Guyana Police Organized Crime Unit Recommends Dozens of Charges Against Assistant Commissioner

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News Americas, New York, NY, October 16, 2024: The Special Organised Crime Unit, (SOCU), of the Guyana Police Force (GPF), is recommending that “dozens” of charges be brought against embattled Assistant Police Commissioner Calvin Brutus, following an extensive investigation into alleged financial improprieties.

Guyana Assistant Police Commissioner Calvin Brutus.

According to a statement from the GPF on Wednesday, SOCU had earlier launched an inquiry into Brutus’ activities. At that time, based on advice from the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), no criminal charges were recommended. However, a new probe was initiated following critical information received from the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU).

Brutus, who went on leave in July to allow the investigation to proceed, remained silent on allegations that he had deposited GUY$16.5 million (US$0.004 per Guyana dollar) into his Police Credit Union account on December 15, 2023. The funds were reportedly returned to him the following day, with the source claimed to be contributions related to a wedding.

The FIU, established under the Anti-Money Laundering Act, conducted a broader investigation into the case, receiving and analyzing suspicious transaction reports. The investigation was concluded on October 1, and all relevant files were submitted to the DPP for review and further action.

“SOCU recommended dozens of charges and now awaits legal advice from the Director of Public Prosecutions,” the GPF stated. The police also criticized a recent report by Stabroek News as “misleading,” refuting claims that SOCU had found no evidence of criminal activity.

Antigua-Based LIAT Says It’s Unaffected By US Indictment Of Air Peace CEO

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News Americas, New York, NY, October 16, 2024: Antigua-based LIAT (2020) Limited has confirmed that its ownership and operations remain unaffected by the recent indictment of Dr. Allen Onyema, CEO of Nigeria-based Air Peace Limited, by U.S. law enforcement authorities.

Onyema was charged by the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Georgia, with obstruction of justice for submitting false documents to halt an investigation into earlier charges of bank fraud and money laundering. Along with Onyema, Air Peace’s chief of administration and finance, Ejiroghene Eghagha, was also charged for participating in the obstruction and earlier bank fraud.

In a statement addressing recent speculations, LIAT (2020) Limited emphasized that the charges against Onyema have no impact on the company’s ownership or operations. The regional airline clarified that it is a joint venture between the Government of Antigua and Barbuda (GOAB) and Air Peace Caribbean Limited (APCL), a locally incorporated company. The GOAB holds 30% of the shares, while APCL owns 70%.

The statement further stressed that APCL is entirely separate from Air Peace Nigeria Ltd. and that Onyema holds no shares, directorship, or involvement in either APCL or LIAT (2020) Ltd. “We emphasize that Mr. Onyema has no ownership stake in LIAT (2020) Ltd, and such claims are completely unfounded,” the company reiterated.

LIAT (2020) assured its stakeholders that its commitment to providing reliable flight services across the Caribbean remains strong, unaffected by the ongoing legal issues involving Onyema.

Meanwhile, Air Peace Limited issued a statement on its official X platform, asserting that both Onyema and Eghagha remain innocent of the charges. The airline confirmed that the legal process stems from older accusations of financial misconduct and assured its customers that its operations would continue unaffected.

Martinique Curfew Extended Amid Protests

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News Americas, New York, NY, October 16, 2024: Residents of Martinique will remain under a night-time curfew until October 21, as authorities attempt to protect the French overseas territory from renewed unrest sparked by soaring food prices. The decision follows violent protests last week, which resulted in the death of one person and injuries to nearly 30 police officers.

Members of the French union CGT Martinique (General Confederation of Labour) perform a go slow operation on the ring road leading to the airport in Fort-de-France, in the French Caribbean island of Martinique, on October 15, 2024, amid riots over rising prices. Authorities in the French Caribbean island of Martinique plan to ban protests and declare a curfew after riots over spiralling prices that left one person shot dead, 26 officers injured and stores looted, a source in the administration told AFP. (Photo by Philippe LOPEZ / AFP) (Photo by PHILIPPE LOPEZ/AFP via Getty Images)

The French Caribbean island, home to 350,000 people, has been grappling with weeks of protests over the high cost of living, with food prices reported to be 40% higher than in mainland France. Demonstrations escalated into riots last week, with protesters looting shops, setting up burning barricades, and clashing with law enforcement.

