Snippets of Caribbean news from around the web as well as a Caribbean newspapers search engine that searches all of the Newspapers of the region.
Sunday, February 28
Sash Sawh relative thinks Roger Khan has answers on murder
Stabroek News "The government’s failure to honour a promise to seek foreign aid to solve the murder of Satyadeow Sawh has prompted one of the late Minister’s relatives to ask the Canadian government for help in accessing Roger Khan who it is believed has vital information."
Borrowed guns leave communities ...ON THE BRINK OF WAR
The Jamaica Star "A war seems to be brewing between two Mountain View communities after the refusal of one of them to return guns they borrowed from the other.
The east Kingston communities are now gripped with tension after thugs from Goodridge Lane are said to have tricked their counterparts from 'Vegas' (top Jacques Road) into lending them guns and now will not return them.
The thugs from the communities were once bitter enemies but THE WEEKEND STAR has learnt that in recent times peace was brokered and there were even offers made between the sides to help each other in war.
However all hell might erupt now following an incident recently in which a number of guns, including several high-powered rifles, were sent from Vegas to the men in Goodridge Lane for additional firepower in a battle with men from Back Bush, a community also in Mountain View."
The east Kingston communities are now gripped with tension after thugs from Goodridge Lane are said to have tricked their counterparts from 'Vegas' (top Jacques Road) into lending them guns and now will not return them.
The thugs from the communities were once bitter enemies but THE WEEKEND STAR has learnt that in recent times peace was brokered and there were even offers made between the sides to help each other in war.
However all hell might erupt now following an incident recently in which a number of guns, including several high-powered rifles, were sent from Vegas to the men in Goodridge Lane for additional firepower in a battle with men from Back Bush, a community also in Mountain View."
Video--Haiti Rain Leaves 8 Dead, 2 Missing
Haitian officials say eight people are dead and two missing after heavy rain pounded the southwest and caused widespread flooding on Saturday, weeks ahead of the typical start of the country's rainy season.
Saturday, February 27
Jamaica: Gunmen kill 2 workers outside church
Taiwan News Online: "Jamaican authorities say gunmen killed two people and wounded six others in a drive-by shooting targeting construction workers who were renovating a church.
Police Cpl. Beverlyn Howell says a van with several armed men drove up to the Baptist church and opened fire in Spanish Town, on the outskirts of Kingston.
Howell says Friday's shooting is believed to be gang-related. No one has been arrested.
The wounded were in hospitals and in serious condition on Saturday.
Jamaica reported a record 1,680 murders last year."
Police Cpl. Beverlyn Howell says a van with several armed men drove up to the Baptist church and opened fire in Spanish Town, on the outskirts of Kingston.
Howell says Friday's shooting is believed to be gang-related. No one has been arrested.
The wounded were in hospitals and in serious condition on Saturday.
Jamaica reported a record 1,680 murders last year."
Trinidad PM: Spiritual adviser gets no gov't help
washingtonpost.com: "PORT-OF-SPAIN, Trinidad -- Trinidad's prime minister delivered a fiery, hour-long speech on church-state relations Friday while flatly denying that his spiritual adviser travels with him at the expense of taxpayers.
This Caribbean island is a highly religious society of Roman Catholics, Hindus, Anglicans, Baptists and Muslims. Religion plays a prominent role in politics, and any government official seen with a religious adviser is highly regarded."
This Caribbean island is a highly religious society of Roman Catholics, Hindus, Anglicans, Baptists and Muslims. Religion plays a prominent role in politics, and any government official seen with a religious adviser is highly regarded."
Relatives: Guyanese woman killed by lover
Trinidad Express "Christopher Haynes, the Guyanese national found dead in an apartment in Longdenville last week, died from poisoning, an autopsy has confirmed.
Haynes was found lying in the living room near his wife, Maria Ward, who was also from Guyana.
Police believe the couple drank poison in a suicide pact. But Ward’s relatives in Guyana believe she was forced to drink the deadly potion.
Her grandmother, Gladys Peters, told Starboek News her grand-daughter was murdered by her husband."
Haynes was found lying in the living room near his wife, Maria Ward, who was also from Guyana.
Police believe the couple drank poison in a suicide pact. But Ward’s relatives in Guyana believe she was forced to drink the deadly potion.
Her grandmother, Gladys Peters, told Starboek News her grand-daughter was murdered by her husband."
Friday, February 26
British court: Stanford scheme centered in Antigua
BusinessWeek: "The British Court of Appeal on Thursday upheld a ruling that an alleged Ponzi scheme by jailed Texas financier R. Allen Stanford was centered on the Caribbean island of Antigua, not the United States.
The decision was a defeat for a receiver appointed by U.S. courts to liquidate Stanford assets, Dallas lawyer Ralph Janvey. He had argued that even though the bank where the scheme originated was in Antigua, its 'nerve center' was in the United States."
The decision was a defeat for a receiver appointed by U.S. courts to liquidate Stanford assets, Dallas lawyer Ralph Janvey. He had argued that even though the bank where the scheme originated was in Antigua, its 'nerve center' was in the United States."
“Swine Flu” still being monitored
Dominica News Online: "Health officials in Dominica say the country has not let the guard down on the Influenza A H1N1 virus, commonly referred to as swine flu.
The local Ministry of Health in September 2009 reported an outbreak of the virus, confirming 47 cases. Last month, Chief Medical Officer Dr. David Johnson said the virus was no longer a “major challenge” or concern for Dominica, and that all the 47 cases had recuperated."
The local Ministry of Health in September 2009 reported an outbreak of the virus, confirming 47 cases. Last month, Chief Medical Officer Dr. David Johnson said the virus was no longer a “major challenge” or concern for Dominica, and that all the 47 cases had recuperated."
House mulls Rasta church bid
Jamaica Gleaner News"A Rastafarian church's 14-year bid for incorporation in Jamaica continues to be a major source of contention among the nation's lawmakers.
The Church of Haile Selassie I, which first submitted its petition for incorporation in October 1996, is yet to receive parliamentary approval despite pleas by the church and its legal representatives."
The Church of Haile Selassie I, which first submitted its petition for incorporation in October 1996, is yet to receive parliamentary approval despite pleas by the church and its legal representatives."
Wayne Chen’s visa cancelled ....
- JamaicaObserver.com: "HEAD of the State-run Urban Development Corporation and the Jamaica Employers' Federation, Wayne Chen, was severely embarrassed when he turned up with his family at the Norman Manley International Airport in Kingston on Wednesday and was informed by local immigration officials that his United States visitor's visa was cancelled.
Chen, who was travelling to a business meeting in Los Angeles, California with his family, expressed shock and surprise at the move by the US Government. The trip, he said, was to continue work on a project involving business retailers from several countries."
Chen, who was travelling to a business meeting in Los Angeles, California with his family, expressed shock and surprise at the move by the US Government. The trip, he said, was to continue work on a project involving business retailers from several countries."
Suspect charged for Gonzales massacre
Trinidad and Tobago's Newsday :"A 24-year-old man from Gonzales will appear before a Port-of-Spain magistrate today charged with the murders of four members of a family who were shot dead on Monday.
The man was detained on Tuesday night at his home in Gonzales, and yesterday officers of the Special Anti-Crime Unit of TT (SAUTT) approached the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions for directions on the case."
The man was detained on Tuesday night at his home in Gonzales, and yesterday officers of the Special Anti-Crime Unit of TT (SAUTT) approached the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions for directions on the case."
Economist: Hard times for tourism
Nation News "TOURISM IS NOT PERFORMING as predicted and as a result foreign reserves are falling.
This has been revealed by Harold Codrington, advisor to the Governor of the Central Bank of Barbados.
'At this time of year we should not be losing foreign reserves, because this is the high season for tourism,' the economist told the Men's Education and Support Association (MESA) on Wednesday night at The St Michael School."
This has been revealed by Harold Codrington, advisor to the Governor of the Central Bank of Barbados.
'At this time of year we should not be losing foreign reserves, because this is the high season for tourism,' the economist told the Men's Education and Support Association (MESA) on Wednesday night at The St Michael School."
CASE NOT CLOSED: Cops: Maria knew her killer
Nation News "FOR MORE THAN A YEAR AND A HALF Maria Holland-Spencer made her way through the City to her post at the Black Opal counter of a well established pharmacy.
Stylish, with a lively personality to boot, Maria's daily walk along the busy Broad Street often brought her admirers - wanted and unwanted. At her workplace she was considered a
'live wire'.
Then one day, May 30, 2000, the model employee did not turn up for work. Panic set in as time passed and there was yet no word from Maria."
Stylish, with a lively personality to boot, Maria's daily walk along the busy Broad Street often brought her admirers - wanted and unwanted. At her workplace she was considered a
'live wire'.
Then one day, May 30, 2000, the model employee did not turn up for work. Panic set in as time passed and there was yet no word from Maria."
video--Robbery not assasination; Cop gunned down
The death of Corporal Trevor Peter was not the work of a man or group out to assassinate cops. So says Crime Chief Vernon Francois. He is responding to growing public concern officers are being targeted by criminals.
Thursday, February 25
BODY IDENTIFIED
Antigua Sun "Lawmen on the island have identified the body of a man whose swollen and slightly decomposed body was fished out of a drainage just off the Anchorage Road on Tuesday.
According to police reports, the man is Charles Lake of Martin's Village, who is said to be in his late fifties. The man was identified by members of his family."
According to police reports, the man is Charles Lake of Martin's Village, who is said to be in his late fifties. The man was identified by members of his family."
New York Family Tragedy Rocks Ulster Spring
Jamaica Gleaner News"A pall of gloom is hanging over the small farming community of Ulster Spring in Trelawny, following the tragic deaths of Jamaican educator, Dionne Coy Bailey, and her two daughters, who were killed this week by her husband in a murder-suicide.
The bizarre incident took place on Monday at the couple's home in the upscale Springfield community of Queens, New York."
The bizarre incident took place on Monday at the couple's home in the upscale Springfield community of Queens, New York."
Remigrant found bound, smothered –household items stolen
Stabroek News"A hearing-impaired elderly remigrant was bound and smothered to death with a pillow by bandits who carted off several household appliances in a brazen episode that yesterday left the East Bank Demerara community of Peter’s Hall in shock."
PM denies owning church
Trinidad Express "In a statement which left a lot unanswered, Prime Minister Patrick Manning yesterday confirmed the church in Heights of Guanapo, Arima, is being built on State lands.
He, however, categorically denied that public funds were being used for its construction. He also denied an allegation that was never made-which is that he owns the church. There has been the suggestion, however, that he has taken a personal interest in the construction because he has visited the site."
He, however, categorically denied that public funds were being used for its construction. He also denied an allegation that was never made-which is that he owns the church. There has been the suggestion, however, that he has taken a personal interest in the construction because he has visited the site."
