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Shoppers to pay less on retail goods during St. Lucia’s first VAT-Free Day

Saint Lucia prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Hon. Philip J. Pierre
Prime Minister of St. Lucia Philip J Pierre (photo credit: Associates Times)

Saint Lucian shoppers will enjoy significant savings just ahead of Christmas after Parliament approved an amendment to the Value Added Tax (VAT) Act, paving the way for the country’s first-ever VAT-Free shopping day.

The amendment was approved unanimously during the first sitting of the Thirteenth Session of Parliament on December 16, following a motion tabled by Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre. The move allows for a VAT-Free Day on December 22, 2025.

With the standard VAT rate set at 12.5%, participating businesses will sell eligible goods at least 12.5% cheaper on that day, providing immediate relief to consumers and helping families stretch their holiday budgets.

Government officials say the initiative is also expected to benefit businesses by boosting foot traffic, increasing sales, and stimulating overall commercial activity during the peak holiday shopping period.

Participation in the VAT-Free Day is voluntary. Businesses wishing to take part must register with the Inland Revenue Department (IRD). Those that do not participate will continue to charge and remit VAT in accordance with existing law.

The government has thanked members of the private sector for their cooperation, noting that the initiative is intended to balance direct consumer savings with stronger economic activity across the country.

Missing You Like Crazy by Lukie D certified platinum in New Zealand

Lukie D

Missing You Like Crazy, the 2005 hit by reggae singer Lukie D, has been certified platinum in New Zealand, nearly two decades after its release.

The song, which is featured on the popular Old Skool riddim by Fi Wi Music Jamaica, was produced by fellow recording artiste Courtney John. The riddim also includes several well-known tracks such as Float Away by Rude, Do You Know by Mr. Vegas, When You Say by Courtney John and It’s All About Love by Jovi Rockwell.

The platinum certification was issued last Friday by Recorded Music NZ, reflecting combined sales and streaming equivalent to 30,000 units.

Lukie D said he never anticipated the song would go on to become a hit when it was recorded in 2005, noting that its longevity reinforces the importance of always delivering your best work in the studio.

He shared that the song was inspired by emotions and experiences that many people can relate to, which he sought to translate into words and music.

The international success of Missing You Like Crazy also opened doors beyond Jamaica, particularly in the South Pacific, where the song gained strong traction and led to touring opportunities and collaborations with artists in the region.

Born Michael Kennedy, Lukie D rose through the ranks honing his craft on local sound systems before gaining wider recognition as a member of LUST. His catalogue includes hits such as Centre of Attraction, Don’t Deny Me featuring Lt. Stitchie, and Used to Be My Girl, produced by Downsound Records, which charted in 2006.

Jamaica’s energy minister criticises JPS licence after approved electricity rate hike

Daryl Vaz
Minister of Science, Energy, Telecommunications and Transport, Hon. Daryl Vaz.

Jamaica’s Energy Minister Daryl Vaz says the Office of Utilities Regulation’s approval of an electricity rate increase after Hurricane Melissa has underscored fundamental weaknesses in the Jamaica Public Service Company’s operating licence, arguing that the current framework does not adequately protect consumers—particularly in the aftermath of natural disasters.

JPS customers will face a seven per cent increase in their December electricity bills, reflecting November consumption, after Hurricane Melissa disrupted fuel supplies and electricity sales, the utility and regulator confirmed this week.

The increase was approved by the OUR and stems from higher generation costs after the Category 5 storm damaged infrastructure and interrupted the natural gas supply, forcing JPS to rely on more expensive fuel. The hurricane also slashed electricity sales by about 30 per cent, further driving up Fuel and Independent Power Producer (IPP) charges.

For an average residential customer using 165 kilowatt-hours (kWh) per month, the adjustment adds roughly $655 to a bill that previously stood at about $9,000.

To cushion the immediate impact, the OUR approved a cost-recovery plan that allows JPS to defer a portion of the increased costs and recoup them gradually over several months.

On Tuesday, Vaz sought to calm public concern following the announcement, explaining that the increase reflects extraordinary post-hurricane conditions rather than routine rate changes.

“The Government of Jamaica has taken note of the seven per cent increase in JPS bills for electricity consumption in November,” Vaz said at a press conference outlining JPS’s accelerated restoration efforts. “Given the scale of the impact of the disaster, it may take up to six months for electricity generation costs to stabilise and for energy consumption patterns to return to normal.”

Vaz emphasised that the OUR and JPS are working together to spread the recovery of costs over time to ease pressure on households and businesses. He added that the regulator has urged JPS to engage closely before applying any additional charges during the recovery period to ensure the process remains “gradual, transparent, and manageable.”

But the minister used the rate hike to renew his criticism of JPS’s existing operating licence, arguing that it no longer protects consumers in an era of increasingly frequent and severe storms.

“For this reason, as energy minister, I could not entertain the extension of the existing licence and the existing terms for another 15 years,” Vaz said, adding that the current framework limits even the regulator’s ability to intervene effectively.

He noted that while the seven per cent increase has drawn concern, it is significantly lower than post-disaster adjustments approved after Hurricane Beryl in July 2024, when increases reached as high as 16 per cent. Beryl caused widespread damage, particularly in St Elizabeth, Manchester, Clarendon and Westmoreland.

Vaz also pointed out that electricity rate increases are not unprecedented, noting that an 11 per cent hike was approved as recently as May under normal, disaster-free conditions.

“There was no hurricane and no catastrophic damage, but an 11 per cent increase was approved based on fuel prices and other variables,” he said. “Transparency and accountability are for good news and for bad news.”

Reiterating the call for a new licence framework, Vaz cited a sharp rise in hurricane activity, noting that Jamaica experienced 11 storms between 2015 and 2025, compared with just five in the previous decade — a 120 per cent increase.

“It is not rocket science to see that the Jamaica we lived in when the existing licence was signed is not the Jamaica we live in today,” he said. “A new licence reflecting today’s climate realities must be put forward — one that protects citizens each time a hurricane passes.”

Meanwhile, power restoration remains uneven across the island, particularly in the west. Six weeks after Hurricane Melissa struck on October 28, about 88 per cent of JPS customers in Westmoreland remain without electricity, according to Vaz. In St Elizabeth, roughly 50 per cent of customers are still awaiting service.

Outage levels also remain high in St James (45 per cent), Trelawny (39 per cent) and Hanover (36 per cent). By contrast, Kingston, St Andrew, St Catherine, Portland and St Thomas are essentially fully restored, with outages near zero. Vaz said the disparity reflects the severity of damage in western parishes rather than a lack of restoration effort.

 

US Justice Department sues Virgin Islands Police Department over gun permit practices

Virgin Islands Police Department

The U.S. Department of Justice has filed a lawsuit against the Virgin Islands Police Department (VIPD), alleging that the territory’s firearms licensing practices violate the Second Amendment by imposing unconstitutional delays and requirements on lawful gun owners.

In a complaint filed Tuesday in the U.S. District Court of the Virgin Islands, the Justice Department said applicants for gun permits have faced prolonged delays in receiving decisions and have been subjected to unreasonable conditions before licenses are issued. These include requirements such as bolted-in gun safes and other measures that the department argues go beyond what the Constitution allows.

