...praises launch as “timely and visionary step” aligned with Guyana’s economic trajectory
From humble beginnings to top honours: Cadet Officer Roger Westmoreland continues to shine
Govt urges banks to drop outdated policies, expand access in push for financial inclusion
ERC participates in int’l training on
Female market vendor among 3 in custody for fatal shooting of West Ruimveldt woman
Member of Parliament for the Alliance for Change (AFC), 39-year-old Devin Sears, and 69-year-old farmer Albert Sandy were intercepted on Monday evening with over 600 pounds of ganja at Bamia along the Linden-Soesdyke Highway.
Police stated that on the day in question, at about 20:41h, a team of Police
ranks was on mobile patrol duties in the vicinity of the Old Bamia Police Checkpoint in Linden when they intercepted a dark blue Toyota Hiace minibus, bearing registration number BAJ 4486, registered to the Region 10 Tourism Committee Inc.
At the time of the exercise, the vehicle was driven by Sears, an educa-
tor and political activist from Mackenzie, Linden, with Sandy, a farmer from Tacama Waterfront, Upper Berbice River, in the front passenger seat.
During the stop, Police stated that Sears began to act in a suspicious manner and was sweating profusely. However, one of the ranks reported asking Sears what he was transporting, to
which he allegedly replied, "I am transporting tourism plants."
As such, he was instructed to pull to the side of the road and was informed that a search would be conducted on the vehicle. During the search, 22 black plastic bags and four large brown canvas bags were found inside the vehicle, which, when inspected, contained cannabis.
Sears and Sandy were arrested, during which Sears remained silent, and Sandy admitted ownership of the 310.7 kilograms of ganja, stating that the drugs belonged to him and that he had paid Sears to transport him to Parika.
Both remain in Police custody pending further investigations.
Meanwhile, the Region 10 Tourism Committee Inc. (RTTC) on Tuesday stated that its Vice Chairman, Sears has tendered his resignation pending the investigation.
The committee stated that that it had been made aware of issues involving Sears but reiterates that the committee was not involved.
“We unequivocally state that we have no association with the alleged actions of Mr Sears. While Mr Devin Sears is a member of the RTTC, his actions in this matter are personal and unrelated to the committee’s mission of promoting eco-tourism and regional development in Region 10,” a statement from the RTTC
read. In addition, the committee noted that it is committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity and promoting tourism in the region, adding that it will issue a further statement after consulting with members of the Guyana Police Force to gain a clearer understanding of the events that transpired.
The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Wednesday, October 22 –16:40h–18:10h and Thursday, October 23 – 17:05h–18:35h.
Parika and Supenaam departure times – 05:00h, 10:00h-12:00h, 16:00h, 18:30h daily.
Thundery showers are expected during the day, with sunny conditions in the late-morning and mid-to-late-afternoon hours. Clear to partly-cloudy skies with thundery showers are expected at night. Temperatures are expected to range between 23 degrees Celsius and 31 degrees Celsius.
Winds: Easterly to South South-Westerly between 1.34 metres and 4.02 metres.
High Tide: 16:46h reaching a maximum height of 2.72 metres.
Low Tide: 10:24h and 22:43h reaching minimum heights of 0.60 metre and 0.47 metre.
...praises launch as “timely and visionary step” aligned with Guyana’s economic trajectory
Local producers and entrepreneurs were on Tuesday urged to capitalise on the vast opportunities available through the newly launched World Trade Centre Georgetown (WTCG) — a first-of-itskind development in the Caribbean Community (Caricom) that firmly positions Guyana as an emerging hub for global trade and investment. Delivering the feature address at the official launch ceremony held in High Street, Kingston, Georgetown, Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh described the establishment of the WTCG as a “timely and visionary step” aligned with Guyana’s record-breaking economic trajectory and growing global footprint.
“I have said elsewhere that if you produce something in Guyana, it might be DDL (Demerara Distillers Limited). It might
hubs across the globe, spanning over 90 countries. This network provides a direct pathway for Guyanese entrepreneurs to engage with international partners, explore export opportunities, and access global trade intelligence. It has already signed 16 Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs)
with international centres to support training, information sharing, and access to potential global partners, opening new possibilities for Guyana, Caricom, and the global community to meet and develop business opportunities.
Dr Singh emphasised the urgent need for local producers to scale up operations and meet both domestic and international market demands, noting that Guyana’s rapid economic expansion has created an environment where virtually every sector, from agriculture and manufacturing to hospitality and logistics, faces unprecedented demand. The challenge now, he said, is ensuring that local businesses are equipped to respond competitively and sustainably.
“If you examine the detailed tables and the detailed projects, you will see that the International Monetary
be that excellent El Dorado rum you sampled last few days that you’re here or it might be agricultural produce or wood products. Whatever it might be, we have said repeatedly as a Government that you must be able to load up your lorry and drive and take your goods to Suriname and Northern Brazil and indeed source raw material if you need to and move back and forth seamlessly.”
“The importance of trade as a catalyst for continued economic growth is certainly not lost on us as a Government. In fact, quite the opposite. President Ali Government considers trade and the unlocking of trade opportunities as being the heart and soul and as being fundamental to us in ensuring continued strong economic growth going forward,” Dr Singh said. The WTCG marks a historic milestone for Guyana and the wider Caribbean. As a member of the World Trade Centre Association (WTCA), the Georgetown Centre now connects local businesses with more than 300 trade
Fund (IMF) continues to project Guyana as having amongst the highest rates of economic growth around the world and the highest in the western hemisphere… I am particularly pleased that DDL has taken this step to bring the World Trade Centre brand and the World Trade Centre Association to Georgetown and I trust that this facility will be used to fullness of its potential to leverage the same advantages of trade that DDL has demonstrated over the years. I trust that the rest of the Guyanese economy would leverage the vast potential of a facility such as this to realise the trade opportunities that lay before us,” the Finance Minister added. Similar sentiments were echoed by the Chairman of the (DDL) Group, Komal Samaroo, who noted that the Centre will play a crucial role in helping Guyanese businesses charter their own course and development.
Editor: Tusika Martin
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The Government of Guyana’s consideration of introducing electronic ankle bracelets for low-risk offenders marks a pivotal shift in the approach to criminal justice and rehabilitation. The initiative, outlined by Minister of Home Affairs Oneidge Walrond, signals an important recognition that incarceration must not only serve as punishment but also as preparation for reintegration into society. By balancing accountability with opportunity, the proposed system represents a pragmatic and humane step toward reshaping the prison landscape.
Under the proposed pilot programme, low-risk prisoners assessed through a structured process would be permitted to work outside correctional facilities while wearing electronic monitoring devices. This would allow them to earn income through community-based employment, such as building drains or participating in infrastructural projects, while remaining under constant supervision. Beyond its obvious logistical value, this model aligns with global best practices in restorative justice, where the emphasis lies in rehabilitation, responsibility, and reintegration rather than perpetual punishment.
The concept reflects a growing awareness that the prison system must evolve from a model of containment to one of correction. As Walrond articulated, the goal is not to “manufacture animals” but to rebuild citizens. The broader vision of overhauling the prison system is both timely and necessary, especially as the country continues to grapple with overcrowded facilities and rising recidivism. The introduction of ankle bracelets should therefore be viewed not in isolation, but as part of a comprehensive reform strategy anchored in education, skill-building, and structured post-release support.
Statistics show that over 90 per cent of Guyana’s prison population comprises men, underscoring deep-rooted social and educational challenges. This gender imbalance reveals a troubling pattern: the marginalisation of young men and boys who fall through the cracks of the education system. Walrond’s acknowledgement that nearly 80 per cent of university graduates are women underscores the growing disparity between male and female engagement in formal education. The disconnection of boys from academic life too often translates into cycles of unemployment, frustration, and vulnerability to criminal influences.
Therefore, the introduction of alternative sentencing and rehabilitation tools such as electronic monitoring must be understood as part of a wider societal intervention. Addressing crime at its roots requires confronting the early disengagement of boys from school, strengthening family structures, and fostering pathways for positive identity formation and self-worth. If left unaddressed, these underlying issues will continue to replenish the prison population, regardless of how efficiently the penal system operates.
Equally important is the minister’s focus on a new Prison Act, one designed to institutionalise rehabilitation and learning as central components of incarceration. This legislation could set the framework for an active merit-based system within prisons – where inmates are rewarded for good behaviour, academic achievements, and participation in vocational training. Structured incentives can transform the prison environment into a space of growth, fostering responsibility and hope rather than resentment and stagnation.
Upon release, the reintegration process must be supported by robust monitoring, counselling, and employment linkages to prevent relapse into criminal activity. This phase is often where many systems fail, as ex-prisoners, though legally free, find themselves socially excluded and economically stranded. A strong transitional framework, anchored in collaboration between government agencies, civil society, and private employers, will be vital to ensure that reformed individuals can rebuild their lives meaningfully.
From an economic perspective, rehabilitation-orientated programmes could reduce the financial burden of incarceration on the state. Maintaining prisoners in secure facilities is costly; by contrast, enabling low-risk offenders to contribute to community projects or national development initiatives provides both savings and social value. This approach allows correctional resources to be concentrated on higherrisk offenders, while fostering productivity and reducing the stigma attached to incarceration.
Ultimately, Guyana’s evolving approach to prison reform reflects a broader philosophy of nation-building, one that recognises that rehabilitation, not retribution, is the foundation of a just and progressive society. The proposed use of electronic ankle bracelets, alongside legislative reform and educational interventions, underscores a willingness to confront outdated penal practices with innovation and empathy.
If effectively implemented, this initiative could redefine how justice is administered, ensuring that punishment does not end where opportunity begins. It offers a chance to restore dignity, cultivate discipline, and rebuild the human potential that too often lies wasted behind bars. The measure of success will depend on technological efficiency and the country’s collective commitment to seeing former offenders as citizens capable of redemption, contribution, and change.
In reimagining rehabilitation, Guyana stands at the threshold of transformation, one that could ultimately yield a safer, fairer, and more compassionate society for all.
Dear Editor, Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister, Kwame McCoy, in a timely manner, highlighted that "Guyana has moved on while David Hinds remains trapped by failed ideologies." (From his Facebook post) I see that the minister detailed that "Despite the massive and unforgivable failures of the PNC and its APNU remnants, David Hinds continues his tired obsession with racial survival politics, clinging to an ideology that is as old as it is dangerous, still trying to convince a modern Guyana that progress is a threat."
Accurate and to the point! And I now add my little say.
For me, the likes of David Hinds are in the final stages of extinction. The 2025 Guyana Elections prove that most succinctly, with noticeable and unprecedented wins in a number of areas going for the incumbent People's Progressive Party/Civic. Hinds and his ilk have disgusted the populace, and former allies are beginning to distance themselves from him and his kind of rhetoric and politics.
For example, I offer up Pt. Ubraj Narine's former mayoral diatribe that exposed Hinds' utterance when, back in February of this year, he used "derogatory terms like ' lick **** Africans, ' ' house slaves,
' and other inflammatory language to describe AfroGuyanese who do not align with his political ideology."
The former anti-PPP/C Pandit noted that "Hinds has crossed a line that no responsible leader or commentator should ever approach, (explaining that) when leaders stoop to such divisive rhetoric against their own community, it begs the question: What does this mean for other ethnic groups in our political party and country, especially Indo-Guyanese and other minorities, if such figures were to gain power?"
Well, thank God that Hinds is in rapid moribundity. His party, the Working People's Alliance (WPA), existing only in name, is bereft of leaders and supporters.
Explicating on this kind of mindset, Minister Kwame McCoy mentioned that "These (Hinds et al. ) ideological scavengers, parasitic in both thought and motive, continue to feed on resentment and decay, living off the toxins of division and turning race into a marketplace of manipulation, and in that pitiful theatre of deception Hinds still performs, mistaking noise for intellect and bitterness for bravery, unable to comprehend that Guyana has long outgrown the racial crutches upon which his political career limps."
Galling indeed!
I wonder what is going on in the mind of Hinds. This is really the gist of what the minister and the erstwhile mayor want to know, and of course, I think I know the truth.
Editor, the pertinent issue, as spelled out by Ubraj and expounded on by McCoy, is that "If David Hinds can so easily belittle Afro-Guyanese who disagree with him, what reassurance do Indo-Guyanese and other ethnic groups have that they will be treated with respect and dignity under such leadership?" We all know that "We cannot afford to let this kind of rhetoric take root in our political culture. Guyana's strength lies in its diversity and the shared aspirations of its people, regardless of race or political affiliation. Leaders must rise above petty insults and work toward fostering unity and understanding."
I dare say that the last results from our elections, and what is now happening across the various councils in the many regions, must be quite bitter for many like Dr. David Hinds. He seems incapable of embracing reality.
His delight was, and is, rooted in divisive politics. He has little regard for any group, and when his angst is raised, he stoops low and cusses out, even calling, as way back as in November
2021, to " undermine the enablers of the government, the businesses; (as) dem (East Indians) does come with big truckload... Dem from Black Bush, but dem come ah Plaisance Market fuh sell; dem ain't from here." Meaning that Afro-Guyanese must not only oppose the PPP/C Government but even quit associating with IndoGuyanese in their daily market life.
What a thing to advocate?
Oh yes, as the minister noted, "He masquerades as a defender of 'his people' while exploiting their historical wounds for personal survival, his rhetoric thick with arrogance and self-importance, his mind imprisoned by the ghosts of the PNC/APNU and the ruins of a discredited movement that left AfroGuyanese communities impoverished, fractured, and forgotten."
