Carib Scope

标签： Trinidad and Tobago

特立尼达和多巴哥

  • Four cellphones recovered in raid at Women’s Prison

    Four cellphones recovered in raid at Women’s Prison

    A coordinated overnight operation at Trinidad’s Women’s Prison in Arouca has exposed sophisticated attempts by inmates to direct criminal operations from behind bars. In a meticulously planned raid conducted between 1:15 AM and 3:00 AM on January 17th, authorities recovered four cellphones and additional evidence of illegal coordination.

    The operation, uniquely executed entirely by female officers to maintain security protocols, revealed three mobile devices concealed internally by prisoners—a disturbing demonstration of the lengths taken to maintain external criminal connections. A fourth device was discovered hidden within cell premises during the comprehensive search.

    This high-priority intervention was orchestrated under the joint leadership of Police Commissioner Allister Guevarro, Acting Prisons Commissioner Carlos Corraspe, and Deputy Commissioner of Police Suzette Martin. The operation mobilized specialized units including the DCP Operations Team, Special Intelligence Unit, and the Prison Emergency Response Unit, with additional support from the Guard and Emergency Branch.

    Senior Superintendent of Prisons Lee Davis provided direct supervision alongside Assistant Superintendent Stanley and a team of specialized officers including W/Sgt Hospedales, W/Ag Sgt John, and W/Cpl Caruth.

    Authorities have confirmed that criminal charges are being prepared against the implicated inmates as investigations continue to unravel the full extent of the coordinated criminal activities originating from within the correctional facility.

  • Chief Secretary: THA aims to provide greater transparency

    Chief Secretary: THA aims to provide greater transparency

    In a landmark move toward governmental transparency, the Tobago House of Assembly (THA) is poised to implement radical democratic reforms during its inaugural session on January 22. The assembly’s first ordinary meeting will feature comprehensive amendments to parliamentary procedures designed to foster unprecedented public accountability.

    Chief Secretary Farley Augustine, whose Tobago People’s Party achieved a historic electoral sweep by capturing all 15 seats in the January 12 elections, unveiled these transformative measures during his inaugural press briefing at the Hochoy Charles Administrative Complex. The administration’s reform agenda represents a fundamental restructuring of Tobago’s governance model.

    The cornerstone reforms include restructuring the Public Accounts Committee to be chaired by non-executive members or assistant secretaries—a dramatic departure from previous conventions where minority leaders held this responsibility. This structural change ensures continuous oversight despite the absence of opposition members in the assembly.

    Augustine has initiated formal communications requiring all government administrators, department heads, board chairs, and CEOs of THA-state companies to publicly account for their execution of governmental policies before the reconstituted committee. Additionally, the assembly will introduce e-governance platforms enabling citizens to directly submit questions for parliamentary proceedings.

    Most notably, the reformed standing orders will mandate live broadcasting of committee meetings, excluding only security-sensitive matters requiring confidentiality. This media accessibility initiative empowers citizens to monitor governmental operations in real-time and form evidence-based opinions.

    Concurrently, Augustine instituted a rigorous performance evaluation system for all appointed secretaries, establishing a nine-month probationary period to demonstrate competency. Officials failing to meet delivery benchmarks will face immediate replacement, as the Chief Secretary emphasized his ultimate accountability for administrative performance.

  • Chamber urges government to state impact of ‘special zones’

    Chamber urges government to state impact of ‘special zones’

    The Trinidad and Tobago Chamber of Industry and Commerce has formally requested the government to provide comprehensive details regarding the implementation framework of proposed Zones of Special Operations (ZOSO). This appeal follows Attorney General John Jeremie’s introduction of the Law Reform (Zones of Special Operations) Bill 2026 in the House of Representatives on January 16.

    The groundbreaking legislation, which cleared the Lower House on January 17 and now awaits Senate deliberation, empowers authorities to designate high-crime areas as special zones for combined security operations and community development initiatives. While acknowledging the critical importance of addressing crime for national stability, the business organization expressed particular concern about potential disruptions to commercial activities.

    Corporate leaders emphasized that any extraordinary security measures must be carefully calibrated with clear time limitations and integrated within a broader sustainable strategy. The Chamber’s January 17 statement highlighted specific operational concerns including potential restrictions on movement, modified operating hours, and limited community access that could adversely affect workforce mobility, customer accessibility, supply chain operations, and cash flow management—especially for small and medium-sized enterprises.

    The business advocacy group stressed the necessity for transparent protocols, advance notification systems, and continuous stakeholder engagement to minimize operational disruptions. They maintained that such measures are essential for preserving investor confidence, maintaining business continuity, and ensuring that security objectives don’t inadvertently compromise legitimate economic activities.

    This development represents a crucial intersection of national security policy and economic policy, with the business community seeking to balance public safety requirements with operational practicality in the proposed crime-fighting initiative.