The lawsuit also challenges the VIPD’s continued enforcement of a “proper cause” requirement that closely mirrors a New York law struck down by the U.S. Supreme Court in 2022. In that ruling—New York State Rifle & Pistol Association Inc. v. Bruen—the court held that requiring applicants to show a special need or justification to obtain a gun permit was unconstitutional. The Justice Department says that decision applies fully to the Virgin Islands.

“This Civil Rights Division will protect the Second Amendment rights of law-abiding citizens,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon, who heads the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. She said the lawsuit was brought by the department’s newly established Second Amendment Section to ensure applicants receive timely permit decisions “without unconstitutional obstruction.”

U.S. Attorney Adam Sleeper for the District of the U.S. Virgin Islands said the territory’s firearms licensing laws and practices are inconsistent with the Constitution.

“This lawsuit seeks to uphold the rights of law-abiding citizens to bear arms in the U.S. Virgin Islands,” Sleeper said.

According to the complaint, residents have submitted numerous complaints describing lengthy delays, burdensome requirements and, in some cases, what the Justice Department described as unconstitutional home searches conducted as part of the permitting process. Federal officials said such practices mirror the types of licensing schemes the Supreme Court has already ruled unlawful.

The lawsuit seeks to bring the Virgin Islands Police Department into compliance with constitutional standards governing firearms permitting and licensing.

Antigua, Dominica governments respond after new US visa restrictions announced

US travel ban
AP Photo

Antigua and Barbuda and Dominica have begun diplomatic engagements with the United States after President Donald Trump announced new visa restrictions affecting nationals of the two Caribbean countries, as well as Haiti and Cuba.

A new U.S. proclamation issued Tuesday, Dec. 16, 2025, places Antigua and Barbuda and Dominica under partial entry restrictions. Under the order, the entry of nationals from both countries as immigrants, and as nonimmigrants on B-1, B-2, B-1/B-2, F, M, and J visas, is suspended. In both cases, the proclamation points to concerns related to citizenship-by-investment (CBI) programs that do not require residency.

Antigua’s response

The Antigua and Barbuda government said Tuesday that it is “actively engaged” with U.S. authorities to seek clarity and reversal of the measures, which would either fully restrict or limit entry into the United States for affected nationals.

Antigua and Barbuda’s Ambassador to the United States, Sir Ronald Sanders, said he has initiated discussions with the U.S. State Department to understand the scope of the restrictions, including the status of visas issued before December 31, 2025.

“Our general objective is to engage fully with the U.S. Government to discuss the concern expressed about the basis for the visa restrictions, namely that ‘Antigua and Barbuda has historically had Citizenship by Investment without residency,’” Sanders said in a statement. “Our efforts are directed at reaching understandings with the U.S. Government that would allow the restoration of visas to Antigua and Barbuda nationals.”

He said further information will be provided as discussions continue.

Prime Minister Gaston Browne earlier said his administration had taken “careful note” of the U.S. proclamation and expressed disappointment that Antigua and Barbuda was included based on what he called an inaccurate characterisation of its Citizenship by Investment (CBI) Programme.

“That assertion does not reflect the present reality of our laws,” Browne said, noting that Antigua and Barbuda has worked “closely and constructively” with several U.S. government departments over the past year to strengthen safeguards within the programme.

“It is therefore an error to state that Antigua and Barbuda’s Citizenship by Investment Programme operates without a residency requirement,” Browne said.

The prime minister added that Sanders had been informed by State Department officials that they were surprised by the proclamation and had received no prior notice of its issuance. Browne said he will also write directly to President Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, offering full cooperation to address any concerns and restore all visa categories.

Antigua and Barbuda, he said, values its long-standing relationship with the United States, its largest trading partner, and remains committed to maintaining strong bilateral ties based on “mutual respect, cooperation, and accurate understanding.”

Dominica’s response

Meanwhile, the Government of Dominica acknowledged the U.S. decision in a statement issued Tuesday, confirming that partial travel restrictions affecting Dominican nationals are scheduled to take effect on January 1, 2026.

In a press release from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, International Business, Trade and Energy, the Dominican government said it understands the concern the announcement may cause and assured citizens that the matter is being treated with urgency.

The government said it is engaging officials at the U.S. Embassy in Bridgetown, Barbados, to obtain clarification on the scope of the measures, the basis for the decision, and the implications for Dominican travellers, students, families and other legitimate U.S. visa holders. Officials said further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.

Mottley announces permanent appointments for more than 2,000 public officers

Barbados’ Mottley reverses exit plan, will seek third term

Prime Minister Mia Mottley has announced what she described as an early Christmas gift for public officers, revealing that more than 2,000 workers will soon receive confirmation of permanent appointment to Barbados’ Public Service.

Leading debate in the House of Assembly on the Public Service (Appointments) Bill 2025, Mottley said 2,095 public officers stand to benefit. Of that total, 1,170 temporary employees who meet eligibility requirements will be confirmed in their posts, while 925 officers currently serving in acting positions will be formally promoted to their substantive roles.

Mottley also signalled that discussions will continue on additional compensation and improved conditions of service for frontline workers, including teachers, police officers and nurses.

However, Opposition Leader Ralph Thorne cautioned that the appointments alone would not resolve what he described as ongoing “turbulence” within the public service. Thorne criticised the government for what he termed the “planting” of individuals at the head of several departments on three-year contracts, arguing that the lack of security of tenure undermines independence and weakens accountability.

He contended that such arrangements risk making senior officials more responsive to ministerial direction than to the principles of a professional and impartial public service.

Debate on the bill is continuing in Parliament, with permanent appointments expected to take effect on January 1. Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs Dale Marshall has made clear that not all public officers will qualify for confirmation under the legislation.

Addressing the House, Marshall pointed to Section 6 of the bill, which outlines categories of ineligible employees. He said individuals facing pending disciplinary matters, ongoing criminal cases, or unexpunged criminal convictions will not benefit from the appointments.

He added that officers on medical leave for three months or more, or those whose personnel records contain negative reports or findings of misconduct, will also be excluded.

Marshall said the bill also excludes members of the Barbados Police Service and the Barbados Prison Service from automatic appointment, citing the “particular nature” of those services.

However, he noted that police officers are again benefitting from flexi-time payments for overtime work and said the entire public service, including the police, will undergo a comprehensive re-grading exercise.

“I’m quite sure that in 2026 we will have an environment where the police service will see themselves benefiting from far better salary scales than they currently benefit from,” Marshall said, noting that the police budget has been increased annually since the Barbados Labour Party administration took office in 2018.

Marshall also addressed the transition of special constables to full police constables, saying they are now placed on a structured stream that allows for salary increments and promotion opportunities.

St Kitts-Nevis projects EC$894.8M in revenue and grants for 2026

Terrance Drew St. Kitts and Nevis
Prime Minister of St Kitts and Nevis, Hon. Dr. Terrance Drew.

Prime Minister and Finance Minister Dr. Terrance Drew says his government is pressing ahead with long-discussed reforms to shore up Social Security, modernise the tax system and lay the groundwork for National Health Insurance, as St. Kitts and Nevis moves into the 2026 fiscal year under what he described as a disciplined and transparent framework.

