Carib Scope

标签： Trinidad and Tobago

特立尼达和多巴哥

  • Danny Guerra’s SoE detention review stalled

    Danny Guerra’s SoE detention review stalled

    The legal challenge mounted by businessman Danny Guerra against his preventive detention under Trinidad and Tobago’s state of emergency has encountered procedural delays. The Emergency Review Tribunal adjourned proceedings on December 18 to accommodate attorneys representing the Minister of Homeland Security, who requested additional time to prepare written submissions.

    Led by Senior Counsel Anand Ramlogan, the ministerial legal team’s request for extension faced strong opposition from Guerra’s defense counsel. Richard Thomas, KC, heading a legal team comprising Nerisa Bala and Emily Rampersad, contended that the minister’s representatives failed to adhere to established practice directions governing such review proceedings.

    The tribunal ultimately granted the extension, setting December 23 as the deadline for the minister’s submissions, with Guerra’s legal team afforded until the following day to formulate their response. No subsequent hearing date has been scheduled.

    Guerra’s detention stems from his November 20 arrest by the Special Investigations Unit, which alleges his leadership of an organized criminal network engaged in arms trafficking, money laundering, and illegal quarry operations. Homeland Security Minister Roger Alexander’s detention order further references an alleged assassination plot targeting a government minister.

    Notably, Thomas received special authorization through Legal Notice 459, gazetted on December 17, enabling his representation in Trinidad and Tobago courts despite not being locally admitted.

    This case represents another chapter in Guerra’s legal difficulties, following previous charges filed on October 11 against both him and his son for unlicensed aggregate processing. Those charges resulted in $50,000 bail for each defendant granted by a justice of the peace.

    The current state of emergency, initially declared on July 18 and extended for three months in October, remains in effect until January 2026, providing the legal framework for Guerra’s ongoing detention without formal charges.

  • Privy Council refuses appeal in Guppy extradition case

    Privy Council refuses appeal in Guppy extradition case

    In a significant legal development, suspected international drug trafficker Shurlan Guppy has been denied permission to appeal his extradition to the United States by the Judicial Committee of the Privy Council. The London-based court dismissed Guppy’s special leave application on December 18, with Lords Lloyd-Jones, Leggatt and Stephens unanimously concluding that the case failed to present any arguable point of law or matter of general public importance.

    The ruling represents the latest judicial setback for Guppy, who faces eleven serious drug trafficking charges in the United States involving heroin and cocaine valued at approximately US$1 million. Court documents reveal that if convicted on all counts, Guppy potentially faces life imprisonment with a mandatory minimum sentence of ten years.

    Parallel to his Privy Council petition, Guppy has initiated constitutional proceedings in Trinidad and Tobago’s High Court, alleging rights violations during his extradition process. His legal team, led by attorney Mario Merritt, contends that despite governmental assurances to maintain the status quo during the 56-day appeal window, authorities proceeded with Guppy’s extradition to the United States while his UK application remained pending.

    The constitutional motion, currently before Justice Jacqueline Wilson, seeks multiple remedies including financial compensation, vindicatory damages, and most notably, a court order mandating Guppy’s repatriation to Trinidad and Tobago. During November proceedings, state attorney Ian Roach maintained the extradition’s legality, arguing that the transfer occurred only after the expiration of the agreed-upon moratorium period.

    According to investigations by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration’s Philadelphia Division, Guppy allegedly orchestrated an international drug distribution network between 2017 and 2022. Federal indictments claim the operation utilized various communication platforms including cellular phones, FaceTime, and encrypted WhatsApp messaging to coordinate narcotics transactions across multiple jurisdictions.

    Justice Wilson has adjourned the constitutional matter until January 26, 2026, awaiting further developments in the ongoing legal proceedings. Guppy remains in federal custody in the United States following his initial appearance in the Eastern District of Pennsylvania on August 12.

  • TT Chamber calls out Government, demands action on forex crisis

    TT Chamber calls out Government, demands action on forex crisis

    The Trinidad and Tobago Chamber of Industry and Commerce has issued an urgent appeal for coordinated national action to address the country’s escalating foreign exchange crisis. In a December 19 statement accompanied by a comprehensive working paper, the business organization warned that inaction is no longer viable for the national economy.

    The Chamber’s analysis identifies three primary drivers of the forex shortage: the current exchange-rate regime that has maintained an overvalued TT dollar for over a decade, declining energy production that traditionally supplies over 80% of forex inflows, and excessive dependence on imported goods across critical sectors including food, vehicles, and pharmaceuticals.

    Businesses throughout the economy are experiencing severe operational challenges, including delayed access to foreign currency, rising operating costs, and diminished competitiveness. The Chamber notes that black market currency trading signals deepening market imbalances that threaten economic stability.

