A United States Air Force (USAF) C17 aircraft touched down at Piarco International Airport on October 9, sparking widespread speculation on social media. Many speculated that the arrival was linked to ongoing US military operations in the Caribbean Sea, particularly against Venezuelan narco-terrorists. However, the US Embassy in Port of Spain clarified that the aircraft was there to repatriate the remains of a US embassy official who had passed away on October 2. The embassy expressed gratitude for the support of the Trinidad and Tobago government and its people during this challenging time. Despite the official explanation, social media users remained skeptical, with some claiming the US military was using Trinidad as a staging ground for actions against Venezuela. The aircraft departed Piarco later that afternoon after completing its mission.
标签： Trinidad and Tobago
特立尼达和多巴哥
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Cops raid illegal quarry in Manuel Congo – 19 arrested
In a significant crackdown on illegal quarrying activities, Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) conducted a high-profile raid in Manuel Congo, Guanapo, resulting in the arrest of 19 individuals. The operation, which took place on the morning of October 9, was the culmination of a year-long investigation into a multi-million-dollar illegal quarrying operation. Among those detained was one of the directors of the illicit business, who was present at the site during the raid. The operation was led by Commissioner of Police Allister Guevarro and Deputy Commissioner of Police (Intelligence and Investigations) Natasha George, who were both on-site to oversee the proceedings. According to a statement released by the TTPS corporate communications unit via WhatsApp, the raid also resulted in the seizure of millions of dollars’ worth of equipment. The investigation is ongoing, and further updates are expected as more information becomes available.
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COP backs PM’s stance on MP Lee
The Congress of the People (COP) has publicly endorsed Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar and the United National Congress (UNC) regarding the re-arrest and subsequent charges against Housing Minister David Lee on October 7. Lee, a UNC deputy political leader and Member of Parliament for Caroni Central, was re-arrested alongside businessman Hugh Leong Poi on allegations of defrauding the State of $1.4 million in tax revenue. The charges stem from the importation of a luxury Mercedes Benz G63 AMG sedan valued at over $2 million, with Lee accused of falsely claiming the vehicle as his own to exploit tax exemptions available to MPs. The case involves $293,094.02 in value-added tax (VAT), $298,650 in motor vehicle tax, and $824,548.62 in customs duty. The alleged offenses occurred between March 24 and June 8, 2019. Earlier this year, Acting Chief Magistrate Christine Charles dismissed the case, citing insufficient evidence to proceed to trial. However, the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) has since initiated steps to potentially reinstate the charges. COP Chairman Lonsdale Williams emphasized the presumption of innocence until proven guilty, stating, ‘We note that a minister of government along with another individual has been charged. At the COP, we reiterate that unless proven guilty, all such persons are innocent, and the law must take its course.’ Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar expressed confidence in the judicial process, affirming respect for the courts. The COP, formerly part of the People’s Partnership coalition led by the UNC, has not secured any ministerial or parliamentary positions following the April 28 general election.
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Defence Force welcomes new chief of staff
The Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force (TTDF) has officially welcomed Captain Don Polo as its new Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), marking a significant leadership transition within the organization. The appointment, described as a pivotal moment in the TTDF’s ongoing evolution, underscores its unwavering commitment to national defence and security. Captain Polo, previously the Commanding Officer of the Coast Guard, brings over three decades of dedicated service and a wealth of operational expertise to his new role. His promotion was announced on October 8, following the revocation of former CDS Air Vice Marshal Darryl Daniel’s appointment by President Christine Kangaloo, acting on the advice of Defence Minister Wayne Sturge. The leadership change, which took effect on the evening of October 7, was made public the following morning. Air Vice Marshal Daniel, who served for 37 years, including two extended terms beyond retirement age, was commended for his distinguished service and invaluable contributions to the nation’s security framework. The TTDF expressed profound gratitude for Daniel’s leadership, professionalism, and steadfast commitment to Trinidad and Tobago. As the organization embarks on this new chapter, it reaffirms its mandate to safeguard the nation’s sovereignty and territorial integrity while supporting government and public efforts toward peace, stability, and national development.
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US grants government licence to negotiate with Venezuela on Dragon gas deal
The United States has authorized Trinidad and Tobago (TT) to initiate negotiations with Venezuela regarding the highly anticipated Dragon gas deal. Attorney General John Jeremie disclosed that the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) issued the licence on October 8, marking the first step in a phased approach. This initial phase requires TT to meet specific benchmarks, which would subsequently provide US companies with certain advantages. Jeremie described these conditions as both reasonable and achievable, emphasizing that the licence is valid for six months. However, formal discussions with the Venezuelan government have yet to commence. Despite the absence of direct talks, Jeremie asserted that the Dragon gas deal remains active, citing ongoing, albeit undisclosed, communication between the two nations. The announcement was made at the Attorney General and Legal Affairs office in Port of Spain, underscoring the significance of this development in regional energy diplomacy.
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Sport ministry distributes $1.5m in funds
The Ministry of Sport and Youth Affairs has taken a significant step in supporting Trinidad and Tobago’s athletic and youth development sectors by distributing $1.5 million in funding. On October 8, Minister Phillip Watts presided over a cheque presentation ceremony at the ministry’s headquarters in Port of Spain, where 15 individuals and organizations received financial support for their upcoming initiatives. The event, attended by Permanent Secretary Beverly Reid-Samuel and Director of Sports Gabre Jesu McTair, highlighted the ministry’s commitment to fostering excellence in sports and youth empowerment. McTair emphasized that the funding is not merely financial aid but a testament to the government’s belief in the potential of its citizens to excel on the global stage. Recipients expressed gratitude, noting the funds will enhance their training, competition preparation, and community engagement efforts. The ministry reiterated its dedication to building national pride and promoting social development through sustained investment in these critical sectors.
