A Woodland farmer fell victim to a brazen armed robbery after responding to a social media advertisement to purchase cattle. The incident occurred on October 24, when the farmer traveled to Pangola Road, Point Fortin, in his pickup truck at approximately 9:30 a.m. to meet a seller he had contacted through a Facebook group. Upon arrival, the farmer engaged in a conversation with two men. Suddenly, one of the individuals brandished a firearm and declared a robbery. The second suspect swiftly seized the farmer’s phone and wallet containing $2,400, which had been concealed under the passenger seat of the pickup. The assailants then fled into nearby bushes. Authorities from the Point Fortin Police Station have launched an investigation into the incident, though no arrests have been made yet. This case highlights the risks associated with online transactions and the importance of exercising caution when meeting strangers for business purposes.
标签： Trinidad and Tobago
特立尼达和多巴哥
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SSFL title race heats up with pair of top-five showdowns
The 2025 Secondary Schools Football League (SSFL) premier division season is heating up as four pivotal matches are set to unfold on October 25, starting at 3:30 pm. These games could significantly influence the title race, with the top five teams all in action.
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Tropical Storm forces postponement of Army’s return leg with Mt Pleasant
The semifinal matches of the 2025 Concacaf Caribbean Cup have been rescheduled due to the anticipated impact of Tropical Storm Melissa in Jamaica. The second leg between Defence Force and Mount Pleasant Football Academy, originally set for October 29, has been moved to November 5. This decision was announced by Concacaf’s chief football competitions officer, Carlos Fernandez, who emphasized the need to prioritize the safety of players, officials, and fans. Jamaica’s Meteorological Office had earlier upgraded the country’s alert level from a hurricane watch to a hurricane warning on October 24. The first leg of the match, held on October 22 at the Hasely Crawford Stadium in Mucurapo, saw Mount Pleasant dominate with a 5-1 victory over Defence Force. Raheem Edwards scored twice, while Kimoni Bailey, Shaqueil Bradford, and Warner Brown added to the tally. Kaihim Thomas managed a late consolation goal for Defence Force. The other semifinal, an all-Dominican Republic clash between O&M FC and Cibao FC, has also been rescheduled. The first leg will now take place on October 30, with the second leg on November 6. The Caribbean Cup champion will secure a direct spot in the round of 16 of the 2026 Concacaf Champions Cup, while the second- and third-placed teams will enter the first round.
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Khary Pierre drafted into Windies T20 team to face Bangladesh
Trinidadian left-arm spinner Khary Pierre has been added to the West Indies squad for their upcoming three-match T20 series against Bangladesh, scheduled from October 27 to 31. The 34-year-old, who recently participated in the One-day International (ODI) series against Bangladesh, will replace the injured Shamar Joseph. Pierre, who played all three ODIs and claimed one wicket, will now team up with fellow left-arm spinners Akeal Hosein and Gudakesh Motie in the 15-man T20 squad. Shamar Joseph, a promising fast bowler, has been sidelined due to a persistent shoulder injury, which also caused him to miss the Test series against India earlier this month. Cricket West Indies announced on October 20 that Joseph has been advised to consult a specialist in England for rehabilitation. Pierre, who last played a T20 for West Indies in 2020 against Ireland, has taken seven wickets in ten T20 matches with an economy rate of 9.60. The series will kick off in Chittagong on October 27, followed by matches on October 29 and 31. Pierre’s inclusion comes after an impressive 2025 First-Class season with Trinidad and Tobago Red Force, which earned him his first Test cap during the recent series against India. The West Indies T20 squad, led by Shai Hope, includes notable players such as Jason Holder, Roston Chase, and Romario Shepherd.