Wednesday, February 24
J'can teen netballer on Oprah show
- JamaicaObserver.com: "NATIONAL Under-21 net-baller Marvadene Anderson on Monday appeared as a guest on the Oprah Winfrey talk show hosted by the celebrated American broadcaster and entrepreneur.
Anderson -- who was a member of Jamaica's victorious teams at the 2008 and 2009 Jean Pierre Under-16 Caribbean Championships, where she was voted the top goal-shooter both times, was featured because of her incredible height, which is said to be 6 feet 10 inches."
Anderson -- who was a member of Jamaica's victorious teams at the 2008 and 2009 Jean Pierre Under-16 Caribbean Championships, where she was voted the top goal-shooter both times, was featured because of her incredible height, which is said to be 6 feet 10 inches."
Three charged with slaying NY Guyanese
Stabroek News "Three men appeared in a Schenectady, New York court yesterday charged with the Saturday murder of Guyanese Ganesh Ramgoolam and were remanded to prison."
Families move out of Gonzales under guard
Trinidad Express "POLICE and soldiers toting sub-machine guns guarded the McHutchinson and Roberts families yesterday as they moved out of Gonzales, following Monday morning’s massacre in which four of their relatives were killed by gang members.
Police have also begun both foot and mobile patrols on a 24-hour basis in the community as they fear a complete resurgence of gang warfare which, for years, had been kept in check through the efforts of two Roman Catholic priests."
Police have also begun both foot and mobile patrols on a 24-hour basis in the community as they fear a complete resurgence of gang warfare which, for years, had been kept in check through the efforts of two Roman Catholic priests."
America still not yet a 'colour blind' society
Nation News "FIFTY-TWO YEARS after successfully challenging segregation and racial hatred in America's South, Carlotta Walls Lanier is still hoping America will 'work towards a more colour blind society'.
Lanier, one of the nine African-American students known as The Little Rock Nine, who made history integrating Arkansas' Little Rock Central High School in 1957, shared her experience as one of the first black students admitted to the public school in the Jim Crow south, with an audience at the Errol Barrow Centre For Creative Imagination last Monday night."
Lanier, one of the nine African-American students known as The Little Rock Nine, who made history integrating Arkansas' Little Rock Central High School in 1957, shared her experience as one of the first black students admitted to the public school in the Jim Crow south, with an audience at the Errol Barrow Centre For Creative Imagination last Monday night."
Tuesday, February 23
Cop murdered; area ‘don’ taken out by cop
- JamaicaObserver.com: "TENSION was high in the tough Portmore communities of Newlands and Naggo Head last night following the police killing of an area ‘don’, Dante Morris, who was said to be involved in the slaying earlier of a policeman.
Police from the St Catherine South Division, however, were not taking any chances and had a strong contingent of officers in the communities last night to avoid a worsening of the situation."
Police from the St Catherine South Division, however, were not taking any chances and had a strong contingent of officers in the communities last night to avoid a worsening of the situation."
'A vicious act' - Cop killed execution style in St Catherine
Jamaica Gleaner News "Residents of Southboro in Portmore, St Catherine, have reacted with a mixture of bafflement and dismay to the disturbing spectacle of a policeman's body found, shot execution style, in his Toyota Hiace minibus in their community yesterday morning."
2nd Jamaican rapper denied Grenada show
NewsOK.com: "ST. GEORGE'S, Grenada (AP) — Grenada has blocked a second Jamaican dancehall rapper from performing on the island.
The Labor Ministry refused to provide a permit for Clifford Smith, known as Mr. Vegas, for a nightclub show.
Event promoter Steve Duncan said Monday no rationale was given, but he believes a Mr. Vegas song with derogatory lyrics about women was the reason."
The Labor Ministry refused to provide a permit for Clifford Smith, known as Mr. Vegas, for a nightclub show.
Event promoter Steve Duncan said Monday no rationale was given, but he believes a Mr. Vegas song with derogatory lyrics about women was the reason."
Transgender Men Seek End to Guyana Dress Code Laws
NYTimes.com: "GEORGETOWN (Reuters) - A group of transgender men in Guyana have asked the country's Supreme Court to strike down laws that leave them open to arrest following a police crackdown on male cross-dressers.
Police in the tiny South American country, where both homosexuality and transgender dress have been illegal for decades, detained and briefly held six transgender males in jail last February on charges of 'cross-dressing.'"
Police in the tiny South American country, where both homosexuality and transgender dress have been illegal for decades, detained and briefly held six transgender males in jail last February on charges of 'cross-dressing.'"
Monday, February 22
COPS KILL 'KIDNAPPER'
Trinidad and Tobago's Newsday : "A man who reportedly abducted a 16-year-old girl from her Vegas, Morvant home, was shot and killed by police at 12.30 am yesterday.
Dead is Nathaniel Francis, 25. According to police, Francis, aka “Tan Tan” the nephew of deceased gang-leader Sean Bill Francis, took the teenager from her home at about 10 am on Saturday."
Dead is Nathaniel Francis, 25. According to police, Francis, aka “Tan Tan” the nephew of deceased gang-leader Sean Bill Francis, took the teenager from her home at about 10 am on Saturday."
Man’s skeleton found hanging
Kaieteur News: "The skeletal remains of a man who has since been identified as 67-year-old Jocelyn Prince was discovered yesterday afternoon hanging from a tree on the southern bank of the Lamaha Canal.
The discovery was made by some men who were hunting iguanas in the densely vegetated area.
The body appeared to be in that position for several months although no one reported Prince missing.
The iguana hunters told this newspaper that they stumbled on the remains while tracking down a large iguana."
The discovery was made by some men who were hunting iguanas in the densely vegetated area.
The body appeared to be in that position for several months although no one reported Prince missing.
The iguana hunters told this newspaper that they stumbled on the remains while tracking down a large iguana."
‘Man fi dead’ Pastor advocates vengeance for dentist’s killers
- JamaicaObserver.com: "CENTRAL Jamaica pastor Mark Stewart is calling for tougher punishment for those who kill, and in the process rob the society of some of its great minds.
Delivering the sermon at the funeral service for murdered Clarendon dentist, Dr Ricardo Patrick Fraser at the Blue Mountain United Church in Manchester last week, Rev Stewart said that those who killed the dentist should not be allowed to live."
Delivering the sermon at the funeral service for murdered Clarendon dentist, Dr Ricardo Patrick Fraser at the Blue Mountain United Church in Manchester last week, Rev Stewart said that those who killed the dentist should not be allowed to live."
Fewer hours of water
Trinidad Express "Drier days are coming.
Water rationing is continuing throughout the country, with Central and South Trinidad being advised to brace for the sound of air rushing through their pipes over the next two days as the Desalination Company of Trinidad and Tobago shuts down to facilitate maintenance work.
Desalcott has slashed its production of water by millions of gallons to complete urgent repairs at its plant."
Water rationing is continuing throughout the country, with Central and South Trinidad being advised to brace for the sound of air rushing through their pipes over the next two days as the Desalination Company of Trinidad and Tobago shuts down to facilitate maintenance work.
Desalcott has slashed its production of water by millions of gallons to complete urgent repairs at its plant."
Fiery protest over dry taps
Trinidad Express "Just two hours after residents of the Olera Heights Housing Project blocked the road and burnt tyres on Saturday night, the Water and Sewerage Authority (WASA) arrived to turn on the valves.
More than 100 angry residents protested along Circular Road, San Fernando, outside the housing project.
They demanded that the Housing Development Corporation explain why their taps went dry a week ago."
More than 100 angry residents protested along Circular Road, San Fernando, outside the housing project.
They demanded that the Housing Development Corporation explain why their taps went dry a week ago."
100 - and still in the saddle
Nation News"SADDLER MELVILLE WILLIAMS was a bouncy 100 yesterday, with full memory, fluid mobility and the agility to get
on his work saddle - because 'every part of me is working'.
Governor General Sir Clifford Husbands, who visited the centenarian's Lonesome Hill, St Peter home, got a lesson on the leatherwork from 'the master saddler', at the end of which Sir Clifford said to his teacher: 'Mr Williams, your mind is out of this world; it is excellent!'"
on his work saddle - because 'every part of me is working'.
Governor General Sir Clifford Husbands, who visited the centenarian's Lonesome Hill, St Peter home, got a lesson on the leatherwork from 'the master saddler', at the end of which Sir Clifford said to his teacher: 'Mr Williams, your mind is out of this world; it is excellent!'"
Sunday, February 21
School Violence: A growing culture in Antigua Part III
Antigua Sun"“One appreciates the noble intentions to turn around the face of education in Antigua and Barbuda. However, in doing so, please remember that the most fearful place right now is the school environment.”
Those are the sentiments of a concerned parent and teacher in an open letter to the Minister of Education, Dr. Jacquie Quinn-Leandro.
The letter states that “over the years it (the school) has not become very conducive to learning because violence mars its halls.”"
Those are the sentiments of a concerned parent and teacher in an open letter to the Minister of Education, Dr. Jacquie Quinn-Leandro.
The letter states that “over the years it (the school) has not become very conducive to learning because violence mars its halls.”"
KILLED FOR NOT PAYING EXTORTION?
The Jamaica Star "The Central Police say they are investigating the possibility that Thursday's murder of a businessman in downtown Kingston, was linked to the rampant extortion scheme being carried out in the business district.
Lavanish Anand, 35, of a Long Mountain Country Club, Kingston 6 address, was shot dead as he and some employees were in the process of closing down his store. The alleged shooter and three other persons were also injured during the shooting."
Lavanish Anand, 35, of a Long Mountain Country Club, Kingston 6 address, was shot dead as he and some employees were in the process of closing down his store. The alleged shooter and three other persons were also injured during the shooting."
BRUTAL! Judge blames cop for starting deadly fire
- JamaicaObserver.com: "THE commission that probed the circumstances leading to a fire that killed seven female wards of the state at the Armadale Juvenile Correctional Centre in May last year has blamed a police constable for starting the deadly blaze and blasted Correctional Department staff, including Commissioner June Spence-Jarret, for keeping the girls in cramped, inhumane conditions."
Immigration hiccup
Nation News "WHEN EILEEN WORRELL MARRIED her Barbadian husband Terry in England 16 years ago, she knew one day she would have to move to Barbados with him to live.
What she did not expect was that she would be treated like a 'second-class citizen' in the country she intended to make her home.
But that is exactly how Eileen says she has been feeling for the past three years during her lengthy and exhaustive contact with the Immigration Department in her attempt to gain Barbadian citizenship"
What she did not expect was that she would be treated like a 'second-class citizen' in the country she intended to make her home.
But that is exactly how Eileen says she has been feeling for the past three years during her lengthy and exhaustive contact with the Immigration Department in her attempt to gain Barbadian citizenship"
Saturday, February 20
video-Haiti warns of political violence
Jean-Max Bellerive, Haiti's prime minister, says his government is in danger of collapsing, as gangs and political opponents capitalise on its inability to deal with the aftermath of the January 12 earthquake.