This photo taken on October 15, 2024, shows a sign on which a graffiti reads “high cost of life” (“Vie Chere”) next to the wreckage of a burnt car in Le Lamentin near Fort-de-France in the French Caribbean island of Martinique, amid riots over rising prices. (Photo by PHILIPPE LOPEZ/AFP via Getty Images)

The curfew, initially imposed from 9:00 PM to 5:00 AM, has been extended in an “exceptional measure” to safeguard both people and property, according to a statement from the prefecture of Martinique.

While unrest has subsided over the past 48 hours with no major incidents reported, the situation remains tense. Primary and secondary school students are expected to gradually return to class starting Tuesday, education officials announced.

The protests, which began in early September, were organized by the Assembly for the Protection of Afro-Caribbean Peoples and Resources (RPPRAC), calling for food prices in Martinique to be aligned with those in mainland France. Although the government has held several meetings with activists and retailers to explore ways to reduce prices, negotiations have stalled. Martinique’s governing body president, Serge Letchimy, said no further talks would be held due to the lack of a “new concrete and viable proposal.”

RPPRAC leader Rodrigue Petitot expressed the activists’ readiness to continue protesting, stating, “We are a people legitimately demanding the right to access food at respectable prices, and all we have been given so far is repression.”

Former West Indies Cricketer Sir Curtly Ambrose Awarded Honorary Doctorate

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News Americas, New York, NY, October 16, 2024: Legendary West Indies fast bowler Sir Curtly Elconn Lynwall Ambrose has added yet another accolade to his illustrious career, receiving an Honorary Doctorate of Laws from the University of the West Indies (UWI) Five Islands Campus over the weekend.

Sir Curtly Ambrose was conferred an Honorary Doctorate of Laws by the University of the West Indies (UWI) Five Islands Campus. (Photo courtesy CWI Media)

The 61-year-old Antiguan cricket icon was honored for his significant contributions not only to West Indies cricket but to the wider sporting and cultural landscape of the Caribbean.

Renowned for his towering height, discipline, and exceptional skill, Sir Curtly claimed 630 wickets for the West Indies between 1988 and 2000, cementing his place as one of the greatest fast bowlers in cricket history. His impact, both on and off the field, has left an enduring legacy in Caribbean sports.

Cricket West Indies President Dr. Kishore Shallow congratulated Sir Curtly on the achievement, calling it a “fitting tribute” to his extraordinary career and influence.

“On behalf of the entire West Indies cricket family, I extend our warmest congratulations to Sir Curtly Ambrose on this remarkable achievement,” Dr. Shallow said. “This Honorary Doctorate of Laws is a fitting recognition of his outstanding career and his broader contributions to society. Sir Curtly has been a true ambassador for our region, representing West Indian pride, discipline, and passion on the global cricket stage and beyond.”

Dr. Shallow also emphasized Sir Curtly’s lasting influence, noting, “He continues to inspire not only aspiring cricketers but all of us across the Caribbean. We celebrate this well-deserved honor and remain forever grateful for his indelible contributions to West Indies cricket and our region’s rich heritage.”

This latest honor further solidifies Sir Curtly Ambrose’s legacy as both a sporting legend and a cultural icon throughout the Caribbean.

Standing at 6 feet 7 inches, Ambrose’s height, combined with his pace and accuracy, made him a formidable force in cricket. He played 98 Test matches for the West Indies and was often ranked as the world’s best bowler during his career.

Initially more interested in basketball, Ambrose took up cricket later in life but quickly made an impact, debuting for the West Indies in 1988. Known for his devastating bowling spells, including taking 7 wickets for 1 run against Australia in 1993 and 6 for 24 against England in 1994, he became a match-winner for the team. Despite injuries in his later years, he continued to perform consistently until his retirement in 2000.

Ambrose was named a Wisden Cricketer of the Year in 1992 and later inducted into the ICC Hall of Fame. Post-retirement, he has pursued a career in music as a bass guitarist in a reggae band.

US Sanctions Surinamese Companies Over Alleged Iranian Oil Links

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News Americas, New York, NY, October 16, 2024: The United States has imposed sanctions on three Surinamese companies- Strong Roots Provider, Glazing Future Management, and Engen Management – due to their alleged trade links with the Iranian oil sector.

The sanctions, announced by Washington, come after the U.S. imposed measures on companies involved in Iran’s oil industry following the country’s attack on Israel on October 1, when approximately 180 missiles were fired at the Jewish state. Sanctions were also applied to companies in India, Malaysia, and Hong Kong for reportedly facilitating the sale and transport of Iranian oil.

