Trinidad and Tobago (TT) breathed new life into their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign with a commanding 3-0 victory over Bermuda at the Bermuda National Stadium on October 10. This crucial win marked TT’s first triumph in the final round of Concacaf qualifiers, propelling them to four points in Group B after three matches. The team had previously drawn 0-0 with Curacao and suffered a 2-0 defeat to Jamaica, making this victory a turning point in their journey.
标签： Trinidad and Tobago
特立尼达和多巴哥
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3 sex charges against man, 23, dismissed
In a significant legal development, a 23-year-old man facing three sexual offence charges saw his case dismissed by Master Adia Mohammed in the High Court’s Criminal Division on October 9. The accused, a labourer, had been charged with sexual touching of a child, sexual penetration, and exposing a minor to pornography. These charges stemmed from an alleged incident on May 3, where the accused and the 12-year-old victim reportedly consumed alcohol together. The case was revisited during a sufficiency hearing, where the court was expected to receive a professional assessment of the minor’s mental capacity to provide a credible statement. Despite the State’s request for additional time to secure this evaluation, Master Mohammed dismissed the charges. The accused, who was initially granted bail earlier this year, had been required to report weekly to the Princes Town Police Station as part of his bail conditions. Attorney Kiran Panday represented the accused throughout the proceedings.
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Overnight military shake-up
A significant restructuring within the military leadership has unfolded, raising questions about the transparency and timing of the changes. Defence Minister Wayne Sturge had previously signaled impending reforms in September, criticizing the deteriorating conditions of military bases, the poor state of soldiers’ uniforms, and disparities between senior officers and rank-and-file personnel. He vowed to address these issues “in the coming weeks.”
However, the abrupt dismissal of Air Vice Marshal Darryl Daniel and the appointment of Captain Don Polo as the new Chief of Defence Staff on October 7 has drawn scrutiny. The ministry’s press release stated that the changes were made “after lengthy deliberations and mature consideration,” yet the suddenness of the decision contrasts with this claim. The outgoing leader’s tenure was expected to last another six months, adding to the confusion.
The appointment process itself has raised eyebrows. While Section 191 of the Defence Act governs the selection of the Chief of Defence Staff, the ministry referenced Section 12, which pertains to promotions. This suggests that Capt Polo may have been elevated to a higher rank, such as commodore, to assume the role. The move follows an earlier, unexplained leadership shake-up in August, which was reversed within 24 hours of being announced.
Despite the controversy, the installation of a new Chief of Defence Staff marks a decisive step in reshaping the Defence Council, which oversees military command and administration. The council includes the Defence Minister, the Chief of Defence Staff, and the Permanent Secretary of the line ministry, with a new Permanent Secretary appointed in June.
The Chief of Defence Staff plays a pivotal role in leading the Defence Force, one of the largest in the English-speaking Caribbean. The force is tasked with safeguarding national sovereignty, supporting regional objectives, and responding to disasters—a mission increasingly critical amid the climate crisis. However, the leadership change occurs against a backdrop of heightened tensions, including a state of emergency triggered by the disappearance of 28,000 rounds of ammunition and escalating US-Venezuela relations.
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India batters pummel West Indies on first day of second Test
India’s young batting sensation Yashasvi Jaiswal delivered a masterclass on the opening day of the second Test against the West Indies, propelling his team to a commanding position at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi. The left-handed opener remained unbeaten on 173 off 253 balls, guiding India to a formidable total of 318 for two by stumps on October 10. Jaiswal’s innings, studded with 22 boundaries, has put India in a dominant position as they aim to secure the series victory. The West Indies bowlers struggled to make an impact, with only Jomel Warrican managing to claim two wickets. The visitors now face a daunting task to level the series after suffering a heavy defeat in the first Test. Jaiswal’s opening partner, KL Rahul, contributed 38 before being stumped off Warrican’s bowling. Sai Sudharsan, who joined Jaiswal at the crease, played a crucial knock of 87, forming a 193-run partnership for the second wicket. Despite falling short of a century, Sudharsan’s innings further solidified India’s stronghold. Captain Shubman Gill remained unbeaten on 20, ensuring no further loss of wickets before the close of play. The West Indies, who were outplayed in the first Test, will need a remarkable turnaround to challenge India’s dominance in this match.
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Bruised baby dies at health facility, toddler dies at home
In a heartbreaking series of events, two infants lost their lives under tragic circumstances in Trinidad and Tobago, prompting police investigations. On Tuesday evening, a 47-day-old baby boy was pronounced dead at the Chaguanas Health Facility. Authorities were alerted to the sudden death around 5 pm, where they discovered the infant’s body lying on a bed with visible bruises. An autopsy has been ordered, and the body has been transferred to a funeral home for safekeeping. Earlier that same day, a 20-month-old girl was found unresponsive at her home in Lowkey Trace, Penal. The child’s grandmother recounted that her daughter had left her three children in her care over the weekend. On October 6, the toddler developed a slight fever, and despite attempts to feed her baby formula at 11:30 pm, she refused to drink and fell asleep. The grandmother placed the child on her stomach on a living room mattress before retiring to bed. Upon checking at 3 am, she found the girl unresponsive. Emergency health personnel were unable to revive her, and she was pronounced dead by a district medical officer. An autopsy has also been ordered in this case, with no visible signs of violence reported. Police are actively investigating both incidents to determine the circumstances surrounding these tragic deaths.