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Sir Hilary Beckles : Frank Worrell broke barriers that others could not
Professor Sir Hilary Beckles, Vice-Chancellor of the University of the West Indies (UWI), recently unveiled his latest literary work, *Cricket’s First Revolutionary – Frank Worrell’s Political War Against Colonialism in the West Indies*, at the UWI St Augustine Campus on October 21. The book delves into the life and legacy of Sir Frank Worrell, a cricketing legend whose impact transcended the sport. While Worrell’s Test batting average of nearly 50 runs is widely celebrated, his true significance lies in his relentless advocacy for equality and better treatment of West Indies cricketers during the colonial era. Born in Barbados, Worrell became the first captain of African descent for the West Indies team in the 1950s, breaking racial barriers that predecessors like Learie Constantine and George Headley could not. Worrell’s activism extended beyond cricket; he served as a Senator in Jamaica and formed the Starvation XI, a club for underprivileged boys in Barbados. Beckles’ book, completed in just five months, highlights Worrell’s journey from star cricketer to revolutionary leader, emphasizing his role in dismantling colonial structures within West Indies cricket. The launch event featured insights from prominent figures, including Dr. Indira Rampersad, Rose-Marie Belle Antoine, and historian Selwyn Cudjoe. Beckles, inspired by his childhood admiration for Worrell and guided by Trinidadian scholar CLR James, aims to preserve Worrell’s legacy as a symbol of resilience and progress in the face of systemic oppression.
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LATT on PM’s ‘filth’ remark: Public discourse should be respectful
The Law Association of Trinidad and Tobago (LATT) has issued a stern call for mutual respect and dignified discourse in public discussions on legal and constitutional matters, particularly among high-ranking officials. This appeal follows recent comments made by Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar in response to LATT’s critique of the appointment process for the new Chief Justice, Ronnie Boodoosingh. On October 23, LATT raised concerns about the consultation process, describing it as ‘hastened and truncated.’ In a sharp retort, Persad-Bissessar dismissed LATT’s concerns with derogatory remarks, stating, ‘I have no regard for anything the eat-ah-food filth of the hierarchy of the Law Association says.’ LATT, in its October 24 statement, reaffirmed its statutory duty to comment on matters affecting the administration of justice and the rule of law. The association emphasized its commitment to acting independently, without bias, and in alignment with the highest professional standards. It stressed the importance of constructive engagement among all branches of government to uphold democratic institutions. LATT also vowed to continue its mandate of providing principled guidance on legal matters, undeterred by external criticism. Boodoosingh was sworn in on October 22 by acting President Wade Mark, following the retirement of former Chief Justice Ivor Archie. Opposition Leader Pennelope Beckles has criticized the appointment process, claiming she was not consulted as required by the Constitution. Mark is currently acting in place of President Christine Kangaloo, who is abroad.
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Assembly of Southern Lawyers congratulates new CJ
The Assembly of Southern Lawyers (ASL) has extended its congratulations to Ronnie Boodoosingh on his recent appointment as Chief Justice of Trinidad and Tobago. The ASL lauded Boodoosingh’s illustrious legal career, which began in 1992 when he was admitted to practice law. He initially worked as an advocate at JD Sellier & Company before transitioning to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions as a prosecutor. In 2007, he was appointed to the High Court bench, and in 2020, he was elevated to the Court of Appeal. ASL President Saira Lakhan highlighted Boodoosingh’s dedication, professionalism, and commitment to advancing access to justice, particularly in the southern region. Boodoosingh, who holds a master’s degree in international dispute resolution from the University of London, has also made significant contributions to legal education as a lecturer at the Hugh Wooding Law School and as the founder of the Human Rights Law Clinic. The ASL expressed optimism about collaborating with Boodoosingh to strengthen the administration of justice, reduce court backlogs, and enhance public confidence in the judiciary. The assembly also emphasized the importance of reopening and fully operationalizing courts in the southern region, including those in San Fernando. Meanwhile, attorney Prakash Ramadhar reflected on the tenure of outgoing Chief Justice Ivor Archie, who served for 17 years, calling for greater transparency and accountability in judicial appointments. Ramadhar also raised concerns about the current system of judicial appointments, advocating for public scrutiny of those in positions of power. Boodoosingh was officially appointed by acting President Wade Mark, marking a new chapter in Trinidad and Tobago’s judiciary.