  • O’Neil Odle, stickfighting in my blood

    O’Neil Odle, stickfighting in my blood

    In the traditional arena of Trinidadian stickfighting, known as the gayelle, 35-year-old O’Neil Odle from New Grant has established himself as a living legend. The four-time National Carnival Commission’s King of the Rock champion continues his dominant streak in 2026, securing victories at both the Debe Junction and Moruga competitions in January.

    Odle’s connection to the sport runs deeper than mere competition—it represents a profound family legacy. His late grandfather, Middle ‘Congo Bara’ Odle, and father, Middle Jr Odle, were both revered figures in the stickfighting community. Despite this heritage, Odle initially pursued boxing during his school years, maintaining an undefeated record across regional matches.

    The transition to stickfighting at age 18 came after boxing coaches rejected his aggressive training style. His mother expressed concerns about the violent nature of the sport, but Odle remained determined to follow his destiny. Sixteen years later, he has sustained numerous injuries, including four significant head wounds, yet his passion remains undiminished.

    Beyond the physical aspects, Odle emphasizes the mental discipline required for success. ‘You must control frustration and anger. Complete focus is essential—any distraction or emotional turmoil makes you vulnerable to strikes,’ he explains, noting how top fighters maintain remarkable calmness in the arena.

    Odle’s life outside the gayelle reflects similar resilience. Forced into maturity at 13 when his father passed away, he worked cutting cane to fund his education while supporting his six siblings. Now working in construction and father to two daughters, Odle views stickfighting as cultural preservation. ‘This tradition comes from our Merikin ancestors in the 1800s conflicts. It’s about lineage—it’s in our blood,’ he states, connecting his personal journey to broader historical narratives.

    With the National Stickfighting Finals approaching on February 9, Odle stands as the competitor to beat, embodying both athletic excellence and cultural continuity in Trinidad’s traditional martial art.

  • Red Force Divas whipped by Leewards in T20 Blaze

    Red Force Divas whipped by Leewards in T20 Blaze

    The Leeward Islands women’s cricket team extended their undefeated streak in the Cricket West Indies T20 Blaze tournament with a commanding four-wicket victory over Trinidad and Tobago Red Force Divas on January 17th at Arnos Vale Playing Field in Kingstown, St. Vincent.

    Facing disciplined bowling and exceptional fielding from the Leewards, the TT women struggled significantly with their batting performance. Restricted to a modest total of 74/9 from their allotted 20 overs, the Divas found scoring difficult throughout their innings. Middle-order batter Amelia Khan emerged as the top scorer with 17 runs, while only two other teammates managed to reach double figures.

    The Leewards’ bowling attack demonstrated remarkable precision, led by Davronique Maynard’s impressive figures of 2/12 and captain Amanda Edwards’ contribution of 2/20. Beyond their bowling excellence, the Leewards displayed extraordinary fielding prowess that included two spectacular run-outs and several sharp catches.

    A highlight moment occurred in the seventh over when Rozel Liburd executed a sensational direct hit from her own bowling to dismiss Djenaba Joseph for just five runs. Later in the 15th over, allrounder Jahzara Claxton showcased exceptional fielding awareness with a quick pickup and accurate throw to eliminate Kirbyina Alexander.

    Despite requiring a flawless bowling performance to defend their low total, TT initially showed promise by removing hard-hitting opener Qiana Joseph through a run-out in the very first over. Leg-spinner Brianna Harricharan provided a crucial breakthrough in the fifth over, dismissing Shawnisha Hector with the score at 26.

    The Leewards faced a brief scare when they slipped to 73/6 by the 16th over, but Jahzara Claxton’s unbeaten 12-run cameo, featuring both a four and a six, secured victory with 23 balls remaining. Claxton had earlier survived two close chances, including a dropped catch and a tight stumping appeal.

    This victory marks the Leewards’ third consecutive win in the competition, following previous successes against Jamaica and Guyana. Meanwhile, TT now stands with one win and two losses from three matches and will face Guyana in their next encounter on January 19th.

  • Isabel Dennis on crusade to create safe learning places

    Isabel Dennis on crusade to create safe learning places

    Educator Isabel Dennis has pioneered an innovative educational framework rooted in Caribbean cultural heritage that is demonstrating remarkable success in transforming the school experience for students. Her groundbreaking Village System, currently being implemented at St. Anthony’s College in Diego Martin, represents the culmination of two decades of research into holistic education methods across multiple countries.

    The system draws inspiration from indigenous Caribbean wisdom preserved through traditional practices like kalinda (stickfighting) from the Bois Academy of Trinidad and Tobago. This approach has been adapted into four foundational pillars: culture, leadership, identity, and values, forming what Dennis describes as ‘restorative discipline.’ Rather than punitive measures, this method emphasizes accountability through constructive dialogue, asking students: ‘What happened?’ ‘Who was affected?’ and ‘How can we make it right?’

