标签： Trinidad and Tobago

A devastating fire erupted on November 4 at a two-storey residence on Pooran Street in Williamsville, leaving ten individuals, including three children, without a home. The blaze originated on the first floor, which contained two bedrooms, and rapidly consumed the upper level. Fortunately, all family members were on the ground floor preparing lunch when they heard a loud explosion-like noise, prompting them to evacuate immediately. ‘We are grateful that no one was injured or killed,’ said Rasheana Ali, a resident of the home. The family, which includes Ali’s husband, their son, her parents, two sisters, their spouses, and an unmarried sister, lost all their belongings in the fire. Ali’s mother, Elaine Mohammed, who is battling cancer, experienced a panic attack during the incident and required medical attention due to elevated blood pressure and blood sugar levels. Firefighters responded within 20 minutes and managed to contain the fire, though the ground floor sustained water damage and structural weakening. The cause of the fire remains under investigation, with initial speculation pointing to a flammable substance such as perfume. Local officials, including Princes Town MP Dr. Aiyna Ali and Councillor Vincent Raghoo, visited the site and pledged support for the family. The disaster management unit provided three mattresses, but the family’s long-term housing arrangements are still undetermined. Raghoo has urged the public to assist in rebuilding efforts. The financial impact of the damage is yet to be assessed.

The Fireworks Use Sufferers (FUS) organization has extended its heartfelt condolences to the family of a three-day-old infant who tragically passed away the morning after Divali celebrations. Reports indicate that the family was subjected to relentless noise from fireworks throughout the night, despite their desperate pleas for the disturbances to cease. While the exact cause of the infant’s death remains uncertain—potentially linked to sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) or the stress induced by the fireworks—the incident has sparked widespread outrage. Critics argue that the government’s decision to ban fireworks for Independence Day while permitting them for Divali reflects a reckless and biased approach. Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar has been urged to address the issue, particularly given the adverse effects of fireworks on vulnerable groups such as the elderly, children, and animals. FUS President Nalini Dial has called for immediate government action, emphasizing the need for stricter regulations, including permits for silent fireworks and enforcement against lawbreakers. The organization also criticized the police for their lack of responsiveness and the government’s apparent favoritism toward fireworks importers. With Old Year’s Night approaching, activists are demanding public protests or official statements from the Prime Minister and Attorney General to outline concrete measures to prevent further harm.

The tragic discovery of 63-year-old Anslym Alonzo’s body has left his family and community in shock. Alonzo, a retired fireman and resident of Duranta Gardens, was last seen on October 31 in his workshop in Coalmine, Sangre Grande. Driving a burgundy Nissan Note, he failed to return home that evening, prompting his family to report him missing. After an extensive search, police located his body in a forested area along Little Coora Road, Cumuto, on November 3. His daughter identified the remains at the scene. Relatives, speaking to Newsday, expressed their bewilderment, stating they could not fathom any reason for him to be targeted. They refrained from speculation, awaiting further details from the ongoing investigation. ‘We have no idea what happened or why anyone would have wanted him dead,’ a family member said. The district medical officer has ordered an autopsy, with Alonzo’s body transferred to the Forensic Science Centre in St James on November 4. The case remains under investigation as authorities work to uncover the circumstances surrounding his untimely death.

In a recent development, Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Junior Benjamin confirmed that law enforcement agencies in Trinidad and Tobago remain on high alert, particularly within operational sections. This heightened security posture follows the parliamentary approval of a three-month extension to the State of Emergency (SoE) on Friday. Initially, members of the Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force (TTDF) were ordered to report for duty, and police leave for both regular and special reserved officers was suspended. However, hours later, the alert level was downgraded, allowing non-rostered officers to return home, as reported by a Sunday media outlet. DCP Benjamin emphasized that the suspension of leave is a precautionary measure to ensure the safety and security of all officers. He assured the public that the police service is continuously monitoring the situation on a day-to-day basis, making decisions based on the evolving security climate. Police Commissioner Allister Guevarro is scheduled to host an executive meeting on November 3 to further assess the situation. Benjamin reiterated that any changes in the security posture would be communicated to the media promptly. He also urged the public to remain calm, emphasizing that there is no cause for alarm. The recent news had led to panic buying at supermarkets and the closure of some schools. Benjamin advised the public to rely on verified sources of information, such as the TTPS corporate communication, and to cooperate with law enforcement. He highlighted ongoing police operations aimed at reducing crime and targeting priority offenders, calling for public support and patience during roadblocks and other security measures.