To Hinds, I say that he must step out of his prison of darkness and hatred. His imprisonment is volitional. Many have crossed the racial divide. The racial demarcation has blurred and is rapidly disappearing. He cannot 'pull that twine' anymore, and the quicker he accepts that national healing is here to stay, the better it is for him.
Yours truly, Hargesh B Singh
Dear Editor,
As a proud citizen of Guyana, I was filled with immense pride and optimism as I attended the recent World Food Day exhibitions held in Berbice. The event was far more than a simple showcase of produce it was a celebration of our nation’s progress in agriculture, and a clear reflection of how Guyana is steadily moving ahead in achieving food security and sustaina-
ble development. What stood out most was the diversity and quality of the displays. From rice, sugar, and vegetables to processed goods like cassava flour, honey, and fruit preserves, the exhibitions captured the innovation and resilience of our farmers and agro-entrepreneurs. It was particularly heartening to see the growing participation of young people and women in agriculture,
contributing fresh ideas and enthusiasm to this vital sector.
Many of these farmers have been able to reach new heights thanks to the unwavering support of the Ministry of Agriculture. Through training programmes, access to improved seeds and machinery, and initiatives promoting climate-smart agriculture, the Ministry has played a crucial role in
empowering farmers across the country.
Their guidance and investment are clearly bearing fruit, as seen in the abundance and quality of products showcased at both exhibitions.
The presence of schools, community groups, and regional representatives also reinforced the message that agriculture is not just an occupation it is a national mission. The theme of this
year’s World Food Day, focusing on sustainability and resilience, resonated deeply with all who attended.
Guyana is rapidly emerging as the food basket of the Caribbean, and these exhibitions served as living proof of that vision taking shape. The progress made so far gives every citizen reason to feel proud and confident in our country’s agricultural future.
I commend the Ministry
of Agriculture, the hardworking farmers, and all those who contributed to making the World Food Day exhibitions in Berbice and Georgetown such resounding successes. Together, we are cultivating not just crops, but a future of prosperity, self-reliance, and pride for all Guyanese.
Yours sincerely, A Proud Citizen of Guyana
Dear Editor,
The unconsented residents of Subryanville are vehemently opposed to the unauthorized occupation of Farnum's Playing Field by the developers of Mae's Schools, David and/or Judy Sugrim.
To date, David and/or Judy Sugrim has/have not established ownership of either Mae's Schools or of the properties located at 9, 19, and 29 Third Avenue, Subryanville.
However, both statutory bodies, CHPA and M&CC, continue to allow the construction of a prefab building that occupies in excess of 10 of the 24 house lots that comprise Farnum Playing Field through their non-response, silence, and inaction. In conjunction with the Ministry of Sports, Mae's Schools are, in fact, occupying the entire Farnum's Playing Field.
The government agencies, in letters addressed to the various agencies, starting with the Ministry of Education on September 1, 2025, in their non-response, silence, and inaction are, prima facie, in collusion with these aforementioned statutory bodies, M&CC and CHPA, enabling both a situation of land grabbing and the endangerment of children being schooled on an unregulated active construction site.
This matter was raised with the General Secretary of the recently re-elected PPP/C party, who responded that a
cease-and-desist order was granted in or around October 7, 2025. The said land grab and child endangerment issues were brought to the attention of His Excellency, the President of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana. Both messages are attached and marked appropriately.
To date, construction works continue on the unauthorized prefab structure occupying about half of Farnum's Playing Field without any permission. At a community meeting held at Farnum's Playing Field to meet Councilor Dyal, the Subryanville representative on M&CC, to highlight the issues, the Mayor, City Engineer, and Councilor Jacobs also attended uninvited.
The mayor, however, admitted that the residents were not consulted. There was also an admission that no permission for the prefab was granted by all M&CC representatives at the aforementioned community meeting. To date, the residents remain unconsented and vehemently oppose this development and the rental of Farnum's Playing Field.
The residents attended three statutory M&CC meetings and expressed their opposition. At the first said statutory meeting held on September 15, 2025, the residents requested proof of ownership of Mae's Schools, an agreement of sale, and the
aforementioned properties at Third Avenue, Subryanville, along with the minutes of statutory meetings held in March, September, and the minutes of the City Works Group meeting held on September 10, 2025.
Kindly note that this City Works Group meeting with decisions disclosed on October 13, 2025, at the statutory meeting was held before any application was delivered to M&CC. A photo captured on September 11, 2025, was acknowledged as received by M&CC, submitted by one David Sugrim purporting to be the owner of Mae's Schools.
At the statutory meeting held on September 15, 2025, the image was handed out and then quickly retracted. It is unsure if this plan was submitted to either and/ or both M&CC and CHPA.
The Deeds and Commercial Registry Authority has confirmed that Mae's Schools registration shown in both the phone image and contained in the PDF marked Mae's Agreement has been struck off the Business Name Register.
Therefore, at the time of application and to date, David Sugrim and/or Judy Sugrim do not have any legal documents establishing ownership. To date, none of the requested documents have been provided in a legally compliant format. The Guyana Power and Light
Inc. illegal feeds have been highlighted to the management team and Boards of Directors.
Kindly note the potential danger of the electrical feeds on the combustible tree, et al. Mae's Schools would not have insurance given that they have no legal standing in either the burnt site or on Farnum's Playing Field. To date, no action has been taken. The Ministry of Education has been notified of the unauthorized operation of a private school on community ground without any permission being granted, and no action has been taken.
The residents wrote to the CEO, Legal Department, and Junior Minister of Housing and Water seeking both an audience with them and demanding adherence to the Laws of Guyana. The residents sought to have a contravention order issued as was done with alacrity in Brickdam under the Town and Country Planning Act.
To date, no response has been received. The residents of Subryanville were granted such an order in 2018 when Mae's Schools were attempting to exclusively occupy the eastern portion of Farnum's Playing Field.
Then it was on a smaller scale. The first contact with CHPA for the residents ' opposition to the unauthorized usage of Farnum's Playing Field without consultation was initiated at the end of
August 2025. The residents of Subryanville have for over 30 years maintained the ground by weeding it every two weeks. The M&CC to date has never contributed to its upkeep.
The residents of Subryanville continue to oppose this unauthorized takeover of their community open green recreational space, Farnum's Playing Field, which was gifted to the communities of Subryanville and Kitty in the 1940s by the Chairman of the Kitty and Alexanderville Country Authority. The demand is made for adherence to the Laws of Guyana and the rule of law.
The Residents find it incomprehensible why government agencies, ministries, along with the Statutory Authorities, M&CC, and CHPA, are favoring a fee-paying school, which is a for-profit business not in legal alignment and without insurance, over the opposition of the rights of the Residents to the full usage of the community open green recreational space, never maintained by M&CC. Mae's Schools has an alternative
location at Farm that may be used.
An advertisement for this is on the fence at the entrance of the unauthorized occupied portion of Farnum's Playing Field. Furthermore, the aforementioned government agencies, ministries, and statutory authorities may help Mae's School find an alternative location that would not inconvenience anyone, especially the Residents of Subryanville. The Ministry of Education and the Office of the President offered to help in the aftermath of the fire. This format of unauthorized occupation of our community ground, Farnum's, is completely rejected by the Residents of Subryanville. The Residents of Subryanville hereby give permission to the media to have access to the information contained herein and attached herewith for publicity purposes. All for your information and action.
Kindly communicate through this email.
Thank you.
Kind regards, The Residents of Subryanville
Dear Editor,
Let me begin by saying I am aware that construction works on the railway embankment is still ongoing. However, the opening of the roadway to vehicular traffic in this unfinished state has created a very dangerous situation, especially from the Ogle roundabout to Conversation Tree.
Lane markings are sporadic; there are no caution signs nor traffic con -
trol mechanisms to guide safe usage of the roadway. Almost every night, persons are hitting into the concrete divider near the SBM office due to the absence of reflectors to guide the traffic.
The intersection of the embankment and UG Road, now with six lanes of traffic, has become a nightmare for both drivers and pedestrians crossing from UG Road. Without the requisite
traffic control mechanism and the indiscipline nature of some drivers, there is a daily build up at this junction especially during the peak periods.
If you don’t know how to ‘bore’, you can never get across the road. There is no pedestrian crossing to assist person wishing to traverse by foot.
Additionally, in the absence of a road shoulders in some sections, it was
observed that persons are parking on the roadway. This has reduced the expected two-lane roadway to one and a half lane.
I hope that some attention can be given to these observations as we move towards the creation of safe roadways and stress-free commute for all Guyanese.
Sincerely,
Zorina Gafoor Resident of Turkeyen
Items
Food colouring (red, blue, green or yellow) Fragrance
Measuring spoons Forks and spoons for mixing
Procedure
Read the instructions carefully before you start.
Mix together in one bowl three tablespoons of citric acid, six tablespoons of baking soda, four and a half tablespoons of cornstarch, and one and a half tablespoons of Epsom salts. In a second bowl, mix together five drops
of the fragrance of your choice (use a medicine dropper to measure the drops for the food colouring and fragrance).
Note that these four ingredients will not mix well together because two are waterbased (the food colouring and water) and two are oil-based (the vegetable oil and fragrance), but do your best to use a fork and mix them together a bit.
TO BE CONTINUED
By Kim Stafford
I guess you could call me broken, says one. I’m still lonely, says another, but now I can name it with a song.
In my poem, says another, I can forget I am forgotten. Now I understand being misunderstood,
says another. And another says, in a bold, undeniable voice of power, I won’t step down from myself again.
And they are beautiful, beautiful, standing one by one at the mic where they have come forth at last from behind the curtain.
[Source: Poetry (March 2021)]
Pretend that one day you are at your neighbour’s house and you notice a strange noise coming from the basement. You go downstairs to investigate to see a large machine running with many lights and buttons. Why is it there?
Attorney General (AG) and Minister of Legal Affairs Anil Nandlall has called on the banking sector to urgently re-examine and modernise its practices, asserting that the system has imposed unnecessary barriers that stifle ease of access and discourage financial inclusion.
Speaking on the Starting Point podcast on Sunday, the AG expressed frustration that, despite Guyana’s record-high performance in regional anti-money laundering and counter-financing of terrorism (AML/CFT) compliance evaluations, citizens continue to face cumbersome procedures to open basic bank accounts.
He noted also that Guyana scored the highest among independent Caribbean states during the most recent mutual
evaluation exercise conducted by the Caribbean Financial Action Task Force (CFATF).
“So how, on what basis,
are you telling me that it is easier to open a bank account in one of those countries, where they have problems in Trinidad or
Days after the father of Nicholas Narine, who was shot and killed earlier this year reissued a call for justice for his son, the suspect, 27-year-old Raphell Bollers of Brutus Street, Agricola, was reportedly arrested by immigration officials in Cayenne, French Guiana. This was according to well-placed sources who stated that the process has begun for him to be extradited to Guyana to face a murder charge. It is unclear if Bollers is wanted in connection with any crime.
Narine of Third Street, Agricola, Greater Georgetown, was shot dead while working in an alleyway at Titus Street by Bollers. Eyewitnesses said Bollers approached Narine and opened fire before fleeing on foot. However, months after
the incident, the aggrieved father, Barry Narine, told Guyana Times, that his son’s death has left the family living in fear and frustration, as months have passed without any word from investigators. According to Barry, his son’s killing followed a series of attacks and shootings targeting his family in the weeks leading up to the incident.
He said that despite the family submitting CCTV footage and other evidence, there was no response or investigation. The father, nevertheless, stated that there were ongoing tensions between the Narine family and the Bollers family, which he believes led to his son’s murder. Relatives of the dead man described Bollers as a known troublemaker, claiming he had recently threat-
ened their family and was involved in a previous shooting incident that left another relative injured.
Following the killing, Narine’s brother, 22-yearold electrician Keon Narine, allegedly carried out a revenge shooting at the home of Bollers’ father, 60-yearold Gideon Bollers. He reportedly fired several shots before fleeing.
Police later arrested Keon and found an AR-15 rifle and ammunition at his home. He was later remanded to prison.
Investigators recovered a 9mm shell from the murder scene and 18 spent shells from the retaliation shooting. Sometime later, Raphell’s brother, Romel Bollers, was found dead with gunshot wounds in Agricola.
Barbados, than in Guyana, when our system was certified to be far more compliant than theirs? It means that our system needs to do an introspection and rid itself of self-imposed obstacles that are no longer relevant,” Nandlall said pointedly.
The AG argued that this contradiction reveals a deeper systemic issue, rooted in what he described as “self-imposed obstacles” that have outlived their relevance.
Nandlall underscored that countries such as Jamaica, Barbados, and Trinidad and Tobago had, until recently, been under international review for
AML/CFT deficiencies –yet they have since taken decisive corrective action.
“Only the other day, Jamaica, Barbados and Trinidad came out of a review process that they were in, meaning that they had serious problems. Only the other day they came out, and they had to hire international experts to guide them through this process. And yet I am told that to open an account in one of those countries is less burdensome. Something is wrong. So, as I said, we need to engage again with the banking sector. Anyhow, I don't want to say it, but I think I have a feeling of what some of the problems are. And they are simple problems to address,” he said.
The AG said the Government, under President Dr Irfaan Ali, intends to intensify its engagement with the banking sector to address these issues and foster a more enabling financial environment.
