Carib Scope

标签： Trinidad and Tobago

特立尼达和多巴哥

  • Families of Trinidadian fishermen killed in US missile strike sue US government

    Families of Trinidadian fishermen killed in US missile strike sue US government

    In a significant legal challenge against US military operations, the families of two Trinidadian men killed in a missile strike have filed a wrongful death lawsuit against the US government. The complaint, lodged in the US District Court for Massachusetts on January 27, alleges extrajudicial killing and seeks accountability for what plaintiffs describe as unlawful lethal force.

    The case centers on the deaths of Chad Joseph, 26, and Rishi Samaroo, 41, who were among six civilians killed when a US missile struck their small boat traveling from Venezuela to Trinidad and Tobago on October 14, 2025. According to court documents, the victims were returning to their homes in Las Cuevas when the attack occurred.

    Legal representatives from the American Civil Liberties Union, the Center for Constitutional Rights, and Seton Hall Law School argue the strike was part of a broader pattern of military actions targeting civilian vessels in Caribbean and Pacific waters. The lawsuit claims at least 36 similar strikes have occurred since September 2025, resulting in approximately 125 fatalities.

    Lenore Burnley, Joseph’s mother, and Sallycar Korasingh, Samaroo’s sister, filed the action on behalf of all surviving family members. Burnley described her son as a devoted family man who frequently traveled to Venezuela for fishing and agricultural work to support his wife and three children. Korasingh remembered her brother as a hardworking individual rebuilding his life after completing a 15-year prison sentence.

    The legal action invokes two jurisdictional foundations: the Death on the High Seas Act, which permits lawsuits for deaths occurring in international waters, and the Alien Tort Statute, which allows foreign nationals to seek redress in US courts for severe violations of international human rights law.

    The complaint systematically challenges the legal basis for the strikes, arguing they lack proper congressional authorization and violate both international humanitarian law and US constitutional principles. Legal director Baher Azmy of the Center for Constitutional Rights characterized the killings as ‘absurd and dangerous,’ warning against unilateral state declarations of war to justify lethal force.

    The case has drawn attention to the Trump administration’s maritime security operations, with President Trump and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth having publicly acknowledged the strikes and released footage of the operations. Notably, US authorities have not publicly identified any of the victims.

    Trinidad’s Foreign Affairs Minister Sean Sobers previously stated the government had no information linking either man to illegal activities, while Attorney General John Jeremie asserted the strikes were consistent with international law based on advice from an unidentified external expert.

    The lawsuit seeks to establish judicial oversight of military actions that plaintiffs argue constitute ‘manifestly unlawful’ killings ordered by highest levels of government. Professor Jonathan Hafetz of Seton Hall Law School warned the case carries profound implications for international legal norms and US standing in the global community.

  • Kamella Carmino unleashes Sōk-D’M, a fusion of soca, EDM

    Kamella Carmino unleashes Sōk-D’M, a fusion of soca, EDM

    Trinidadian entrepreneur and cultural innovator Kamella Carmino has pioneered a groundbreaking musical genre titled Sōk-D’M (pronounced Soak Dem), representing an intentional fusion of Caribbean soca rhythms and electronic dance music (EDM). This innovative soundscape bridges traditional Carnival energy with global festival appeal, creating what industry observers are calling a transformative moment for Caribbean music on the world stage.

    The genesis of Sōk-D’M emerged from a strategic conversation between Carmino and ABM of Platinum Trini Hot 97FM Internet Radio, based in Los Angeles. During their discussion, ABM—who holds promotional licensing rights in Las Vegas—revealed the challenging reality that while EDM dominated the Vegas entertainment market, virtually no platform existed for traditional soca music. This market gap inspired Carmino’s immediate creative response: “So why don’t we fuse soca and EDM and call it Sōk-D’M?”

    Within hours of this conceptual breakthrough, Carmino collaborated with her son Jesus Carmino-Garraway to produce the inaugural Sōk-D’M single “Cross De Stage,” released through JuJu Multimedia. This pioneering track established the genre’s technical parameters and artistic vision, blending soca’s characteristic drum patterns, call-and-response vocal arrangements, and steelpan heritage with EDM’s synthesizer textures, powerful basslines, and dramatic build-and-drop structures.

    Carmino has since expanded the Sōk-D’M catalog with additional compositions including “High on Love” and “Jump Up on Down,” further refining the genre’s sonic identity and emotional resonance. Operating within a tempo range of 125-132 BPM, Sōk-D’M occupies a unique musical space that merges the visceral energy of Trinidad’s J’Ouvert celebrations with the spectacular production values of international festivals like Tomorrowland.