Drew said protecting Social Security is urgent, calling it the federation’s “most important and reliable social safety net,” and argued that preserving its financial health is a shared responsibility to keep it solvent for future generations. He told Parliament that “substantial groundwork” has already been completed on National Health Insurance, and framed the delivery of pension reform, universal health coverage and long-term Social Security sustainability as major milestones for national development.

On tax reform, Drew said a modern, efficient system is central to building a stable revenue base, reducing economic vulnerability and making the country more attractive for business. While reaffirming that there will be no increase in tax rates, he said the government will take a “targeted and determined approach” to clearing tax arrears, stressing that existing liabilities must be honoured.

Drew also pointed to what he described as a positive economic trajectory. He said St. Kitts and Nevis’ fiscal framework for 2026–2028 prioritises stronger public financial management, greater transparency, stronger institutions and improved public service delivery, alongside tax policy reforms supported by more effective enforcement and implementation.

For 2026, the government estimates total revenue and grants at EC$894.8 million, including current revenue of EC$855.7 million. Recurrent expenditure is projected at EC$879.8 million in 2026, while capital spending is forecast at EC$167.2 million.

Drew also highlighted measures aimed at household relief and income support. He said the government invested more than EC$36 million through initiatives, including the Budget Boost Wallet programme—support he said reached 20,000 people for six months—alongside VAT-related relief. Separately, he announced that public-sector workers, Government Auxiliary Employees (GAEs), pensioners and STEP workers will receive an additional payment equivalent to one month’s salary, with payment scheduled for Friday, Dec. 19, 2025, while ministers, advisers and certain other officials are excluded.

St Kitts and Nevis announces double salary for public workers and pensioners

Dr. Terrance Drew St Kitts
Prime Minister of St. Kitts and Nevis, Hon. Dr. Terrance Drew.

Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Dr. Terrance Drew has announced a double salary payment for public-sector workers and pensioners in St. Kitts and Nevis, to be paid ahead of the Christmas season.

Delivering the 2026 Budget Address, Dr. Drew said the additional payment—equivalent to one month’s salary—will be made on Friday, December 19, 2025. The measure applies to civil servants, Government Auxiliary Employees (GAEs), pensioners, and STEP workers across both the Federal Government and the Nevis Island Administration (NIA).

According to the prime minister, the payment is being granted in recognition of the service and continued support of public workers and retirees. Ministers of government, advisers, and certain other officials will not be eligible for the double salary.

The announcement was made as part of the government’s broader budget presentation for the 2026 fiscal year, with the early payout intended to provide added financial relief during the holiday period.

Miramar officials join trade mission to South Africa to expand global business opportunities

Commissioner Cherasard with Miramar and Broward County leaders in Cape Town_ South Africa
Commissioners Avril Cherasard and Carson “Eddy” Edwards participated in the Export Sales and Trade Mission to South Africa

Two Miramar city commissioners recently joined a multi-jurisdictional trade mission to South Africa aimed at strengthening international business ties and opening new markets for Florida companies, including small and emerging businesses based in Miramar.

Commissioners Avril Cherasard and Carson “Eddy” Edwards participated in the Export Sales and Trade Mission to South Africa from November 29 to December 6 as part of a delegation organized by SelectFlorida. They were joined by Broward County Commissioner Alexandra P. Davis and Paul Njoroge of the Miramar Economic Development Department.

The mission included official stops in Johannesburg, Durban, Cape Town, and Nelson Mandela Bay, where delegates took part in commercial briefings, business matchmaking sessions, and meetings with government agencies, universities, and industry leaders. The discussions focused on strengthening bilateral trade relationships and identifying opportunities for collaboration in innovation-driven sectors.

Officials said the trip highlighted South Africa’s role as a strategic entry point into broader African markets and its potential as a partner for Miramar’s growing entrepreneurial community.

“This mission represents a meaningful opportunity to open new doors for Miramar’s business community,” Cherasard said. “By strengthening ties with Africa, we are inviting innovation, trade, and investment that can empower our local entrepreneurs and stimulate long-term economic growth.”

According to the city, Miramar’s participation aligns with its broader economic development goals, including advancing international collaboration in sectors such as healthcare, information technology, and education; supporting entrepreneurship and small business growth; enhancing the global competitiveness of local companies; and promoting workforce development, job creation, and long-term investment.

City officials said the mission underscores Miramar’s commitment to working with regional and state partners to build international relationships that deliver lasting economic benefits for residents and businesses.

How is chromatography used in chemical analysis?

chromatography

One of the key techniques used during chemical analysis is chromatography. This technique can isolate mixtures to identify and quantify the different components. Chromatography provides accurate results in a range of applications, from pharmaceuticals to environmental testing.

This blog post will consider its principles, applications, and benefits. Chromatography has become an essential tool in modern laboratories worldwide. Understanding how this technique works can help researchers choose the right method for their specific needs. Let’s dive into the fundamental principles that make chromatography so effective.

Principles of Chromatography

Chromatography separates different kinds of substances based on the phenomenon of movement through a stationary phase. A mixture is dissolved in a fluid termed the mobile phase, and that fluid drives the combination through a structure holding another material termed the stationary phase. The components move at different rates, allowing for their separation.

How fast each substance travels is determined by the interaction of the mobile and stationary phases. This interaction is dependent on polarity, molecular size, and solubility. If you just select the phases correctly, you can achieve clear separation.

Types of Chromatography

There are various types of chromatography, each with specific characteristics. For example, gas chromatography involves a gas as the mobile phase. This method is particularly useful for volatile compounds. In HPLC, moving the sample through a column is done by using a liquid. It is frequently utilized for diverse compounds.

Thin-layer chromatography is a technique on a flat surface. It’s a fast and affordable method for small samples. Each technique has unique benefits, which is what makes chromatography extremely useful in scientific investigations.

Applications in Different Fields

Chromatography applies to many industries. It protects the quality of drugs in the pharmaceutical industry. It helps to ensure safety by detecting contaminants. Environmental scientists use chromatography to identify pollutants in the air, water, and soil. This information contributes to the assessment of ecological impacts or remediation measures.

Chromatography in the food industry is used to isolate nutrients and contaminants. As part of ensuring quality and safety, it helps with regulatory compliance. In forensic science, chromatography is also utilized in criminal investigative processes to separate and identify substances. This technique is critical in terms of evidence in forensic science and legal proceedings.

Advantages of Chromatography

A significant benefit of chromatography is its precision. This enables you to identify and measure the concentrations of components in a mixture accurately. This accuracy, in turn, is crucial in pharmaceutical development and food safety. Chromatography also allows dealing with complex samples, which opens the door for many applications.

Its capability of separating trace amounts is another advantage. Such an ability is particularly important in domains where even minor differences can lead to major differences in outcomes. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, chromatography is one of the primary analytical methods used in regulatory testing for pharmaceuticals and food products. Additionally, it is versatile, as it offers flexibility in selecting various phases and approaches. By defining processes for a specific need, researchers can conduct more efficient analysis.

Challenges and Considerations

Chromatography has several advantages, but there are also issues. It requires careful selection of the right phases. Making the wrong choices can often result in failing to separate correctly or unclear results. Also, doing maintenance on the equipment is extremely important for guaranteeing performance.