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video-Haiti reopens airport after quake
The first commercial passenger flight since a devestating earthquake hit Haiti on January 12 has arrived.
Although the Haiti airport was damaged in the quake, it remained operational with the help of the US military.
Al Jazeera's Sebastian Walker reports.
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'Guyanese died from poisoning'
Trinidad Express "Maria Ward, the Guyanese national found dead at her Longdenville apartment on Thursday, died from poisoning, an autopsy done at the Forensic Science Centre in St James found yesterday.
Ward, 22, was found lying in the living room of the apartment, near the body of her companion, Christopher Aines, 24, also a national of Guyana. An autopsy on his body will be done on Monday.
Police suspect the couple drank poison in a suicide pact."
Ward, 22, was found lying in the living room of the apartment, near the body of her companion, Christopher Aines, 24, also a national of Guyana. An autopsy on his body will be done on Monday.
Police suspect the couple drank poison in a suicide pact."
Robbie suffers seizure
Trinidad and Tobago's Newsday "FIVE MONTHS after the death of his wife Patricia Robinson, 79, former President and former Prime Minister Arthur NR Robinson, 83, was yesterday warded at the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of the St Clair Medical Centre in Port-of-Spain after suffering what was described by doctors as a “convulsive episode”."
Jamaica losing its grip on Reggae
- JamaicaObserver.com: "In delivering the keynote address at the opening ceremony of the 2010 International Reggae Conference at the Mona Visitor's Lodge, UWI, on Wednesday afternoon, culture minister, Olivia Babsy Grange, noted that if steps are not taken immediately, Jamaica and Reggae could no longer be synonymous.
'In the current arena, Jamaica is losing its grip not only on the distribution, but also on the very production of the music. With each day more and more of the music is owned, created and distributed by non-Jamaicans outside of Jamaica. While the numerous festivals and reggae shows that take place across the globe is a tribute to the strength of the music, we must acknowledge that more of these shows can now take place with fewer Jamaican artistes on the roster.'"
'In the current arena, Jamaica is losing its grip not only on the distribution, but also on the very production of the music. With each day more and more of the music is owned, created and distributed by non-Jamaicans outside of Jamaica. While the numerous festivals and reggae shows that take place across the globe is a tribute to the strength of the music, we must acknowledge that more of these shows can now take place with fewer Jamaican artistes on the roster.'"
Barbados ablaze
Nation News "'FIRE, FIRE in yuh wire, wire'' - so sang Tobago's Calypso Rose, to enthusiastic response in the late 1960s. But today in Barbados, with fires seemingly here, there and everywhere in recent weeks, such a refrain would be nothing but a set of sour notes.
So sour that a senior fire officer is calling for the return of the fire patrol in Barbados.
Station Officer Evans Morris of the Barbados Fire Service said this was necessary, given the high number of grass fires."
So sour that a senior fire officer is calling for the return of the fire patrol in Barbados.
Station Officer Evans Morris of the Barbados Fire Service said this was necessary, given the high number of grass fires."
Friday, February 19
Father of 4 shot dead
Nation News "IT WAS A GRIM SCENE yesterday in Storey Gap, Codrington Hill, St Michael.
As residents battled with fumes from a nearby grass fire, one resident Michael Everton Dear, also known as Piggy Dear, was shot dead in a 'galvanise shed' (a shed made of corrugated zinc sheeting).
Police said a report of the shooting was received about 3:45 p.m.
Relatives confirmed that Dear in his 50s, was the father of four children, one boy and three girls. Some of Dear's 13 brothers and sisters rushed from work and home on the news of his death, to join other family members at the scene."
As residents battled with fumes from a nearby grass fire, one resident Michael Everton Dear, also known as Piggy Dear, was shot dead in a 'galvanise shed' (a shed made of corrugated zinc sheeting).
Police said a report of the shooting was received about 3:45 p.m.
Relatives confirmed that Dear in his 50s, was the father of four children, one boy and three girls. Some of Dear's 13 brothers and sisters rushed from work and home on the news of his death, to join other family members at the scene."
Two Guyanese found dead in Trinidad apartment
Kaieteur News: "Trinidad police are investigating the death of two Guyanese nationals following the discovery of their bodies in an apartment.
Dead are 22-year-old Maria Ward and her friend, Christopher Haynes. Both were found in Ward’s home yesterday. Trinidad police report that at approximately 08:30hrs yesterday they received a call from Ward’s landlady who told them that a friend of Ward, who regularly calls her at her Main Road, Longdenville home in Central Trinidad, could not contact her.
When the police arrived at the apartment, it was locked and officers resorted to breaking down the door. When they finally got inside they found the bodies on the floor."
Dead are 22-year-old Maria Ward and her friend, Christopher Haynes. Both were found in Ward’s home yesterday. Trinidad police report that at approximately 08:30hrs yesterday they received a call from Ward’s landlady who told them that a friend of Ward, who regularly calls her at her Main Road, Longdenville home in Central Trinidad, could not contact her.
When the police arrived at the apartment, it was locked and officers resorted to breaking down the door. When they finally got inside they found the bodies on the floor."
DOCS MAY BE CHARGED
Nation News "TWO DOCTORS could face criminal charges in the death of a patient.
Yesterday, Coroner Faith Marshall-Harris ruled the death of Anthea Burgess as unlawful killing by gross negligence.
Burgess, 30, died on the operating table of ear, nose and throat specialist Dr Dennis Bailey on April 25, 2007, after going to Bailey's Delawere clinic to have a polyp removed from her nose.
Bailey conducted the operation while his assistant Dr Adele Bell undertook the role of anaesthetist, even though she had no specialist training in that field."
Yesterday, Coroner Faith Marshall-Harris ruled the death of Anthea Burgess as unlawful killing by gross negligence.
Burgess, 30, died on the operating table of ear, nose and throat specialist Dr Dennis Bailey on April 25, 2007, after going to Bailey's Delawere clinic to have a polyp removed from her nose.
Bailey conducted the operation while his assistant Dr Adele Bell undertook the role of anaesthetist, even though she had no specialist training in that field."
Thursday, February 18
St. Lucia is a Caribbean island that has it all
Montreal Gazette "St. Lucia is a lush, tropical Caribbean island in the West Indies, catering to all walks of life, from sun-soaking resort visitors to more-adventurous villa dwellers.
As we descended into Vieux Fort at the southern tip of the island, I was immediately taken in by the mysterious, jagged views of the Pitons, the renowned mountain peaks that were featured in the movie Superman II."
As we descended into Vieux Fort at the southern tip of the island, I was immediately taken in by the mysterious, jagged views of the Pitons, the renowned mountain peaks that were featured in the movie Superman II."
'Malicious mayor': Spn Town police head rubbishes allegations
- JamaicaObserver.com: "CLAIMS by Mayor of Spanish Town Dr Andrew Wheatley that area cops were no good and should leave his town, were malicious and baseless, Police Superintendent Assan Thompson hit back yesterday.
'...They are malicious and they came at a time when the division is making significant progress. Progress that the mayor himself should try to identify with since we are releasing the stranglehold the gangs have on the citizens,' declared Thompson, head of the St Catherine North Police, which includes Spanish Town."
'...They are malicious and they came at a time when the division is making significant progress. Progress that the mayor himself should try to identify with since we are releasing the stranglehold the gangs have on the citizens,' declared Thompson, head of the St Catherine North Police, which includes Spanish Town."
Sisters, 9, 8, 7 reveal shocking details of sexual molestation
Kaieteur News: "The shocking revelations of three sexually molested sisters aged nine, eight and seven years have led to the arrest of five men from the village of Logwood, Enmore, and bad blood between the victims’ parents and their neighbours.
The three sisters who are currently hospitalized had fingered several males in the Enmore community as sexually molesting them, causing them significant physical damage.
So severe is the physical damage that a doctor has described it as devastating. He says that the girls are unlikely to get children of their own.
But while the parents of the children as well as officials from the Ministry of Human Services are convinced that the children were sexually assaulted, neighbours were adamant that the men from their village were wrongfully implicated."
The three sisters who are currently hospitalized had fingered several males in the Enmore community as sexually molesting them, causing them significant physical damage.
So severe is the physical damage that a doctor has described it as devastating. He says that the girls are unlikely to get children of their own.
But while the parents of the children as well as officials from the Ministry of Human Services are convinced that the children were sexually assaulted, neighbours were adamant that the men from their village were wrongfully implicated."
Two bodies found in Berbice
Stabroek News "Police in Berbice were yesterday investigating the discoveries of two dead bodies – a male and a female – at two different locations in the Ancient County.
Yesterday morning, the partially nude body of an unidentified male, of East Indian ancestry, was discovered in the compound of CGX Resources Inc, at Seawell.
The bloated, decomposing body was covered with insects and police had to spray it before they could begin investigations."
Yesterday morning, the partially nude body of an unidentified male, of East Indian ancestry, was discovered in the compound of CGX Resources Inc, at Seawell.
The bloated, decomposing body was covered with insects and police had to spray it before they could begin investigations."
FAKE BAJAN HELD
Nation News "IDENTIFICATION and National Insurance cards should not be issued before a thorough background check of the applicant was carried out.
Head of the Police Force's Fraud Unit, Assistant Superintendent John Maxwell, made this suggestion yesterday, following the arrest of a Guyanese national who was able to fraudulently obtain a Barbadian National Insurance card and a national identification card."
Head of the Police Force's Fraud Unit, Assistant Superintendent John Maxwell, made this suggestion yesterday, following the arrest of a Guyanese national who was able to fraudulently obtain a Barbadian National Insurance card and a national identification card."
Wednesday, February 17
video---Sarkozy pledges Haiti support
France says it will give $400m of aid to Haiti over two years to help rebuild the quake-hit country.
President Nicolas Sarkozy announced the aid package during a historic visit to Port-au-Prince.
He is the first French head of state to visit Haiti, which won independence from France more than 200 years ago.
Raw Video: Sarkozy Makes Historic Haiti Visit
France's national anthem has blared across the tarmac as Nicolas Sarkozy made the first visit ever by a French president to Haiti, once his nation's richest colony, offering aid to a country prostrate after a catastrophic earthquake.
Teen gets 20 years for 11-y-o's murder
Jamaica Gleaner"The teenager who pleaded guilty last month to the murder of 11-year-old Aamir Dwight Scott of Sandside, St Mary, was yesterday sentenced to 20 years' imprisonment.
'He got what he deserved,' Scott's mother, Andrea Folkes, said after the sentence was passed on the 17-year-old youth."
'He got what he deserved,' Scott's mother, Andrea Folkes, said after the sentence was passed on the 17-year-old youth."
Many men being beaten by women but are afraid to tell
JamaicaObserver.com: "WHILE there is no empirical data indicating the exact levels of domestic abuse meted out to Jamaican men by women, two male gender experts say the issue is something that needs some serious attention, especially as some men are hurting in their relationships.