    The term “Sōk-D’M” itself carries profound cultural meaning, with Carmino explaining: “To Soak Dem is to be drenched in rhythm, culture and spirit.” Beyond its musical innovations, the genre represents a philosophical movement advocating for borderless Carnival expression and electronic music with authentic Caribbean soul. This creative initiative invites global producers, DJs, and music enthusiasts to engage with Caribbean culture through rhythm-based connection and collective celebration.

    As Sōk-D’M gains traction across international markets, Carmino envisions the genre transforming how Caribbean music is perceived and consumed worldwide, creating new pathways for cultural exchange and artistic collaboration across continents.

  • US lawsuit alleges Trinidadian men were unlawfully killed

    US lawsuit alleges Trinidadian men were unlawfully killed

    In a landmark legal action, the families of two Trinidad and Tobago citizens killed in a US military strike have filed a wrongful-death lawsuit against the United States government. The case, lodged in the US District Court for the District of Massachusetts on January 27, challenges the legality of America’s maritime security operations in the Caribbean region.

    The plaintiffs allege that a October 14, 2025 missile attack destroyed a civilian vessel traveling from Venezuela toward Trinidad, resulting in the deaths of all six persons aboard. Among the victims were Chad Joseph, 26, and Rishi Samaroo, 41, both residents of Las Cuevas who their families maintain were returning from legitimate fishing and agricultural work in Venezuela.

    Legal representatives for the families are pursuing compensation under the Death on the High Seas Act and the Alien Tort Statute, contending the strike constituted both wrongful death and extrajudicial killing under international law. The suit invokes the Suits in Admiralty Act to overcome sovereign immunity protections typically afforded to the US government.

    According to court documents, the incident formed part of what plaintiffs describe as an ‘unprecedented’ military campaign initiated in September 2025, involving approximately 36 armed attacks on maritime vessels in Caribbean and eastern Pacific international waters. The lawsuit estimates these operations resulted in roughly 125 casualties.

    The complaint references former President Donald Trump’s public acknowledgment of authorizing the October 14 strike via social media, including shared footage showing a stationary boat being destroyed by munitions. Families maintain neither Joseph nor Samaroo presented any imminent threat, and their vessel was unequivocally civilian in nature.

    US officials have previously defended such strikes as lawful operations within a non-international armed conflict against regional drug cartels. Government representatives have cited a classified Office of Legal Counsel memorandum purportedly supporting this legal position.

    The families’ lawsuit systematically dismantles this justification, arguing drug trafficking does not constitute armed conflict under international humanitarian law. The filing emphasizes that neither victim had documented connections to criminal organizations, noting Trinidadian authorities have publicly stated they possess ‘no information linking Joseph or Samaroo to illegal activities.’

    The legal action seeks not only financial compensation but also accountability for senior officials who authorized the strikes. It represents a significant challenge to the legal frameworks governing maritime security operations and the boundaries of lethal force in counter-narcotics missions.

  • How taxes impact air connectivity in the Caribbean

    How taxes impact air connectivity in the Caribbean

    The Caribbean aviation sector faces mounting pressure as airlines and industry leaders decry exorbitant taxation rates that threaten regional connectivity. Windward Islands Airways International NV (Winair) has launched cautious twice-weekly service between Trinidad and Sint Maarten, with CEO Hans van de Velde acknowledging the challenging economic landscape. ‘Operating an airline in this region is inherently expensive,’ van de Velde stated, revealing that approximately 50% of their introductory $200 one-way fare consists of government taxes.

    This taxation crisis isn’t new. Since at least 2018, when CaribSKY alliance members first raised concerns, regional carriers have struggled with escalating fees. LIAT 1974 documented a startling 56% increase in taxes between 2009-2016 while base fares rose merely 3%. The consequences are stark: annual passenger numbers plummeted from one million to 750,000, with taxes identified as the primary deterrent.

    The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has issued stern warnings, noting Caribbean destinations risk pricing themselves out of the global market. While global taxes average 15% of ticket prices, Caribbean routes endure 30-50% taxation—significantly higher than competing destinations like Cancun (23%). IATA’s Peter Cerdá emphasized that modern travelers prioritize total cost, making the Caribbean increasingly uncompetitive.