Especially for advanced techniques like HPLC, cost can be a drawback. Furthermore, the equipment is expensive, and the necessity for skilled operators increases costs. However, this investment is often worth it, as you can gain very valuable in-depth insights from your analysis.

Future Prospects

Technology is continuously improving chromatography. Innovative materials and techniques are emerging to increase both efficiency and precision. Automation has had more adoption, and it is reducing human errors and improving throughput. These innovations have the potential to further broaden the applications of chromatography.

Scientists are investigating how to improve the process by making it less wasteful and creating less energy use. These sustainable shifts have become a top priority and also fall under long-term environmental objectives.

Conclusion

One of the most widely used techniques in chemical analysis is chromatography. The power of its separation and identification has made it a vital tool in a variety of areas. Its applications are widespread, from ensuring the purity of drugs to environmental sample analysis.

The analytical advantages far outweigh any drawbacks of chromatography. With this technology continuing to develop, it will only play a bigger part in scientific investigation. Awareness of its principles and applications brings better usage and innovation.

Bridgerton-themed celebration brings community together in Miramar

The Miramar Cultural Center was transformed into an elegant Regency-era setting as residents, community leaders, and guests gathered for a Bridgerton-themed cultural celebration hosted by Commissioner Maxwell Chambers in partnership with the City of Miramar.

The event brought together the community for an afternoon centered on fashion, food, music, and connection. Guests embraced the theme, arriving in Bridgerton-inspired attire that added visual flair and authenticity to the experience.

Bridgerton is a popular Netflix television series set in early 19th-century England during the Regency era, known for its lavish costumes, elegant ballroom settings, orchestral music, and dramatic storytelling.

The celebration was organized with the support of Richard Gordon, Juanita Davis, Cabriella, Natasha Wright of Diamond Butterfly, Niokia Waugh, and Nancy Fong, whose collaboration helped bring the concept to life.

One of the afternoon’s highlights was the presentation of the Best Dressed Couple award, recognizing a pair whose coordinated outfits best captured the Regency-era theme. Attendees also participated in group photo sessions, including moments featuring women dressed in full period fashion.

Throughout the event, guests enjoyed live music, food, dancing, and opportunities to network, with laughter and sing-alongs contributing to the upbeat atmosphere. Designed as a cultural experience to strengthen community ties, the Bridgerton-themed celebration was widely praised by attendees and underscored the City of Miramar’s ongoing commitment to inclusive and creative community programming.

Figgers Foundation launches holiday grocery gift card program for Broward families

Figgers Foundation

The Figgers Foundation has launched a holiday initiative aimed at helping families in Broward County put food on the table during the festive season.

The program, called “Figgers Feeding Families,” will provide grocery gift cards to eligible households to assist with purchasing food, essential items and holiday meals. The initiative was announced by Freddie Figgers, founder and chairman of The Figgers Foundation.

Figgers said the effort is intended to go beyond short-term relief and offer encouragement to families facing financial strain during the holidays, including thousands of Caribbean American households across the county.

“This initiative is more than providing groceries,” Figgers said. “It reminds families that they matter, their community cares, and brighter days are ahead.”

Families can apply to receive a grocery gift card, which will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. Gift cards will be available for pickup at the Figgers Institute, and income eligibility will be verified securely through ID.me, according to the foundation.

In addition to supporting local families, the foundation is inviting businesses, faith leaders and community partners across Broward County to join the effort. Organizers say the goal is to ensure that no family is left without support during the holiday season while encouraging a broader culture of generosity throughout South Florida.

More information about the Figgers Feeding Families initiative, including application details, is available at figgersfoundation.org/figgers-feeding-families. Additional details about the foundation’s broader community work can be found at figgersfoundation.org.

Atlantis Paradise Island appoints Vaughn Roberts as chief operating officer

Atlantis Paradise Island

Atlantis Paradise Island has appointed Vaughn Roberts as its new chief operating officer, tapping a veteran executive with more than 20 years of experience spanning hospitality, real estate and global finance as the resort enters its next phase of growth and transformation.

In the role, Roberts will oversee day-to-day operations across the sprawling resort and play a key role in strengthening operational performance and enhancing the guest experience throughout the Atlantis destination.

Roberts previously served as executive vice president of administration and strategic initiatives, a position he has held since February 2024. He joined Atlantis in 2021 and has been closely involved in shaping the resort’s strategic direction and organizational priorities.

Before joining Atlantis, Roberts held senior roles in investment banking, consulting and accounting, including positions at Dresdner Kleinwort, Bank One, Lehman Brothers and KPMG.

“Vaughn’s appointment reflects both his exceptional leadership and the confidence we have in his ability to guide Atlantis through an important period of evolution,” said Audrey Oswell, president and managing director of Atlantis Paradise Island. She said Roberts brings a blend of strategic insight and operational leadership that will support continued investment in the resort and improvements to the guest experience.

Roberts said he is taking on the role at a critical moment for the resort.

“I am honored to take on this role at such a pivotal time for Atlantis,” he said. “Together with our team members and partners, we are focused on strengthening our operations, building on Atlantis’ extraordinary legacy, and delivering long-term value for our guests, shareholders, and the Bahamian community.”

Roberts holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting from Florida International University, a master’s degree in accounting from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, and an MBA in Finance from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business.

He also serves on the boards of Bonefish & Tarpon Trust, the National Art Gallery of The Bahamas, the Charitable Arts Foundation, and Friends of the Arts in The Bahamas.

Confusion over new Florida license plate law leads to invalid arrest of South Florida man

A South Florida man spent a night in jail after being arrested over a license plate frame on his rental car, due to confusion surrounding Florida’s updated license plate law and its enforcement.

Demarquize Dawson was pulled over and arrested by Davie Police after an officer said the frame on his license plate partially obscured the first letter of the words “Sunshine State.”

“He said, ‘I’m arresting you because the “S” on your license plate is obscured — the “S” in Sunshine,’” Dawson said.

Dawson later shared a photo of the plate on social media, saying the arrest should never have happened. According to Florida law, drivers are allowed to have license plate frames as long as the numbers, letters, and registration decal are clearly visible.

An updated memo issued this week by the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles clarified that frames may cover the top or bottom of a license plate as long as law enforcement can still identify the issuing state.

Following the arrest, Davie Police acknowledged the error, apologized to Dawson, and said the arrest was invalid.

“At the initial release of this updated law, the wording was vague, unclear and appeared to be open for misinterpretation,” the department said in a statement. “Since the release of a memo of clarification from the Florida Police Chiefs’ Association, our officers are educated on the application and use of this statute. Unfortunately, it appears this arrest was invalid and we extend our apologies to Mr. Dawson.”

To further address confusion, the Miami-Dade Tax Collector distributed a clarification flyer, and Davie Police publicly explained the updated guidance.

“As long as officers are able to read your numbers and see your registration sticker, you can have a frame,” said Davie Police spokesperson Officer Julia Ross. “If it’s partially covering where you can still see Florida or even part of ‘Sunshine State,’ you’re alright.”

The confusion stems from a state law that took effect Oct. 1, which prohibits any device that covers or alters a license plate. The law was originally aimed at tinted or obscured plate covers, which authorities say are commonly used to evade tolls or conceal stolen vehicles.