These sanctions fall under the Stop Harboring Iranian Petroleum Act, part of the Emergency Supplemental Appropriations for Fiscal Year 2024. The law targets foreign individuals and companies involved in the trade of oil and petroleum products from Iran and was delegated to the U.S. Departments of the Treasury and State for enforcement.

Washington stated that the three Surinamese companies function as commercial managers, arranging the transport of Iranian oil.

Suriname’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Albert Ramdin, said the government is gathering information on the matter. He added that while Suriname supports a peaceful resolution to the Middle East conflict, it does not take a position on the U.S. sanctions imposed on Iran. Ramdin noted, “This is a matter for the United States of America,” and that the affected companies would need to seek legal recourse in the U.S. if the sanctions impact their operations.

Authorities in Suriname confirmed that the companies are registered locally, but have not been approached by the firms regarding the sanctions. Ramdin said the government is investigating the operations of these companies, which media reports indicate are involved in maritime transport using ships that do not operate in Suriname but conduct business internationally.

“We want to know exactly what kind of goods are being shipped, where they are coming from, and where they are going,” Ramdin stated, adding that Suriname is working with U.S. authorities to obtain more information.

U.S. Secretary of the Treasury Janet Yellen said Washington “will not hesitate to take further measures to hold Iran accountable,” while National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan emphasized that the new sanctions aim to deprive Iran of financial resources that support its missile programs and terrorist groups.

Vybz Kartel Tops Charts With New Single

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News Americas, New York, NY, Mon. Oct. 14, 2024: Jamaican dancehall icon Vybz Kartel is making waves on the music charts once again, 13 years after his release from prison. The artist, known for his pioneering influence in the genre, continues to prove his dominance with his latest releases.

FLASHBACK – Vybz Kartel in New York City, New York, United States in a past photo. (Photo by Johnny Nunez/WireImage)

Kartel’s single “Comets” has been a massive hit, garnering 6.2 million views in just four weeks and holding the number one spot on YouTube for 25 consecutive days. His recent collaboration with his son, Likkle Addi, on the track “Motm” (Man of the Match) is also climbing the charts, reaching 1.6 million views in just nine days and currently occupying the top position on YouTube.

This surge in popularity reaffirms Vybz Kartel’s reign in the dancehall world, with his enduring influence inspiring a new generation of fans and musicians. The artist’s return to the music scene after his 13-year legal battle is nothing short of triumphant.

Adding to his musical success, Kartel has signed on for three upcoming concerts in Jamaica, Guyana, and the Bahamas. The international scene is also buzzing, with the artist confirming a performance in Kenya in 2025. Kartel acknowledged his deep connection with his African fans, stating, “The people of Kenya consider me one of their own.” One Kenyan fan even expressed the excitement surrounding his performance, comparing his arrival to a monumental event, highlighting the immense love for the artist in Africa.

Kartel was released from prison on July 31 after the Jamaican Court of Appeal ruled that he and three co-accused would not face a retrial for their murder charges, closing a 13-year chapter of trials and convictions.

The global buzz surrounding Kartel has even caught the attention of international stars like Cardi B, who declared him her “all-time favorite artist” and expressed her desire to collaborate with him on “the perfect song.”

Genting Americas Faces Lawsuit Over Alleged Fraud At Bahamas Resort

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News Americas, New York, NY, Mon. Oct. 14, 2024: A civil lawsuit filed in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida today, Oct. 14th, accuses Genting’s U.S. arm, Genting Americas, of using Resorts World Bimini in the Bahamas as a “financial wasteland” to conceal fraudulent activities.

The lawsuit, filed by RAV Bahamas, alleges the resort has been used to artificially inflate profits and manipulate debt-to-equity ratios across Genting’s U.S. and international projects.

Resorts World Bimini, Bahamas

RAV Bahamas, owned by the Florida-based Capo family, initially purchased over 700 acres on North Bimini in the late 1990s with plans to create a bustling vacation destination. By 2011, they had developed Bimini Bay Resort, featuring villas, marinas, and recreational areas. In 2012, RAV partnered with Genting to expand the resort with a casino, forming a joint venture, BB Entertainment (BBE). RAV transferred 20 acres of land for the project, and Resorts World Bimini officially opened in 2013, boasting a 10,000-square-foot casino and a 305-room hotel.