    Beyond conflict resolution, the comprehensive program integrates taekwondo, permaculture, and specialized leadership sessions directly into the curriculum. The initiative actively involves both parents and teachers through workshops addressing contemporary parenting challenges and providing educators with practical restorative tools for classroom management.

    Dennis’s motivation stems from personal childhood experiences of emotional insecurity in educational environments, driving her lifelong commitment to ensuring no child feels unsafe in schools. The program has already shown significant impact, with student participation expanding from 35 to 102 participants across three classes following demonstrated success in its initial pilot phase.

    Parental feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with reports of improved confidence, communication, and attitude toward school among participants. The program’s community-led approach demonstrates how educational transformation can occur without massive budgets or infrastructure changes, utilizing existing resources more effectively through culturally relevant methodologies.

    Looking forward, Dennis envisions expanding this model across 50 Caribbean schools within five years, fundamentally shifting educational conversations from exam performance to leadership development and cultural identity. The initiative represents a grassroots movement toward educational systems that honor Caribbean heritage while preparing students to shape their future with confidence and cultural pride.

  • Sea of white as thousands flock Xperience fete

    Sea of white as thousands flock Xperience fete

    San Fernando’s Skinner Park underwent a spectacular transformation on January 17 as thousands of music enthusiasts clad in white converged for Xperience: Equilibrium, the acclaimed cooler fete experience that marked a significant venue transition for this annual carnival celebration.

    The event showcased an impressive roster of over 30 performing artists, highlighted by the iconic King of Soca, Machel Montano. Montano delivered a powerhouse performance featuring his potential Road March contender ‘Encore,’ though it was his collaborative piece ‘Pull d Pin’ with soca stars Lil Natty and Thunda that truly electrified the audience. The musical extravaganza further included stellar appearances from Nadia Batson, Bunji Garlin, Voice, Iwer George, Yung Bredda, Lyrikal, Mical Teja, Patrice Roberts, and Lady Lava.

    Audience engagement reached fever pitch during Full Blown’s rendition of their massive hit ‘Respectfully Yours,’ with the crowd demonstrating unwavering enthusiasm throughout the evening. The entertainment package was enhanced by traditional carnival elements including moko jumbies, an energetic rhythm section, and a vividly painted fire-breathing character (a blue devil adorned in green) that maintained the event’s dynamic atmosphere.

    This year’s relocation from the Brian Lara Cricket Academy to Skinner Park followed Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar’s directive prohibiting carnival events at sporting venues. Sheldon Stephen, Managing Director of Lollabee Group of Companies and event promoter, confirmed to Newsday that the production concluded without incidents or accidents. While acknowledging the successful turnout of both artists and patrons, Stephen remained noncommittal regarding whether Skinner Park would become the event’s permanent home.

    Newsday photographer Innis Francis documented the vibrant spectacle, capturing images of revelers immersed in the soca experience, artists delivering memorable performances, and the sea of white-clad attendees that defined the visual aesthetic of Xperience: Equilibrium.

  • Artist Sarah Beckett bids goodbye to Trinidad and Tobago

    Artist Sarah Beckett bids goodbye to Trinidad and Tobago

    After more than five decades of artistic dedication, renowned artist and poet Sarah Beckett prepares to depart Trinidad and Tobago with a profound final exhibition that mirrors her lifelong connection to the nation. ‘Echoes of a Lifetime,’ hosted at Horizons Art Gallery on Mucurapo Road from January 21-24, serves as both a retrospective and heartfelt farewell before her relocation to the United Kingdom.

    The exhibition assembles approximately 100 works spanning 25 years of creative output, including oils, drawings, acrylics, and gouache pieces ranging from monumental canvases to intricate miniatures. While some works have been previously exhibited, others will debut publicly for the first time. Accompanying these pieces will be a selection of Beckett’s personal sketchbooks, offering visitors an intimate glimpse into the genesis of her artistic ideas.

    At nearly 80 years old and following a year of health challenges, Beckett acknowledged her children’s encouragement to relocate closer to family in the UK. She embraces this transition as an opportunity to ‘learn a new song in my 80s,’ maintaining optimism about establishing her own flat while remaining near loved ones.

    Despite this geographical shift, Beckett emphasizes this does not mark the conclusion of her creative journey. While conceding that large-scale works requiring physical endurance may become impractical, she intends to continue painting on a reduced scale. Additionally, she remains engaged in developing an illustrated poetry book, a project she plans to advance within her new environment.

    Beckett’s connection to Trinidad defies simple explanation. First arriving at age 20 from Southampton with her three children and Trinidadian husband, she subsequently lived elsewhere but consistently returned to the island. A 2015 relocation attempt to the UK lasted merely nine months before she recognized her unreadiness to leave Trinidad permanently, describing the nation as ‘entwined in my blood.’