Dawson said the arrest caused significant distress. According to the arrest report, he was taken to a hospital after suffering a panic attack before being released from jail on his own recognizance.

“There was a big commotion in court on what’s right and what’s wrong about this new statute,” Dawson said. “Something needs to be done because that’s not right.”

What has also raised concern is the penalty change tied to the new law. Violations that were once considered non-criminal traffic infractions have been elevated to a second-degree misdemeanor, carrying potential penalties of up to 60 days in jail and a $500 fine.

“You don’t need to throw out your plate frame,” Ross said. “As long as we can read your license plate and see your registration sticker, you’re fine.”

24 charged in Miami cocaine trafficking conspiracy

Four Jamaicans arrested in Alabama for alleged involvement in lottery scam

A federal grand jury in Miami has returned a superseding indictment charging 24 defendants with conspiring to traffic large quantities of cocaine in and around Miami-Dade County and elsewhere in South Florida, federal prosecutors announced.

The eight-count indictment, unsealed Tuesday, alleges that the defendants operated a large-scale and violent drug trafficking enterprise that distributed multi-kilogram quantities of cocaine and was linked to a planned murder-for-hire scheme.

Those charged include Bienvenido Leo Rodriguez, 73; Roberto Rodriguez, 52; Alberto Leandro Curiel, 72; Pedro Gonzalez Alvarez, 48; Claudio Alberto Barrios, 55, of Miami Beach; Raimundo Antonio Roca-Naranjo, 72, of Miami Lakes; Roberto Jimenez, 53; Luis Alejandro Salcedo Rey, 54; Rolando Rodriguez Lugo, 57; Diego Diaz De La Cruz, 47; Lucia Cuadrado, 65, of Hialeah; Jorge Mahique Pareta, 64, of Hialeah; Miguel Marquez Romero, 29, of Naples; Heinrich Castillo Diaz, 47; Jose Arnaldo Bermudez Jr., 42; Paulo Sabon Montero, 54, of Naples; Valerio Alvarez Abreu, 73, of Hialeah; Santos Saavedra, 81; Eustaquio Luis Cardoso Veliz, 63; Glenis Perez Martinez, 54; Yovanis Fernandez, 51, of Hialeah; Manuel Nuez, 55; Livan Padron Duque, 49; and Jorge Falla, 50.

“These defendants are alleged to have operated a violent drug trafficking enterprise that planned a murder for hire and smuggled kilograms of cocaine into the United States,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew R. Galeotti of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. He said violent drug organizations fuel addiction and instability in American communities and will be aggressively prosecuted.

U.S. Attorney Jason A. Reding Quiñones for the Southern District of Florida said the case reflects months of coordinated investigative work by federal agents and the City of Miami Police Department.

“Investigators disrupted a network that moved multi-kilogram quantities of cocaine, trafficked in cash and firearms, and posed a real threat to public safety,” Reding Quiñones said, adding that the seizures and early intervention helped prevent further violence.

According to court records, law enforcement seized approximately seven kilograms of cocaine on April 1 and an additional 10 kilograms on May 27 during the investigation. Agents also recovered large sums of cash and firearms from multiple residences.

From Bienvenido Rodriguez’s home, authorities seized $58,214 in cash and two firearms. From Roca-Naranjo’s residence, agents recovered $62,520 in cash, two firearms, and more than 100 rounds of ammunition. Roca-Naranjo, a previously convicted felon, is additionally charged with unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition.

The indictment also includes a forfeiture allegation seeking the seizure of proceeds and property tied to the alleged crimes.

If convicted, 12 defendants face up to life in prison, while others face maximum sentences ranging from 20 to 40 years, depending on the charges.

The investigation also uncovered and disrupted a murder-for-hire plot in Fort Myers, according to court documents filed in the Middle District of Florida. Prosecutors allege that between April 16 and 17, Marquez Romero and Sabon Montero discussed killing an individual for up to $30,000. Investigators learned that the intended victim’s brother had hired a co-conspirator to carry out the killing.

On April 17, the conspirators met in a grocery store parking lot in Naples to discuss the plan and were apprehended by the FBI with assistance from law enforcement partners.

The case is being investigated by the FBI Miami Field Office in conjunction with the City of Miami Police Department.

DHS shuts down Family Reunification Parole programs for Cuba, Haiti

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has announced the termination of all categorical Family Reunification Parole (FRP) programs for nationals of Cuba, Haiti, Colombia, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala and Honduras, ending a pathway that allowed eligible family members to enter the United States through humanitarian parole.

The decision, announced December 12, 2025, also applies to the immediate family members of individuals covered under the programs.

DHS said the move is intended to end what it described as the misuse of humanitarian parole, which the department said had allowed inadequately vetted individuals to bypass traditional immigration processes. The agency said parole is being returned to a case-by-case basis, consistent with congressional intent.

According to DHS, the FRP programs contained security gaps stemming from insufficient vetting, which created opportunities for fraud and exploitation and posed risks to national security and public safety. The department said the desire to reunite families does not override the government’s responsibility to protect the safety and economic well-being of Americans.

A notice published in the Federal Register outlines how the terminations will be carried out. Individuals who were paroled into the United States under the FRP programs and whose parole has not expired by January 14, 2026, will see their parole end on that date unless they have a pending Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, that was postmarked or electronically filed on or before December 15, 2025, and remains pending as of January 14.

For those with a qualifying pending Form I-485, parole will remain valid until either a final decision is made on the application or the original parole period expires, whichever occurs first. If the application is denied, parole will be terminated and the individual is expected to depart the United States immediately.

DHS also said that when parole is terminated under the FRP programs, employment authorization tied to that parole will be revoked. Affected individuals will be notified directly by the department.

Those who no longer have a lawful basis to remain in the United States after their parole ends must depart before their termination date. DHS said such individuals should use the CBP Home app to report their intent to leave. The department noted that incentives, including exit bonuses, assistance with travel documents and forgiveness of certain civil fines, may be available to qualifying individuals.

The termination of the FRP programs marks a significant policy shift affecting Cuban and Haitian families, among others, who had relied on the parole process as a means of family reunification.

USCIS tightens photo rules to curb immigration fraud

uscis

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has rolled out a new photo policy aimed at strengthening identity verification and preventing immigration fraud, limiting how old photographs can be when used to issue immigration documents.

Under the updated guidance, which took effect immediately, USCIS will only accept photos taken within three years of the date an applicant files a USCIS form. The agency will also no longer accept self-submitted photos, relying instead on images captured by USCIS or other authorized entities.

USCIS said the change is intended to enhance national security and reduce the risk of identity fraud by ensuring that photos used in immigration documents are recent, accurate and reliable.

The new rules replace COVID-19-era flexibilities that allowed the reuse of photographs for up to 10 years, even if an individual’s appearance had changed significantly. USCIS said those measures remained in place longer than necessary and weakened its ability to properly verify identities and conduct effective screening.

“Robust screening and vetting processes are critical to protecting the security and integrity of the U.S. immigration system,” the agency said, noting that outdated photos can compromise identity verification and increase the risk of fraud and identity theft.

The policy aligns with broader Department of Homeland Security efforts to modernize screening and vetting systems and address vulnerabilities in identity documents.