    At the recent State of the Tourism Industry Conference in Barbados, the tax dilemma dominated discussions. Barbados Tourism Minister Lisa Cummins defended the fees as necessary for infrastructure funding, acknowledging the challenge of reducing taxes without compromising service quality. Meanwhile, LIAT Air CEO Hafsah Abdulsalam stressed the urgent need for efficiency improvements and tax reform to enable regional expansion plans, including future routes to South America and Africa.

    A Caribbean Development Bank working paper from 2018 remains critically relevant, recommending reductions in both aviation taxes and airport charges to stimulate connectivity. The report highlighted that high costs particularly distort intra-regional travel markets, where demand proves highly price-sensitive. Without intervention, the Caribbean’s aviation ecosystem risks further contraction, potentially isolating islands and undermining tourism recovery efforts.

  • Undercover cooler fete full of vibes, energy

    Undercover cooler fete full of vibes, energy

    Farmhouse Events’ ‘Undercover’ cooler experience at Drew Manor in Santa Cruz transformed into an electrifying celebration of Caribbean music and culture last Saturday, with Grenadian artists delivering particularly memorable performances that captivated attendees.

    The meticulously curated event featured an impressive lineup of musical talents including DJs Wayne Small, Team Joy, Adam, Gonzo, and Kenez who maintained infectious energy throughout the night. Local favorites Freetown brought their signature wholesome aesthetic, while Viking Ding Dong entertained with comedic interludes. The dynamic duo Full Blown revived their 2025 hit ‘Big Links riddim,’ adding R&B romance to the diverse musical offerings.

    However, the evening’s most explosive moments came from Grenadian sensations Alex ‘Muddy’ Cuffie and Keron ‘Lil Kerry’ Noel, whose authentic jab energy and cultural connection ignited the massive crowd. Their charismatic stage presence and undeniable talent earned enthusiastic encores as the audience embraced their northern neighbors’ distinctive sound and style.

    Beyond the music, the event offered a visually stunning experience with Instagram-ready photo backgrounds, vibrant decorations, and twinkling overhead lights that created a backyard bashment atmosphere. Attendees elevated the glamour quotient with sophisticated outfits and hairstyles, while Next Level Devils, moko jumbies, and the One Band One Sound rhythm section provided traditional Carnival elements that enhanced the cultural authenticity.

    MC Ancil ‘Blaze’ Isaac skillfully coordinated the evening’s presentations, ensuring seamless transitions between performances. The overall production demonstrated Farmhouse Events’ commitment to creating immersive entertainment experiences that celebrate Caribbean musical heritage while fostering cross-cultural connections within the region.

  • High Court to rule on ex-TTFA marketing director’s unpaid fees claim

    High Court to rule on ex-TTFA marketing director’s unpaid fees claim

    A legal confrontation between former Trinidad and Tobago Football Association (TTFA) marketing director Peter Miller and the association’s trustee will reach a pivotal moment on February 26 when Justice Frank Seepersad delivers his ruling. Miller claims substantial unpaid compensation for services rendered during the association’s financial restructuring phase.

    The crux of the dispute centers on whether Miller continued fulfilling his contractual obligations beyond March 2020, when FIFA installed a normalization committee to oversee TTFA operations. Miller maintains he persistently worked through the association’s financial crisis, while trustee Maria Daniel has disallowed portions of his claim based on advice that he ceased services during that period.

    Miller’s employment commenced January 1, 2020, under a two-year contract stipulating a monthly salary of US$25,000, plus an additional US$30,410.95 for services predating his formal contract. During virtual testimony, Miller faced rigorous cross-examination from Senior Counsel Kerwyn Garcia, who challenged the evidentiary support for Miller’s assertions of continued work.

    The judicial proceedings revealed complexities in documenting marketing achievements. Miller acknowledged completing several initiatives outlined in a February 2020 brief from then-TTFA president William Wallace, including securing kit deals, launching a new association website, and identifying broadcast rights partners. However, he conceded that his court submissions lacked documentary evidence for alleged sponsorship agreements with international companies and arranged friendlies with UK and Brazilian clubs.

    Trustee Maria Daniel, appointed in November 2021 to manage TTFA’s debt proposal process, testified that her mandate focused exclusively on financial rehabilitation assessment. While acknowledging email correspondence suggesting Miller maintained sponsor communications after March 2020, she maintained insufficient context existed to validate these exchanges as substantive work.

    Robert Hadad, chairman of FIFA’s normalization committee, corroborated the verification challenges, stating his position required confirming active employees before approving payments.

    The TTFA’s debt proposal, ultimately approved by creditors in May 2022, provided legal protection while the association pursued financial recovery. An Ernst and Young report estimated outstanding liabilities at approximately TT$98.5 million, with the enhanced proposal increasing committed funds to US$3.5 million.