    The organization proposes a multi-stakeholder approach involving government, the Central Bank, and private sector collaboration. Key recommendations include aligning the exchange rate with market demand and supply through a gradual transition to a more flexible and transparent framework. The Chamber emphasizes that timely, coordinated action offers a more orderly path toward stability than forced corrections later.

    For the private sector, the Chamber advocates collective measures to increase forex inflows through profit repatriation, foreign direct investment attraction, and leveraging remittances through formal channels. Import substitution initiatives are also encouraged to reduce structural dependence on foreign goods.

    The warning comes amid recent negative outlook revisions from major credit rating agencies Moody’s and Standard & Poor’s, both citing concerns about declining forex reserves.

  • Hodge cracks 2nd Test century: WI cut Black Caps lead to 194

    Hodge cracks 2nd Test century: WI cut Black Caps lead to 194

    Kavem Hodge’s resilient unbeaten century has ignited West Indies’ resurgence on day three of the third Test against New Zealand at Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui. The right-handed batsman displayed remarkable composure in his 254-ball 109-run knock, guiding the visitors to 381/6 in response to New Zealand’s commanding first-innings total of 575/8 declared.

    The Caribbean side, resuming at 110 without loss, encountered early setbacks as openers John Campbell (45) and Brandon King (63) fell in quick succession to Jacob Duffy’s pace bowling. With regular captain Shai Hope sidelined by illness, wicketkeeper-batsman Tevin Imlach promoted to number four contributed a crucial 66-run third-wicket partnership with Hodge before departing to Michael Rae’s delivery.

    Hodge’s technical proficiency shone through as he orchestrated two vital middle-order partnerships—first adding 61 runs with Alick Athanaze (45) and then 81 runs with allrounder Justin Greaves (43). The 32-year-old Dominican batsman struck 14 boundaries in his marathon innings, demonstrating exceptional shot selection and patience against New Zealand’s varied attack.

    The Black Caps still maintain a substantial 194-run lead, with left-arm spinner Ajaz Patel (2/94) and Duffy (2/79) being the most successful bowlers. Anderson Phillip (12 not out) survived a late scare when Rae dropped a difficult chance off Patel, ensuring Hodge would return on day four to continue his pursuit of a career-best Test score.

    West Indies’ batting performance marked a significant improvement from their previous displays in the series, particularly through Hodge’s masterclass in concentration and shot execution against both pace and spin bowling.

  • Angostura signs Imran “GI” Beharry as new brand ambassador

    Angostura signs Imran “GI” Beharry as new brand ambassador

    In a significant cultural partnership, Trinidad and Tobago’s celebrated chutney soca artist Imran “GI” Beharry has been appointed as the official brand ambassador for the House of Angostura. The three-time Chutney Soca Monarch, who recently joined the National Carnival Commission, formalized this collaboration through a signing ceremony on December 16 at the company’s Laventille headquarters.

    The House of Angostura announced the partnership on December 17, characterizing the union as bringing together “two powerful symbols of TT’s creative and cultural identity.” The company highlighted GI’s dynamic stage presence, authentic storytelling capabilities, and profound connection to Caribbean culture as qualities aligning perfectly with their brand values.

    Acting CEO Ian Forbes emphasized the strategic alignment, stating: “Our brands are deeply rooted in culture, heritage and authenticity. GI represents the modern expression of Caribbean creativity – bold, confident and grounded in who we are as a people.” This collaboration forms part of Angostura’s broader initiative to engage cultural leaders who authentically embody the brand’s spirit while promoting premium rum culture through contemporary channels.

    Beharry, known for his hit “My One Only,” expressed enthusiasm about representing the historic brand: “The House of Angostura represents legacy, pride and TT excellence on a global stage. This partnership feels natural because it reflects who we are and how far our culture can travel.”

    The artist will represent Angostura across selected brand engagements, consumer experiences, and cultural events, serving as a bridge between the company’s premium spirits and the vibrant Caribbean music scene. This partnership underscores Angostura’s ongoing commitment to supporting local talent and cultural expression while elevating brand experiences at the intersection of music, culture, and premium spirits.

  • Convicted killer Chuck Attin gets additional 22 years for rape

    Convicted killer Chuck Attin gets additional 22 years for rape

    In a significant judicial ruling that closes a decades-old case, convicted murderer Chuck Attin, also known as Clint Pierre, has been sentenced to an additional 22 years and 9 months imprisonment for the 1994 rape of a domestic worker during the same crime spree that claimed two lives in Westmoorings, Trinidad.

    High Court Justice Kathy-Ann Waterman-Latchoo delivered the sentence after Attin pleaded guilty to multiple sexual offenses, including rape, serious indecency, and buggery. The court imposed a total sentence of 26 years and 8 months with hard labor for the rape charge, granting credit for 3 years, 10 months and 5 days already served in pre-trial custody.