USCIS also said that certain immigration forms will now require a new photo regardless of when a previous image was taken. These include:

  • Form I-90: Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card

  • Form I-485: Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status

  • Form N-400: Application for Naturalization

  • Form N-600: Application for Certificate of Citizenship

The guidance was published on December 12, 2025, and applies to all relevant applications filed on or after that date.

CAF approves Saint Kitts and Nevis, Haiti as new shareholder countries

CAF – Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean has approved the incorporation of Saint Kitts and Nevis and Haiti as new shareholder countries, expanding the institution’s footprint in the Caribbean and opening access for both nations to development financing, technical assistance and knowledge programs tailored to small island and climate-vulnerable states.

The approvals were granted during CAF’s Board of Directors meeting in Panama City, where the bank also approved US$3.175 billion in new operations across the region. The funding will support projects in electricity infrastructure, water security, sustainable transport, assistance for vulnerable communities, and financing for small and medium-sized enterprises and productive sectors.

With the addition of Saint Kitts and Nevis and Haiti, CAF will have tripled the number of its Caribbean shareholder countries compared with 2023, underscoring its growing engagement in the region.

The move follows a series of expansions over the past year. In June 2025, CAF approved the incorporation of Saint Lucia during its Board meeting in Seville, Spain. Over the previous twelve months, The Bahamas, Antigua and Barbuda, and Grenada also joined CAF’s shareholder base. The institution now counts six Caribbean shareholder countries, with several others at different stages of the incorporation process.

CAF Executive President Sergio Díaz-Granados said the addition of Saint Kitts and Nevis and Haiti reinforces the bank’s commitment to the Caribbean at a critical time for the region.

“Saint Kitts and Nevis and Haiti are joining a homegrown development bank that was set up by the region for the region,” Díaz-Granados said, describing CAF as “more than a bank” and a bridge connecting Latin America and the Caribbean. He noted that the institution is focused on delivering solutions that reflect the realities of vulnerable Caribbean small island developing states, working directly with countries to turn development priorities into sustained progress and measurable outcomes.

The Board of Directors also confirmed Barbados’ compliance with the conditions required to transition to full member country status, joining Trinidad and Tobago as the only other full CAF member from the Caribbean Community (CARICOM).

CAF’s presence in the Caribbean has expanded steadily since the opening of its regional office in Trinidad and Tobago in 2022. Since then, the bank has supported a broad portfolio of initiatives across the region, including climate financing, resilient infrastructure, water security, modernization of public services, cultural and heritage tourism, education and digital transformation, and programs supporting the blue and green economy.

CAF said it remains committed to strengthening partnerships with Caribbean governments and providing agile and flexible development financing to help countries advance their national development priorities.

EU sanctions former Haitian leaders, gang over violence and human rights abuses

Michel-Martelly
Michel Martelly

The European Union has imposed new sanctions on three Haitian individuals and one armed group, citing escalating gang violence, serious human rights abuses and ongoing impunity in Haiti.

Those sanctioned include former Haitian president Michel Martelly, former senator Rony Celestin, and Youri Latortue, a former political adviser to Martelly and founder of the political party L’Ayiti An Aksyon (AAA). The EU also designated the 5 Segond gang, a powerful criminal group operating in the Village-de-Dieu neighborhood of Port-au-Prince.

According to the EU Council, Martelly and Latortue armed and financed several gangs to advance political objectives, protect personal and economic interests, and maintain territorial control. Celestin was sanctioned for his involvement in violence linked to armed groups and smuggling and for orchestrating the murder of journalist Néhémie Joseph, who had exposed corruption and illegal activities connected to him.

The 5 Segond gang was cited for a wide range of crimes, including theft, rape, kidnapping, murder, piracy, extortion, obstruction of humanitarian aid, and arms and drug trafficking.

As a result of the designations, all listed individuals and the gang are subject to an asset freeze, and EU citizens and entities are prohibited from providing them with funds or economic resources. The sanctioned individuals are also banned from traveling to the European Union.

The legal acts underpinning the sanctions have been published in the Official Journal of the European Union.

The move builds on changes made to the EU’s Haiti sanctions framework in July 2023, which allow the bloc to impose its own restrictive measures on individuals and entities deemed responsible for threatening Haiti’s peace, security and stability or undermining democracy and the rule of law. The EU framework complements sanctions imposed by the United Nations Security Council in October 2022.

In October 2024, the European Council reiterated its deep concern about the deteriorating situation in Haiti and called for additional targeted sanctions as part of broader efforts to restore security, democratic governance and the rule of law.

The EU said Haiti remains a priority on its agenda, with ongoing support focused on strengthening institutions and improving access to basic public services amid an increasingly volatile security environment. That assistance includes macroeconomic support, education, food security and nutrition programs, disaster preparedness, and aid to the Haitian National Police.

The European Union described itself as a long-standing political and development partner of Haiti and said it will continue working alongside regional and international partners to respond to the country’s deepening humanitarian and security crisis.

Antigua, Dominica among Caribbean nations that now face US travel restrictions

travel ban

A new U.S. proclamation issued Tuesday, Dec. 16, 2025, continues and expands restrictions on the entry of certain foreign nationals into the United States, affecting several Caribbean countries as well as a number of African, Middle Eastern, and Asian nations, citing national security and public safety concerns.

Signed by President Donald Trump, the proclamation says it is U.S. policy “to protect its citizens from terrorist attacks and other national security and public safety threats,” and argues that weaknesses in foreign identity-management systems can limit the U.S. government’s ability to properly vet travelers seeking entry.

For the Caribbean, the proclamation affects Haiti, Cuba, Antigua and Barbuda, and Dominica, with different levels of restriction applied depending on the country.

Haiti and Cuba remain under existing restrictions

The proclamation does not introduce new restrictions for Haiti or Cuba, both of which were already subject to U.S. entry limits under an earlier proclamation issued in June 2025. That earlier order fully restricted entry for Haitian nationals and partially restricted entry for Cuban nationals, and the new proclamation explicitly states that those measures will continue.

Haiti remains among the countries whose nationals face a full suspension of entry, applying to both immigrant and nonimmigrant travel. Cuba remains subject to partial restrictions, which also apply to both immigrant and nonimmigrant visas. The White House frames the December proclamation as an extension and modification of an existing policy framework, rather than a reset.

Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica added under partial restrictions

The proclamation newly places Antigua and Barbuda and Dominica under partial entry restrictions. Under the order, the entry of nationals from both countries as immigrants, and as nonimmigrants on B-1, B-2, B-1/B-2, F, M, and J visas, is suspended. The proclamation also directs U.S. consular officers to reduce the validity of other nonimmigrant visas issued to nationals of the two countries, “to the extent permitted by law.”

In both cases, the proclamation points to concerns related to citizenship-by-investment (CBI) programs that do not require residency. It argues that such programs pose challenges for screening and vetting because a person from a country subject to U.S. travel restrictions could purchase citizenship in another country, obtain a new passport, and then apply for a U.S. visa under that second nationality, thereby evading restrictions tied to their original country.

The proclamation further states that U.S. law enforcement and the Department of State have found that CBI programs have historically been vulnerable to risks, including the concealment of identity and assets, and the circumvention of travel, financial, or banking restrictions.