'It is very difficult to get statistical evidence on the issue,' deputy head of Fathers Inc Solomon McCalla told editors and reporters at the Observer's weekly Monday Exchange meeting yesterday. 'The men will not come forward and say that they are being physically abused.'"
'It is very difficult to get statistical evidence on the issue,' deputy head of Fathers Inc Solomon McCalla told editors and reporters at the Observer's weekly Monday Exchange meeting yesterday. 'The men will not come forward and say that they are being physically abused.'"
Beyonce flies in on private jet
Trinidad and Tobago's Newsday : "American R&B superstar Beyonce arrives in Trinidad by private jet today for a concert tomorrow at the Queen’s Park Savannah, Port-of-Spain, the last stop on her ‘I Am’ world tour.
Beyonce will perform for 90 minutes on the largest stage ever produced in the country and the Caribbean.
As masqueraders partied on the streets of Port-of-Spain for Carnival a rumour spread that the record-breaking Grammy Award winner had come in a day early and was being flown around the capital in a helicopter. That would have been impossible, since Beyonce would have been preparing for a show in Lima, Peru last night."
Beyonce will perform for 90 minutes on the largest stage ever produced in the country and the Caribbean.
As masqueraders partied on the streets of Port-of-Spain for Carnival a rumour spread that the record-breaking Grammy Award winner had come in a day early and was being flown around the capital in a helicopter. That would have been impossible, since Beyonce would have been preparing for a show in Lima, Peru last night."
Relatives hope for conclusive PM
Kaieteur News: "The relatives of the late Seeraj Persaud, who was found dead on Monday in his Parika Health Centre office, are hoping and praying that a post mortem examination today will reveal the cause of his death.
Speaking to this newspaper yesterday, one of the man’s older brothers, Yogoul Kumar Persaud also known as Boyo, said that the family still cannot come to terms with the 42-year-old’s sudden demise.� After receiving word of his sibling’s death Monday afternoon, Boyo said that he along with other relatives raced down to the Health Centre where he saw his brother lying on the floor of his office. He claims that he saw some marks which appeared to be scratches around his brother’s neck. Police officers who were also on the scene had noticed the barely visible marks, Boyo claimed.
“I don’t know what happen. As far as I know he didn’t have a problem with anybody and for him to die at work…This is a surprise for the whole family.”"
Speaking to this newspaper yesterday, one of the man’s older brothers, Yogoul Kumar Persaud also known as Boyo, said that the family still cannot come to terms with the 42-year-old’s sudden demise.� After receiving word of his sibling’s death Monday afternoon, Boyo said that he along with other relatives raced down to the Health Centre where he saw his brother lying on the floor of his office. He claims that he saw some marks which appeared to be scratches around his brother’s neck. Police officers who were also on the scene had noticed the barely visible marks, Boyo claimed.
“I don’t know what happen. As far as I know he didn’t have a problem with anybody and for him to die at work…This is a surprise for the whole family.”"
John reimburses close to $1 million and becomes...STATE WITNESS
Antigua Sun "Cavelle John, the former Medical Benefits Scheme (MBS) superintendent, has turned state witness and is expected to testify against the six other co-accused.
The revelation was made known at the High Court yesterday by Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Anthony Armstrong, who also announced that John has made payments to the state to the tune of $836,237.
After John was told that she was free to go, she began to shed tears as she walked away from the accused box."
The revelation was made known at the High Court yesterday by Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Anthony Armstrong, who also announced that John has made payments to the state to the tune of $836,237.
After John was told that she was free to go, she began to shed tears as she walked away from the accused box."
Victims of Stanford Scam Sue Antigua, Carib Bank
NYTimes.com: "SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico (AP) -- Jilted investors of a global fraud allegedly run by jailed financier R. Allen Stanford filed a lawsuit Tuesday against Caribbean regulators, five regional financial institutions and the government of Antigua and Barbuda."
Tuesday, February 16
O'GARRO REMANDED
Antigua Sun "Pandemonium almost broke out at the St. John’s Magistrates’ Court yesterday after murder accused Damien Hughbert O’Garro was being taken downstairs to be placed in the holding cell.
O’Garro appeared before Chief Magistrate Ivan Walters for the first time since his arrest and since being charged last Friday with the capital offence.
The 21-year-old man’s attorney, Cosbert Cumberbatch was not present in court when O’Garro took the accused box with shackled feet."
O’Garro appeared before Chief Magistrate Ivan Walters for the first time since his arrest and since being charged last Friday with the capital offence.
The 21-year-old man’s attorney, Cosbert Cumberbatch was not present in court when O’Garro took the accused box with shackled feet."
Murder mars Tobago Carnival
Trinidad and Tobago's Newsday : "J’OUVERT celebrations in Scarborough, Tobago were marred by a fatal stabbing incident in which the victim — a Trinidadian man — who reportedly intervened in an altercation was stabbed and subsequently died at the Scarborough Hospital. Police have identified the victim as Damien McLeod and they said he originally hailed from Trinidad but was living in Tobago for some time. The incident reportedly occurred at about 6.30 am in the downtown Scarborough area near the port.
According to a police report, McLeod intervened in an altercation between two men and was stabbed. He was rushed to the Scarborough Hospital where he died. A Tobago man has since been arrested and is currently assisting Homicide Investigations Bureau detectives with their investigations."
According to a police report, McLeod intervened in an altercation between two men and was stabbed. He was rushed to the Scarborough Hospital where he died. A Tobago man has since been arrested and is currently assisting Homicide Investigations Bureau detectives with their investigations."
HIV/AIDS Counsellor found dead in Parika Health Centre office
Kaieteur News: "Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of 42-year-old, Seeraj Persaud, whose lifeless body was discovered around 14:00 hours yesterday in his office at the Parika Health Centre.
Seeraj, a resident of Lot 8 Hydronie, East Bank Essequibo, at the time of his death was attached to the Health Centre as a HIV/AIDS Voluntary Counsellor."
Seeraj, a resident of Lot 8 Hydronie, East Bank Essequibo, at the time of his death was attached to the Health Centre as a HIV/AIDS Voluntary Counsellor."
HIV counsellor found dead at Parika Health Centre
Stabroek News "A HIV counsellor/tester was yesterday afternoon discovered dead, lying in a crouched position on the floor of his office at the Parika Health Centre with suspicious marks around his neck."
Monday, February 15
Rage over bail - As court releases kidnap suspects, Nelson appeals for justice minister to step in
Jamaica Gleaner | "Minister of National Security Dwight Nelson is furious that the court has granted bail to three of four members of a group of suspected kidnappers accused of abducting a prominent St Ann businessman.
A clearly furious Nelson told The Gleaner yesterday that he has discussed the matter with Justice Minister and Attorney General Dorothy Lightbourne in the hope that she would have a serious talk with Chief Justice Zaila McCalla.
'I am very upset,' declared Nelson in reference to last week's decision by the court to offer bail."
A clearly furious Nelson told The Gleaner yesterday that he has discussed the matter with Justice Minister and Attorney General Dorothy Lightbourne in the hope that she would have a serious talk with Chief Justice Zaila McCalla.
'I am very upset,' declared Nelson in reference to last week's decision by the court to offer bail."
She’s bravely battling diabetes
- JamaicaObserver.com: "'EAT lots of fruits and vegetables, exercise every day and diabetes will go go go...' sang three-year-old Kiara Lumsden to the tune of a popular nursery rhyme as she jiggled her small frame while having lunch, consisting of a small serving of rice and peas, baked chicken and lettuce.
Despite her carefree attitude, Kiara leads a very restricted life. Each day for her begins the same way it ends, with a needle piercing her delicate skin. She takes insulin three times daily to treat her type one diabetes and is pricked another six times to test her blood glucose level. At just three, she can recite the nutritional contents on a favourite snack as she would her alphabet, and her bedtime is at 12 midnight following her sixth test."
Despite her carefree attitude, Kiara leads a very restricted life. Each day for her begins the same way it ends, with a needle piercing her delicate skin. She takes insulin three times daily to treat her type one diabetes and is pricked another six times to test her blood glucose level. At just three, she can recite the nutritional contents on a favourite snack as she would her alphabet, and her bedtime is at 12 midnight following her sixth test."
Valentine’s Day outing ends in tragedy for Linden family
Kaieteur News: "What started out as a Valentine’s Day outing for a Linden family ended in tragedy as one woman is now dead and four others including a toddler are hospitalised."
El Nino to linger…Persaud: ‘Situation very severe’
Stabroek News "With El Nino now forecast to last until mid-April and the next rainy season, months away, the agricultural sector is facing a potential $3 billion in losses."
Coast battered
Nation News "YOU DON'T HAVE TO TRAVEL FAR or be an expert to witness the changes under way along the coastlines of Barbados.
Just look in the backyard of the people from Mullins and Road View in St Peter who faced the power of extreme weather as ten-foot-tall waves battered their beach all Saturday and yesterday.
A visible casualty of the rough surf was the Mullins Restaurant. Its deck collapsed during the early hours of yesterday after enduring more than 24 hours of pounding by waves."
Just look in the backyard of the people from Mullins and Road View in St Peter who faced the power of extreme weather as ten-foot-tall waves battered their beach all Saturday and yesterday.
A visible casualty of the rough surf was the Mullins Restaurant. Its deck collapsed during the early hours of yesterday after enduring more than 24 hours of pounding by waves."
Sunday, February 14
Cocaine in chowmein may have put David Clarke on Feds radar
Stabroek News "Federal authorities in New York knew former Guyana Defence Force (GDF) major David Clarke was into drug trafficking since early 2005 – almost one year before he was indicted – according to court documents which revealed that his name came up repeatedly during court proceedings involving his wife and his brother."
Confined to 'Hell': Jailed children suffer in MoBay
Jamaica Gleaner "EVERY FACE tells a story. And it is not difficult to read the lines of worry and apprehension as the children in cell block # 6 peer through the iron bars. It is obvious they have many questions to ask, but they choose only to stare - in silence.
The station log book - there is a separate one for juveniles - lists the names of the detained inmates and the offences for which they are charged: possession of firearm; shooting with intent; carnal abuse; murder; suspicion of aggravated assault; malicious destruction of property; unlawful wounding; and, breach of probation order.
Above the din at the Freeport Police Station lock-up in the tourism capital, Montego Bay, a siren goes off. 'Prisoners are off to court,' a police officer says."
The station log book - there is a separate one for juveniles - lists the names of the detained inmates and the offences for which they are charged: possession of firearm; shooting with intent; carnal abuse; murder; suspicion of aggravated assault; malicious destruction of property; unlawful wounding; and, breach of probation order.
Above the din at the Freeport Police Station lock-up in the tourism capital, Montego Bay, a siren goes off. 'Prisoners are off to court,' a police officer says."
Malaria scare
JamaicaObserver.com: "THE hospitalisation of a man diagnosed with malaria last week has sparked fear among residents of Mountain View Avenue in Kingston that they could become infected by the potentially deadly disease.