However, RAV claims they have not received any profits from the venture, alleging that Genting Americas controls the finances and has burdened the company with over $885 million in debt. The lawsuit states that as of December 2022, BBE’s liabilities exceeded those of Genting Malaysia and its 150 subsidiaries combined. RAV accuses Genting of hiding the debt in consolidated statements through vague expense categories and obstructing their efforts to review financial records or conduct an independent audit.

The lawsuit further alleges that Genting’s complex corporate structure, with numerous subsidiaries, is designed to conceal financial improprieties. RAV is seeking $600 million in damages, claiming Genting’s actions have deliberately undermined their investment and ability to profit from the project.

Jamaican Olympian Junelle Bromfield Engaged To U.S. Sprinter Noah Lyles

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News Americas, New York, NY, Mon. Oct. 14, 2024: Jamaican Olympian Junelle Bromfield is officially engaged to U.S. sprinter Noah Lyles. The couple shared the happy news on social media over the weekend, with Bromfield posting a video of herself celebrating with friends and showing off her engagement ring.

Junelle-Bromfield, l with Lyles and r., lyles popping the question on Oct. 12, 2024. (Instagram image)

“ENGAGED,” Bromfield wrote on Instagram, capturing the joy of the moment.

Lyles, 27, also took to Instagram to announce the engagement, sharing a romantic video of the proposal, which took place on Saturday, Oct. 12. The U.S. sprinter, who won gold at the Paris Olympics, set the video to a cover of Bobby Caldwell’s classic song, “What You Won’t Do for Love.”

In the video, Lyles and Bromfield, 26, walk hand-in-hand through a candlelit house adorned with flowers, leading to a backyard where a heart made of pink roses and a neon sign reading “Will you marry me?” awaited. The touching moment concluded with Bromfield saying yes.

The pair first met on social media in 2017, but their initial date didn’t spark romance, leading them to remain friends. However, in 2022, they rekindled their relationship, and since then, they have been inseparable. Lyles shared on a podcast earlier this year that he envisions a lifetime together with Bromfield.

The couple made their relationship Instagram-official in December 2022 after attending the USATF Night of Legends event, where Lyles was named Male Athlete of the Year. Bromfield, a bronze medalist at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics for Jamaica, celebrated their first anniversary in August 2023 with a heartfelt message on Instagram.

Despite the joy, Bromfield has faced criticism from some Jamaicans for her relationship with the U.S. athlete, but the couple remain committed to each other and their future together.

Blue Diamond Resorts Wins Multiple Magellan Awards for Excellence in Luxury and Innovation

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News Americas, ST. MICHAEL, Barbados, Oct. 14, 2024: Blue Diamond Resorts is thrilled to announce its recognition with four prestigious Magellan Awards in 2024, presented by Travel Weekly. This year’s accolades – one Gold and three Silver distinctions – highlight the company’s commitment to redefining the all-inclusive experience through pioneering hospitality solutions, design excellence, and guest-centric innovations, including its newest adults-only properties that set new industry standards.

“We believe that every moment our guests spend with us should feel extraordinary, and these awards reflect our passion for crafting unforgettable experiences,” said Jordi Pelfort, President of Blue Diamond Resorts. “These recognitions are especially meaningful as they showcase the efforts we’ve made in continuously enhancing our offerings and elevating the guest experience. Our teams have excelled, particularly with our recent openings, where they’ve reinforced and expanded upon our unique concepts, ensuring they resonate deeply with our guests.”

The awards received by Blue Diamond Resorts include:

2024 Magellan Awards Gold:

Royalton Splash Riviera Cancun Convention Center, MICE Experience | Hospitality – Overall-Business/Conference Resort/Hotel.

2024 Magellan Awards Silver:

Royalton CHIC Antigua| Hospitality – Overall-New Resort/Hotel

Pescari Overwater Restaurant at Royalton CHIC Antigua | Hospitality Elements – Luxury (Five-Star)-Restaurant Design

Hideaway at Royalton Blue Waters’ Chairman Beach Walkout Swim Out Suite | Hospitality Elements – Luxury (Five-Star)-Presidential Suite

Royalton Splash Riviera Cancun, An Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort, earned top honors for its Convention Center, recognized for its exceptional MICE services and providing a sophisticated, state-of-the-art venue designed to cater to business and conference travelers seeking a premium experience in the Caribbean. Meanwhile, Royalton CHIC Antigua, An Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort – Adults Only, the newest addition to Blue Diamond Resorts’ portfolio, was celebrated as a dynamic entry in the luxury all-inclusive market, blending vibrant nightlife and serene relaxation through its ‘Party Your Way’ concept. The resort’s Pescari Overwater Restaurant, unique in the region, also captured attention for its breathtaking design and exclusive dining ambiance.

