Man pleads guilty to manslaughter in death of elderly aunt
RCC demands perpetrators, institutions be held fully accountable for Adrianna Younge’s death
Deputy Superintendent dies after car plunges into trench
Govt objects to “disproportionate” panel for BBC World Questions programme in Guyana Guyana recorded 631,000 barrels of oil per day during 2025 1st quarter Police concerned about motorcycle accident scenes being tampered with Minister Edghill issues ultimatum to trucks, heavy-duty equipment owners
Truck driver killed after failing to negotiate turn
Ministry of Education to provide counselling following death of 11-year-old
New Demerara Harbour Bridge on stream for August completion (Photo from Tourism Guyana)
BRIDGE OPENINGS
The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:
Monday, April 28 –03:55h-05:25h and Tuesday, April 29 – 03:55h-05:25h.
The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Monday, April 28 – 17:05h-18:35h and Tuesday, April 29 –04:55h-06:25h.
FERRY SCHEDULE
Parika and Supenaam departure times – 05:00h, 10:00h-12:00h, 16:00h, 18:30h daily.
WEATHER TODAY
Thundery to light rain showers are expected during the day and at night, interrupted by sunny conditions in the afternoon hours. Temperatures are expected to range between 23 degrees Celsius and 30 degrees Celsius.
Winds: East North-Easterly to Easterly between 2.68 metres and 4.92 metres.
High Tide: 14:59h reaching a maximum height of 2.68 metres.
Low Tide: 08:32h and 20:51h reaching minimum heights of 0.54 metre and 0.52 metre.
Autopsy on 11-year-old
Three international forensic pathologists have been identified as the team that will be conducting the post-mortem examination (PME) on the body of 11-yearold Adrianna Younge today.
Distinguished forensic pathologist of the Mount Sinai Hospital in New York, Dr Glenn A. Rudner, will join Barbadian pathologist, Dr Shubhakar Karra Paul, who was brought in by the Guyana Government, and Dr Gary L. Collins, the Chief Medical Examiner of the State of Delaware, who was selected by the Younge’s family, for the autopsy.
Both Dr Collins and Dr Rudner arrived in Guyana on Sunday from the United States (US).
Health Minister Dr Frank Anthony told the Guyana Times on Sunday that the two US-based experts have been granted temporary licences by the Guyana Medical Council to practice here. Dr Paul was already certified by the Medical Council to practice in Guyana.
President Dr Irfaan Ali has already assured family members that all their requests will be honoured regarding the young girl’s autopsy.
Adrianna’s body was found under suspicious circumstances, in a pool at the Double Day Hotel at Tuschen, East Bank Essequibo (EBE), on Thursday morning. Her family said there were several marks, including bruises, on her body.
During an engagement with members of the child’s family, including her grieving mother, outside their Hyde Park, Parika, EBE home, on Saturday, the Head of State provided updates on the developments in the ongoing investigation into her death.
President Ali informed the family that the entire PME procedure will be recorded for added transparency.
“We want full transparency,” the Guyanese leader said shortly after speaking with the girl’s family outside their home.
“I’ve asked the police to make sure everything is videoed – no missteps; everything is videoed, everything is observed [and] as much witnesses the family wants in there [during the autopsy] that is medically permissible – all of that. And all of their requests, in terms of this post-mortem, [are] to be honoured as far as possible,” he committed.
An autopsy on the girl’s body was initially scheduled to be done on Friday by Dr Paul, whom the Guyana
Government brought in late Thursday afternoon – hours after she was found. But the procedure was deferred after the family requested their own expert.
The family’s preference, Dr Collins, has worked extensively in the field of forensic science, overseeing many forensic and pathology testing functions. He has performed thousands of autopsies, certifying the manner and cause of death in more than 4,000 cases.
Dr Collins, a graduate of the University of West Indies (UWI), completed his pathology residency at the University of South Florida, and his forensic pathology residency at the Drexel University College of Medicine. He is also board certified in anatomic and clinical pathology and forensic pathology.
Meanwhile, Dr Paul is currently serving as Consultant Forensic Pathologist at the Forensic Sciences Centre under the Office of the Attorney General (AG) in Barbados, a position he has held since 2021. He holds an MBBS, MD, and DNB, and is a Member of the Faculty of Forensic & Legal Medicine (MFFLM) of the Royal College of
Physicians, United Kingdom (UK). He is registered with the Barbados Medical Council and has previously been registered with both the UK’s General Medical Council and the Indian Medical Council.