Other Caribbean countries, such as Grenada, St. Kitts and Nevis, and Saint Lucia, have CBI programs. Those countries were not mentioned in the president’s proclamation.

Exceptions and effective date

The proclamation includes several exceptions. It does not apply to lawful permanent residents, dual nationals traveling on a passport from a non-designated country, certain diplomatic and official visa categories, or individuals traveling for major international sporting events. It also does not apply to individuals already granted asylum or to refugees already admitted to the United States, and it states that nothing in the order limits the ability to seek asylum or other humanitarian protections under U.S. law.

The restrictions take effect at 12:01 a.m. Eastern Standard Time on Jan. 1, 2026. The proclamation also directs the U.S. government to review the restrictions every 180 days, with recommendations on whether they should be continued, modified, or lifted, and to continue engaging affected countries on improving screening, vetting, and information-sharing practices.

Freddie McGregor postpones ‘Freddie McGregor and Friends’ concert

Freddie McGregor

Reggae and dancehall icon Freddie McGregor has postponed his highly anticipated concert, Freddie McGregor and Friends, which was scheduled to take place on February 7, 2026, in Kingston, Jamaica. The decision follows the impact of Hurricane Melissa, which recently affected the island and prompted widespread recovery efforts.

In an official statement released via McGregor’s Instagram page, the veteran entertainer and his team expressed deep concern for those affected by the storm, noting that the safety of fans, performers, and event personnel remains their top priority.

“Due to the impact of Hurricane Melisa on Jamaica, we’ve made the difficult decision to postpone Freddie McGregor and Friends,” the statement read. “Our hearts go out to everyone affected by the storm. We want to acknowledge the challenges the communities are facing as they continue the recovery process. Right now, our priority is the safety of our fans, performers and everyone involved in the event, while also honoring and respecting the ongoing recovery efforts on the island.”

Organizers also reaffirmed their commitment to supporting Jamaica during this time, assuring fans that the celebration of McGregor’s legacy will resume once conditions improve.

“We are committed to supporting Jamaica and its communities in any way we can. We can’t wait to come together and celebrate Freddie McGregor’s legacy with you all when the timing is right,” the statement continued. “Stay tuned, we’ll share a rescheduled date as soon as possible. Thank you for your understanding, love, and support. We’re looking forward to celebrating this milestone together soon.”

While the artist lineup for the Kingston staging had not yet been revealed, anticipation was high following the success of previous editions of the event. The most recent staging, held on August 17, 2025, at the Sunset Cove Amphitheatre in Florida, attracted a massive crowd and featured powerhouse performances from a dynamic roster of reggae and dancehall acts, including Luciano, Alaine, Spragga Benz, Gyptian, Pressure, and Frisco Kidd.

Fans are being encouraged to stay tuned for further updates regarding the rescheduled date and additional event details, as organizers work toward bringing the celebration back at an appropriate time.

 

SLB Debt Reset Programme gains momentum, including diaspora borrowers

Photo: Shanna Salmon Director of Client Relationship Management Services at the Students’ Loan Bureau (SLB), Cheryl Surjue, outlines details of the agency’s Debt Reset Programme during a recent Jamaica Information Service (JIS) ‘Think Tank

The Students’ Loan Bureau (SLB) has reported encouraging participation in its recently launched Debt Reset Programme, with more than 6,000 clients already onboarded through the customer portal — including Jamaicans living overseas, who can also sign up and manage payments entirely online.

Approximately 3,600 clients have already applied for the Debt Reset Programme. Of this group, 800 have sought the arrears credit, while 2,900 have applied for the ‘Good Standing’ credit of $100,000.

Overall, some 25,000 customers stand to benefit from the initiative, according to Director of Client Relationship Management Services, Cheryl Surjue.

Under the programme, SLB is offering a limited-time initiative to assist borrowers with Targeted Loan accounts that were in arrears as at October 31, 2025. Eligible persons will receive a 100 per cent waiver of late fees and insurance charges, along with a 50 per cent waiver of interest arrears as at October 31, 2025, once the borrower pays the remaining balance of the outstanding arrears within the programme window.

Additionally, a one-time credit of up to $100,000 will be applied to accounts that were in Good Standing as at October 31, 2025.

Speaking during a recent Jamaica Information Service (JIS) Think Tank, Ms. Surjue said the good standing credit for onboarded applicants has already been successfully applied to qualifying accounts.

“So if they should go online now, they will see that amount applied to their account,” she stated.

Ms. Surjue reiterated that borrowers must make principal payments in arrears in order to receive the programme’s full benefits.

“The customer can either clear the principal arrears in one go, or they can schedule the payments for the principal arrears and the 50 per cent interest arrears over the period. That will give them a fresh start in terms of getting back on track and start making their monthly payments on time,” she said.

SLB’s Debt Recovery Manager, Owin Watson, noted that the programme is also accessible to members of the Jamaican diaspora, as onboarding, account access and payments can all be completed online, removing the need for in-person visits.

He emphasised that customers qualifying for the good standing credit must first be onboarded on the platform to access the Bureau’s portal and confirm that the benefit has been, or will be, applied to their loan accounts.

The onboarding process involves visiting the agency’s website at register.slbja.com, selecting ‘Start Onboarding’, completing the Taxpayer Registration Number (TRN) verification, and entering personal information, including name, email address and telephone number. Once all required fields are completed, applicants submit the form electronically.

“Once they have successfully onboarded, they’ll be able to download their statements and they’ll see the credit visibly on their loan statements,” Mr. Watson said.

Venezuela cuts energy ties with Trinidad over seized oil tanker

Guyana oil tanker

Venezuela on Monday announced that it has terminated, with “immediate effect,” all existing contracts, agreements and negotiations with Trinidad and Tobago, accusing Port of Spain of complicity in the United States’ seizure of a Venezuelan oil tanker last week.

In a statement posted on Instagram, Venezuelan Vice President Delcy Rodríguez said President Nicolás Maduro made the decision in response to what she described as an “escalation of hostilities and serious aggressions” following the December 10 seizure of the tanker by U.S. authorities.

Caracas has repeatedly characterized the seizure as an act of piracy. Rodríguez said Venezuela has “full knowledge” of Trinidad and Tobago’s participation in what she described as the “theft” of Venezuelan oil carried out by the U.S. administration through the interception of a ship transporting the product.

The statement described the incident as “a serious violation of international law and a clear transgression of the principles of free navigation and trade.” It also accused Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar of pursuing a “hostile agenda against Venezuela” since assuming office.

Among the allegations, Rodríguez claimed that the Persad-Bissessar administration facilitated the “installation of U.S. military radars” in Trinidad and Tobago to harass Venezuelan ships, asserting that Venezuela considers the prime minister to have turned the country into a “U.S. aircraft carrier to attack Venezuela, in an unequivocal act of vassalage.”

President Maduro has also denounced the Energy Cooperation Framework Agreement previously signed with Trinidad and Tobago. Rodríguez said the Venezuelan government has decided to sever energy ties with the Caribbean nation in response to what it called a “very serious act that aims to blatantly steal Venezuela’s oil.”

“Venezuela demands respect! And it will not allow any colonial entity and its vassals to threaten the sacred sovereignty of the country and its right to development. Venezuela will always prevail,” Rodríguez said.