The man, a 25-year-old resident of Jacques Road in the area, was reportedly tested for malaria by public health officials in January, but was just informed last week of his status. He has been admitted at the Kingston Public Hospital since Tuesday.
The Sunday Observer was told that public health officials have been visiting the area since January, at least once weekly, to administer anti-malarial drugs and pass out flyers about the disease. The group last visited on Thursday, during which time scores of residents were said to have been tested for the disease."
The man, a 25-year-old resident of Jacques Road in the area, was reportedly tested for malaria by public health officials in January, but was just informed last week of his status. He has been admitted at the Kingston Public Hospital since Tuesday.
The Sunday Observer was told that public health officials have been visiting the area since January, at least once weekly, to administer anti-malarial drugs and pass out flyers about the disease. The group last visited on Thursday, during which time scores of residents were said to have been tested for the disease."
Two shot dead by police
Trinidad and Tobago's Newsday "Two men of upper Quarry Street, Diego Martin were shot dead during a shootout with police officers in the same district. Police later raided an apartment close to where the men were shot and found a shotgun and a quantity of marijuana.
Reports revealed that at about 4.30 am officers of the Port-of-Spain CID Western Division Task Force, and the joint army patrol responded to a report of gang activities at Upper Quarry Street, Diego Martin. Officers went to Upper Quarry Street where on climbing a flight of stairs they were fired upon. They observed a man running. Officers pursued the man who ran into an apartment and as officers approached the apartment they were greeted by gunfire."
Reports revealed that at about 4.30 am officers of the Port-of-Spain CID Western Division Task Force, and the joint army patrol responded to a report of gang activities at Upper Quarry Street, Diego Martin. Officers went to Upper Quarry Street where on climbing a flight of stairs they were fired upon. They observed a man running. Officers pursued the man who ran into an apartment and as officers approached the apartment they were greeted by gunfire."
Two shot dead by police
Trinidad and Tobago's Newsday "Two men of upper Quarry Street, Diego Martin were shot dead during a shootout with police officers in the same district. Police later raided an apartment close to where the men were shot and found a shotgun and a quantity of marijuana.
Reports revealed that at about 4.30 am officers of the Port-of-Spain CID Western Division Task Force, and the joint army patrol responded to a report of gang activities at Upper Quarry Street, Diego Martin. Officers went to Upper Quarry Street where on climbing a flight of stairs they were fired upon. They observed a man running. Officers pursued the man who ran into an apartment and as officers approached the apartment they were greeted by gunfire."
Reports revealed that at about 4.30 am officers of the Port-of-Spain CID Western Division Task Force, and the joint army patrol responded to a report of gang activities at Upper Quarry Street, Diego Martin. Officers went to Upper Quarry Street where on climbing a flight of stairs they were fired upon. They observed a man running. Officers pursued the man who ran into an apartment and as officers approached the apartment they were greeted by gunfire."
Bully, 14, expelled
Nation News "A DOLLAR A DAY!
That's the 'tax' a 14-year-old bully at a secondary school has been violently extracting from his younger schoolmates.
The SUNDAY SUN has learned that one parent, a 37-year-old mother, was forced to take her 12-year-old daughter for medical attention for soft tissue soreness last weekend, after the first-former was punched twice in the stomach by the older boy when she refused to give him her five dollars."
That's the 'tax' a 14-year-old bully at a secondary school has been violently extracting from his younger schoolmates.
The SUNDAY SUN has learned that one parent, a 37-year-old mother, was forced to take her 12-year-old daughter for medical attention for soft tissue soreness last weekend, after the first-former was punched twice in the stomach by the older boy when she refused to give him her five dollars."
11 killed as bus plunges into Caribbean Sea
11 killed as bus plunges into Caribbean Sea: "Santo Domingo, Feb 14 (IANS/EFE) Eleven people were killed and 15 injured when a bus in which they were travelling plunged into the Caribbean Sea off the Dominican Republic.
The accident occurred Friday evening when the bus carrying 29 people was moving on the Las Americas expressway, which connects Santo Domingo with the eastern part of the island nation, official said."
The accident occurred Friday evening when the bus carrying 29 people was moving on the Las Americas expressway, which connects Santo Domingo with the eastern part of the island nation, official said."
Flights disrupted across the Caribbean by eruption on Montserrat
Times Online: "Flights have been disrupted across the Caribbean after a volcanic eruption on the British overseas territory of Montserrat.
The Soufriere Hills volcano, which first erupted in 1995, returned to life on Thursday, spewing ash up to 6 miles (10km) into the sky, the Montserrat Volcano Observatory said."
The Soufriere Hills volcano, which first erupted in 1995, returned to life on Thursday, spewing ash up to 6 miles (10km) into the sky, the Montserrat Volcano Observatory said."
Saturday, February 13
video---Haiti's Road to Recovery
According to the latest estimates, 212,000 people died in the massive earthquake in Haiti. But there were also miracles,with 211 people were pulled alive from the rubble. Bill Whitaker reports on Hait's recovery.
Judge ponders Kern tapes
Jamaica Gleaner "Judith Pusey, the senior resident magistrate for the Corporate Area, has said she would announce on February 25 whether to allow secret recordings made by star prosecution witness Rodney Chin to be admitted as evidence in the corruption trial of Kern Spencer.
Pusey yesterday said she would only be able to deliver on her promise if she received written submissions from prosecuting and defence counsel by next Friday.
Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Paula Llewellyn, who is leading the prosecution, has applied for the 26 recordings captured on Chin's cellular phones to be admitted as evidence."
Pusey yesterday said she would only be able to deliver on her promise if she received written submissions from prosecuting and defence counsel by next Friday.
Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Paula Llewellyn, who is leading the prosecution, has applied for the 26 recordings captured on Chin's cellular phones to be admitted as evidence."
Cops shoot cops
- JamaicaObserver.com: "TWO policemen from the elite Organised Crime Investigative Unit (OCID), in an embarrassing case of friendly fire, were shot and injured Thursday night while on an operation to nab the kidnappers of a teenage girl.
One of the policemen, an inspector, received treatment at hospital, while the other, a corporal, who was shot in the abdomen, was said to be critical. Their names were not released.
The policemen were on the lookout for the kidnappers of the 16-year-old girl on the Bustamante Highway, in the vicinity of Glenmuir Road, when they were set upon and shot by policemen from Clarendon."
One of the policemen, an inspector, received treatment at hospital, while the other, a corporal, who was shot in the abdomen, was said to be critical. Their names were not released.
The policemen were on the lookout for the kidnappers of the 16-year-old girl on the Bustamante Highway, in the vicinity of Glenmuir Road, when they were set upon and shot by policemen from Clarendon."
Child support makes man plunge to death
Kaieteur News: "The decomposing body of 38-year-old Ramesh Mc Kenna was found in a canal at Land of Canaan, East Bank Demerara, around noon yesterday, and reports indicate that he committed suicide.
There are conflicting reports about the motive for the suicide. One report stated that the unemployed man owed his spouse over $200,000 in child support.
This debt played on his mind and he told friends that he could not see his way. He reportedly said that he preferred death than going to jail for child support."
There are conflicting reports about the motive for the suicide. One report stated that the unemployed man owed his spouse over $200,000 in child support.
This debt played on his mind and he told friends that he could not see his way. He reportedly said that he preferred death than going to jail for child support."
Water shortage hits Fire Services
Trinidad and Tobago's Newsday "ACTING Chief Fire Officer Kenrick Bethelmy yesterday warned that like many other institutions in the country, the TT Fire Services is also feeling the brunt of the harsh dry season which has led to acute water shortages in the country.
Bethelmy also said people needed to keep this in mind and take extra precaution with their homes and other property to prevent fires since with water being at a premium, the Fire Services could be hard pressed to respond effectively to fighting fires."
Bethelmy also said people needed to keep this in mind and take extra precaution with their homes and other property to prevent fires since with water being at a premium, the Fire Services could be hard pressed to respond effectively to fighting fires."
Water shortage looms
Stabroek News "A water shortage looms as levels in the conservancies are at an all-time low and citizens could face stricter water rationing with Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) already reducing water flow in the city during off-peak hours.
As the dry weather phenomenon, El Nino continues to exact a toll here and in the region, Cabinet Secretary Dr Roger Luncheon yesterday warned of “involuntary” reduction in water supply. Speaking at a post-cabinet media briefing at the Office of the President, he said that irrigation water availability is significantly threatened and it is the same situation for the surface water that provides as much as 50% of potable water consumption in Georgetown."
As the dry weather phenomenon, El Nino continues to exact a toll here and in the region, Cabinet Secretary Dr Roger Luncheon yesterday warned of “involuntary” reduction in water supply. Speaking at a post-cabinet media briefing at the Office of the President, he said that irrigation water availability is significantly threatened and it is the same situation for the surface water that provides as much as 50% of potable water consumption in Georgetown."
Attorney's bill angers woman
Nation News "A WOMAN is questioning whether a bill from an attorney for services rendered is fair, reasonable and justified.
The woman, who hired the attorney to sell her house, said she was floored when she received a bill from him for three times more than the amount they had agreed upon - from $10 000 to $39 147.
The bill started rising after they got into a dispute over the payment of his fees.
The woman told SATURDAY SUN she almost collapsed when she saw the bill delivered by courier last week.
'We had agreed to an amount of $10 000. I called him on the telephone and told him that the bank needed a breakdown of his fees, and he told me that it was now $20 000, but he would give me a discount of $5 000. I asked him how he arrived at that figure."
The woman, who hired the attorney to sell her house, said she was floored when she received a bill from him for three times more than the amount they had agreed upon - from $10 000 to $39 147.
The bill started rising after they got into a dispute over the payment of his fees.
The woman told SATURDAY SUN she almost collapsed when she saw the bill delivered by courier last week.
'We had agreed to an amount of $10 000. I called him on the telephone and told him that the bank needed a breakdown of his fees, and he told me that it was now $20 000, but he would give me a discount of $5 000. I asked him how he arrived at that figure."
Ash from Monserrat volcano disrupts Caribbean flights
AFP "ST. JOHN'S — Ash from a volcanic eruption on the Caribbean island of Montserrat hung in the air around Antigua and Barbuda Friday, causing difficult driving conditions and forcing flight suspensions.
Montserrat's Soufriere Hills volcano erupted Thursday, sending a plume of ash 10 kilometers (six miles) high into the sky, the Montserrat Volcano Observatory said."
Montserrat's Soufriere Hills volcano erupted Thursday, sending a plume of ash 10 kilometers (six miles) high into the sky, the Montserrat Volcano Observatory said."
Friday, February 12
Security cameras to watch Guyana customs officials
Forbes.com: "GEORGETOWN, Guyana -- Authorities are installing security cameras at airports, piers and other locations where shipped goods are inspected to try to root out corruption among importers and customs officials.