With over 23 years of experience in forensic pathology, Dr Paul brings a wealth of expertise in conducting autopsies, visiting crime scenes, analysing skeletal remains, preparing comprehensive forensic reports, and providing expert testimony in court. He has managed a wide range of complex forensic cases, including homicides, drug-related deaths, and suicides, and has worked collaboratively with legal and medical authorities across jurisdictions.
Dr Paul has a notable academic background, primarily in forensic medicine. In fact, he had previously assisted local forensic experts with the identification of the nearly two dozen persons who died in the May 2023 Mahdia Dormitory fire.
With regard to Dr Rudner, the forensic and anatomic pathologist from Mount Sinai Hospital and the Icahn School of Medicine in New York City, he has over three decades of experience span-
11-year-old
ning academic medicine, clinical practice, and investigative pathology. Currently serving as a Clinical Professor in the Department of Pathology at Mount Sinai Hospital and School of Medicine in New York City, Dr Rudner has held esteemed faculty and staff appointments across the US, including Tulane University, Oregon Health Sciences University, and the Armed Forces Institute of Pathology. Board-certified in both Anatomic Pathology and Forensic Pathology, Dr Rudner has held numerous academic positions and served as a consultant for both private and governmental institutions, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the US Army Criminal Investigation Division (CID), and the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA). His academic interests and clinical work have focused on pulmonary and mediastinal pathology, forensic trauma, aviation pathology, and the pathology of substance-related deaths. The Guyana Police Force (GPF) has already said that it is awaiting the PME, noting that the confirmation of the young girl’s cause of death is a critical aspect of the ongoing investigation.
Adrianna Younge
Dr Gary L Collins Chief Medical Examiner of the State of Delaware
Dr Glenn A Rudner of Mount Sinai Hospital in New York
As we prepare to observe Labour Day, all Guyanese –not just members of the trade unions – need to reflect on what exactly is the point behind the rallies and the marches by the workers decked out in red and white. It has often been the case that after performing an activity for a number of years, we begin to repeat it reflexively, out of sheer habit, with no real consciousness of what the action was originally intended to achieve. One may discover that with the passage of time and changes in circumstances, the event has become passé and indeed irrelevant. Then again, it may be even more relevant and needs highlighting.
It may be useful to note that almost all of our people in our One Guyana, save for the Indigenous Peoples, were brought here to labour. The Europeans who exploited their labour on the plantations were never more than a comparative handful. In a sense, therefore, “we are all of labour”. None of us would deny the harsh – indeed inhumane – conditions under which the early labourers toiled, and would not be surprised that our history is in essence a timeline punctuated with periodic outbursts against the exploitation. The quotidian sullen antagonism merely served as a backdrop.
While one would not want to equate the conditions under which our forebears laboured with those in the colonial “mother” country, the former were not exactly a bed of roses. By the middle of the 19th century, trade unions had been formed in Britain to agitate for better working conditions, and by 1871, they were granted official recognition. It is to the credit of our forebears that they followed suit here not long after. We can be proud that Hubert Nathaniel Critchlow formed the very first officially recognised trade union in the entire British Commonwealth right here in 1919. It does not detract an iota from his achievement to note that he was assisted by the British trade unionists.
And just as the latter group had discovered that they needed direct access to the legislative system so that their demands could be enshrined in the law of the land, and formed the Labour Party, our local labour agitators did likewise. So, our trade union movement gave birth to our modern political movements. Both Jagan and Burnham were members and leaders of unions that demanded much more radical changes in the status quo of working conditions than had the older traditional reformist politicians.
But out of this early (and entirely appropriate) radical beginning, some trade unions have, to a large degree, retained the confrontational and agitational style that characterised their early modus operandi, but in the services of political rather than labour interests. The question that we implicitly posed in the beginning is whether such a style is appropriate in the world in which we have now found ourselves? We posit that, because of local and global reasons, it is inappropriate. Locally, there must be an inevitable recalibration of our economy to deal with the diversification funded by oil revenues. The ongoing recalibration of globalisation occasioned by Trump’s initiatives has created a scenario in which capital and investments would flow to countries that create the least disruption in operation.