The dispute follows confirmation last Wednesday by Guyana that the oil tanker seized by the United States was falsely flying the Guyana flag and is not registered in the country. In a statement, Guyana’s Maritime Administration (MARAD) said it has observed the “proliferation and unacceptable use” of the Guyana flag by vessels not registered there.

MARAD said the U.S. government informed the agency that it encountered the Motor Tanker SKIPPER (ex-ADISA), IMO Number 9304667, in international waters, falsely displaying the Guyana flag.

U.S. President Donald Trump said the SKIPPER was the largest crude tanker ever seized by American authorities and confirmed that the United States would seize the oil aboard the vessel. Venezuelan authorities again described the seizure as piracy.

Trinidad PM says Venezuela’s claims are ‘propaganda’

Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar has dismissed Venezuela’s accusations that Trinidad and Tobago colluded with the United States as “false propaganda.” She said that if the Venezuelan government has concerns about the seizure of the tanker SKIPPER, they should address them directly with President Trump.

“They should direct their complaints to President Trump, as it is the U.S. military that has seized the sanctioned oil tanker,” she said, adding that Trinidad and Tobago continues to maintain peaceful relations with the Venezuelan people.

Persad-Bissessar also told Guardian Media she is unconcerned by the Maduro administration’s threat to terminate natural gas arrangements, stating that Trinidad and Tobago has never depended on Venezuela for gas supplies.

“We have adequate reserves within our territory. We are aggressively working to reduce bureaucratic barriers to speed up approvals for energy companies,” she said, noting that bureaucracy remains the main obstacle to exploration and production.

Former energy minister and energy expert Carolyn Seepersad-Bachan echoed that assessment, saying the developments involving Venezuela come as no shock and do not represent a major blow to Trinidad and Tobago, as no Venezuelan gas had been flowing to the country in the first place.

She said the framework governing unitisation agreements for cross-border fields remains in place but does not revive projects that were already stalled or shut down. Looking ahead, Seepersad-Bachan warned that Trinidad and Tobago must seek alternative sources of gas as domestic reserves decline and foreign exchange pressures increase, cautioning against expectations of quick solutions from other regional players.

For the foreseeable future, she said, the country’s most realistic option is to accelerate development of its own acreage and pursue viable partnerships, accepting that Venezuelan gas will not be part of the equation.

Jamaican sentenced to 63 months in US prison for years-long sweepstakes fraud

sentenced to over 18 years in US prison

A Jamaican national has been sentenced to more than five years in prison for his role in a years-long sweepstakes fraud scheme that targeted an elderly woman in California.

Dwayne Anderson, 36, of Hanover, Jamaica, was sentenced on Monday to 63 months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release, for participating in the scheme. He was also ordered to pay more than $181,075 in restitution.

According to court documents, Anderson carried out the fraud between 2010 and 2017, using fake names to contact the victim by phone, text message and email. He falsely told the woman that she had won millions of dollars in a sweepstakes and persuaded her to send money to cover supposed fees and taxes linked to the alleged winnings.

Prosecutors said Anderson carefully instructed the victim on how to make the payments, including directing her to send money to an individual in South Dakota. He repeatedly contacted her with additional demands for payment, falsely assuring her that the winnings would be released once the requested amounts were paid. In total, the victim sent Anderson more than $181,000.

Anderson pleaded guilty in September 2025 to one count of wire fraud. He was arrested on July 11, 2024, by Jamaican authorities based on a U.S. indictment and was later extradited to the United States.

The sentencing was announced by Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew R. Galeotti of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney Ronald A. Parsons Jr. for the District of South Dakota, and Inspector in Charge Eric Shen of the United States Postal Inspection Service Criminal Investigations Group.

The case was investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service. Prosecutors included Assistant Chief J. Matt Williams and Trial Attorneys Brandon J. Robers and Edward E. Emokpae of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section, along with Assistant U.S. Attorney Connie Larson for the District of South Dakota.

The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs worked with law enforcement partners in Jamaica to secure Anderson’s arrest and August 2024 extradition. The Department of Justice also acknowledged the assistance of the Jamaica Constabulary Force.

Head coach Henry demands accountability after Sunshine Girls’ heavy losses to England

National senior netball head coach Sasher-Gaye Henry has acknowledged her deep disappointment following the Sunshine Girls’ emphatic defeats to England Roses in the two-match Horizon Vitality Series, describing the performances as far below the team’s capabilities.

The Jamaicans were thoroughly outmatched in Sunday’s second encounter at London’s Copper Box Arena, suffering an 81-30 loss that underscored England’s dominance. After falling behind 38-16 at halftime, the Sunshine Girls were further overwhelmed, trailing 60-25 at the end of the third quarter before the final margin widened.

England had set the tone a day earlier, cruising to an 80-37 victory in the opening match to complete a commanding series sweep.

“Really a poor performance”

Henry did not attempt to soften her assessment of the series, admitting that the team’s overall display left much to be desired across both matches.

“It was really a poor performance from us in terms of our abilities,” Henry said. “It is a big loss and it is something that we are not pleased about because we felt that we should have shown much more improvements.”

She stressed that the responsibility for the results rests squarely with the entire group.

“So definitely, as a group, we have to take accountability and go back to really push hard to improve on our performance.”

Absences and experimentation expose gaps

The Sunshine Girls entered the series without seven senior players, leaving Henry to field a largely inexperienced squad and experiment with combinations against one of the world’s strongest teams.

While acknowledging the inherent difficulty of the task, Henry noted that the series clearly highlighted areas of concern.

“We have to look back at the areas that we were really lacking in. We have to also look at this rotation in a major tour,” she said.

She explained that the new line-ups were part of a deliberate effort to assess squad depth, even though the results were sobering.

“The rotations were different and they were new and we had to see the depth that we have and we recognised our shortfalls and definitely have to go back and fix them heading into our next series.”

Missed opportunities and declining efficiency

Henry pointed to execution as a decisive factor, particularly Jamaica’s inability to capitalize on England’s mistakes.

“I think that we didn’t capitalise today on how we would want to capitalise in terms of England’s errors,” she said.

She highlighted worrying trends in key performance areas.

“I think we had an increase in terms of our turnovers and we had a decrease in our shooting attempts on goal and I think it is something that we really need to work on, in terms of taking that ball into our shooters.”

Youthful squad gains valuable exposure

Despite the lopsided scorelines, Henry emphasized that the series served as a crucial learning experience for a young group still adjusting to the demands of international competition.

“It is a young team and I know that they have not had that experience and for that we just have to look at how we can build on each player heading into our next series,” she said.

She also noted marginal improvements from the first match to the second.

“However, there were a lot of positives that we can take from this game because we really started out much better than we did in the first match because we really held them up. But I think that we were not able to mentally and physically stay in the game.”

Structure and decision-making under the microscope

Looking ahead, Henry made it clear that tactical discipline and on-court decision-making must improve if the Sunshine Girls are to return to winning ways.

“I think we still tend to not play in a structure and England did that well,” she stressed. “I think persons did not know when to drive and so the inexperience of the players really showed, especially in our midcourt play, and we need to definitely improve on that.”

For Henry, the message is unequivocal: lessons have been learned, shortcomings exposed, and the work to rebuild confidence and cohesion must begin immediately.

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