Hideaway at Royalton Blue Waters, An Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort – Adults Only, was recognized for its Chairman Beach Walkout Swim Out Suite, a pinnacle of luxury that offers direct beach access and curated amenities, setting a new benchmark for opulent guest experiences.

As the Magellan Awards celebrate excellence across the travel industry, Blue Diamond Resorts is proud to be recognized for its contributions and dedication to creating experiences that elevate each guest’s journey.

For more information on Blue Diamond Resorts and its award-winning properties, please visit bluediamondresorts.com.

About Blue Diamond Resorts

Blue Diamond Resorts encompasses over 80 properties, exceeding 20,000 rooms in eight countries located in the most popular holiday destinations in the Caribbean. Its nine leading hotel brands include the Award-winning, All-In Luxury® Royalton Luxury Resorts, where Everyone is Family. Whether guests come as friends, parents, kids, couples, weddings, corporate or incentive retreats, or solo travelers everyone is family in these properties that feature personalized services and signature amenities including All-In Connectivity, DreamBed, and the Sports Event Guarantee. To refocus on valued relationships and friendships, Hideaway at Royalton offers an adults-only experience with exclusive dining and preferred accommodations to enhance Togetherness among their guests. Party Your Way at Royalton CHIC Resorts, an adults-only vibrant and effervescent all-inclusive brand to revel in the unexpected. Mystique by Royalton is Miles from Ordinary, offering their visitors the chance to connect with their surroundings in a boutique-style resort collection full of endless beauty and hip vibes. In Jamaica, Grand Lido Negril offers guests over the age of 21, a unique and all-inclusive Au Naturel vacation along with a secluded shore for the utmost privacy. Memories Resorts & Spa offers a vacation designed whether you´re planning a family vacation, reuniting with friends, or just have a relaxing moment with your significant other, while Starfish Resorts provides amazing value, breathtaking surroundings, and rich culture and heritage. Planet Hollywood Hotels & Resorts invites guests to Vacation Like A Star with an engaging and interactive experience, plus famous pop culture items from iconic movies, music, and sports while you will Dodge the Paparazzi at Planet Hollywood Adult Scene where your adults-only vacation will be the center of fascination and attention with glam and exclusivity.

To learn more about Blue Diamond Resorts, please visit www.bluediamondresorts.com.

Guyana Unveils Cash Grant And Free University Tuition As Part Of Major Economic Boosts

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News Americas, New York, NY, Oct. 11, 2024: Guyanese households are set to receive a significant economic boost through several new initiatives announced by Guyana’s President Irfaan Ali, including a cash grant of nearly USD 1,000 and free university tuition starting in 2025.

Guyana President Irfaan Ali making the announcement. (DPI image)

Speaking at a special session of the National Assembly held at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre in Liliendaal on Thursday, October 10, Ali outlined the government’s plan to support every Guyanese household with a one-time cash grant of GY$200,000 (approximately USD 1,000). This includes tenants and “legitimate households” but excludes foreign nationals.

Ali also announced the return of free university tuition at the University of Guyana beginning in January 2025. This move is aimed at making higher education more accessible to all Guyanese citizens, helping to build a more educated workforce to meet the country’s growing economic demands.

In addition, Ali revealed that by the end of 2025, no public sector worker will earn less than GY$100,000 (USD 480) per month, ensuring wage improvements for thousands of workers. Families with children will also benefit from a GY$10,000 universal health care voucher for every citizen and a USD 50 per child income tax allowance, providing much-needed support to parents.

As part of efforts to enhance the country’s social security framework, Ali announced a GY$10 billion one-time injection into the National Insurance Scheme (NIS) to assist those facing challenges in receiving their entitled benefits.

On the energy front, the president vowed to cut electricity costs by 50% before the end of 2025, addressing a long-standing issue in a country where power outages are frequent.

Highlighting the nation’s digital transformation, Ali noted that Guyana has already emerged as a regional leader in rolling out 5G technology and laying fiber optic cables nationwide. The government also plans to establish a ‘Guyana Digital School’ to integrate artificial intelligence (AI) into the country’s economy, part of a broader push for digital modernization.

These sweeping measures are designed to ensure that every Guyanese citizen benefits from the country’s rapid economic growth, driven largely by the burgeoning oil and gas sector.