This is not to imply that unions have to abandon working for improvement in workers’ benefits and wages. This implies that that work has to modify the rhetoric and reality of war: “struggle”, “fight”, “shut-down” etc. especially when solely political agendas are being pushed. In this globalised world, labour would have to conceive of their role as being partners with the managers of companies in order to literally deliver the goods as efficiently as possible. We cannot cut our noses to spoil our faces. Just as rioting became irrelevant after not simply the legalisation of trade unions, but the official acceptance of workers’ right to a living wage, so, too, must the confrontational approach be moderated, because unions should now understand that even that living wage can disappear overnight if they do not factor in global conditions when making local demands.
IMF World Economic
Outlook:
economic uncertainty is now higher than it ever was during COVID
By Sergi BaSco
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has just published its World Economic Outlook, and it does not take an expert to deduce that even among some of the world’s top economic minds, confident predictions are currently hard to come by.
Every spring, the IMF and World Bank hold their Spring Meetings in Washington DC: a week of seminars, briefings and press conferences focusing on the global economy, international development, and world financial markets. At both the Spring Meetings and the Annual Meeting held each autumn, the IMF publishes its global economic growth forecasts.
For its 2025 Spring Meeting, the IMF has published a baseline forecast, as well as an addendum analysing the tariff events that took place between 9 and 14 April. According to the Fund’s report, world GDP will grow by 2.8% in 2025, and by 3.0% in 2026. For the euro area, growth will be 0.8% and 1.2% for 2025 and 2026 respectively.
These forecasts represent a substantial downward revision of IMF figures published just three months ago. Globally, growth in 2025 is down by 0.5% compared to the Fund’s January update, with a reduction of 0.2% for the euro area.
One major shift is key to understanding the most recent IMF report and its pessimistic predictions: we live in
a much more uncertain world than we did three months ago.
If one had to sum up the new US tariff policy in a word, “unpredictable” would suffice, as the so-called “Liberation Day” of 2 April 2025 represented the largest tariff increase in modern history.
Just one week later, the US president then made two further announcements.
First, a 90-day freeze on tariff hikes, apparently in search of bilateral agreements with the countries to which he had applied tariffs above 10%. Second, that China would be excluded from this exception, with tariffs on its products being raised to 145%.
This freeze means that, until July, EU goods being sold to the US would have a 10% tariff instead of the 20% that was announced on 2 April. However, the 10% applied by the new US administration is still much higher than the average tariff of 1.34% that was in force before 5 April.
But what would the tariff be after these 90 days? What about in December? What about in 2 years’ time? What goods would be exempted? How far would the trade war between China and the US go? The answer to all of these questions is: nobody knows.
This uncertainty is evident in the IMF’s Spring forecast.
The IMF’s world trade uncertainty index is currently 7 times higher than it was in October 2024, much higher than in the pandemic.
As far as the economy is concerned, this uncertainty
is far worse than a high but definitive tariff. With a tariff, companies can at least reorganise their production chain, and consumers can look for alternative products. There is a cost, but at least businesses and consumers can plan for it.
However, nobody can calculate these costs today because nobody knows how tariffs would evolve. An American company may decide today to buy a particular product from the EU, thinking that the tariff would be 10%, but upon the product’s arrival in the US, it turns out the tariff has risen to 100% because a presidential advisor said it would be good for the US economy to raise tariffs on that product.
Unbelievable though it may sound, this appears to be how the tariffs are being decided and enacted. According to one account, the US Treasury and Commerce Secretaries were able only to persuade Trump to freeze recent tariff hikes because Peter Navarro – the president’s economic advisor and tariff ideologue –was in another room at the time.
The end result of this unpredictability is that the best course of action for consumers and businesses alike is inaction.
It is no surprise that these constant changes of plans are causing great instability in financial markets. Although Trump may have triumphantly celebrated rising stock prices immediately after the tariff freeze was announced, financial markets are now subjected to lev-
els of uncertainty and fear similar to those seen during COVID-19.
