标签： Trinidad and Tobago

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.

Miss Dixie’s Preschool, Daycare and Vacation Camp in San Fernando embraced the spirit of Halloween with a vibrant dress-down day on October 31. The event, held at their Prince of Wales Street location, saw young students donning creative costumes, from the Grim Reaper to Wonder Woman, showcasing their imaginative flair. School principal Dixie-Ann McKenzie emphasized the importance of inclusivity, noting that while some parents may not traditionally celebrate Halloween, the school uses the occasion as an educational tool to foster growth, understanding, and acceptance among its students. Newsday photographer Innis Francis captured the festive moments, highlighting the joy and creativity of the children. Among the standout costumes were three-year-old Keenai Joseph as the Grim Reaper, Kenli Dottin as Lady Dracula, Crysta-Ange Cooper as Wednesday Addams, Rain Maillard as Wonder Woman, and Grace Leigh as a cheerful witch. The event underscored the school’s commitment to creating a welcoming environment where every child feels valued and celebrated.

In the decade leading up to the Emancipation Act, Tobago’s planting community braced for the anticipated consequences of the anti-slavery movement. Fearing violent resistance from the African population, which they labeled as criminal, authorities implemented stringent measures to maintain control. These included harsher laws, an expanded and more regulated police force, and enhanced judicial facilities. A new courthouse was constructed above the marketplace, providing magistrates with larger spaces to operate. Simultaneously, the police forces in Scarborough and Plymouth were bolstered by a new law that introduced two additional magistrates to oversee law enforcement and address offenses. These magistrates were required to hold court sessions twice weekly, year-round, and were empowered to appoint constables to maintain order during market days and apprehend offenders. To accommodate the expected rise in incarcerations, the Scarborough Jail was expanded. The prison’s design was rooted in four key principles: the anticipated increase in prisoners due to societal tensions, the need to prevent escapes, the deterrence of external assistance to inmates, and the enforcement of labor as a core component of incarceration. The new facility, constructed by John H Noding, was a two-story structure designed to be escape-proof, with reinforced walls, iron gates, and secure partitions. A committee was established to oversee the project, ensuring its timely completion by June 1, 1824. Parallel to these developments, the militia was strengthened through a 1827 law that introduced strict regulations, mandatory enlistment for free men aged 16 to 55, and provisions for uniforms and weaponry. Notably, the law allowed for the inclusion of black and colored sergeants and corporals, a pragmatic move driven by the shortage of white men. However, racial distinctions persisted, with black and colored members positioned on the left during parades. Despite these efforts, the tide of history was against the planters, as the anti-slavery movement in Britain gained momentum, making the abolition of slavery in the colonies inevitable.

In October 2023, Elspeth Duncan was invited to lead a morning relaxation and meditation session at the Good Deeds Day Regional Conference, held at the Magdalena Grand Beach & Golf Resort. The event brought together participants from across the Caribbean, all committed to fostering positive intentions and actions. During the session, a participant from Spread the Love Curaçao gifted Duncan a handmade “love and kindness” rock inscribed with the message “Strong Together.” This simple yet profound token serves as a symbol of the Caribbean’s enduring unity and shared identity. Duncan reflects on the region’s unique strengths, including its cultural diversity, resilience, and collective spirit, which have historically enabled Caribbean nations to overcome challenges. She emphasizes that the Caribbean’s true power lies in its ability to come together, not just in times of celebration but also in moments of crisis. This unity was recently demonstrated in the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, which struck Jamaica in late October. Despite the devastation, social media was flooded with calls for assistance and solidarity, highlighting the region’s deep sense of community. Duncan also draws attention to the often-overlooked victims of natural disasters—animals. Her NGO, Venus Doggess Of Love, is organizing a film-screening fundraiser to support the Montego Bay Animal Haven in Jamaica. While the funds raised may seem modest, Duncan believes that every contribution, when combined with others, can make a significant impact. The Caribbean’s ability to unite in adversity, she concludes, is what makes it a true superpower.