    The additional sentences come thirty years after Attin, then just 15 years old, and accomplice Noel Seepersad murdered Candace Scott, 23, and Karen Sa Gomes, 31, in a brutal home invasion. Attin has been detained since 1994 and is already serving time at the court’s pleasure for the murders under a sentence that required periodic reviews.

    Justice Waterman-Latchoo rejected defense arguments for concurrent sentencing and discounts due to procedural delays, ordering instead that the sentences run consecutively as they would have if prosecuted in 1996. The judge also completely extinguished separate one-year sentences for indecency and buggery due to time already served.

    The horrific details of the case emerged during proceedings: On July 11, 1994, the victims’ maid was alone with the Scotts’ infant son when Attin and Seepersad arrived under false pretenses. After threatening the woman’s life, Attin sexually assaulted her multiple times while Seepersad ransacked the property. Both men subjected the victim to repeated rape and buggery while threatening to kill the crying infant.

    Forensic evidence and identification parades subsequently linked both men to the crimes. Seepersad was convicted and sentenced to hang, though his appeal to the Privy Council was ultimately dismissed.

    State prosecutor Shervon Noreiga secured the conviction while defense attorney Michelle Ali of the Public Defenders’ Department represented Attin during sentencing proceedings that concluded this month.

  • Small conventional bands semis: Pan showdown on December 20

    Small conventional bands semis: Pan showdown on December 20

    Victoria Square in Port of Spain transforms into a vibrant battleground on December 20 as 31 elite small conventional steel orchestras compete for advancement in Trinidad and Tobago’s National Panorama competition. This preliminary showdown will determine which bands proceed to the grand finals scheduled for January 10, 2026, at Skinner Park in San Fernando.

    The musical festivities commence at 4 PM with the Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force Steel Orchestra, culminating with Nu Stars Steel Orchestra’s closing performance. Pan Trinbago president Beverly Ramsey-Moore characterized the 2026 Panorama opening as an electrifying demonstration of vibrancy and precision, describing small conventional bands as “the true engine of the steelpan movement.”

    Following rigorous regional adjudication between December 5-13, Southern Stars Steel Orchestra (D’South Band) emerged as the preliminary frontrunner with 272 points. Their arrangement of the late Merchant’s 1982 calypso “Let Us Build A Nation Together,” orchestrated by Duvone Stewart, secured a three-point advantage over joint second-place finishers Fascinators Pan Symphony and Uptown Fascinators Steel Orchestra.

    The defending 2025 co-champions face heightened competition this season. T&TEC New East Side Dimension tied for fourth position with Fusion Steel Orchestra and Defence Force Steel Orchestra at 269 points, while Golden Hands Steel Orchestra shared seventh place with Tunapuna Tipica and Arima Golden Symphony at 265 points.

    Despite these preliminary results, both champion arrangers have issued determined warnings to competitors. Tobago’s Kersh Ramsey of T&TEC New East Side Dimension declared: “We’re looking for a clear path to victory. Having won back-to-back in 2024 and 2025, we are going for the hat-trick in 2026.” His San Fernando counterpart, Vanessa Headley-Brewster of Golden Hands, remains equally resolved to retain their title despite time penalty setbacks.

    The competition unfolds against broader cultural significance, with Ramsey-Moore highlighting that Panorama has already engaged over 3,000 steelpan musicians across 94 bands, affirming Trinidad and Tobago’s status as the undisputed Mecca of the steelpan.

  • Experts: Tardieu’s abduction trauma could linger

    Experts: Tardieu’s abduction trauma could linger

    The recent abduction and subsequent release of 70-year-old Monos Island resident Derek Tardieu has exposed deep psychological wounds within both the victim and the broader community, highlighting the complex trauma associated with violent crime. While Tardieu was freed on December 17 after nearly two weeks in captivity, his wife Clarabelle, 47, remains missing—a circumstance experts say compounds the emotional devastation.

    Psychological experts are now detailing the severe impact such traumatic events inflict on survivors. Psychologist Kelly McFarlane explains that kidnapping typically triggers acute stress responses, potential PTSD development, survivor’s guilt, and depression. ‘Trauma manifests as shock and numbness, with difficulty processing the event,’ McFarlane stated in a December 18 interview. Victims frequently experience nightmares, insomnia, and hyper-arousal, where mundane sensory cues can trigger intense anxiety.

    The Tardieu case involved particularly harrowing circumstances, with abductors sending relatives a video showing the couple held at gunpoint with a grenade pressed against Tardieu’s chest. The kidnappers demanded a $2.5 million ransom, though it remains unclear whether payment was made.

    McFarlane emphasized that survivor’s guilt presents a significant hurdle in emotional recovery, particularly given Clarabelle’s continued captivity. ‘This creates a deep emotional conflict between relief and sadness,’ she noted, adding that unaddressed trauma can evolve into chronic PTSD characterized by intrusive memories, flashbacks, and avoidance behaviors.