According to Nandlall, the Administration is encouraging Guyanese to rely more on formal banking systems rather than informal cash storage, saying it is vital for both security and national development.
The AG reaffirmed the Government’s broader goal of aligning Guyana’s financial sector with international best practices while ensuring that compliance measures do not become counterproductive barriers to ordinary citizens.
“It’s about balance,” Nandlall concluded. “We can remain compliant and still make banking accessible, efficient, and people-centred.”
He pointed to initiatives such as the distribution of Government cash grants –often done via cheque – as a way to promote public engagement with banks and build confidence in the financial system.
“We want to move Guyanese away from putting money under your mattress or in a tin cup somewhere,” he said. “Let us use the banking sector… When citizens go to the bank to cash a cheque, that process itself begins to foster engagement. That’s how you move the country forward,” he explained.
“I hope that in my continuous engagement, because the President said, rightfully so, to continue to engage. Continue to engage because it is a constant process anyhow, on all different matters. So, we plan to do that. Government and all the important stakeholders. We have always engaged. We always have a track record of engagement. What it means now is that we have to intensify those engagements,” the Attorney General added.
Forty-three-yearold Colin Hubert Coddette, a gold miner of Perseverance Housing Scheme, Providence, East Bank Demerara (EBD), was on Tuesday remanded to prison on two counts of trafficking in narcotics.
Coddette, who was arrested on October 19, 2025, appeared before Magistrate O Chandan at the Lethem Magistrate's Court, where
the charges were read to him. He pleaded not guilty and was remanded to prison until November 27, 2025.
It was reported that the 43-year-old miner from Providence, East Bank Demerara (EBD) was a passenger in a minibus that was intercepted at the Corkwood Police Checkpoint in Region Nine (Upper Takutu -Upper Essequibo) on Sunday.
Police stated that officers conducted a routine operation when they intercepted the minibus en route to Lethem from
Georgetown.
During this search, a haversack belonging to Coddette was examined, and several plastic bags containing narcotics were found concealed among other items.
The suspected narcotics, when weighed, amounted to approximately 491.7 grams of cocaine and 1009.7 grams of cannabis.
Meanwhile, Fabio Peter, a Brazilian national of St Ignatius Village, Central Rupununi, Region Nine, was on Tuesday slapped with an attempted to commit a felony charge.
The 29-year-old, who was taken into custody on October 18, 2025, also made his appearance at the Lethem Magistrate's Court on Tuesday, where the charge was read to him.
The crime was reportedly committed against Reiaz Akbar. He was not required to plead to the indictment and was remanded to prison until November 27, 2025.
In our dear land of Guyana, nary a day goes by we don’t have one political conundrum or another coming to the fore! Your humble Eyewitness sees this as political theatre – with its usual mix of comedy – even farce! – and tragedy!! So he’s got his popcorn to enjoy the show!! One concerns the institution in charge of elections – GECOM. Less than two weeks after the September 1 elections, where Sanction Man’s WIN obliterated the PNC/APNU to become the major opposition party, he was asked his position on GECOM’s three Opposition Commissioners. He didn’t equivocate – as he usually does – but answered, “We expect them to do the honourable thing and resign, and we will approach him because, of course, we are the opposition, not Norton, so we’re expecting them to resign.”
Well, who told him to say that!!?? The loquacious Opposition Commissioner Vincent Alexander immediately “hopsed” him!! “No can do!!” he demurred. In his usual (painfully convoluted) style, he insisted he and his cohorts Trotman and Corbin are there for life!! Or until they, of their own free will, CHOOSE to resign…as several PPP-nominated commissioners have periodically done – to be replaced by their party!!
He cited Article 161 of the Constitution – which was inserted during the 2000 Constitutional changes to change the previously temporary nature of GECOM to a permanent one. Specifically, he invoked 161 (3) (B), which addresses Opposition-nominated Commissioners: “Three members to be appointed by the President in accordance with the advice of the opposition leader tendered after meaningful consultation with non-Governmental political parties represented in the National Assembly.” It doesn’t talk about them being replaced!! So it would seem that Vincent might be right?!!
Well, Chair Claudette Singh doesn’t think so!! And this has led to a standoff!! She’s refused to convene a meeting of GECOM, claiming she’s waiting for the new Opposition Leader (presumptive), Sanction Man, to make his own nominations!! But Vincent had a riposte: “If she’s saying that there is a new leader of the opposition and therefore GECOM is not properly constituted, she herself is a nominee of that leader, and so if she is saying that, we call for meetings because GECOM is not properly constituted. Then, she herself cannot act in any capacity because her appointment takes a similar approach to our appointment. So that is the issue.”
So, is Claudette checkmated?? Not necessarily!! That the Commission was made permanent by Art. 161 doesn’t mean the INDIVIDUAL members are permanent!! Your Eyewitness thinks Sanction Man can submit his three names to Pressie – after consulting with Norton – for appointment. With reference to the Chair, while he can also submit six names – one gotta be acceptable to the President!! Gotcha!!
A lotta folks are complaining – including Mad Maduro –that while President Trump has Venezuela in his sights for drug trafficking to the States – as a form of hybrid warfare claiming thousands of American lives annually – the real culprit should be Colombia, which produces three-quarters of the cocaine in the world!! Well, the US knows that and has some six bases in Columbia from which they’ve assisted Columbian Governments for years to go after the drug producers and shippers. Without much success!! Columbia’s friendly Governments received the largest US funding in the hemisphere.
But the leftist Petro’s election in 2022 started to alter the equation, and his recent criticism of President Trump shooting cocaine-laden vessels – with some Columbian citizens – in the Caribbean seemed to’ve been the last straw! Trump dubbed Pero an “illegal drug leader” and said he’d raise tariffs on Columbia exports to the US – plus stop all funding!!
Petro’s retort, “You are rude and ignorant to Colombia, Mr Trump,” probably sealed his fate!!
…work practices
The Ministry of Public Service is now the “Ministry of Public Service, Government and Efficiency Implementation (MPSGEI)”. The Minister says he’ll fulfil his new mandate by focusing on new IT-driven work practices.
But will old dogs learn new tricks??
Proceedings in the election fraud trial resumed on Tuesday, with the continuation of the cross-examination of former The New Movement (TNM) candidate, Dr Josh Kanhai, and a challenge from the defence regarding the admissibility of a video of a Police in-
The former member of The New Movement Political Party (TNM) was also questioned about his departure from the party and his support for the ruling People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) in the 2025 elections.
“I’m not aware of the busi-
terrogation of co-defendant Denise Bobb-Cummings.
Dr Kanhai was cross-examined by Defence Attorney Ronald Daniels, detailing the July 9, 2020, national recount, noting that each ballot box was reopened and reviewed in the presence of party agents and observers.
He also cited correspondence between GECOM’s Chair, Justice Claudette Singh, and then-Chief Elections Officer (CEO) Keith Lowenfield, which he said guided the final declaration of results based on recount figures.
ness of The New Movement, as I would have left... due to personal issues with someone who proclaimed to be the leader of TNM. I’m a member of the URP and endorsed the PPP/C for the 2025 elections. I campaigned proudly with the PPP/C for the 2025 elections,” Dr Kanhai noted. Currently the Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Local Government (MOLG), he was the last witness to appear when the case was adjourned on September 26.
TURN TO PAGE 15
– Minister Walrond praises Govt’s Smart City initiative for breakthrough – reiterates need for Police-citizen partnerships
24-year-old Faynel Brewster at her West Ruimveldt, Georgetown home on Sunday evening
According to Police, closed-circuit television (CCTV) footage showed that prior to the incident, the victim’s brother was being pursued by two men on a black Honda XR motorcycle.
Authorities were able to trace the suspects’ movements before and after the shooting using the Government’s Smart City Surveillance Cameras.
Three individuals, including a 25-year-old female market ven-
dor, were taken into custody on Monday in connection with the fatal shooting of
A Police operation subsequently led officers to a house at Morcourt Square, East
Georgetown.
Akande Ross were arrested. The female vendor was also detained.
Wilburg and Ross are no strangers to law enforcement. In 2018, Wilburg was sentenced to four years in prison after pleading guilty to a $3.3 million armed robbery of a businessman in the vicinity of the National Insurance Scheme on Brickdam.
In 2020, Akande Ross was charged with robbery under arms.
However, during a search of the premises, Police discovered 50 live rounds of 9mm ammunition and a black Honda XR motorcycle believed to have been used in the commission of the crime. All three suspects remain in custody and are assisting investigators, who continue to pursue additional leads.
Following the arrests, Minister of Home Affairs Oneidge Walrond praised the Smart City initiative, crediting it for the swift breakthrough in the case.
Speaking during an interview on Boom FM’s morning show Jump Start, she stated, “There is no longer a Policeman suspecting or not suspecting and thereby turning up at somebody’s house and upturning it and all of these things... now there is the Safe City programme, which the Government has implemented and continues to reinforce in crime fighting... the perpetrators’ faces are now caught on camera, which removes human bias.”
She further added, “You know you have this situation where the neighbours would come out and swear for the perpetrators and would play on people’s emotions; ‘oh, he is a good boy’, or ‘oh, she is a good girl’, but with the cameras, all of those things are being removed because the crime has been caught on camera and they are now in custody.”
While lamenting the tragic manner in which Brewster was killed, Walrond commended the Police for their dedication to bringing the suspects to justice. She also reiterated that the Smart City CCTV initiative operates as a 24-hour surveillance system.
Regarding the broader crime situation, the Minister
acknowledged that more work is needed to improve safety across the country.
“When I met with the commanders, there was a consensus among us to make Guyana a safe and secure country and safe and secure communities, and it starts from the level of the family and the different communities and regions. People want to feel secure, and people want to be able to walk down the streets with their children and not have to worry about the kind of jewellery they wear.”
She also emphasised timely Police responses to crime and reports can alleviate the gap between the Guyana Police Force and the public.
“If something does go wrong, people want to feel that they can trust the Police as a force that cares and that they can respond to me. This message was delivered loud and clear to the commission and the commanders that you can’t claim to have authority when people don’t trust you... It is about partnership; you undermine your authority if people don’t trust you. I believe that the tone has been set in my several interactions with the commanders and commissioner.”
The Minister noted that crime statistics show a decline but stressed the importance of further reduction.
Police reports stated that Brewster was shot dead during an attempted robbery targeting her brother, a businessman, who had just returned home on the day in question. While in the yard, her brother was approached by two men, one of whom was armed with a firearm and attempted to rob him of his motorcycle and gold chains.
He reportedly put up a fight, thus leading to a scuffle among them. Meanwhile, during the fight, the armed suspect reportedly discharged multiple rounds, one of which struck the victim in her upper right arm and another in her lower left chest.
She was rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), where she was pronounced dead on arrival.
Rescue teams in Suriname are continuing the search for four Guyanese nationals, now feared dead, after a fishing boat sank in the Saramacca River near Lareco on Saturday evening.
The Police said that they had received a report early Monday morning that the crew was floating on ice cubes. They said that the caller had indicated that people in the area had used their boats to search for the four people, without success.
The National Army Marine Corps, and the Groningen Police were also deployed in the
search.
The wife of the boat owner reported that her husband and three crew members were missing. She did not provide the names of the crew members.
According to her, her husband departed from the mooring at Huwelijkszorg on Friday evening, October 17, in a recently purchased and renovated fishing boat, heading for Paramaribo for a mandatory seaworthiness inspection by the Maritime Authority and the Ministry of Agriculture, Nature and Food Quality (LVV).
She said that on
Saturday morning, her husband, identified only as RL, called her to say the boat was taking on water and they were floating on ice. The call was abruptly cut off.
Later that evening, he called again and asked her to quickly write down the coordinates because “he wouldn’t make it.”
According to authorities, the location she gave turned out to be more than 100 kilometres offshore, in the direction of the Atlantic Ocean.
The Police public relations department said that the search is continuing. (Jamaica Observer)
Some 55 men and one woman are presently in the New Amsterdam Prison awaiting trial for several offences and could be tried in the October session of the Berbice Criminal Assizes, which opened on Tuesday.
The criminal assizes opened with the traditional parade along Esplanade Road outside the Berbice High Court, and the cases are expected to be heard by Justice Sandil Kissoon. This session will run until January.
The session opened with the customary parade of security forces, led by the police contingent and senior officers, including Region Six Commander Shivpersaud Bacchus, and was attended by local dignitaries such as the Mayor of New Amsterdam, Wainwright McIntosh, and his deputy.
The salute was taken by Justice Nicola Pierre. The Guyana Times understands that of the fifty-six, four have indicated their intention to offer guilty pleas for the offences they are indicted for: two for murder, one for rape, and one for wounding.
Overall, one woman and 45 men await trial for the capital offence of murder, one for attempted murder, two for rape, and one for wounding. In addition, one person has been on remand awaiting trial for more than four years, while another has been there for three years and four months. Both are on murder charges.
The first trial is set to commence today, Wednesday, October 22, 2025.
Meanwhile, during the June Berbice Criminal Assizes, some 63 cases were listed to be heard. Of these, State Counsel Cecilia Corbin has completed six matters before Justice Peter Hugh. Of these six cases, four were for murder, and one each for the offences of manslaughter and sexual offence.
In three of the four murder matters, the accused all pleaded guilty to the lesser offence of manslaughter. One of these accused was indicted for two counts of murder and attempted murder; on the two counts of murder, he pleaded guilty to the lesser offence of manslaughter and was
sentenced to 11 years on each count.
