to show off yuh self. You have been so much in the news. Last week, you get your gift already for Christmas. You have a whole radar in the air.”

  • Found dead in bed – Gasparillo woman’s throat slit

    Found dead in bed – Gasparillo woman’s throat slit

    The peaceful community of Gasparillo has been shattered by the brutal murder of 74-year-old Sookhdaya “Chandra” Jury, who was discovered with her throat slit in her San Fabien Road home on December 1. The horrific finding was made by her daughter after repeated calls went unanswered, despite the two having communicated via video chat less than an hour earlier.

    The tragedy strikes just days before the sixth anniversary of her husband Lesley Hosein’s murder, who was killed by bandits in Sangre Grande in 2017. Jury’s brother, 80-year-old Mohan, expressed profound shock, revealing they had spent time together the previous night as she prepared for a Friday trip to visit her daughter in Canada.

    Police investigations revealed no signs of forced entry or robbery, leading relatives and residents to suspect the perpetrator was someone known to the victim. Adding to the mystery, Jury’s cellphone was later recovered in the washroom of a local Gasparillo bar.

    The murder has sent shockwaves through the close-knit community where Jury was described as a quiet, warm, and loving person who frequently welcomed villagers into her home. Neighbor Amir Sahadath, who had been socializing with Jury hours before the murder, expressed both grief and fear, noting the killer remains at large.

    This incident marks the latest in a disturbing pattern of violence against elderly citizens in Trinidad. Earlier this year, 77-year-old Sam Seegulam was found dead in Longdenville in October, 64-year-old Fanglin Zuo was murdered in Tobago in September, and married couple Kumari and Nasheed Baksh (60 and 67 respectively) were found dead in their Cumuto home in January.

  • PNM senator: Stand-your-ground law won’t protect people

    PNM senator: Stand-your-ground law won’t protect people

    In a contentious Senate session on December 2, 2025, Temporary Opposition Senator Sanjiv Boodhu delivered a comprehensive critique of the proposed Home Invasion (Self-Defence and Defence of Property) Bill, challenging its fundamental effectiveness in addressing criminal activities. Speaking during parliamentary debates, Boodhu—who also serves as a deputy political leader for the PNM—directly contradicted government assertions that the legislation would empower citizens to protect themselves during home invasions.

    Boodhu systematically dismantled claims made by Government Senator Dr. Natalie Chaitan-Maharaj, arguing that the bill’s purported benefits would only apply to the limited segment of the population with legal access to firearms. ‘This legislation, despite its accompanying messaging, provides no mechanism for law-abiding citizens to legally obtain firearms,’ he emphasized, highlighting what he characterized as a critical flaw in the proposed law.

    The opposition senator further challenged the government’s foundational premise that existing laws are insufficient to address home invasion crimes, noting that Attorney General John Jeremie, SC, had previously referenced relevant legislation that has been operational since 1971. ‘I cannot comprehend what insufficiency or ambiguity exists in a 54-year-old legal framework,’ Boodhu stated, adding that he was unaware of any instances where law enforcement encountered difficulties in charging individuals for home break-ins.

    Boodhu presented a detailed analysis of the home invasion process, identifying multiple stages including victim surveillance, execution of the crime, escape evasion, and monetization of stolen goods. He acknowledged the severity of crimes committed during such invasions, including ‘violent assaults, robberies, larceny, and sexual offenses,’ but maintained that the proposed legislation fails to address any of these criminal elements.

    The senator criticized the bill for lacking provisions to enhance police capabilities in intelligence gathering, communication interception, or specialized unit formation. ‘It provides no assistance to law enforcement in intercepting criminal communications during any stage of home invasions,’ he noted. Additionally, Boodhu warned that the legislation would potentially exacerbate case backlogs within the criminal justice system rather than alleviating them, with his sole positive acknowledgment being the previous administration’s elimination of preliminary inquiries to reduce judicial congestion.

  • PM to PNM: Tell Trinidad and Tobago, how long was radar compromised?

    PM to PNM: Tell Trinidad and Tobago, how long was radar compromised?

    Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar has launched a forceful counteroffensive against opposition criticism regarding the installation of U.S. radar systems, accusing the former People’s National Movement (PNM) government of deliberate security negligence that enabled criminal operations for over a decade.

    In a December 3rd statement, the Prime Minister reframed the national security debate by challenging the PNM to disclose how long they had been aware of Trinidad and Tobago’s compromised radar capabilities. Rather than addressing opposition concerns about sovereignty, Persad-Bissessar shifted focus to what she characterized as systemic security failures during PNM’s tenure.

    The newly operational radar at ANR Robinson International Airport in Tobago represents a significant upgrade in surveillance capabilities, specifically targeting narcotics trafficking, arms smuggling, and unauthorized migrant movements from Venezuela. Another complementary system is scheduled for installation in Trinidad, creating comprehensive coverage previously unavailable to national security forces.

    Persad-Bissessar presented a damning chronology of PNM’s governance, linking the party’s period in power to what she described as ‘horrendous’ crime statistics: over 5,000 murders, widespread sexual violence, and rampant violent robberies. She attributed these security failures to deliberate tolerance of drug cartels and sanction-evading Venezuelan criminal networks.

    The Prime Minister’s challenge includes four specific demands: disclosure of when PNM first learned of radar system vulnerabilities, publication of names of businessmen with dual affiliations to PNM and drug cartels, explanation of why previous radars failed to detect illegal ship-to-ship oil transfers, and clarification whether current anti-American rhetoric stems from criminal pressure rather than national interest concerns.

    This confrontation occurs amid escalating tensions between the United States and Venezuela, with Washington accusing Caracas of narco-terrorism activities. The Prime Minister characterized PNM’s questions about the new radar as a ‘desperate’ attempt to obtain sensitive security information that could benefit criminal financiers associated with the opposition.