    Attorney Lesley-Ann Lucky-Samaroo, SC, confirmed Tardieu’s release in a December 17 statement, indicating he was ‘seeking medical attention and care’ while the family requested privacy.

    The psychological impact extends beyond individual victims to affect entire communities. Psychiatrist Dr. Varma Deyalsingh observes that the brazen nature of this abduction has amplified collective feelings of fear, anxiety, and helplessness. ‘When senior citizens can be abducted, the nation questions its own safety,’ Deyalsingh explained, noting that such incidents can lead to changed behaviors, increased vigilance, and diminished trust in public safety measures.

    Both experts stress the importance of respectful recovery environments. McFarlane cautioned against media overexposure, noting that sensational coverage can re-traumatize victims. She advocated for respecting boundaries, allowing time for healing, and monitoring for signs of ongoing distress including withdrawal, sleep disturbances, and depression.

    Deyalsingh highlighted the role of law enforcement leadership in restoring public confidence, specifically mentioning Commissioner of Police Allister Guevarro’s international security background. However, he noted that true security restoration requires coordinated efforts across law enforcement, judicial systems, and community support networks.

    As the Tardieu family grapples with ongoing uncertainty, experts recommend balanced vigilance without succumbing to fear, emphasizing empathy and support for those directly affected while maintaining normal daily routines.

  • SLS: Motto’s love song to riddim

    SLS: Motto’s love song to riddim

    St. Lucian musician Lashley ‘Motto’ Winter is positioning groovy soca as the Caribbean’s most viable export for achieving sustained international recognition. For the upcoming 2026 Carnival season, the established singer, songwriter, and producer has crafted the ‘SLS (Soca Love Story)’ riddim, a production deeply inspired by the musical traditions of Laventille’s rhythmic sections and Trinidad’s tassa culture.

    Winter’s artistic perspective is shaped by his St. Lucian heritage, French Antillean influences, and extensive experience within Trinidad and Tobago’s carnival scene. He argues that while the region produces multiple soca subgenres—from St. Lucia’s Dennery Segment to Dominica’s bouyon—the melodic and accessible nature of groovy soca holds the greatest potential for worldwide appeal. He notes its rhythmic similarities to already-globalized genres like Afrobeats and reggaeton, suggesting this familiarity could ease its acceptance by international audiences.

    The artist points to the successful crossover attempts of icons like Machel Montano and recent collaborations, such as Yung Bredda’s work with Chloe Bailey, as critical steps toward mainstream acceptance. Motto’s own strategy involves strategic partnerships with American artists; his recent single ‘Ego’ featuring Sean Kingston exemplifies this targeted approach to gaining exposure in the lucrative U.S. and European markets.

    However, Winter emphasizes that authenticity is paramount. His goal is not to abandon soca for pop but to intelligently introduce the genre’s core sound to new listeners through established international platforms. Based in Miami, he is actively working to position himself within the American music industry while staying true to his Caribbean roots.

    Looking ahead to Carnival 2026, Motto expressed hope for a successful season and urged a swift resolution to the ongoing impasse between the government and promoters’ association, noting that such stability is crucial for the international perception and commercial viability of the event.

  • Windies openers start brightly after Black Caps post 575 in 1st innings

    Windies openers start brightly after Black Caps post 575 in 1st innings

    In a display of resilient batting, West Indies openers Brandon King and John Campbell provided a much-needed response for their team on day two of the third Test against New Zealand at Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui. The Caribbean duo remained unbeaten with 55 and 45 runs respectively, guiding their team to 110 without loss at stumps on December 19.

    This strong opening stand came after New Zealand declared their first innings at a formidable 575 for eight, having dominated the crease for nearly two full days. The hosts’ innings was highlighted by Devon Conway’s magnificent 227 runs from 367 deliveries, marking his second double-century in Test cricket. Conway’s marathon innings finally ended when he was trapped lbw by Justin Greaves, who led the West Indies bowling attack with figures of two for 83.

    New Zealand’s batting lineup demonstrated depth and consistency throughout their innings. Captain Tom Latham contributed a solid 137 runs, while Rachin Ravindra remained not out on 72. The Black Caps’ lower order showed aggressive intent before the declaration, with Ajaz Patel contributing a quickfire 30 from just 30 balls.

    Despite New Zealand’s commanding position with a 465-run lead, the West Indies opening partnership provided hope for the visitors. The Jamaican pair combined for 16 boundaries in just 23 overs, offering the first substantial resistance from the Caribbean side in the match. Their unbroken century stand gives West Indies a foundation to build upon when play resumes, though they face the considerable challenge of overcoming New Zealand’s massive total amid the absence of white-ball captain Shai Hope, who missed the day’s play due to illness.