    Justice Seepersad’s impending decision will hinge principally on whether evidence substantiates Miller’s claim of continued contractual performance after March 2020.

  • Adica Ash, Jeremiah Niles see Point Fortin Civic past ‘Cale’

    Adica Ash, Jeremiah Niles see Point Fortin Civic past ‘Cale’

    In a surprising turnaround, Point Fortin Civic secured a decisive 2-0 victory against Caledonia AIA in their TT Premier Football League encounter at Manny Ramjohn Stadium on January 24. The match marked a significant departure from Civic’s usual home ground at Mahaica Sporting Complex in Point Fortin, a change that proved strategically advantageous for the struggling team.

    The breakthrough came in the 67th minute when forward Adica Ash netted the opening goal, breaking the deadlock after a scoreless first half. As Caledonia intensified their offensive efforts seeking an equalizer, former Trinidad and Tobago Under-17 winger Jeremiah Niles delivered the decisive blow in the 87th minute, securing all three points for Civic.

    Niles’ exceptional performance throughout the match earned him the Man of the Match accolade, recognizing both his clinical finish and overall contribution to Civic’s impressive team display.

    This victory represents only Civic’s third win of the season, elevating them to ten points and moving them from bottom position to 11th place in the 12-team standings. Conversely, Caledonia’s disappointing form continues as they remain stagnant in eighth position with 13 points from 14 matches.

    The TTPFL action was set to continue on January 25 with a crucial double-header at Ato Boldon Stadium featuring the league’s top three teams. Second-placed Club Sando (30 points) faced third-placed Miscellaneous Police FC (27 points) in the evening’s first fixture, while league leaders Defence Force (33 points) prepared to meet bottom-placed Terminix La Horquetta Rangers (9 points) in the late match.

    Meanwhile, the scheduled match between 1976 FC Phoenix and Eagles FC has been postponed to an undetermined date, affecting the mid-table dynamics of the competition.

  • Chief Sec: Traditions won’t stop progress

    Chief Sec: Traditions won’t stop progress

    In a decisive move signaling a new era of governance, Tobago House of Assembly (THA) Chief Secretary Farley Augustine has undertaken a comprehensive reshuffle of his executive council, reassigning numerous secretaries to different divisions. The swearing-in ceremony, held on January 26 at the Magdalena Grand Beach and Golf Resort in Lowlands, marked the official commencement of this restructured administration.

    Augustine delivered a powerful address challenging long-standing conventions, declaring that traditions—while valuable for cultural celebrations like the Tobago Heritage Festival—have no place in impeding effective governance. “I don’t intend to keep for any doctrine, the traditions or commandments of any man or woman or public officer,” he stated emphatically. “I don’t care what the traditions have been, I only care what the law says.”

    The Chief Secretary emphasized that his administration would prioritize legal frameworks over customary practices, asserting that any tradition not codified in law is subject to change in pursuit of efficiency. This approach, he explained, is essential to achieving Tobago’s development objectives without unnecessary bureaucratic obstacles.

    Augustine outlined an ambitious vision for the island’s transformation, predicting that by 2030, Tobago will be fundamentally different from its current state. Looking further ahead to 2045, he envisioned Tobago standing “head, shoulders, knees and toes above all of our regional counterparts” in terms of development and prosperity.

    The newly appointed secretaries received clear directives to execute their duties with urgency, discipline, and professionalism, removing any potential stumbling blocks to progress. Augustine reminded them that their work ultimately serves the people of Tobago, whose daily lives are directly impacted by governmental efficiency—or the lack thereof.

    The restructured cabinet includes Megan Morrison as Secretary in the Office of the Chief Secretary, Dr. Faith Brebnor (who also serves as Deputy Chief Secretary) overseeing Health and Wellness, and Adanna Joseph-Wallace leading Legal Affairs. Other key appointments include Trevor James (Strategic Planning and Development), Wane Clarke (Food Security), and Petal Ann Roberts (Finance, Trade and the Economy).