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That stubborn 10 per cent
Amidst severe financial constraints, the government remains committed to fulfilling its pledge of a ten per cent salary increase for public servants during the 2014-2019 period, as promised during the election campaign. This commitment, however, places the administration in a precarious position, given the current economic challenges of declining revenue, rising debt, and the potential threat of a credit rating downgrade. Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo is reportedly grappling with the complexities of reconciling this promise with other pressing national priorities, as evidenced by the delayed announcement of the national budget, which is typically presented by early October. The situation is further complicated by the unresolved wage negotiations for the 2020-2022 period, raising questions about whether the Public Services Association (PSA) will accept a similar five per cent increase agreed upon by other unions or push for more. Additionally, the settlement with the PSA could set a precedent for other unions, such as the Oilfields Workers’ Trade Union (OWTU), potentially reigniting industrial unrest if parity is not achieved. The government’s decision to offer the PSA a ten per cent increase is not merely a labour agreement but a move that could significantly impact the broader industrial relations landscape, with other unions likely to demand similar terms. As the government navigates these challenges, the future of its relationship with the labour movement remains uncertain, with potentially significant implications for the country’s economic stability.
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US media: Trump calls off diplomacy to Venezuela
In a significant escalation of tensions between the United States and Venezuela, President Donald Trump has decided to halt all diplomatic outreach efforts toward Caracas. This decision comes amidst a backdrop of heightened military activity in the Southern Caribbean, including the sinking of four alleged “drug boats” by US forces off the Venezuelan coast. The New York Times reported on October 6 that Trump’s move could pave the way for potential military escalation against the Venezuelan government led by Nicolás Maduro or drug traffickers operating in the region. Special presidential envoy Richard Grenell, who had been leading negotiations with Maduro and other Venezuelan officials, was ordered to cease all diplomatic engagements. According to the report, Trump’s frustration stems from Maduro’s refusal to relinquish power voluntarily and Venezuela’s persistent denial of involvement in drug trafficking. The Trump administration has reportedly drafted multiple military plans, including one aimed at forcing Maduro from power. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has labeled Maduro an “illegitimate” leader and a “fugitive from American justice,” referencing a US indictment on drug trafficking charges and a $50 million bounty on Maduro’s head. Grenell’s negotiations, which aimed to avoid a larger conflict and secure US access to Venezuelan oil, were deemed unproductive by Rubio and his allies. The US military has claimed its recent strikes on “drug boats” occurred in international waters, but concerns persist within the Trump administration that further military action could entangle the US in a prolonged conflict. Meanwhile, the US Southern Command and the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit have been conducting extensive military exercises in the Caribbean, showcasing aerial insert operations and live-fire training. On the Venezuelan side, President Maduro announced the activation of defense plans in two northern regions, signaling heightened alertness amid the escalating tensions.
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Yuh Doh Leave Fowl to Watch Corn! returns to Cipriani College
RS/RR Productions’ acclaimed play, *Yuh Doh Leave Fowl to Watch Corn!*, is set to make a triumphant return to Cipriani College for two performances on October 11 and 12. This production continues the company’s tradition of delivering engaging and humorous theatrical experiences, following the success of previous hits like *Married and Mischievous* and *Love Is Ah Wuk*. The play explores the chaos that ensues when trust is misplaced, as a seemingly ordinary day descends into a series of hilarious mishaps. With a stellar cast including Richard Ragoobarsingh, Leslie Ann Lavine, Zo Mari Tanker, Kala Neehall, Benita Wilson, and the comedic standout Andrew Friday, the production is directed by Debra Boucaud Mason and Ragoobarsingh. Tickets are available at the Cipriani College box office from 12 pm to 6 pm or online, with showtimes at 8:30 pm on October 11 and 6:30 pm on October 12. For further details, contact 481-2185, 338-6024, or 744-7581.
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Coast Guard captain Don Polo takes charge — Defence Force shake-up
In a significant leadership transition, Captain Don Polo, the Commanding Officer of the Coast Guard, has been appointed as the new Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) of the Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force (TTDF). This decision, advised by the government to President Christine Kangaloo, marks a pivotal shift in the nation’s military hierarchy. The appointment comes amidst a state of emergency and escalating military tensions in the Caribbean region, particularly between US forces and Venezuela. Captain Polo’s predecessor, Air Vice Marshal Darryl Daniel, whose contract was set to expire in March 2026, was relieved of his duties. The Ministry of Defence confirmed that the decision to replace Daniel was made after thorough deliberations, ensuring it would not disrupt the operational effectiveness of the TTDF. Captain Polo, described as a leader with a wealth of experience and unwavering dedication to maritime security, has been praised for his commitment to national sovereignty. His promotion, however, has raised eyebrows within military circles, as it bypasses several senior officers. The Defence Force, one of the largest in the English-speaking Caribbean, plays a critical role in national security, community development, and international objectives. This leadership change underscores the government’s focus on addressing internal challenges and enhancing the Defence Force’s capabilities in a volatile geopolitical landscape.
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Why no celebration of drop in murders?
In a remarkable turn of events, the country has witnessed a dramatic decline in violent crimes, particularly murders, under the new government and leadership of Commissioner of Police Allister Guevarro. As of October 1, the murder toll has plummeted to 270, a stark contrast to the 474 recorded on the same date last year. This represents a 43% reduction, a figure that underscores the effectiveness of recent law enforcement strategies.