These are to run concurrently. The accused also pleaded guilty to attempted murder and was sentenced to nine years and two months. All sentences will run concurrently.
Two others were each sentenced to 13 years of imprisonment and seven years and six months after the court made deductions for mitigating factors. The one other murder case had two accused; while the jury returned a unanimous verdict of not guilty for the number one accused, they found his co-accused unanimously guilty. He was sentenced to 23 years of imprisonment. In the manslaughter trial, the jury failed to reach a verdict and returned hung; the accused was sent back to prison to await a new trial. The accused in the one sexual offence matter was acquitted by a jury verdict. The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) entered nolle prosequi in three matters; in two of these, the complainants did not wish to proceed. In another, the complainant had died.
“Today I believe the importance of this centre is greater than ever before because I believe that once the global system is failing us then the need for greater bilateral relations need to take place between countries and between companies. And businesses need to chart their own course in building their markets, a process that requires knowledge, information and partners, and I believe that will be the focus,” Samaroo noted. Back in July, President Dr Irfaan Ali related that the WTCG
will play a pivotal role in equipping local businesses with the tools and networking opportunities needed to compete on the international stage.
He had stated that while this investment is reflective of the type of confidence that the Guyanese business community has in the country’s increasing economic growth – largely driven by its burgeoning oil and gas industry – the Head of State underscored the need to re-examine the way in which both companies and the Government are traditionally structured and managed to ensure they are agile and flexible to embrace both the challenges and the opportunities that are heading this way. Located on High Street in Georgetown, the WTCG is a state-of-the-art multi-storey building that is outfitted with advanced technologies, integrated security systems and other environmentally friendly features – all aimed at providing a modern commercial space that is critically needed in Guyana’s rapidly growing economy.
Members of the Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) are currently participating in a training seminar on Poverty Reduction and Development under the Global Development Initiative (GDI) in the People’s Republic of China. The capacity-building programme, hosted by
the International Poverty Reduction Center (IPRCC), runs from October 14 to 31, 2025.
Led by Commissioner Neaz Subhan, the ERC del-
egation will engage in various sessions and field visits across China, starting in Beijing and extending to other provinces.
These activities aim to deepen participants’ understanding of China’s ethnic diversity and explore strategies used to promote inclusion and sustainable development.
This initiative aligns with the ERC’s continued commitment to strengthening its institutional capacity and fostering social cohesion in Guyana.
The seminar brings together representatives from
multiple countries to exchange knowledge and best practices for addressing social challenges that may impact peace and unity.
Through this engagement, the ERC aims to enhance its approach to national programming and advocacy by incorporating effective social development models. Subhan, along with Deputy Director General of the IPRCC, Jie Ping, delivered key addresses at the seminar’s Opening Ceremony.
He extended his sincere appreciation to the Government of China for fa-
cilitating this opportunity and for its ongoing support of global cooperation and knowledge sharing.
The Commission remains dedicated to its constitutional mandate of promoting unity and equality among all ethnic groups in Guyana and views this training as a significant contribution toward building a more inclusive and harmonious society.
While in Beijing, the ERC team also received a warm welcome from Guyana’s Ambassador to China, Her Excellency Anyin Choo.
The National Milling Company of Guyana (NAMILCO), owned and managed by Seaboard Corporation, a diversified global agribusiness and transportation company, on Tuesday announced a G$10 billion investment to significantly enhance local production capabilities and capacity within Guyana’s flour milling industry. This major investment will fund the construction of a new stateof-the-art processing mill, expanded wheat storage facilities, and an enhanced wharf to support both domestic and growing export demand. The
project reinforces the company's long-term commitment to advancing Guyana's agri-industrial development and supporting regional food security initiatives.
"This expansion represents more than an investment in infrastructure; it's an investment in people, skills, and the sustainable future of Guyana's food industry," Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and President of Seaboard Overseas Trading Group, Jack Bresky, stated. "We are proud to partner with the Government of Guyana as we align with President Ali's vision for re-
gional food security and increased value-added production," he added. The new processing mill is expected to boost local production capabilities and create significant employment opportunities across technical, operational, and logistical sectors. The project will also incorporate modern technologies and training programmes to develop local expertise in advanced milling operations. In addition to this expansion, NAMILCO is actively engaging with the Government to explore opportunities for the commercialisation of local cassava flour production.
Road works are being undertaken at the National Park
Rehabilitation works have been completed along sections of the National Park Circuit, Thomas Land, Georgetown and have since been reopened to the public, according to the Protected Areas Commission (PAC). According to the Commission, the project was executed through a timely intervention by the Public Works Ministry, and was completed within the shortest possible time.
The PAC's Board of Directors and Management have since expressed gratitude to the Ministry for its swift action and support.
The National Park circuit, a key feature of the capital's urban green space, is widely used for walking, jogging, cycling, and other forms of recreation – particularly in the evenings.
In an interview with Guyana Times on Tuesday, Chairman of the Protected Areas Commission, Robert Persaud, explained that the project was part of a broader initiative to enhance public spaces and promote healthy living among Guyanese. "The park is our main urban space where people go to recreate. Cyclists, athletes, families, everyone uses it," Persaud said. "This resurfacing makes those facilities much more user-friendly and helps us to
develop our green spaces in the city."
He added that the initiative aligns closely with President Dr Irfaan Ali's national agenda to promote wellness and active lifestyles. "It's about creating that space where families can feel safe and where both kids and adults can enjoy healthy lifestyles. That's why we have outdoor gyms there and other facilities. It all ties into promoting the President's vision for a healthier nation… I want to thank Minister Madanlall Ramraj for his quick intervention and for supporting the Protected Areas Commission in upgrading that facility," Persaud said.
He also commended First Lady Arya Ali for her continued support toward enhancing the park's facilities, including the children's play area, which has become a central attraction for families. "The First Lady has played a key role in supporting these initiatives, especially with the children's play area," he noted. "We want to ensure the park caters to everyone – children, adults and athletes alike."
Beyond the recent works, Persaud revealed that the Government, in collaboration with both local and international partners, has plans to modernise and improve the National
Park, Botanical Gardens, and Zoological Park. "We're not just looking at maintenance but modernisation," Persaud explained.
"We recently hosted the cycling event in the Botanical Gardens, and that's just one example of how we plan to integrate recreational and sporting activities into these spaces. With support from local and overseas partners, we will be improving the facilities at all three parks." He emphasised that these ongoing efforts are part of a longterm strategy to provide citizens with safe, accessible, and well-maintained green spaces that contribute to an enhanced quality of life.
"Our goal is to give citizens modern, convenient and inclusive recreational and green-space facilities," he said while adding that "the National Park and Botanical Gardens are central to that vision – offering people an environment where they can exercise, relax, and enjoy the outdoors."
The PAC, meanwhile, has reaffirmed its commitment to collaborating with relevant Ministries and partners to continually improve facilities and infrastructure within Guyana's urban parks for the benefit of all Guyanese.
This initiative aims to diversify Guyana's flour offerings, promote agricultural innovation, and further strengthen the country's self-sufficiency in food production. Further demonstrating its long-term confidence in the Guyanese economy, Seaboard will also be conducting due diligence related to the potential entry into integrated pork production and processing, as well as liquefied natural gas (LNG) distribution opportunities. These explorato-
ry initiatives underscore the company's holistic approach to value-chain development across food production and energy infrastructure - two key enablers of sustainable national growth. This announcement follows the successful commissioning of NAMILCO's Mixing Plant in 2023, inaugurated by President Dr Irfaan Ali. That facility marked a major step toward value-added food production in Guyana and laid the foundation for today's in-
vestment. "Our continued investment demonstrates our strong belief in Guyana's economic potential and our commitment to contributing to its long-term industrial growth," Bresky added while stating, "Together, we're building a stronger, more resilient food system for the Caribbean and beyond." Construction on the new facilities is expected to begin in the first quarter of 2026, with the commissioning targeted for 2027.
solemn memori-
Aal mass was held on Monday at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Brickdam to mark the 10th anniversary of the death of Detective Randolph Holder, a dedicated New York City Police Department (NYPD) officer
who was killed in the line of duty.
The ceremony brought together overseas-based Guyanese and officials from the NYPD, all united in remembrance and tribute.
Detective Holder was fatally shot on October 20, 2015, at the age of 33, while
responding to reports of gunfire and a bicycle robbery at gunpoint in East Harlem, New York.
Born in Guyana and raised in the United States (US), he proudly served with the NYPD for five years, continuing a family legacy of policing – both of his par-
ents having served in the Guyana Police Force.
Among those present at the service were Assistant Chief of the NYPD, Clint McPherson; Retired Inspector Rhonda O’Reilly-Bovell; Chief of the Tracy Police Department, California, Sekou Millington; President of the GuyanaAmerican Law Enforcement Association (GALEA), Detective Lorraine Wade and other serving and re-
tired members of the NYPD, along with family and close friends.
In an emotional tribute, Holder’s fiancée, Mary Muhammed, fighting back tears, spoke of their shared dreams and the support of loved ones who stood by him throughout his life and career.
Following the mass, attendees gathered at Le Repentir Cemetery to pay tributes and to honour the
slain detective’s legacy. The gathering included Deputy Commissioner (Administration) Ravindradat Budhram and several senior and junior officers of the Guyana Police Force. The memorial served as a reminder of the sacrifices made by law enforcement officers and the enduring impact such loss has on families, colleagues, and communities across borders.
The Hand-in-Hand
Mutual Fire and Life Insurance Companies officially opened a new branch at Hotel Amazonas in Lethem on Friday, marking a significant step in expanding its national network of 19 offices and extending trusted insurance services to the Rupununi region.
The launch ceremony drew community members and special guests, and featured opening remarks by the company’s Human Resources Manager, Zaida Joaquin, followed by a presentation from Marketing Manager Savita Singh, who outlined the range of insurance products now available to Lethem residents at competitive, affordable rates with quality
coverage and exceptional customer care.
Mayor of Lethem John
Macedo attended the ceremony and praised Handin-Hand for its long-stand-
A30-year-old policeman was on Tuesday charged with the July 5, 2025, armed robbery committed on a resident of Lethem, Central Rupununi, Region Nine (Upper Takatu-Upper Essequibo).
Teon Daniels of Culvert City, Central Rupununi, was arrested on July 16, 2025, but appeared before Magistrate Omadatt Chandan at the Lethem Magistrate’s Court on
Charged: Teon Daniels
Tuesday, where the indictable charge was read to him.
The prosecution objected to bail, but this was denied by the Magistrate, who placed the accused on $200,000 bail with the condition that he reports to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) Headquarters on the last Friday of every month.
He will make his next court appearance on November 6, 2025.
ing service to Guyanese and its commitment to community development.
The programme also featured prayers by the company's Legal and Compliance Officer, Paul Braam, and a poetry presentation by the award-winning writer, Brandon Singh. There was also a captivating cultural performance by the Rupununi Wildfire Dance Group, whose unique style deeply impressed the audience.
In attendance were other staff members, including Accountant Krishundatt Ayoganand, Maintenance Technician Winston George, Sales
Representative Rushell Hackett, and Lethem Branch Representatives Joshua Dublin and Luke Phillips.
As Guyana's longest-established and AM Bestrated insurer, Hand-inHand proudly celebrates 160 years of service this year, and the launch of the Lethem branch comes as
part of its anniversary expansion efforts. Residents of Lethem are invited to visit the new branch at Hotel Amazonas to explore tailored insurance solutions backed by the legacy of a company that has safeguarded Guyanese families and businesses for well over a century.
For some time now, a new vice has been evolving in Guyana.
In country after country, newspapers, TV programmes, social media, and NGOs have repeatedly highlighted the stories of those who have fallen victim to illicit gambling.
The cycle begins with initial wins, followed by losses, occasional wins, and ultimately, significant losses. The same fascination people have with casinos, ordinary bingo games, or street corner gambling boards has now come to people’s smartphones and computers.
Just like street corner gambling boards, online gambling offers the lure of instant victory, only to plunge players into a vicious cycle. Yes, with technological advancements, gambling has evolved and now comes with a new stage name: online gambling. And the casinos are not in fancy buildings but in our pockets and palms.
Vice President Bharat Jagdeo recently brought to the forefront the issue of online gambling in Guyana. In fact, online gambling has become as pervasive in our country as it is in most countries around the world. While more and more online operators are getting rich from online betting and gambling, more and more persons and families are becoming impoverished, their lives ruined. It is estimated that by 2028, more than US$700 billion will be lost annually, mostly by poor families.
This is one of the downsides of technology and innovation. The internet has become an indispensable part of everyday life. But the internet has created new social problems for society. We have become familiar with the growing problems of pornography and our children being targeted by criminal sexual predators. There is a multitude of internet scams. And there are internet betting and gambling, largely unlicensed and unregulated.
The Lancet, a prestigious British journal, established a commission to study online betting and gambling. It showed that more than 450 million people around the world regularly engage in online betting and gambling. The study also revealed that more than 80 million people have ruined their lives and the lives of their families. It is a growing threat that is destroying lives, breaking families, corrupting values, and enslaving many of our people, especially the poor.