    Her profound affection found expression in the 2024 poetry collection ‘Iere: Living in the Land of the Humming Bird,’ where she reflected that Trinidad nurtured her development as both poet and artist. The publication stands as her lyrical tribute to the island’s beauty, cultural complexities, and enduring spirit, while also acknowledging its struggles.

    The current transition inspired her newest poem ‘My Song,’ which opens with the verses: ‘Do not call this ending,/do not name it closure,/I know how to carry the sun/in the palms of my hands,/dye drab walls with color.’ These lines encapsulate her perspective that this departure represents transformation rather than termination.

    Beckett acknowledges the emotional complexity of preparing her final exhibition while dismantling decades of life in Trinidad. She expresses gratitude for her extraordinary experiences and artistic opportunities while acknowledging the inherent sadness of farewell. Nevertheless, she affirms the timeliness of this decision and anticipates familial connections in her next chapter.

    Her parting wisdom encourages focusing on life’s small blessings rather than lamenting circumstances, emphasizing appreciation over longing for alternatives. The exhibition not only showcases artistic legacy but embodies Beckett’s philosophical approach to transitions—honoring the past while embracing new beginnings.

  • Taking bets on Sunday gambling

    Taking bets on Sunday gambling

    The National Lotteries Control Board (NLCB) of Trinidad and Tobago has announced a significant policy shift that will permit gambling operations on Sundays starting February 8, marking a departure from the country’s longstanding tradition of restricting gaming activities on the Sabbath. The decision, published in a January 2 legal notice, includes modified draw times and maintains the suspension of gaming on religious public holidays.

    The NLCB justifies this expansion as a business development strategy, noting that Trinidad and Tobago remains the only Caribbean nation without Sunday gambling. The board emphasizes that lottery facilities will provide utility bill payment services and other non-gambling transactions alongside gaming options, attempting to balance convenience with cultural sensitivity.

    This policy change has sparked substantial opposition from religious organizations and industry stakeholders alike. The Trinidad and Tobago Council of Evangelical Churches issued a strong condemnation, arguing that Sunday gambling exacerbates addiction risks and undermines societal moral foundations. Meanwhile, the Electronic Lotto Agents Association expressed practical concerns about increased operational costs, potential security risks, and uncertain financial returns from the additional operating day.

    Notably, the decision appears to have been made without comprehensive stakeholder consultation. Dave Persad, president of the Online Gaming Agents Association, revealed that industry representatives learned about the policy change through social media and have been unable to secure meetings with the NLCB board appointed in July.

    The move occurs within Trinidad and Tobago’s unique gambling landscape, where petroleum revenues have historically reduced the economic pressure to expand gaming tourism that many neighboring Caribbean nations have embraced. The country’s gambling sector exists in a complex regulatory space between privately licensed operators and state-sanctioned games overseen by the NLCB.

  • Veronica Callender, dancing her way to the top

    Veronica Callender, dancing her way to the top

    An 11-year-old dance sensation from Trinidad and Tobago is poised to make her mark on the global stage following a spectacular debut performance at the All Dance World Championships in Orlando. Veronica Callender, a student at Newtown Girls’ RC School, achieved the remarkable feat of securing dual victories in the Dancehall and Afro dance categories within the All New Dancer division for ages 11-14 last April.

    The young prodigy, representing both her nation and the Lil Angel of Dance academy, demonstrated extraordinary talent during her first international competition and overseas journey. Despite initial challenges with complex choreography crafted by her instructor Roxanne Augustine-Charles, Callender’s perseverance transformed uncertainty into confidence through rigorous training.

    Her pre-performance strategy involves mentally transforming the stage into her personal dance space, eliminating nervousness by imagining herself dancing alone in her room. This psychological technique proved effective until the awards ceremony, where anxious moments turned to exhilaration as she discovered her dual victories.

    Beyond the competition, Callender embraced cultural exchange, introducing international peers to Trinidadian culture while experiencing American fast food and shopping. Her triumph has unlocked an invitation to the International Dance Open in Italy, where she aims to replicate her success.

    The journey to Italy requires substantial financial backing, prompting Lil Angel of Dance to seek corporate and public sponsorship. Callender balances her dance career with academic commitments at Newtown Girls’ RC School and musical involvement in the TT Cadet Force Steel Orchestra and Highlanders Junior Steel Orchestra.

    With six years of dance experience spanning Dance Dynamix of TT and her current academy, Callender specializes in Dance Hall, Afrobeats, Reggaeton and Hip hop, while expressing interest in exploring traditional Indian dance. As preparations intensify for the 2026 competition, the young ambassador anticipates Italian cuisine and cultural exploration alongside her competitive objectives.