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British High Commissioner Dean distributes rugby kits
On October 17, British High Commissioner Jon Dean hosted a significant reception at his official residence in Maraval, Trinidad and Tobago, to commemorate the handover of rugby equipment to the TT Schools’ Rugby Union. This event highlighted the British High Commission’s dedication to fostering youth development through sports in the region. The donation, facilitated by the UK-based charity SOS Kit Aid, included essential gear such as hoodies, polos, shorts, socks, tops, tracksuits, tackle shields, and kit bags. These items will be distributed to schools across Trinidad and Tobago, with particular emphasis on rural communities and Tobago, where rugby teams are emerging. During the event, Dean emphasized the unifying power of sports, stating, ‘Rugby has a rich tradition in the United Kingdom, and we are thrilled to see it growing here in TT. This donation will ensure the kit reaches the schools and students who need it most.’ Parliamentary Secretary in the Ministry of Sport and Youth Affairs, David Nakhid, also attended, delivering remarks on behalf of Minister Phillip Watts, who was absent due to parliamentary duties. Watts praised the initiative, noting, ‘Through sport, we are shaping character, building discipline, and creating new opportunities for young people across TT, especially in areas where access and resources are often limited.’ The event brought together local professional rugby players and aspiring young athletes from various schools, showcasing a collaborative effort between the British High Commission and local partners to enhance youth engagement through sports.
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Sewa TT hosts 6th annual clothing drive
Sewa International Trinidad and Tobago (Sewa TT) is set to host its sixth annual clothing drive on October 25 and 26 at the National Council of Indian Culture’s (NCIC) Divali Nagar site in Chaguanas. This initiative, which began in 2018, has grown into one of the largest textile recycling efforts in the Caribbean, blending environmental sustainability with humanitarian service. Sewa TT’s president, Revan Teelucksingh, emphasized the drive’s evolution, noting its innovative collection and distribution systems have improved each year. The event not only redistributes gently used clothing but also fosters regional collaboration, particularly with Sewa Dominica, Sewa Guyana, and Sewa Suriname, to enhance disaster response logistics. The clothing drive has had a profound impact on the community, providing professional attire for job trainees and law students, and comfort for long-stay hospital patients. Volunteers have also found a sense of community and lasting friendships through their participation. The drive’s system ensures dignity for recipients by allowing them to select clothing in a private setting. Additionally, it addresses environmental concerns by reducing textile waste in landfills. Despite challenges such as funding and time constraints, Sewa TT remains committed to transparency and efficiency, with less than five percent of funds allocated to administrative costs. The organization’s growing volunteer base and partnerships with supermarkets and corporate sponsors highlight the collective effort’s success. Teelucksingh encourages more people to get involved, emphasizing that even small contributions can make a significant difference. The 2025 drive aims to improve the racking system for displaying donations, with a budget exceeding $500,000. For more information or to donate, visit www.sewa.org or contact Sewa TT via WhatsApp at 333-SEWA.
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Penal man acquitted of attempted murder, malicious damage
In a significant legal outcome, a 22-year-old man was acquitted of all charges, including attempted murder, causing grievous bodily harm with intent, and malicious damage, following a retrial at the O’Meara Judicial Centre on October 6. The verdict was delivered by a nine-member jury after a thorough examination of the case, which originated from an alleged incident on July 9, 2023, near Zumba’s Bar on San Francique Road, Penal. The accused, whose identity remains undisclosed to protect the privacy of those involved, was arrested on February 17, 2024, at his workplace. The retrial, presided over by Justice Sherene Murray-Bailey, began on September 10. The prosecution claimed that the accused physically assaulted a woman after a night out, resulting in multiple injuries, and damaged her cellphone. However, the defence argued that the accused had responded to a distress call from the woman and was subsequently attacked by two men accompanying her. Throughout the trial, inconsistencies in the victim’s testimony were highlighted, and the defence questioned the lack of corroborative evidence, such as CCTV footage or independent witness statements. The jury ultimately found the accused not guilty of all charges. The case was represented by Counsel Collin Elbourne and Janeil Chuck of the Public Defenders’ Department, while prosecutors Chenelle Moe and Roger Hinds appeared for the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions. This case also highlighted the effectiveness of the Administration of Justice (Indictable Proceedings) Act (AJIPA), as the proceedings concluded within 20 months of the accused’s arrest.