A study done by Rutgers University in New Jersey, which examined the prevalence of online and casino gambling in New Jersey, said that gamblers were “significantly more likely” than non-gamblers to report morbid thinking, such as wishing they were dead, along with suicidal ideation, suicide attempts, and non-suicidal self-injury. About 28 per cent of high-risk problem gamblers, or people with a gambling disorder, reported suicidal ideation, 20 per cent said they had attempted suicide, and 26 per cent reported engaging in non-suicidal self-injury.
Like a fire spreading in the bushes, the number of people engaged in online gambling in Guyana is growing out of control. It is a silent, yet devastating storm sweeping away the potential of our families. The Gen-Z population has become adept at using technology. The smartphone is now in the hands of almost every Gen-Z in our country. The more smartphones become available in Guyana, the more exposed the population becomes to vices such as online gambling. Operators of online gaming and gambling are taking full advantage of the easy access to smartphones. It is a boon for people who profit from others’ misery. Concomitantly, social problems associated with problem gambling are also accumulating. One woman tells the story of how her husband lost his job because he had become addicted to online gambling using his phone. The problem did not stop there, as he began to use the family’s savings and then started to take things from the home to sell and support his gambling. They eventually sold their home. Today, they are divorced and are one of the thousands of ruined families in Guyana and among the millions around the world – ruined by online betting and gambling.
Contrary to popular belief, online betting and gambling is not just a private vice; it is not entertainment; it becomes an addiction. Easy money is the goal, but it is an elusive goal that comes in the form of misery. The beginning is a simple tap on a mobile phone; the result is often debt, dishonesty, despair, and even suicidal thoughts. There are countless stories of husbands losing their jobs, young people dropping out of school, and parents in tears, not knowing how to pay debts racked up by online bets.
As VP Bharat Jagdeo stated, every day someone is crying out for help. Clearly, the problem is growing out of control in Guyana. This is what other countries have also experienced. In the Philippines, a legislative hearing found that the growth of online betting in that country has been more than 6,000 per cent in just the last four years. Similar growth is seen in most countries around the world. In fact, online betting and gambling is now the most prevalent form of gambling in most countries.
In some European countries, online betting now accounts for more than 65 per cent of all betting. And while more and more families are ruined, operators continue to flourish. But in some instances, governments are filling treasuries with very liberal regulations, almost allowing a free-for-all environment while raking in taxes.
VP Bharat Jagdeo has issued a warning – regulations are coming. He is clearly soliciting a debate. He knows full well that he will be despised by many for targeting online betting and gambling. But he is a fearless leader. He sees a social problem that has the potential of ruining too many families and too many lives, young and old.
He sees that the country cannot afford to deal with another social vice. Already, like countries around the world, Guyana has its plate filled with social problems. Online betting and gambling are adding to a full plate. Guyanese must rally around VP Jagdeo so that we can create a barrier against this global problem.
The CARICOM Regional Organisation for Standards and Quality (CROSQ), in partnership with the German National Metrology Institute (PTB) and the Dominican Institute for Quality (INDOCAL), has launched a €3 million initiative to enhance Quality Infrastructure (QI) across CARIFORUM states.
Funded by the European Union (EU) under the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) Support Programme, the project will continue through November 2027.
Titled the “Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Phase III Project”, this initiative aims to strengthen both regional and national Quality Infrastructure (QI) frameworks and institutions. It will build the technical capacity of public and private sector QI organisations and increase awareness of the critical role QI plays in regional development.
The project will benefit all 15 CARIFORUM Member States: Antigua & Barbuda, the Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Dominica, the Dominican Republic, Grenada, Guyana, Haiti, Jamaica, St Lucia, St Kitts and Nevis, St Vincent and the Grenadines, Suriname, and Trinidad and Tobago.
Support will include developing QI-related policies and frameworks aligned with international standards; preparing institutions and enterprises for accreditation; delivering targeted training to strengthen technical capacity; promoting QI services to increase business engagement; and implementing National Quality Awards (NQA) programmes to highlight excellence
and best practices.
Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of CROSQ Dr Sharonmae Smith-Walker explained that through this initiative, businesses will gain greater ability to meet international standards, expand exports, and gain consumer trust. Governments and institutions will also benefit from stronger regulatory systems, improved policy alignment, and greater capacity to deliver QI services. She further noted that consumers will benefit from safer, higher-quality goods and services across the region.
In addition, Project Manager with the EU Delegation to Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean Sheldon Jackman related, “The European Union is proud to support this new phase of strengthening quality infrastructure in CARIFORUM. By empowering businesses, Governments, and institutions to meet international standards, this initiative will boost trade, enhance competitiveness, and deliver safer, higher-quality goods and services to Caribbean consumers.”
Partners (PTB) and INDOCAL, who serve as project managers and project implementers, respectively, noted their excitement at collaborating with CROSQ once again, coming on the heels of the successful implementation of the last EU-funded joint programme.
PTB’s Head of Subsection
Institutional Partnerships, Moritz Ackermann, noted they were pleased to build on the achievements of previous EU-funded projects. “By supporting quality infrastructure and strengthening regional trade and economic cooperation in the Caribbean, this follow-up project will have a significant impact on the improvement of trade opportunities, creating new possibilities for enterprises and enhancing their integration into the world economy.”
Director General of the Dominican Institute for Quality (INDOCAL), Néstor Julio Matos Ureña, noted this project allowed them to build upon previous initiatives that have strengthened the institution and the QI.
“This initiative reflects our commitment to continuous improvement and further reinforces the strong ties of collaboration established with organisations such as CROSQ and PTB, whose support has been essential to the development of our capabilities and services.”
The TBT Phase III initiative builds on the achievements of the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) TBT Programme, which successfully advanced QI in CARIFORUM. Like its predecessor, TBT Phase III is designed to support intra- and extra-regional trade and boost the competitiveness of CARIFORUM products in global markets.
In his previous testimony, Dr Kanhai recalled the challenge that ensued after the recount was completed on June 8, 2020, when Lowenfield continued to refuse to prepare an election results report for the March 2, 2020, General and Regional Elections (GRE) using the correct numbers that were produced in the national recount of all 10 electoral districts.
Instead, Lowenfield persisted in attempts to use the numbers previously produced during Mingo’s tabulation from the Statements of Polls (SoPs).
Lowenfield is among nine individuals currently facing 19 charges of conspiracy to commit electoral fraud for the events that occurred following the March 2, 2020 GRE. The case is proceeding before Acting Chief Magistrate Faith McGusty.
Other persons charged include former Region Four Returning Officer Clairmont Mingo, Deputy CEO Roxanne Myers, former APNU+AFC Minister Volda Lawrence, APNU+AFC Chief Scrutineer Carol Joseph, and former GECOM employees Enrique Livan, Sheffern February, Michelle Miller, and Denise BobbCummings.
The first witness of the morning on Tuesday was Lance Corporal Christopher Douglas, a videographer attached to the Criminal Investigation Department’s Major Crime Unit of the Guyana Police Force (GPF).
The Police officer presented video footage of an interview conducted at the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) on August 31, 2020, with the defendant and former GECOM Clerk Denise Bobb-
Cummings. However, BobbCummings objected to the video being played in court, citing the absence of her attorney during the recording and questioning the footage’s admissibility.
As such, the admissibility of the video would now be determined pending a voir dire after Prosecutor Latchmie Rahamat argued that the video was legitimate evidence and should be admitted.
The sole defence lawyer in court on Tuesday, Ronald Daniels, declined to comment on the evidence without Anderson present. On this note, Magistrate Faith McGusty postponed ruling on the matter, stating that Anderson was not present due to other commitments.
Nevertheless, witnesses Marcia Crawford and Policeman Dale Sam were scheduled to be cross-exam-
ined during the afternoon session, but both failed to show up. Mingo and Carol Smith-Joseph were asked if they had any questions for the witnesses, and through their attorney, Nigel Hughes, they replied in the negative.
Hughes had appeared in court during the morning session to indicate his absence and noted that another attorney would be taking his place. However, the attorney failed to show up during the afternoon session. The Magistrate noted that should the attorney wish to cross-examine the witnesses, an application could be made to the court for such, and the afternoon session was adjourned.
The trial is scheduled to continue today with testimonies from three Police officers.
Reid Perria of the Mahdia Primary School and Obinna Leitch of the School of Excellence were awarded the top spots in the junior and senior categories, respectively, when the Community Relations Department of Police Division No. 8 hosted its Annual Spelling Bee Competition on Friday.
The competition brought together students from several primary and secondary schools, aiming to foster a spirit of academic excellence, confidence, and friendly competition.
The judging panel featured Head Teacher Tiffani Hinds from Mahdia Primary School; a teacher from Princeville Primary School, Avon Fredrick; Head Teacher Jillian Williams from Campbelltown Primary School; and Martine
Benjamin from School of Excellence Secondary.
All participants demonstrated remarkable enthusiasm, discipline, and de-
termination throughout the competition, but in the end, Perria and Leitch were the successful spellers.
Certificates and tokens of
appreciation were presented to all contestants in recognition of their efforts and achievements.
In addition, special rec-
ognition awards were given to Ronaldo Ramsay and Priscilla Priya Henry, both members of the Micobie and Mahdia Youth Groups, for their outstanding performances at the 2025 National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA).
The awards were presented by Woman Police Sergeant Daniels of the Community
Relations Department.
Assistant Superintendent of Police N Noel commended the participants, organisers, and judges for their efforts in making the event a success, and he encouraged the students to remain focused, disciplined, and committed to their education as they strive to become productive citizens of Guyana.
At just 26 years old, Police Cadet Officer (CO) Roger Junior Westmoreland has brought pride to his family, friends, and the Guyana Police Force (GPF), earning the title of Best Graduating Student not once, but twice.
He first received this accolade during the Police Induction Course and went on to repeat the exceptional achievement at the Colonel Ulric Pilgrim Officer Cadet School's Standard Officer's Course (SOC) #56.
His path to success, however, was anything but easy. It is a story defined by perseverance, unwavering faith, and steadfast discipline – a journey shaped by modest beginnings and strengthened through trials that tested his physical, mental, and spiritual resilience.
Born on August 20, 1999, at the West Demerara Regional Hospital, Westmoreland was raised in a close-knit Christian household under the guidance of both parents. As one of five siblings – two sisters and two brothers – he spent his formative years between Goed Fortuin, West Bank Demerara (WBD), and the Tuschen New Housing Scheme, East Bank Essequibo (EBE).
In his family, values like discipline, respect, and integrity were not merely taught; rather, they were lived. His educational journey began at Tuschen Nursery School, continued through Zeelugt Primary, and culminated at Zeeburg Secondary School, from which he graduated in 2016.
Like many young men drawn to service, Westmoreland aspired to join the Guyana Defence Force (GDF). However, being underage at the time of application, he was ineligible for enlistment.
Undeterred, he embraced a variety of jobs between 2016 and 2018 – experiences that fostered resilience, work ethic, and adaptability, qualities that would later shape his professional path. It was during his tenure at Qualfon Guyana Inc. that a chance encounter proved pivotal.
There, he met a member of the Guyana Police Force assigned to the Presidential Guard Unit. Inspired by the officer's professionalism and dedication, Westmoreland found a new calling in law enforcement.
On September 18, 2018, he officially began training at the Felix Austin Police College. From the outset, his dedication, humility, and discipline distinguished him among his peers. Upon completing the course, he graduated as the best student of his batch – a powerful indication of the exceptional career that lay ahead.
Following graduation, Westmoreland was posted to the Presidential Guard Unit, stationed at the State House, where he served for five years with an unblemished record. "I was never late, never absent, and never had any disciplinary matter against me," he proudly stated. "I loved what I was doing," he passionately expressed.
His dedication and professionalism earned him a place on the Standard Officer's Course #56 at the Guyana Defence Force.
Over the past two years, he faced one of the most challenging yet rewarding periods of his life. The training was gruelling, encompassing the Jungle Warfare Instructor Course, Skill-at-Arms, Military Drills at the Instructor Level, Range Management, and Basic Amphibious Training, which included boat capsizing and man-overboard drills.
During his second year of training, he had to complete an Associate of Arts Degree in General Studies at the University of Guyana – a testament to his resilience and determination to excel both academically and professionally.
However, the road was not without hardship. During training, the young Cadet Officer developed shin splints that eventually led to a fractured foot. Yet, true to his indomitable spirit, he refused to give up.
"There were many sleepless nights, and our discipline was tested in all forms," he recalled while adding, "But you can't lose your composure. You have to operate as if nothing is bothering you." Despite the physical pain, he continued to perform at the highest level in every area of assessment.
To qualify as "Best Student" in the course, one must excel in physical endurance, discipline, leadership, and the demanding Jungle Phase, which includes swimming a timed distance down the Essequibo River to earn the coveted Jungle Badge. He passed every test with distinction.
When asked what drives him, he humbly shared his personal philosophy: "Hard work beats talent when talent fails to work hard."
Beyond the medals and accolades, his story is one of integrity, character, and conviction. He describes himself as a fair and principled individual who believes deeply in justice and discipline. His ultimate dream is to one day become a pilot and, in time, the Commissioner of Police – a role he views not as a position but as one requiring a lot of dedication and hard work.
Reflecting on his journey, he also offered words of wisdom for the nation's youth: "Find purpose in your life. Set goals and objectives, and work towards them, but don't give yourself deadlines. There is no law that says at a certain age you must achieve success. Move at your own pace, and never give up."
From a young boy in Tuschen with a dream to a disciplined officer leading by example, Cadet Officer Roger Junior Westmoreland exemplifies perseverance, integrity, and excellence.