The measure has met with resistance among many in the business community in the South American nation, where it is common to submit false declarations and bribe officials to avoid paying taxes or import duties, Revenue Authority Chief Kurshid Sattaur said Thursday."
The measure has met with resistance among many in the business community in the South American nation, where it is common to submit false declarations and bribe officials to avoid paying taxes or import duties, Revenue Authority Chief Kurshid Sattaur said Thursday."
St Lucian man wanted for murder in Canada arrested!
St. Lucia STAR: "Last year, the STAR reported that a St Lucian man is wanted by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police for Murder. According to the RCMP, on the night of February 22, 2008, the individual in question and several other males went to a Toronto residence where one of the males engaged in a conversation with Jonathan Rodrigues. The then 21-year-old suspect allegedly produced a firearm and shot Rodrigues, who later succumbed to his injuries."
Volcano erupts on Caribbean island
The Press Association "A volcano on the tiny Caribbean island of Montserrat has shot a plume of ash an estimated nine miles into the sky, one of its most dramatic events since a devastating 1997 eruption that drove away half the population.
The partial collapse of the dome over the volcano's crater also unleashed flows of hot gas and rocks, triggering sirens for the evacuation of about 20 people from a nearby village.
Paul Cole, director of the Montserrat Volcano Observatory, said it appeared to be the most material shed by the volcano in about four years."
The partial collapse of the dome over the volcano's crater also unleashed flows of hot gas and rocks, triggering sirens for the evacuation of about 20 people from a nearby village.
Paul Cole, director of the Montserrat Volcano Observatory, said it appeared to be the most material shed by the volcano in about four years."
FREEZE THE TALK!
Nation News "HOLD ALL THE TALK on the possibility of a wage freeze.
Prime Minister David Thompson prefers the word moratorium, and indicated in a live Press conference last night, that is the angle his administration would prefer to take next week, when Government meets with members of the Social Partnership.
He revealed a meeting with the social partners had been set for February 19.
During the Press conference held at his official residence, IIaro Court, Thompson again pleaded with Barbadians to hold strain as Government attempted to battle the current worldwide recession by finding a mid-term solution over the next 48 months."
Prime Minister David Thompson prefers the word moratorium, and indicated in a live Press conference last night, that is the angle his administration would prefer to take next week, when Government meets with members of the Social Partnership.
He revealed a meeting with the social partners had been set for February 19.
During the Press conference held at his official residence, IIaro Court, Thompson again pleaded with Barbadians to hold strain as Government attempted to battle the current worldwide recession by finding a mid-term solution over the next 48 months."
Police bus scam - Cop and two others held in Hanover motor-vehicle racket
Jamaica Gleaner News "The Ramble Police Station in Hanover has been placed under the microscope of the Anti-Corruption Branch, which is probing reports that the station was the nerve centre of a major motor-vehicle racket in the parish.
The Gleaner understands that several vehicles being kept as court exhibits mysteriously disappeared from the station yard and turned up in the possession of civilians.
At press time, a senior police-man and two civilians had been taken into custody at the Lucea Police Station and were being questioned in connection with the racket.
Since last weekend, investigators have reportedly recovered at least nine buses that were removed from the Ramble station."
The Gleaner understands that several vehicles being kept as court exhibits mysteriously disappeared from the station yard and turned up in the possession of civilians.
At press time, a senior police-man and two civilians had been taken into custody at the Lucea Police Station and were being questioned in connection with the racket.
Since last weekend, investigators have reportedly recovered at least nine buses that were removed from the Ramble station."
GSAT relief - Ministry removing ambiguous questions from exam
GSAT relief "THE Ministry of Education is removing or amending questions considered to be unclear from the crucial Grade Six Achievement Test (GSAT) in time for this year's sitting scheduled for March 25 and 26.
Chief education officer in the Ministry of Education Grace McLean told the Observer that a panel of experts conducted a thorough review of the examination in response to complaints that a few questions were not properly written.
'When preparing an exam you have to ensure that the paper conforms to validity and consistency,' McLean explained, stating that the expert panel 'ensured, for example, that the responses in the multiple choice section are clear, not duplicated and were unambiguous'."
Chief education officer in the Ministry of Education Grace McLean told the Observer that a panel of experts conducted a thorough review of the examination in response to complaints that a few questions were not properly written.
'When preparing an exam you have to ensure that the paper conforms to validity and consistency,' McLean explained, stating that the expert panel 'ensured, for example, that the responses in the multiple choice section are clear, not duplicated and were unambiguous'."
Greene: Serious crimes down after all-out fight by cops
Stabroek News "The Guyana Police Force presided over a reduction in serious crimes last year compared to 2008, according to Commissioner of Police Henry Greene who said his force has taken an all-out fight to crime, including drugs, although some officers continue to neglect their duties."
Stolen laptop recovered
Trinidad Express: "A GUYANESE woman was taken before a Port of Spain magistrate yesterday, charged with receiving a laptop computer belonging to former West Indies star batsman Brian Lara.
Curlis Anderson, 32, of Farouk Trace, El Socorro, appeared before Magistrate Brian Dabideen in the Fourth (A) Court charged with receiving the Sony Vaio computer sometime between October 18 last year and February 9 this year. She was represented by Fareed Ali and was not called upon to plead, as the charge was laid indictably."
Curlis Anderson, 32, of Farouk Trace, El Socorro, appeared before Magistrate Brian Dabideen in the Fourth (A) Court charged with receiving the Sony Vaio computer sometime between October 18 last year and February 9 this year. She was represented by Fareed Ali and was not called upon to plead, as the charge was laid indictably."
Thursday, February 11
Stanford Shredders Jury to Begin Weighing Obstruction Charges
BusinessWeek: "Feb. 11 (Bloomberg) -- A federal jury in Miami was told by a judge to begin considering charges against two former Stanford Financial Group Co. employees alleged to have ordered the shredding of records wanted by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission in a probe of financier R. Allen Stanford.
U.S. District Judge Richard W. Goldberg told the jurors to start deliberating today, following closing statements by prosecutors and defense lawyers yesterday. The judge rejected defense requests to acquit the men for lack of evidence of obstruction or conspiracy and he declined to order a mistrial."
U.S. District Judge Richard W. Goldberg told the jurors to start deliberating today, following closing statements by prosecutors and defense lawyers yesterday. The judge rejected defense requests to acquit the men for lack of evidence of obstruction or conspiracy and he declined to order a mistrial."
Some of Lara's stolen valuables recovered, 7 arrested
IndianExpress "Some of former West Indies captain Brian Lara's stolen cricketing memorabilia and other valuables worth USD one million have been recovered by the Trinidad police, which has arrested seven men in connection with the theft at his home here. According to media reports, the police recovered a laptop, an autographed cricket bat and batting pads from the men after raiding a house here on Tuesday.
Lara's home was burgled last week when the former batsman was asleep."
Lara's home was burgled last week when the former batsman was asleep."
Wednesday, February 10
Ash fall continues
Antigua Sun "Ash from the Soufriere Hills Volcano in Montserrat will continue to linger in the air due to light winds blowing across the island.
The ash fall increased during the course of Monday evening. According to Cecil Matthew from the Antigua and Barbuda meteorological office, light ash fall is being experienced from the surface up to 10,000 feet.
He said the ash is drifting towards the north, northeast, and with an easterly wind blowing, Antigua and Barbuda is being affected, and it will take some time before the ash dissipates."
The ash fall increased during the course of Monday evening. According to Cecil Matthew from the Antigua and Barbuda meteorological office, light ash fall is being experienced from the surface up to 10,000 feet.
He said the ash is drifting towards the north, northeast, and with an easterly wind blowing, Antigua and Barbuda is being affected, and it will take some time before the ash dissipates."
With families in the dark, fear grows over inmates' condition
Jamaica Gleaner News "Suspicion and disbelief continue to greet official reports on Monday's riot at the Horizon Remand Centre.
Following a visit to the Spanish Town Road-based facility yesterday afternoon, Minister of National Security Dwight Nelson reported that nine correctional officers and 40 inmates had been injured in the melee.
According to Nelson, none of the correctional officers was hospita-lised, while 15 inmates were admitted at the Kingston Public Hospital (KPH); 17 treated and returned to the prison and three transferred to the hospital at the Tower Street Adult Correctional Centre. Five inmates were being treated at hospital up to yesterday afternoon.
'No one was shot in the incident,' the national security ministry declared in its release."
Following a visit to the Spanish Town Road-based facility yesterday afternoon, Minister of National Security Dwight Nelson reported that nine correctional officers and 40 inmates had been injured in the melee.
According to Nelson, none of the correctional officers was hospita-lised, while 15 inmates were admitted at the Kingston Public Hospital (KPH); 17 treated and returned to the prison and three transferred to the hospital at the Tower Street Adult Correctional Centre. Five inmates were being treated at hospital up to yesterday afternoon.
'No one was shot in the incident,' the national security ministry declared in its release."
Blow to Kern defence
- JamaicaObserver.com: "SENIOR Magistrate Judith Pusey yesterday refused an application by the defence in the Cuban lightbulb case for the disclosure of information concerning the alleged role of prosecution witness Rodney Chin in what the contractor general reported as a contract fraud at the National Housing Trust (NHT).
Pusey said the disclosure could compromise the ongoing investigation into that matter."
Pusey said the disclosure could compromise the ongoing investigation into that matter."
Tuesday, February 9
video---Illegal Haitian Immigrants in US Benefit from Temporary Protected Status (TPS)
he US government has granted special immigration status to Haitians now living illegally in the United States, protecting them from deportation for 18 months and allowing them to work. Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano says the US considers the Temporary Protected Status (TPS) measure a form of economic assistance for Haiti. Roxana Romero has more for VOA from Miami, Florida.
video---Rebuilding Haiti
Across the earthquake zone, more and more people take part in the Cash-for-work schemes to clear the rubble. This is a process that will take months. What will take longer is rebuilding the country.
Panday’s men desert him
Trinidad and Tobago's Newsday "All ten members of the UNC Couva North constituency executive have resigned, deserting their MP Basdeo Panday to support political leader Kamla Persad-Bissessar.
But Persad-Bissessar last night refused to accept their resignation, and appealed to them to stay on and serve the party.
“I am not prepared to accept the resignation of the Couva North constituency (executive). I want to ask them to hold their resignation until we put the party together,” she said."
But Persad-Bissessar last night refused to accept their resignation, and appealed to them to stay on and serve the party.
“I am not prepared to accept the resignation of the Couva North constituency (executive). I want to ask them to hold their resignation until we put the party together,” she said."
TEEN MURDERED BY TEEN
Trinidad and Tobago's Newsday : "POLICE were last night searching for a Form Three student who stabbed and killed another teenager during an altercation along the Eastern Main Road in Mt Hope. Jevon “Busta” Douglas, 18, of Esperanza Drive, Mt D’or Road, Mt D’or died while receiving emergency treatment at the Eric Williams Medical Sciences Complex (EWMSC) in Mt Hope shortly before 3 pm yesterday.