    Complete list of appointments:
    – Secretary in the Office of the Chief Secretary: Megan Morrison
    – Assistant Secretary in the Office of the Chief Secretary: Nigel Taitt
    – Secretary of Health and Wellness: Dr Faith Brebnor
    – Secretary of Legal Affairs: Adanna Joseph-Wallace
    – Secretary of Strategic Planning and Development: Trevor James
    – Secretary of Food Security: Wane Clarke
    – Secretary of Finance, Trade and the Economy: Petal Ann Roberts
    – Assistant Secretary of Finance, Trade and the Economy: Kern Alexis
    – Secretary of Environment, Climate Resilience and Energy: Darren Henry
    – Secretary of Public Infrastructure and Transportation: Nathisha Charles-Pantin
    – Secretary of Youth Empowerment and Sport: Keigon Denoon
    – Secretary of Community Development and Social Protection: Ian Pollard
    – Assistant Secretary of Community Development and Social Protection: Ackel Franklyn
    – Secretary of Housing, Settlements and Public Utilities: Ricky Joefield
    – Secretary of Tourism, Antiquities and Creative Industries: Zorisha Hackett
    – Assistant Secretary of Tourism, Antiquities and Creative Industries: Niketa Percy
    – Secretary of Education, Skills and Innovation: Orlando Kerr

  • Trinidad and Tobago Newsday – Monday January 26th 2026

    Trinidad and Tobago Newsday – Monday January 26th 2026

    The global dietary supplement market is undergoing intensified examination as consumers and regulatory bodies grapple with questions about efficacy, safety, and marketing claims. This multi-billion dollar industry, which has experienced exponential growth over the past decade, now faces mounting pressure to demonstrate transparency and scientific validation for its products.

    Recent developments have highlighted the complex regulatory landscape governing supplements, which typically fall into a different category than pharmaceutical drugs despite often making health-related claims. The absence of mandatory pre-market approval for many supplements has created challenges for consumers attempting to navigate the marketplace.

    Health experts emphasize the importance of third-party testing and verification, as supplement quality can vary significantly between manufacturers. Emerging research continues to investigate potential benefits and risks associated with various popular supplements, from vitamins and minerals to herbal extracts and proprietary blends.

    The digital age has further complicated the supplement landscape, with online marketplaces offering direct consumer access to thousands of products alongside sometimes questionable health advice. Medical professionals increasingly recommend consulting healthcare providers before incorporating new supplements, particularly for individuals with existing health conditions or those taking prescription medications.

    As scientific understanding evolves, the supplement industry stands at a crossroads between traditional wellness practices and evidence-based medicine, with future regulations likely to shape how these products are developed, marketed, and consumed worldwide.

  • 3canal and the Mad Jabs at Queen’s Hall on February 8-10

    3canal and the Mad Jabs at Queen’s Hall on February 8-10

    Trinidad and Tobago’s pioneering rapso collective 3Canal announces their highly anticipated return to the Carnival stage with “Mad Jab,” a provocative theatrical production scheduled for three nights at Queen’s Hall from February 8-10. This year’s performance marks the group’s continued evolution beyond conventional concert formats into a multidimensional experience blending live music, dance, and socially conscious drama.

    For over two decades, 3Canal has redefined Carnival entertainment through productions that simultaneously celebrate cultural traditions while delivering poignant commentary on contemporary issues. The 2026 showcase draws inspiration from the traditional jab jab character—Carnival’s archetypal jester and trickster—reimagined as the “Mad Jab” to address today’s global challenges through the transformative power of satire and laughter.

    The production emerges as a direct response to what the group describes as an era of widespread disinformation and international turmoil. Through original compositions including “Mad World” and “Beyond the Bacchanal,” 3Canal channels the spirit of resistance and resilience that has defined their musical legacy. The performance structure incorporates elements of traditional African drumming, soulful saxophone and flute arrangements, and innovative vocal chorales, creating what promoters characterize as both “joyful noise” and profound social commentary.

    This year’s production features a revitalized ensemble, the Cut + Clear Crew, comprising veteran percussionists Ever-ald “Redman” Watson and Wayne “Lion” Osuna, guitarist Mark Anthony “Emaye” Pierre, and multi-instrumentalist Tony Paul. The ensemble is joined by emerging talent including DJ SouthExst (Joshua Jokhan) and the Mad Jab Chorale under the direction of longtime collaborator Glenda Collens.

    The conceptual framework derives intellectual inspiration from Guyanese poet Martin Carter’s seminal work “This Is The Dark Time,” which provides thematic resonance with current global circumstances. Rather than mere entertainment, 3Canal positions the Mad Jab gathering as a contemporary convois—a traditional assembly for dance, amusement, and subtle rebellion—advocating for community solidarity and peace during increasingly turbulent times.

    Performances will commence at 8 PM each evening from February 8-10 at Queen’s Hall in St. Ann’s, offering audiences an immersive experience that balances Carnival’s sacred and irreverent dimensions while confronting the complexities of modern reality through artistic expression.