His journey is a powerful testament to the idea that no obstacle is too great when met with faith, determination, and unwavering commitment to doing what is right. Indeed, from the West Side to the Parade Square, his story stands as a beacon of honour, courage, and purpose.
The Commissioner of Police and the Executive Leadership Team, along with the senior and junior ranks of the Guyana Police Force, extend heartfelt congratulations to Cadet Officer Westmoreland on this remarkable achievement.
The Meteorological Service has issued a severe weather alert effective until 06:00h on Wednesday, October 22, 2025.
According to a release, the tropical wave over the central Caribbean Sea has developed into a broad area of low pressure and has become better organised while moving closer to the island.
This system has the potential to develop into a tropical cyclone near Jamaica.
Satellite, radar, and surface observations indicate that the broad area of low pressure over the central
Caribbean Sea continues to become better defined, with winds near 72 km/h, though it still lacks a well-defined centre. Environmental conditions are forecast to become more conducive for development, and a tropical storm is expected to form later today while the system moves slowly over the central Caribbean Sea.
This means that tropical storm conditions could pose a possible threat to Jamaica later this week.
When the system is in the vicinity of Jamaica, it is expected to produce locally heavy rainfall and strong,
gusty winds, primarily over eastern and southern parishes late Wednesday and Thursday.
The rainfall could continue into the weekend.
For the marine areas, the forecast is for widespread showers and thunderstorms, which may be heavy at times, with strong gusty winds to affect all marine zones on Wednesday and Thursday, especially inshore and offshore of the south coast. Fishers on the cays and banks are further urged to complete their preparations and be on the alert to evacuate. (Jamaica Observer)
Bolivia's election of centrist Rodrigo Paz is raising cautious hopes that a more market-friendly leader could pave the way for international investment in the country's ample lithium reserves after years of false starts under two decades of socialist rule.
Lithium deals under outgoing President Luis Arce with companies from allies China and Russia were blocked in Congress, and Paz has said he would scrutinise the contracts to ensure transparency, a move that could create fresh opportunities but also spark investor jitters.
To be sure, Paz's campaign focused less on lithium than on other priorities such as maintaining cash transfers to the poor, decentralising Government and private sector-led growth, part of an effort to not alienate former supporters of leftist Evo Morales, who founded the ruling MAS party.
Evaporation pools for lithium extraction are seen as part of the Lithium Carbonate Industrial Plant in the Salar de Uyuni, in Potosi, Bolivia
Organisers are finalising plans for this year’s National Food Fair, set for November 3, at the Sir Vivian Richards Cricket Stadium.
Gilbert Laudat, co-chair of the organising committee, said accommodating 245 vendors – up from 205 last year – has posed logistical challenges. Some vendors requested larger stalls, requiring adjustments to ensure fairness.
“We aim to make sure all vendors are comfortably placed,” Laudat said. “We are keeping the total at 245 to match expected visitor numbers.”
The layout will mirror last year’s, with odd-numbered stalls on the east side and even on the west. Vendor numbers will be assigned next Tuesday at a meeting at People’s Place.
The event will also include a children’s zone and a seniors’ section for din-
ing and entertainment. Visitors can locate vendors via a mobile-friendly system, supported by helpers in distinctive T-shirts. At 15:30h, a parade featuring the Skelly Hoppers, Moko Jumbie, and other characters will entertain attendees as part of the Independence celebrations. The National Food Fair remains a key feature of the country’s Independence festivities. (Antigua News Room)
CIA playing “most important part” in US strikes in Caribbean, sources say
TBeyond calling for foreign investment that benefits the local Potosi region, he has not discussed a policy plan for Bolivia's 23 million metric tonnes of lithium resources.
In that vein, Paz has also vowed not to "sell out" the vast Uyuni salt flat, famed for its dazzling fields of white salt, a nationally beloved symbol of Bolivia's national sovereignty and Indigenous heritage.
Diego von Vacano, a Bolivia expert at Texas A&M University, said Paz needs to announce details within the first few months of his presidency for the global mining community to take him seriously.
"Otherwise, investors will say, 'Okay, it's more of the same ...' and Bolivia might be seen again as having missed the boat," he said. (Excerpt from Reuters)
PM “doesn’t care” if T&T loses regional support for UN Security Council bid
rime Minister
PKamla PersadBissessar has dismissed concerns that Trinidad and Tobago could lose regional backing for its bid to sit on the United Nations Security Council, saying she does not care if other countries withdraw their support.
“I simply do not care if anyone withdraws their support. That is their choice,” PersadBissessar said yesterday, responding to a report by the Caribbean Media Corporation (CMC) which suggested that Port-ofSpain’s decision to support
the United States’ military build-up in the Caribbean could jeopardise its 2027–2028 Security Council nomination.
The report quoted regional sources as saying some Caricom leaders were unhappy with Trinidad and Tobago’s position, which stood apart from the regional consensus reaffirming the Caribbean as a “Zone of Peace”.
“You should ask Caricom leaders about this. “Quite frankly, my only care and concern is for the people of Trinidad and Tobago,” the Prime Minister said.
She added, “I have made it explicitly clear that Trinidad and Tobago will always come first under my leadership. No other country besides the US is willing to assist us to aggressively fight the drug and arms traffickers. I am not going to toe Caricom’s line while our country has been going to hell with drugs, out-of-control violent crime and murders for the last 20 years. Added to that, we have tens of thousands of illegal Venezuelan immigrants here who are putting a strain on our services.” (Excerpt from Trinidad Guardian)
he Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) is providing the bulk of the intelligence used to carry out the controversial lethal airstrikes by the Trump Administration against small, fast-going boats in the Caribbean Sea suspected of carrying drugs from Venezuela, according to three sources familiar with the operations.
The sources say the CIA is providing real-time intelligence collected by satellites and signal intercepts to detect which boats it believes are loaded with drugs, tracking their routes and
making the recommendations about which vessels should be hit by missiles.
“They are the most important part of it,” said one of the sources.
“We do not produce evidence,” Mark Lowenthal, a former assistant director for analysis for the CIA, said. “CIA intelligence is not designed for disclosure, in court or in public hearings – it is designed to “never see the inside of a courtroom,” one source said, because the CIA goes to great lengths to protect its sources and methods.
A Pentagon spokesper-
son said, “Due to operational security, we do not talk about matters of intelligence.” In response to questions from the Guardian, Anna Kelly, the White House deputy press secretary, said, “All of these decisive strikes have been against designated narco-terrorists bringing deadly poison to our shores, and the President will continue to use every element of American power to stop drugs from flooding into our country and to bring those responsible to justice.” (Excerpt from The Guardian)
British Virgin Islands (BVI) residents will get a chance to browse more than 5000 books for sale when a ship dubbed the “world’s largest floating book fair” docks in Road Town starting this week.
The Logos Hope will visit the territory from October 24–29, giving students and other residents a chance to interact with the international crew and up to 400 volunteers promoting literacy, education, cross-cultural cooperation and social awareness, according to the Government.
Since the Maltaregistered vessel began its
tour in Denmark in 2009, it has visited more than 150 ports in over 83 countries and territories, including 16 in the Caribbean.
Along the way, it has sold more than 11.5 million books.
The boat, which will arrive from Nassau, Bahamas, will open its book fair to the public at designated times, and the staff will participate in local church services and a community donation initiative, according to the Government.
The Premier’s Office is facilitating the visit, and plans include a welcome reception, a courtesy call on the premier and other Government
officials, a press conference, and visits by students, non-profit organisations and uniformed bodies.
“While in the Virgin Islands, our vessel seeks to share knowledge through access to high-quality literature, help by expressing practical love to those in need, and hope by promoting peace through embracing diversity and modelling a purposeful life in and around the world’s port communities and cities,” said Khemraj Lakhan, a senior project manager for GBA Ships, an organisation that operates the Logos Hope and another similar ship. (Excerpt from The BVI Beacon)
Oil prices settled higher on Tuesday, bouncing off the previous session's five-month lows, as investors reassessed expectations of a looming glut and sought clarity on the trade dispute between the United States (US) and China, the world's two biggest oil consumers.
Brent crude futures rose 31 cents, or 0.5 per cent, to settle at US$61.32 a barrel, while US West Texas Intermediate crude futures for November delivery, which expired on Tuesday's settlement, closed up 30 cents, or 0.5 per cent, at US$57.82.
Both contracts had hit their lowest since early May on Monday, as record US oil production and the decision by the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and allies (OPEC+) to press ahead with planned supply hikes raised expectations of oversupply.
However, relatively low US crude and distillate fuel inventories were helping counter some of the pressure on oil benchmarks, Bjarne Schieldrop, chief commodities analyst at SEB, said.
The US-China trade dispute has also increased anticipation that a slowdown in global economic growth will curb demand for oil. Both sides have, however, made some efforts to downplay the disagreement.
US President Donald Trump, who is set to meet China's Xi Jinping in South Korea next week, said on Monday he expects to reach a fair trade deal with his counterpart.
The structure of both WTI and Brent futures curves has started to shift to a contango, where prices for immediate supply are lower than for later delivery. That typically indicates that near-term supply is abundant and demand is declining.
(Excerpt from Reuters)
Slashed contributions from wealthy countries to an anti-malaria fund could allow a resurgence of the disease, costing millions of lives and billions of pounds by the end of the decade, according to a new analysis.
The report estimated the impact of funding cuts to the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, TB and Malaria –which is seeking donations to cover costs from 2027 to 2029. The fund provides nearly 60 per cent of all international financing for malaria controls, such as mosquito nets and preventive drugs.
If funding were 20 per cent lower than in the last round, researchers said there would be an additional 33 million cases and 82,000 deaths and $5.14bn (£3.83bn) in lost GDP by 2030, according to the report. However, funding cuts look likely. Germany
pledged $1bn to the fund last week, a figure 23 per cent lower than its last promise. The United Kingdom (UK) Government is reportedly looking at a figure 20 per cent down on its previous commitment, although it says no final decision has been made.
If a funding vacuum led to preventive malaria control collapsing entirely, the report estimates there would be 525 million more cases, 990,000 more deaths and $83bn in lost GDP.
About 750,000 of those deaths would be of children under five, representing “the loss of a generation to malaria”, the report’s authors warned.
Conversely, they said that if the Global Fund received the full $18bn it was asking for, there would be a $230bn boost to GDP, 865 million fewer cases and 1.86 million fewer deaths. (Excerpt from The Guardian)
The implementation of a Gaza ceasefire agreement is "going better than expected", and the truce can hold, United States (US) VicePresident JD Vance has said during a visit to Israel.
Vance also warned that "if Hamas does not co-operate, it will be obliterated", while refusing to give a deadline for when the Palestinian group must disarm – a part of US
proposals yet to be agreed.
US President Donald Trump, who brokered the ceasefire deal earlier this month, said America's "great allies" in the Middle East would be ready to "go into Gaza with a heavy force and straighten out Hamas if Hamas continues to act badly".
Vance's visits come after a flare-up of violence on Sunday that threatened to
derail the 12-day-old truce.
Israel said a Hamas attack killed two soldiers, triggering Israeli air strikes which killed dozens of Palestinians.
Trump wrote on social media that "there is still hope that Hamas will do what is right," adding, "If they do not, an end to Hamas will be FAST, FURIOUS & BRUTAL!"
Vance is expected to
push Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to start negotiations on long-term issues for a permanent end to the war with Hamas during his visit.
The Vice-President praised Israel for being "remarkably helpful" in moving towards the deal's main goals but said that a lot of hard work remained ahead to secure further steps. (Excerpt from BBC News)
Fireworks set off to celebrate the Diwali festival have worsened the air quality in India’s capital, New Delhi, making it the most “hazardous” in the world.
The city’s air quality index (AQI) measurement hit 442 on Tuesday morning, according to Swiss air quality firm IQAir.
As happens every year, the widespread use of fireworks on Monday evening to mark the festival of lights added to the pollution released in cooler months by traffic, industry and agriculture to make New Delhi the globe’s most polluted major city, IQAir said.
The concentration of PM2.5 – tiny airborne particles small enough to enter the lungs and cause serious illness – in the city’s air on Tuesday morning was more than 59 times the World Health Organization’s rec -
ommended annual guideline.
India’s Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) rated New Delhi’s air quality “very poor”, with an AQI of 350. CPCB considers an AQI of 0-50 as good.
The toxic air is partly
fuelled by fireworks from the Hindu festival, which is being celebrated from October 18 to 23.
India’s Supreme Court last week relaxed a ban on firecrackers in the city, permitting the use of so-called “green crackers”, which have lower emissions than conventional fireworks, for a maximum of three hours each on Sunday and Monday. But there were widespread reports of fireworks being set off long outside the allotted times.
(Excerpt from Al Jazeera)
Attorneys for Sean "Diddy" Combs have notified a United States (US) federal court of their plans to appeal the rap mogul's 50-month prison sentence.
They filed a notice of appeal on Monday and are expected to submit the formal documents soon.
Combs was convicted of two counts of transportation to engage in prostitution and acquitted on two other charges of sex trafficking and racketeering.
Judge Arun Subramanian said that a substantial sentence was needed to send a message that abuse of women "is met with real accountability".
He also issued Combs
a $500,000 (£374,000) fine and five years of probation.
Combs had asked for a 14-month sentence that would have seen him released soon after the trial ended due to time spent
in jail while awaiting trial, but prosecutors sought more than 11 years.