Douglas was stabbed once in the chest by a 15-year-old student of the Mt Hope Secondary School. After dealing Douglas the fatal stab, the youthful killer reportedly ran off from the scene, throwing away the murder weapon away as he fled."
Douglas was stabbed once in the chest by a 15-year-old student of the Mt Hope Secondary School. After dealing Douglas the fatal stab, the youthful killer reportedly ran off from the scene, throwing away the murder weapon away as he fled."
Olint hopes dim - Investors meet, anger stirred, still no word on money
Jamaica Gleaner News "Members of alternative investment scheme Olint were left fuming and with little hope yesterday as they emerged from a meeting aimed at updating them on efforts to recover their money.
'I just can't be confident. It (Olint's collapse) has thrown our lives in shambles,' declared Horace Brown, who walked with his wife and son from a meeting, which threatened to explode, at the Jamaica Conference Centre, downtown Kingston yesterday.
Brown lamented that he had lived frugally and had invested all he could salvage.
He was barely able to conceal his fury, and he is not alone.
Many other Olint investors have signalled that they, too, are afraid to hope, so great is their disappointment and so heavy their loss."
'I just can't be confident. It (Olint's collapse) has thrown our lives in shambles,' declared Horace Brown, who walked with his wife and son from a meeting, which threatened to explode, at the Jamaica Conference Centre, downtown Kingston yesterday.
Brown lamented that he had lived frugally and had invested all he could salvage.
He was barely able to conceal his fury, and he is not alone.
Many other Olint investors have signalled that they, too, are afraid to hope, so great is their disappointment and so heavy their loss."
Viagra for life
- JamaicaObserver.com: "FURNITURE retailer Courts Jamaica Limited has agreed to cover the future cost of Viagra for a 26-year-old man, to whom it was recently ordered by the High Court to make a hefty multimillion-dollar payment in damages.
Courts is to foot Viagra cost for Kenroy Biggs to the tune of $1.53 million, a figure that has been affirmed by Justice Bryan Sykes in a ruling late last month.
Overall, Courts is to shell out $45.85 million in damages to Biggs plus legal costs.
Biggs of Cane River, St Andrew, suffers from permanent erectile dysfunction and his whole person has been impaired by '55 per cent' as a result of a Courts truck crashing into him seven years ago. Biggs also lost part of his left leg by way of amputation."
Courts is to foot Viagra cost for Kenroy Biggs to the tune of $1.53 million, a figure that has been affirmed by Justice Bryan Sykes in a ruling late last month.
Overall, Courts is to shell out $45.85 million in damages to Biggs plus legal costs.
Biggs of Cane River, St Andrew, suffers from permanent erectile dysfunction and his whole person has been impaired by '55 per cent' as a result of a Courts truck crashing into him seven years ago. Biggs also lost part of his left leg by way of amputation."
Construction worker electrocuted at worksite -two others injured
Stabroek News "A construction worker was electrocuted and two others seriously injured at an Essequibo Coast worksite yesterday morning.
Surendra “Chris” Persaud, 31, of Middlesex, Essequibo Coast was pronounced dead on arrival at the Suddie Hospital. His co-workers Kenneth ‘Ken’ Ellis, 39, of Sand Pit and Lall Sankar, 28, of Vilvoorden were injured when they tried to help him.
Police said in a press release last night that they were treated for burns at the Suddie Hospital and sent away."
Surendra “Chris” Persaud, 31, of Middlesex, Essequibo Coast was pronounced dead on arrival at the Suddie Hospital. His co-workers Kenneth ‘Ken’ Ellis, 39, of Sand Pit and Lall Sankar, 28, of Vilvoorden were injured when they tried to help him.
Police said in a press release last night that they were treated for burns at the Suddie Hospital and sent away."
Speeding driver tries to outrun the law
Nation News "A 24-YEAR-OLD MAN who thought he could outrun the law learnt the hard way that crime does not pay.
Leslie Livingstone Bostic of Thorpes Cottage, St George, was clocked driving his car along the ABC Highway early on Sunday morning at 141 kilometres per hour, but when the police tried to stop him he atempted to elude them.
This morning the watchman appeared in the District A Traffic Court before Magistrate Christopher Birch where he pleaded guilty to seven offences and was remanded to Dodds until Friday, when he will reappear for sentencing."
Leslie Livingstone Bostic of Thorpes Cottage, St George, was clocked driving his car along the ABC Highway early on Sunday morning at 141 kilometres per hour, but when the police tried to stop him he atempted to elude them.
This morning the watchman appeared in the District A Traffic Court before Magistrate Christopher Birch where he pleaded guilty to seven offences and was remanded to Dodds until Friday, when he will reappear for sentencing."
Monday, February 8
Show me the money! - Golding calls for audit of Haiti relief funds - Jamaicans to stay till March 5
Jamaica Gleaner "IN THE wake of the mushrooming of thousands of organisations throughout the region soliciting money for emergency aid in Haiti, Jamaica's Prime Minister Bruce Golding has called for an audit of all funds collected in Caribbean Community (CARICOM) member states.
In the presence of CARICOM chairman, Dominican Prime Mini-ster, Roosevelt Skerrit, Golding said this should be done quickly in order to determine how much money has been collected so far, how much has been spent and how much is left.
His comments were made during a weekend news conference along with members of the CARICOM mission to Haiti. Members of the team, which included former Jamaican Prime Minister P.J. Patterson, visited Haiti on Saturday."
In the presence of CARICOM chairman, Dominican Prime Mini-ster, Roosevelt Skerrit, Golding said this should be done quickly in order to determine how much money has been collected so far, how much has been spent and how much is left.
His comments were made during a weekend news conference along with members of the CARICOM mission to Haiti. Members of the team, which included former Jamaican Prime Minister P.J. Patterson, visited Haiti on Saturday."
Crushing blow!
- JamaicaObserver.com: "INSTEAD of the Christmas gift he had prematurely promised Cash Plus investors last year, liquidator Hugh Wildman will have to pay legal costs to a Dubai bank he believed was holding US$25 million, allegedly stashed there by Carlos Hill.
The Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) Court has ruled that the bank, Julius Baer (Middle East) Ltd, does not have the Cash Plus money, and lifted a freezing and disclosure order that Wildman had obtained ex parte in September last year."
The Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) Court has ruled that the bank, Julius Baer (Middle East) Ltd, does not have the Cash Plus money, and lifted a freezing and disclosure order that Wildman had obtained ex parte in September last year."
Tortured teen seeks in excess of $25 million compensation
Kaieteur News: "Attorneys-at Law Khemraj Ramjattan and Neil Persram will today file an affidavit in the courts on behalf of Twyon Thomas, the teenager who was tortured at the Leonora Police Station in October last year.
The attorneys are seeking in excess of $25M in compensation on Thomas’ behalf.
The lawsuit names as respondents the Attorney General of Guyana, the Commissioner of Police, and the two ranks implicated in the torture, Sergeant Narine Lall and Mohanram Dolai."
The attorneys are seeking in excess of $25M in compensation on Thomas’ behalf.
The lawsuit names as respondents the Attorney General of Guyana, the Commissioner of Police, and the two ranks implicated in the torture, Sergeant Narine Lall and Mohanram Dolai."
SHOT DEAD
Nation News "A DECISION TO STOP at an open-air street party after attending a late-night cruise has left 28-year-old Fabian Antonio Greaves dead - and his family in total disbelief.
The National Conservation Commission (NCC) worker was killed about 2:40 a.m. at Waterhall Land in St Michael after an altercation with another man led to his being gunned down by a group of men who walked up to him and opened fire.
Sudden loss
His mother Heather Greaves and brother Damone Deane, both at home in Haynesville, St James, yesterday reflecting on their sudden loss, remembered Fabian as a good person who was friendly and loving and 'would give anybody anything he had'."
The National Conservation Commission (NCC) worker was killed about 2:40 a.m. at Waterhall Land in St Michael after an altercation with another man led to his being gunned down by a group of men who walked up to him and opened fire.
Sudden loss
His mother Heather Greaves and brother Damone Deane, both at home in Haynesville, St James, yesterday reflecting on their sudden loss, remembered Fabian as a good person who was friendly and loving and 'would give anybody anything he had'."
Guyana most generous when it comes to Haiti aid
Guyana most generous when it comes to Haiti aid: "Guyana’s contributions to Haiti following the devastating earthquake which left tens of thousands of people dead have been the most generous in the world, United Nations data shows.
ReliefWeb, a U.N. operated website providing the latest information to humanitarian organizations, in partnership with the Guardian UK, released a comprehensive graph on Friday which details funding by countries to the devastation in Haiti.
Guyana emerged as the top country in terms of donations against its GDP, which is just over one billion dollars per year."
ReliefWeb, a U.N. operated website providing the latest information to humanitarian organizations, in partnership with the Guardian UK, released a comprehensive graph on Friday which details funding by countries to the devastation in Haiti.
Guyana emerged as the top country in terms of donations against its GDP, which is just over one billion dollars per year."
Michael Jackson's doctor was much admired but financially strapped
latimes.com: "The image of the respectable, competent doctor -- a profession Murray began striving toward as a youth in Trinidad -- started to crack the day the world's most famous entertainer died in Murray's care, and is likely to break further Monday when L.A. County prosecutors are expected to charge him with involuntary manslaughter.
'Here's a guy who was on top of the world . . . talk about a fall from grace,' said his attorney, Ed Chernoff."
'Here's a guy who was on top of the world . . . talk about a fall from grace,' said his attorney, Ed Chernoff."
Sunday, February 7
Bloodshed on the border: Women, children murdered across enemy lines
Jamaica Gleaner News "IT CAN happen anywhere, at any-time. Bloodshed along the borderline - the boundary that separates two gangs, or groups with different political ideals. It is an invisible line that the opponents know they should not cross. A breach of this unwritten code spells death.
Superintendent of Police Delroy Hewitt, in charge of the St Andrew South Division, described the borderline as 'a demilitarised line where nobody (from either side) is supposed to cross'.
A few steps in the wrong direction, an innocent venture on to neighbouring streets can transition one into the afterlife.
This is the reality in many of Jamaica's inner-city communities where thugs impose lines of demarcation, separating turf."
Superintendent of Police Delroy Hewitt, in charge of the St Andrew South Division, described the borderline as 'a demilitarised line where nobody (from either side) is supposed to cross'.
A few steps in the wrong direction, an innocent venture on to neighbouring streets can transition one into the afterlife.
This is the reality in many of Jamaica's inner-city communities where thugs impose lines of demarcation, separating turf."
Crushing blow!
"INSTEAD of the Christmas gift he had prematurely promised Cash Plus investors last year, liquidator Hugh Wildman will have to pay legal costs to a Dubai bank he believed was holding US$25 million, allegedly stashed there by Carlos Hill.
The Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) Court has ruled that the bank, Julius Baer (Middle East) Ltd, does not have the Cash Plus money, and lifted a freezing and disclosure order that Wildman had obtained ex parte in September last year."
The Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) Court has ruled that the bank, Julius Baer (Middle East) Ltd, does not have the Cash Plus money, and lifted a freezing and disclosure order that Wildman had obtained ex parte in September last year."
Rum-drinking sugar workers behave unruly during forum with Minister
Kaieteur News: "The Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) says that it will be sanctioning a number of sugar workers who behaved unruly and drank alcohol during a meeting with management and Minister of Agriculture, Robert Persaud last week, at Rose Hall, Berbice.
The incident, which prompted the Corporation to write the union, the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers’ Union (GAWU), also said that the other planned “Sugar Workers’ Forum” for last Thursday and Friday were suspended because of other “urgent and pressing commitments”."
The incident, which prompted the Corporation to write the union, the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers’ Union (GAWU), also said that the other planned “Sugar Workers’ Forum” for last Thursday and Friday were suspended because of other “urgent and pressing commitments”."
Fatal prison brawl …Inmate had ranted about killing someone
Stabroek News"Hours before Friday’s fatal brawl broke out in the Georgetown Prison, double murder accused Solomon Blackman had ranted that he was going to kill before the end of the day but was ignored because he regularly had similar outbursts, a source close to the penitentiary said.
Blackman was severely beaten by angry prisoners armed with pieces of wood minutes after he bludgeoned and stabbed Dyal Singh. Both inmates were pronounced dead on arrival at the Georgetown Hospital at 3:48 am, according to a hospital press release."
Blackman was severely beaten by angry prisoners armed with pieces of wood minutes after he bludgeoned and stabbed Dyal Singh. Both inmates were pronounced dead on arrival at the Georgetown Hospital at 3:48 am, according to a hospital press release."
Former kidnap accused shot dead
Trinidad and Tobago's Newsday "One of the men who was once accused of kidnapping businesswoman Phillip Talma was killed by gunmen at his Maraval home on Friday night.
According to police, Ian Morgan, and his sister Leslie- Ann were at Upper Moraldo Street, when they were attacked by gunmen who stormed their home at about 11.30 pm.
Ian died at the scene while his sister was rushed to the Port-of-Spain General Hospital."
According to police, Ian Morgan, and his sister Leslie- Ann were at Upper Moraldo Street, when they were attacked by gunmen who stormed their home at about 11.30 pm.
Ian died at the scene while his sister was rushed to the Port-of-Spain General Hospital."
UNC leader assures she's 'much better' after fracturing her shoulder in Parliament fall
Trinidad Express "United National Congress Political Leader Kamla Persad-Bissessar is doing ’much better’ after falling and fracturing her left shoulder in Parliament in the Red House, Port of Spain, on Friday.
Speaking with the Sunday Express via telephone, moments after leaving the St Clair Medical Complex yesterday, Persad-Bissessar said she fell directly on her left shoulder causing it to fracture. The Siparia MP added that she was told by doctors at the institution that she could either operate on the shoulder or go about the healing process the conservative way."
Speaking with the Sunday Express via telephone, moments after leaving the St Clair Medical Complex yesterday, Persad-Bissessar said she fell directly on her left shoulder causing it to fracture. The Siparia MP added that she was told by doctors at the institution that she could either operate on the shoulder or go about the healing process the conservative way."
Three charged with violent disorder
Nation News "THREE of the four men who were detained last Tuesday after police pursued and intercepted the vehicle they were travelling in, were charged on Friday and appeared in court yesterday.
The fourth man was released as he had nothing to do with the matter. His name is not being given by police.
Police officers, acting on a tip, intercepted the vehicle along Dalkeith Hill, St Michael, placed the men in handcuffs and put them to sit along the sidewalk."
The fourth man was released as he had nothing to do with the matter. His name is not being given by police.
Police officers, acting on a tip, intercepted the vehicle along Dalkeith Hill, St Michael, placed the men in handcuffs and put them to sit along the sidewalk."
Brian Lara’s mansion robbed, six arrested
The Hindu "Six people have been arrested for allegedly stealing USD one million in cash, jewellery and several personal belongings of legendary West Indies batsman Brian Lara from his Lady Chancellor mansion.
A report in ‘Trinidad and Tobago Guardian’ said the honorary ‘Order of Australia’ which was bestowed on Lara by Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd during the hosting of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Port-of-Spain on November 29, last year, was among the items robbed."
A report in ‘Trinidad and Tobago Guardian’ said the honorary ‘Order of Australia’ which was bestowed on Lara by Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd during the hosting of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Port-of-Spain on November 29, last year, was among the items robbed."
Saturday, February 6
Barbados turns down request to take injured Haitians
Stabroek News "(Barbados Nation) – Barbados has turned down a request to accommodate a number of Haitians injured in the January 12 earthquake, including amputees.
Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade Maxine McClean said on Thursday that Barbados had been forced to turn down the request from the United States Embassy, partly because of the implications it had for the island’s under-pressure medical services, including a shortage of hospital beds."
Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade Maxine McClean said on Thursday that Barbados had been forced to turn down the request from the United States Embassy, partly because of the implications it had for the island’s under-pressure medical services, including a shortage of hospital beds."
Jamaica cancels Bob Marley birthday concert
BusinessWeek: "An annual concert that draws hundreds of tourists to celebrate Bob Marley's birthday has been canceled for the first time since its inception in 1992 over noise complaints.
Police denied promoter Clive Pringle an event permit because of several run-ins with police and residents in Negril, superintendent Dezeita Taylor said Thursday.
The Bob Marley Birthday Bash that Pringle organized every Feb. 6 regularly exceeded the 2 a.m. curfew established under the Noise Abatement Act, she said.
Last year Pringle was fined $560, police said.
Pringle said he appealed, but doubts the concert will be held."
Police denied promoter Clive Pringle an event permit because of several run-ins with police and residents in Negril, superintendent Dezeita Taylor said Thursday.
The Bob Marley Birthday Bash that Pringle organized every Feb. 6 regularly exceeded the 2 a.m. curfew established under the Noise Abatement Act, she said.
Last year Pringle was fined $560, police said.
Pringle said he appealed, but doubts the concert will be held."
Soldier slain in St Andrew
Jamaica Gleaner News "When Tursha Lambert Lee bid his relatives goodbye yesterday morning then headed off for the bus stop on Washington Boulevard, St Andrew, neither he nor his family members knew it was the last time they would be seeing each other.
The 24-year-old Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) soldier was attacked and killed by gunmen at the bus stop. His killers, who are suspected to be from the Maverley community, thought he was a resident of Drewsland in Waterhouse, St Andrew.
The two communities, Drewsland and Maverley, are involved in a bloody feud, which has claimed several lives over the past three months."
The 24-year-old Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) soldier was attacked and killed by gunmen at the bus stop. His killers, who are suspected to be from the Maverley community, thought he was a resident of Drewsland in Waterhouse, St Andrew.
The two communities, Drewsland and Maverley, are involved in a bloody feud, which has claimed several lives over the past three months."
‘They saved an entire police force’
- JamaicaObserver.com: "THREE policemen who arrested a colleague and other persons in a gun and ammunition bust on Thursday were yesterday showered with praise and promoted by their boss, Acting Commissioner Owen Ellington.
Two of the cops were promoted from constable to corporal and a corporal was promoted to sergeant.
Ellington said a district constable who was also involved in the operation would be recognised at the appropriate time. 'We have found other appropriate means of recognition for that individual,' Ellington said. There are no ranks in that formation of the constabulary."
Two of the cops were promoted from constable to corporal and a corporal was promoted to sergeant.
Ellington said a district constable who was also involved in the operation would be recognised at the appropriate time. 'We have found other appropriate means of recognition for that individual,' Ellington said. There are no ranks in that formation of the constabulary."
KAMLA FALLS, INJURES SHOULDER
Trinidad and Tobago's Newsday "UNC political leader Kamla Persad-Bissessar was rushed to the St Clair Medical Centre yesterday after she fell hard in the Parliament Chamber at 4.20 pm during a sitting of the House of Representatives, sustaining injuries to her left shoulder.
The loud bang from her fall startled PNM and UNC MPs alike, as the House was concluding debate on the Prison (Amendment) Bill 2010. Word that Persad-Bissessar had fallen flat and injured her shoulder spread through the Chamber. MPs, police officers and Parliament staffers immediately rushed to her assistance."
The loud bang from her fall startled PNM and UNC MPs alike, as the House was concluding debate on the Prison (Amendment) Bill 2010. Word that Persad-Bissessar had fallen flat and injured her shoulder spread through the Chamber. MPs, police officers and Parliament staffers immediately rushed to her assistance."
Lara: It’s very unfortunate
Trinidad and Tobago's Newsday "RETIRED West Indies star batsman Brian Lara turned to his Facebook account in making a plea to anyone who knows the whereabouts of his stolen steel safe to call the nearest police station.
In what was his first public comment on the theft on Tuesday of the safe which contained $1 million, several pieces of jewelry, a stash of VVIP tickets for the Beyonce ‘I Am’ concert and other personal valuables, Lara said:"
In what was his first public comment on the theft on Tuesday of the safe which contained $1 million, several pieces of jewelry, a stash of VVIP tickets for the Beyonce ‘I Am’ concert and other personal valuables, Lara said:"
Two dead after prison brawl
Kaieteur News: "Former Tactical Services Unit rank, Solomon Blackman, who shot two policemen dead five years ago and wounded two others, was beaten to death in the Georgetown Prisons early yesterday morning.
Minutes earlier he had killed fellow murder accused, Dawan ‘Dyal’ Singh.
The 40-year-old Solomon was attacked by a mob of angry inmates in the Capital Dormitory, which houses remand prisoners, just after he had clubbed the 49-year-old Singh to death with a piece of wood."
Minutes earlier he had killed fellow murder accused, Dawan ‘Dyal’ Singh.
The 40-year-old Solomon was attacked by a mob of angry inmates in the Capital Dormitory, which houses remand prisoners, just after he had clubbed the 49-year-old Singh to death with a piece of wood."
Two Camp St. prisoners die after brawl
Stabroek News "Two prisoners died early yesterday morning after a fight broke out in the capital offence dormitory of the Georgetown Prisons, leaving relatives of the men in shock and questioning how prison authorities allowed the situation to turn deadly.
Dead are double-murder accused Solomon Blackman and Essequibo resident Dyal Singh, who arrived at the Georgetown Hospital mortally wounded. Blackman attacked Singh and was afterward set upon by other prisoners. The two men were pronounced dead on arrival at around 3:45 am."
Dead are double-murder accused Solomon Blackman and Essequibo resident Dyal Singh, who arrived at the Georgetown Hospital mortally wounded. Blackman attacked Singh and was afterward set upon by other prisoners. The two men were pronounced dead on arrival at around 3:45 am."