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Three players hit fifites, but rain spoils party in Super50 trials
The Trinidad and Tobago Red Force hopefuls faced a setback in their preparations for the upcoming CG United Super50 tournament as rain disrupted the National Senior 50-Overs Cup matches on October 8. At the Brian Lara Cricket Academy in Tarouba, the Scarlet Blazers were in a strong position against the Cocrico Warriors, posting 271 for five in 43.3 overs before the weather intervened. Key contributions came from Jeremy Solozano, who scored a solid 76 off 81 balls, and captain Joshua Da Silva, who retired hurt after a brisk 57 off 46 deliveries. Vikash Mohan also impressed with a half-century, scoring 51 off 50 balls. However, the Blazers’ innings was cut short, leaving their momentum incomplete. Meanwhile, at the National Cricket Centre in Couva, the match between the Soca Strikers and Steelpan Titans was entirely washed out. Both teams had previously secured victories on the opening day of the tournament on October 4. The final preliminary round matches are now scheduled for October 15, with the Titans set to face the Warriors at the NCC and the Blazers taking on the Strikers at the BLCA. These matches serve as crucial preparation for players aiming to secure spots in the Red Force squad for the upcoming Super50 tournament.
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Patience Hill stay perfect, surge into Tobago T10 Windball semis
The Tobago T10 Community Windball Championship witnessed thrilling quarterfinal clashes on October 5 at Parade Grounds in Bacolet, Tobago, with Patience Hill Mumbai emerging as the standout team. Continuing their flawless run, Patience Hill secured a resounding 79-run victory over Buccoo United, advancing to the semifinals in style. The team’s top-order batsmen delivered a masterclass, propelling them to an imposing total of 160 for nine. Opener Ancil Nedd set the tone with a quickfire 25 off 11 balls, while Daveon Shangie (78 off 25) and Olando James (45 off 14) combined for a crucial 91-run partnership. Despite losing partners regularly, Shangie’s explosive innings, featuring five fours and eight sixes, ensured a dominant score. Buccoo United struggled in reply, managing only 81 for seven, with Elton Cruickshank (3 for 18) and Alana Smith (2 for 14) leading Patience Hill’s bowling attack. In other matches, Kabs Solutions Roxborough Gunners overpowered Betsys Hope Scrape Up, posting 133 for three and restricting their opponents to 62 for nine. Jahron Alfred’s 61 off 22 balls, including eight sixes, was the highlight. Meanwhile, Jade Monkey Belle Garden Cuzins and Goodwood Knight Riders also secured semifinal berths, with Shane Ali’s unbeaten 46 and Keron McPherson’s all-round performance (57 not out and 2 for 13) proving decisive.
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Magistrate wants clarity on time limit in Paria diving case
The legal proceedings surrounding the 2022 Paria diving tragedy have reached a critical juncture, with Deputy Chief Magistrate Brian Dabideen emphasizing the need to resolve the limitation period issue before further progress can be made. The case, involving charges under the Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Act, stems from the deaths of four divers employed by Land and Marine Construction Services Ltd (LMCS), who were trapped in an underwater pipeline at Paria Fuel Trading Company Ltd’s Pointe-a-Pierre facility. A recent Privy Council ruling on September 16, addressing the limitation period under Sections 93 and 97B of the OSH Act, could determine whether the case proceeds or is dismissed. Dabideen stressed the importance of addressing this ruling first, noting that if the claims are deemed out of time, the case will end. However, if they are within the permissible period, the court will proceed to disclosure and trial. Senior Counsel Pamela Elder, representing the OSH Agency (OSHA), argued that the limitation period begins after the release of the Commission of Enquiry report, which was published on November 30, 2023. OSHA maintains that its complaint, filed on December 13, 2023, remains valid as it was initiated within six months of the report’s release. The Privy Council’s ruling clarified that the six-month limitation period applies to all criminal offences under the OSH Act, resolving a long-standing legal debate. This decision is expected to impact hundreds of pending cases, with Industrial Court President Heather Seale noting that approximately 400 OSH complaints had been stayed pending the judgment. The case also involves Paria Fuel Trading Company Ltd, represented by Senior Counsel Sophia Chote, and LMCS managing director Kazim Ali, represented by attorneys Dinesh Rambally and Renuka Rambhajan. Dabideen is expected to rule on submissions regarding the limitation period on December 12.
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Chairman of selectors : Red Force can win Super50 Cup
Rajendra Mangalie, the newly appointed chairman of the Trinidad and Tobago Cricket Board’s national selectors, has expressed confidence in the TT Red Force’s ability to clinch the Cricket West Indies (CWI) CG United Super50 Cup title. The tournament is set to commence in Trinidad this November, and Mangalie, a former opening batsman for Trinidad and Tobago, is optimistic about the team’s chances, particularly given their home advantage. Mangalie, who is joined on the selection committee by Frank Simmons, David Mohammed, Ricardo Paty, and head coach Rayad Emrit, emphasized the importance of assembling a balanced team to continue their proud record in the competition. The Red Force are the defending champions, having won the title in 2023 after a controversial finish last year saw the final forfeited by both Barbados Pride and Jamaica Scorpions. Mangalie highlighted the strong performances in the ongoing trial matches, noting the impressive contributions from players like Abdul-Raheem Toppin, Shaaron Lewis, and Tion Webster, who have already made their mark. He also praised the mix of youth and experience in the squad, which he believes will be crucial in maintaining their dominance in the limited-overs format. Despite the abundance of talent, Mangalie acknowledged the challenges of selecting the final squad but remains focused on giving Trinidad and Tobago the best chance to lift the trophy once more.