At his sentencing hearing in September, Combs told a Judge, "My actions were disgusting, shameful,
and sick."
"I got lost in excess; I got lost in my ego," he said.
He begged the Judge for "mercy" and apologised to two of the women who testified against him. His legal team signalled they would appeal both Combs' conviction and the Judge's sentence.
Combs was arrested in September 2024, and his nearly two-month trial this summer drew international media attention.
A jury found Combs not guilty of the two most serious charges – sex trafficking and racketeering. But they did find him guilty of two counts of transportation to engage in prostitution. (Excerpt from BBC News)
Place greater emphasis on partnerships, joint ventures and long-term commitments. Reach out to institutions that can help you put together the framework for what you want to achieve.
Be open to suggestions. Contact the people and go to the places that can help you learn what you need to know to make the most of opportunities that can add stability to your life.
Consider what you must learn to reach your objective. Sign up for a course, reach out to someone already doing what you want to pursue or start making the changes necessary to position yourself for success.
Share what you can do. Your suggestions and offers of assistance will lead to opportunities. Set a price and build a name for yourself.
Learn as you go; listen and ask questions, but hold back from divulging too much about yourself or what you can do. A joint venture appears difficult. Consider moving forward alone.
Change may tempt you, but you should consider every aspect before you take a leap of faith. Evaluate the cost and the work you'll face if you move in one direction or another.
Take the initiative and sprint forward with enthusiasm. Treat what you do, how you do it and what you accomplish with pride, and don't underestimate yourself or your ability to make things happen.
Participation will pay off. Attend networking events, trade shows or a reunion that brings you in touch with old associates willing to share valuable information. Don't sell yourself short.
Take care of yourself, your needs and your reputation. Focus on your health and financial well-being, and you'll reduce stress. Put your energy into building wealth, not spending it unnecessarily.
Check out what's happening in your professional industry. There is much to gain if you participate in functions that offer a platform to exploit your skills, assets and experience.
Go over your personal papers, health records and long-term plans. It's essential to observe the changes around you and adjust your plans accordingly. Choose peace over pressure.
It's time to wheel and deal. Get your priorities straight and set out to satisfy your needs. A heart-to-heart talk with someone special will help you put things in perspective.
At 35, Marizanne Kapp shows no signs of slowing down. Her unbeaten 68 off 43 balls, which helped power South Africa's highest World Cup total, was just the appetiser to the main course – a menacing opening burst that brought her 3 for 20 to knock Pakistan out of the Women's World Cup. This set up a dominant 150-run win (via the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern (DLS) method) on a rainy Colombo night, where the ground staff miraculously delivered a result that did not seem possible at different stages of the night.
South Africa sealed their fifth win in a row that propelled them to the top of the points table, with one game still to play against
Australia in Indore. It marked a sensational turnaround from an inauspicious start against England in Guwahati, three weeks ago, where they were shot out for 69 in a 10-wicket pounding. With semi-final match-ups determined by group-stage standings, South Africa – who had already confirmed their spot – would've felt frustrated about sharing points had the game been washed out. Such a result would've left them third on the table, behind Australia and England due to an inferior net run-rate. Eventually, they managed to get in 20 overs in the second innings to constitute a game.
Sent in to bat, South Africa posted a mammoth 312 for 9 after the match was reduced to 40-oversa-side with 140 minutes lost to the wet weather in the first innings. Chasing a DLS-adjusted target of 306, Pakistan were undone by Kapp's incredible new-ball burst that left their feeble top order in tatters at 35 for 4 in 10 overs before the rain returned. When play eventually resumed, Pakistan's target was merely academic; 234 off 20 overs. South Africa's spinners tucked into the wickets; Pakistan finished with 83 for 7.
Much of the drama from the second innings came before the lengthy rain interval in Pakistan's chase.
After Muneeba Ali toe-ended a slog to mid-on off Ayabonga Khaka, Kapp made a statement with the ball. Omaima Sohail was pinned plumb in front by a nip-backer, while Sidra Amin and Aliya Riyaz were out nicking to devious out-swingers. Kapp's figures read 5-0-20-3 at
Africa hit 11 sixes in all, the most a team have hit in a single innings in all World Cups; de Klerk and Kapp alone muscled seven
After
Tazmin Brits bagged a third straight
18th over.
She went inside out over extra cover when the spinners looked to attack the stumps by going leg-side of the ball. And when they attempted to bowl outside leg, she was able to pepper the gaps between long-on and deep midwicket.
Pakistan briefly found some respite, when they had Annerie Dercksen run out hot on the heels of Luus' dismissal. However, that brought more misery for them, as Kapp joined forces with Wolvaardt and raised a 64-run stand at better than a run a ball. Wolvaardt was in sight of a hundred, when she ran past a sharp-turning ball from Sandhu to be stumped, in what was a double-wicket over that left South Africa 212 for 5 in 32 overs. Kapp then shifted gears in de Klerk's company to inflict carnage on a hapless Pakistan attack. (ESPNcricinfo)
South Africa Women (40 ovs maximum)
Laura Wolvaardt (c) st †Sidra Nawaz
b Nashra Sandhu 90
Tazmin Brits c Natalia Pervaiz
b Fatima Sana 0
Sune Luus c Diana Baig
b Nashra Sandhu 61
Annerie Dercksen run out
(Fatima Sana/Rameen Shamim) 9
Marizanne Kapp not out 68
Karabo Meso † c †Sidra Nawaz
b Nashra Sandhu 0
on a sticky Colombo pitch. De Klerk came in to bat with four overs remaining, and muscled 41 off 16 balls from number eight as South Africa wal -
loped 72 off the last five overs. South
duck, Wolvaardt seemed in fine nick from get-go, negating any early movement the seamers may have got by stepping out to take the attack to the bowlers. Luus was a bit rusty, playing out 11 dots before getting off the mark with a slog sweep for six off left-arm spinner Sadia Iqbal. That helped trigger an onslaught as Luus raised her fifty – her 17th in OneDay Internationals (ODIs) – with a reverse sweep off Iqbal. While she fell soon after, Wolvaardt continued to pile on the runs, bringing up her own half-century off just 42 balls in the
Chloe Tryon st †Sidra Nawaz
b Sadia Iqbal 21
Nadine de Klerk c Natalia Pervaiz
b Sadia Iqbal 41
Nondumiso Shangase run out
(Muneeba Ali) 0 Nonkululeko Mlaba
b Sadia Iqbal 0
Extras (b 4, lb 4, nb 2, w 12) 22
Total 40 Ov (RR: 7.80) 312/9
Fall of wickets: 1-5 (Tazmin Brits, 1.4 ov), 2-123 (Sune Luus, 16.6 ov), 3-148 (Annerie Dercksen, 21.5 ov), 4-212 (Laura Wolvaardt, 30.3 ov), 5-212 (Karabo Meso, 30.6 ov), 6-253 (Chloe Tryon, 35.6 ov), 7-305 (Nadine de Klerk, 39.2 ov), 8-305 (Nondumiso Shangase, 39.3 ov), 9-312 (Nonkululeko Mlaba, 39.6 ov) Bowling O-M-R-W Sadia Iqbal 8-0-63-3 Fatima Sana 8-0-69-1 Diana Baig 5-0-49-0 Rameen
The Port Mourant Turf Club track has been buzzing with less than one week to go before the President's Cup horse racing. This grand one-day horse race meet is scheduled for Sunday, October 26.
More than $20 million will be up for grabs, and the horses are in full preparation mode. The likes of Nova Sol, Spankhurst, Loyal Company, and others were out and during the last week at the Port Mourant Turf Club.
The track has been in pristine condition with continued sunshine across the Ancient County of Berbice. Former Guyana Cup and President's Cup winner Olympic Kremlin of the Slingerz Racing Stables is set to return to racing, while Data Man,
the reigning Guyana Cup champion, could be out to solidify the top ranking.
Ten races are on the cards for the grand one-day horse race meet. The feature race will be open to all horses and contested over nine furlongs, with the winner earning $3 million.
The other races on the provisional programme include the F Class and threeyear-old imported open (including firsttime starters), Brazilian-bred horses of E Class and lower, and E Class non-winners of 2025. That race will run at six furlongs, with a total purse of $1.5 million.
Horses in the three-year-old Guyanabred category will run six furlongs for a purse of $2.8 million. The Sprint Classic Open will carry a purse of just over $1.8 million and will also run at six furlongs.
The two-year-old, United Statesimported race will have a total purse of $1.3 million and will run at five furlongs.
The G Class and Lower race will feature a total purse of just over $1.2 million, with horses running one mile. In the H Class non-winners for 2025, horses will gallop six furlongs for a total purse of $1.1 million.
Fermin Lopez scored a hat-trick and Marcus Rashford took his personal tally to four goals from three Champions League games as Barcelona thrashed Olympiacos 6-1.
Two smart first-half finishes from Lopez put Barcelona in control, before his third, a Lamine Yamal penalty and a Rashford double halted a short-lived Olympiacos fightback.
After playing Yamal through on goal in the seventh minute, Lopez was on hand to finish past the defenders on the goal-line when goalkeeper Konstantinos Tzolakis made a block, but could not keep hold of the ball.
The Spanish midfielder doubled Barcelona's lead half an hour later when he ran on to Dro Fernandez's ball into space, cut inside, and curled a left-footed strike into the left corner.
The second half began in bizarre circumstances.
Ayoub El Kaabi thought he had halved the deficit with a header, but after checking on the pitchside monitor, referee Urs Schnyder chalked off the goal for offside and instead awarded the visitors a penalty for a handball by Eric Garcia, which El Kaabi converted via the post.
Three minutes later Olympiacos midfielder Santiago Hezze was shown a second yellow card and ordered off for catching Lopez with a flailing arm.
This was a night when Yamal became the youngest player to reach 25 Champions League appearances – at 18 years and 100 days – and the teenager tucked away a penalty after Rashford was brought down while attempting to round Tzolakis.
Barcelona were not finished and were hungry for goals. In the 74th minute, Rashford beat Tzolakis with a well-placed low finish, and then two minutes later Lopez smashed in his third from the edge of the box to become the first Spaniard to score a Champions League hattrick for the Catalan side.
Rashford drilled his second after controlling a cross-field pass with a delightful touch. In 37 Champions League games for Manchester United, he scored more than one goal on just one occasion, but it has happened twice already with Barcelona.
The H Class non-winners for 2025 will run at a distance of six furlongs, and the total purse will be in excess of $1.1 million. In the L Class, non-earners (last start) and first-time starters will run five furlongs, with a purse of $1.1 million to be divided. The two-year-old Guyana and West Indian Open will carry a purse of $937,500, with horses running five furlongs.
Entries for this race will be accepted from October 13 to October 23, 2025, with forms available at Port Mourant, Rising Sun, Bush Lot (West Berbice), and Georgetown. Strict regulations will govern this year's President's Cup. Horses must be saddled on the track at least seven minutes before post time.
The horse out of any stable failing to comply will not be allowed to compete.
Additionally, several new horses will arrive in Guyana to compete in the President's Cup. J’s Racing Stables, which dominated much of the Guyana Cup, will look to extend their winning form, while Slingerz Racing Stables, Jagdeo Racing Stables, and Jumbo Jet Racing Stables will all be vying for glory.
This was the first time since they famously beat Paris St-Germain 6-1 in 2017 that Barcelona have scored six goals in a Champions League match.
Barcelona have six points after three games of this campaign after beating Newcastle 2-1 and losing to PSG by the same scoreline.
Olympiacos remain on one point, and have now lost each of their last 12 Champions League away games.
Fernandez marks European debut with assist
Seventeen-year-old
Fernandez was a surprise inclusion by Barcelona Head Coach Hansi Flick. A calm pass into the path of Lopez for the second goal of the night illustrated his quality.
With the likes of Robert Lewandowski, Raphinha and Dani Olmo sidelined through injury, Flick chose not to rush back the returning Ferran Torres before facing Real Madrid in El Clasico on Sunday.
The latest talent off the famed La Masia production line, Fernandez made his first senior competitive start last month after taking part in Barcelona's
pre-season tour of Japan. Born in the small town of Nigran in the province of Galicia in north-west Spain, Fernandez joined Barcelona from Val Minor Nigran in 2022 and made an immediate impression playing with the under-15s.
An attacker who can play across the front line, Fernandez has Filipino heritage through his mother and has represented Spain at the youth level.
He was among seven La Masia graduates named in the starting XI by Flick, illustrating the talent that has originated in the club's youth ranks, but also the injury crisis faced by the first team. (BBC Sport)
Michael Newland Jr, the son of Deputy Police Superintendent Michael Newland, claimed five wickets to lead Rose Hall Canje to a thrilling six-run win against Tucber Park in the Berbice Cricket Board (BCB) Under-17 tournament.
Newland Jr, who is hoping to follow in the footsteps of his father, had figures of 5-21 from 10 overs to help bowl out Tucber Park for 159 all out in 34.3 overs at the Rose Hall Canje Community Centre Ground.
Earlier, Rose Hall Canje batted first and posted 165-9 from their allotted 50 overs.
Lakeram Singh top-scored with an even 40 while Jaden Edwards made 34. National youth player Richard Ramdeholl chipped in with 31. Jayden Rohler had 3-17 for Tucber Park. In reply, only Antonio DePaul and Kurt Michael stood tall for
Tucber Park. DePaul made 28 and Michael made 27. The youngsters from Rose Hall Canje held their nerve, both in the fielding and bowling departments. Led by Newland Jr, Rose Hall Canje ensured Tucber Park fell short by six runs to give the home team an epic win. In addition to this fixture, the BCB will resume the First-Division two-day tournament next week with the semi-final fixtures. The top four teams are Albion, Young Warriors, Rose Hall Town, and Tucber Park Cricket Club.
Further, the BCB has also announced that the Ministry of Culture, Youth, and Sport will sponsor a 50-over tournament and a three-day round-robin tournament.
This announcement was made last week on the Board's Facebook page, where it also expressed gratitude to Sport Ministers Charles Ramson Jr and Steven Jacobs.
Guyana Basketball Federation (GBF) President Michael Singh has reaffirmed Guyana’s readiness to host this year’s International Basketball Federation (FIBA) Women’s Caribbean Championship, scheduled for November 12-16 at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall.
The highly-anticipated tournament will feature five teams – the Bahamas, Jamaica, Suriname, the Virgin Islands, and hosts Guyana – all battling for three coveted spots at the 2026 Centrobasket Women’s Championship.
According to Singh, the GBF has received the full backing of the Government of Guyana to ensure the successful staging of the championship, which returns to Guyana for the first time since 1994.
Singh explained that following an inspection visit by FIBA officials, several key areas requiring upgrades were identified, and the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport has been actively addressing each of them.
“We’ve been having constant discussions with the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, and they’re just as excited as we are to see this tournament being held in Guyana,” Singh said. “Both Minister Charles Ramson Jr and Minister Steven Jacobs have been following the preparations for this championship step-by-step, and we’re very grateful for their support.”
The GBF President expressed confidence that Guyana would deliver a world-class event, describing the upcoming tournament as one of the best Women’s Championships the Region has ever seen.
“This is an important tournament, and the GBF, along with the Government of Guyana, is doing everything possible to ensure its success,” Singh stated. “We have an experienced Local Organising Committee, and we look forward to seeing every Guyanese come out to support our national team and enjoy top-level basketball.”
The championship will follow a round-robin format, with each team facing every other once. At the end of the group stage, the top three finishers will secure qualification for the 2026 Centrobasket Women’s Championship.
United We Stand’s champion cyclist Briton John showed his class with a superb performance as he outplaced his rivals to win the Elite Category 15 featured race around Amelia’s Ward Circuit on Monday, in the mining town of Linden.
It was John who broke away from the bunch and claimed honours in the Flying Stars Cycling Club event which is part of this year’s Trifecta criterium races this year.
On a hot Diwali Day, John proved too strong for his competitors and finished the race well ahead of his nearest rival, Aaron Newton of KFC Evolution who was second, and Kaieteur Attack’s Marcus Keiler, who came in the third position.
John also carted off six
prime point prizes.
In the Junior 10 lap race, Alex Newton, wearing the KFC Evolution jersey staved off the challenge of Alexander Leung of Continental CC who copped second, ahead of Kaieteur Attack’s cyclist Ajani Cutting who placed third.
In the Masters 40 Plus category 10 lap race, Seigon Herbert of KFC Evolution won from Kaieteur Attack’s Quame Ridley who placed second, and in third place was Richard Lewis of Continental Cycling Club.
When the Masters Over 50 race for 10 laps was held, Flying Stars’ Ian Jackson copped first place beating KFC’s Mark Spencer into second position, as Joelyn Joseph representing Linden took third place.
In the Category 4, which was a 10- lap race, the victorious
Mexico, El Salvador, and Nicaragua have already booked their spots at Centrobasket 2026 after finishing on the podium at the 2025 [Confederación Centroamericana de Baloncesto –Central American Basketball Confederation] COCABA Women’s Championship held in June.
At the last Women’s Caribbean Championship in 2022, host nation Cuba emerged as champions.
With the countdown underway, Singh assured that all systems are in place for Guyana to deliver a memorable championship, and one that will showcase the country’s ability to host major international basketball events.
was Kaieteur Attack’s
Julio Melville who won in front of club mates Mark Sinclair and Kwame Fortune respectively.
Melville also won three sprint prizes and Colin Williams one.
In the Juvenile three lap race, Linden’s Kevin Stephens took first from Flying Ace’s Danish Sukhai.
The race for female cyclists covering a distance of three laps saw Continental CV’s Abigail Jeffrey winning in front of Flying Stars CC’s Ashley Rutherford.
Proprietor Bernard Hodge, one of the main sponsors in Linden was given high praise for his support, which included the preparation of the layout for the race with his staff of Bernard’s Payless Variety Store of Amelia’s Ward in Linden.
The day’s criterium races were specially held to honour the memory of the late Haslyn Parris, George ‘Speedy’ Binning, Michael ‘Brother Mike’ Sampson, Barry Massay Jr. and John ‘Chez Doc’ Anderson.
Prizes and cash incentives won by the top finishers were handed out after the various races were completed.
The third promotion in this year’s Trifecta Memorial races is set for Saturday, October 25 in Georgetown. Set to pedal off at 14:30hrs, the race will begin outside the Guyana Defence Force’s (GDF) Camp Ayanganna on Vlissengen Road.
Archery Guyana recently received meaningful corporate support as Massy Gas Products (Guyana) Ltd proudly joined hands with the national federation to assist with its participation in the upcoming seventh Caribbean Development Championships (CDC), scheduled to take place in Trinidad and Tobago from October 22-28, 2025.
Massy Gas Products (Guyana) Ltd has been serving Guyana for over 77 years as the leading distributor of Industrial, Medical and Liquefied Petroleum Gases (LPG) in Guyana.
At a simple handing-over ceremony held at the company’s Head Office, Old Road, Eccles, East Bank Demerara, Afzal Karim, Assistant Vice President, Finance and Administration, presented a cheque to Vidushi PersaudMcKinnon, President of Archery Guyana. The sponsorship from Massy Gas Products will go directly towards procuring team shirts for the Guyanese contingent, ensuring that athletes and officials proudly represent the nation in standardised national apparel during the regional event.
Guyana will field a delegation of 31 athletes 11 officials, competing across the Recurve, Compound, and Barebow disciplines in the Beginner, Developmental, and Amateur categories, comprising athletes and officials from some of the affiliated archery clubs forming one of the largest teams ever fielded by Archery Guyana for an international competition.
Persaud-McKinnon expressed deep appreciation on behalf of Archery Guyana, noting that the
generous contribution would enhance the team’s sense of national pride and unity.
She opined, “This partnership with Massy Gas Products helps strengthen our efforts to build capacity, expand access to archery across Guyana, and present our athletes in a manner that reflects professionalism and national pride.
“We are sincerely grateful for Massy Gas Products' support as we prepare to represent Guyana on the regional stage.”
In making the presentation, Karim commended Archery Guyana for its continued progress, noting Guyana’s recent participation at the Junior Pan American Youth Championships.
“Massy Gas Products is pleased to support Archery Guyana’s participation in the Caribbean Development Championships,” he said. “We are proud to contribute to initiatives that promote discipline, teamwork, and excellence, qualities that resonate deeply with our company’s values.”
Archery Guyana has extended its heartfelt thanks to the management team and the Board of Directors of Massy Gas Products (Guyana) Ltd for its valued partnership and unwavering support in advancing the federation’s mission and helping showcase Guyana’s sporting talent at the regional level.
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 22, 2025
10 batter playing his first game on tour - he chose to take another single.
Hassan punished Hope for that, bowling Hosein between his legs. Khary Pierre, the last man in, needed to get three off the final ball, but his top edge spun towards square leg.
Wicketkeeper Nurul Hasan ran for the catch, but he dropped the chance. He also
Shai Hope poses with the Player-of-the-Match trophy
West Indies prevailed over Bangladesh in the Super Over, beating the home side in Dhaka by one run. Akeal Hosein delivered an imperfect final over in extra time, defending 10 runs, but he kept Bangladesh in check with several dots mixed with wides and no-balls. Saif Hassan, Soumya Sarkar and Najmul Hossain Shanto could not do the job for Bangladesh, and so, the series is now 1-1.
West Indies had earlier scored 10 runs in their Super Over, with Captain Shai Hope getting a boundary off the last ball, after Mustafizur Rahman had removed Sherfane Rutherford with his second ball.
This was Bangladesh's first tie in 814 men's international matches.
Hope carried West Indies in regulation time, getting the only half-century of the game. West Indies needed five runs off the 50th over to complete a chase of 214. Hassan bowled two dot balls before conceding a single. Hope got on strike and even though he only had Hosein at the other end – the number
spin for all 50 overs of a One-Day International (ODI). The visitors overhauled a record that had stood since 2004, when Sri Lanka plied Australia with 44 overs of slow bowling. Bangladesh topped that tally up with 42 overs from their own spinners, pushing the match aggregate to 92 overs of spin –another record in this format.
When West Indies' chase began, Nasum Ahmed removed Brandon King in the first over. Alick Athanaze and Keacy Carty batted solidly during the power play, with Athanaze hitting Mehidy Hasan Miraz over covers, followed by a straight drive off Nasum. He also struck two more fours, before Rishad Hossain trapped him lbw. Athanaze missed
swept Tanvir Islam straight to Rishad at square leg, falling for 17. Rutherford was given out lbw next, in the 27th over, as West Indies lost half their side with 103 on the board.
Gudakesh Motie and Hope tried to keep West Indies afloat, but they were sep arated six overs later. Rishad struck with a full ball that Motie went after with a wild slog, falling for 15. Roston Chase, bat ting at num ber eight, followed soon after, caught behind off Nasum.
closer. Needing just 14 off 12 balls, it looked unlikely that they would let the game go into a Super Over.
Earlier, Bangladesh struggled to get going for most of their innings after deciding to bat first. Hassan was dismissed after hitting a six, while Towhid Hridoy and Shanto got out to poor shots. Hridoy top-edged a slog, while Shanto got caught at short midwicket, unable to time Athanaze's long
From 133 for 7, Hope added 44 runs for the
West Indies levelled the series
could not pass the ball on in time to Mustafizur, who was standing by the stumps, as Pierre and Hope completed two runs, tying the match.
West Indies became the first team to bowl
with a sweep after connecting with one earlier in the over.
Carty was Rishad's next victim when he missed his reverse sweep, and the ball snuck through and hit his back leg.
Debutant Ackeem Auguste
eighth wicket with Justin Greaves. The latter got run out trying to take a quick single, with Mehidy effecting a direct hit to get the crucial wicket. Hope handled most of the strike, but Hosein struck a six, to take West Indies
Sarkar played some gorgeous shots in between a lot of dot balls. He made 45 off 89 balls with three fours and a six, before holing out in the deep in the 31st over. Bangladesh were 103 for 5, and looked in danger, until Nurul slammed a six and two fours for his 23, leaving Rishad to do the finishing. He struck three fours and as many sixes in his unbeaten 14-ball 39, all of which came in the last 2.1 overs of the Bangladesh innings.
Athanaze was West
Bangladesh (50 ovs maximum)
Saif Hassan c Greaves
b Hosein 6
Soumya Sarkar c Pierre
b Hosein 45
Towhid Hridoy c Hosein
b Motie 12
Najmul Hossain Shanto c King
b Athanaze 15
Mahidul Islam Ankon c Rutherford
b Athanaze 17
Mehidy Hasan Miraz (c) not out 32
Nasum Ahmed c Pierre
b Motie 14
Nurul Hasan † c & b Motie 23
Rishad Hossain not out 39
Extras (b 5, lb 1, nb 2, w 2) 10
Total 50 Ov (RR: 4.26) 213/7
Indies' best bowler with figures of 2 for 14 from his 10 overs, while Hosein, who flew into Dhaka on the day before the match, also picked up two wickets. Motie took 3 for 65, his figures spoiled by Rishad's last burst of boundaries. (ESPNcricinfo)
Roston Chase c †Nurul Hasan
b Nasum Ahmed 5 Justin Greaves run out (Mehidy Hasan Miraz) 26 Akeal Hosein
b Saif Hassan 16 Khary Pierre not out 2
Extras (b 1, lb 3, w 5) 9
Total 50 Ov (RR: 4.26) 213/9 Fall of wickets: 1-1 (Brandon King, 0.3 ov), 2-52 (Alick Athanaze, 13.3 ov), 3-82 (Keacy Carty,
Fall of wickets: 1-22 (Saif Hassan, 4.4 ov), 2-41 (Towhid Hridoy, 10.3 ov), 3-68 (Najmul Hossain Shanto, 17.2 ov), 4-96 (Mahidul Islam Ankon, 27.6 ov), 5-103 (Soumya Sarkar, 30.3 ov), 6-128 (Nasum Ahmed, 38.3 ov), 7-163 (Nurul Hasan, 45.6 ov)
Bowling O-M-R-W
Akeal Hosein 10-1-41-2
Roston Chase 10-2-44-0
Khary Pierre 10-0-43-0
Gudakesh Motie 10-0-65-3
Alick Athanaze 10-3-14-2
West Indies
(T: 214 runs from 50 ovs)
Alick Athanaze lbw
b Rishad Hossain 28
Brandon King lbw
b Nasum Ahmed 0
Keacy Carty lbw
b Rishad Hossain 35
Ackeem Auguste c Rishad Hossain
b Tanvir Islam 17
Shai Hope (c)† not out 53
Sherfane Rutherford lbw
b Tanvir Islam 7
Gudakesh Motie
b Rishad Hossain 15