Five years ago, volatility was associated with increased demand for US Government debt, due to the “flight to safety” effect: investors selling higher risk investments and buying safer assets, such as gold and government bonds, in times of uncertainty. Now we are seeing the exact opposite. The price of US bonds has fallen since “Liberation Day”, and this means that investors are selling them. In other words, markets no longer believe that US Government debt is a safe asset. Given the role of the dollar and US debt in international markets, this paradigm shift may generate even more financial instability down the line.
COVID-19, the last major global economic crisis, has one thing in common with the current situation: disruption of global supply chains. During the pandemic, it was confinement that forced production to stop. Today it is the imposition of tariffs.
However, there is another major difference. During COVID, people knew it was a matter of time before vaccines became available and normality returned. Today, instability in financial markets comes not from any virus, but from President Trump’s own advisors selling him all manner of plans to protect US economic interests. (The Conversation) Sergi Basco is Senior Lecturer in the Department of Economics at University of Barcelona
Starting yoga at a young age. The Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the High Commission of India, hosted a successful run-up to International Day of Yoga 2025 at the National Park on Sunday, April 27, with a yoga session and informational booths for all ages
The University of Guyana extends heartfelt condolences, support to grieving family, community, nation
Dear Editor,
In terms of interpersonal violence against the most vulnerable in our country, this has been a "horribilis mensis" (horrible month). The administration, faculty, students, and alumni of the University of Guyana have observed, with profound sadness and deepening regret and concern, the escalating acts of interpersonal violence leading to death; in particular against women, girls, and young boys in the last few weeks.
While all deaths are terrible, and rob families and
the nation of loved ones and their presence and potential contributions, the deaths of children are unthinkable and heart-wrenching. This is even more so given the circumstances unfolding in the recent heartbreaking case of 11-year-old Adrianna Younge.
The University notes that the conscience of the nation is alive and well through the actions of public-spirited citizens, some of whom are UG alumni, students, and staff working quietly on the ground along with other organisations to facilitate re-
spectful grieving support, trauma counselling, legal and policy guidance, among other interventions within the context of the University's training and community outreach portfolio.
The University stands ready to render any additional support needed within its resources and abilities, including providing counselling and medical services to its own staff and students who have been directly impacted.
The University of Guyana also acknowledges the implementation of
the new SOPs for “Missing Persons,” which we think of as the “Adrianna Alert" system, instituted by the leadership of the GPF over the last 24 hours as an important initial response with expected positive impact.
The UG Community is committed to continuing active engagement with the GPF, as far as possible, in helping to address some of the alleged highly questionable operational breaches and behaviours among some of its ranks in the particular case of Adrianna Younge. We will be publish-
ing hotline numbers for "UG Cares", aimed at augmenting those already in place to support those suffering flashbacks and other disturbances which this incident may be triggering.
While we mourn with, and although we wish to, we cannot take away the loss and grief of these families, but we can work together with all others to ensure that these things do not ever happen again. Let the tears of us all not fall in vain, but fall to nurture the seeds of honesty, fairness, justice, caring, hope, reciprocal respect, and
love in our country. “And a little child shall lead them…" Prayers, healing thoughts, and condolences of the highest order are offered.
Sincerely, UG (Ms Shevon Nedd Assistant Public Relations Officer Department of Events, Conferences, and Communication (DECC) Office of the ViceChancellor University of Guyana Turkeyen Campus)
Revolutionize safety for a brighter, more secure tomorrow – GAWU
The Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU) proudly joins the global community in observing Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Day 2025 under the theme "Revolutionising Health and Safety: The Role of AI and Digitalisation at Work."
This year’s observance highlights our steadfast commitment to safer, healthier workplaces and the transformative potential of technology in advancing occupational safety and health standards.
Over the years, Guyana has made commendable progress in strengthening occupational safety and health. Workplace inspections by the Ministry of Labour’s OSH Department have become more frequent, playing a vital role in detecting and mitigating hazards. GAWU applauds the collaborative efforts that have expanded inspections to cover more sectors, ensuring that safety standards are upheld and compliance is maintained.
Moreover, the greater use of personal protective equipment (PPE) across various industries, particularly agriculture and manufacturing, has been significantly improved. Today, the availability and mandatory use of PPEs have become standard practice in many workplaces, thereby reducing injuries and accidents. Through continued advocacy, GAWU has likewise supported initiatives to educate workers on the importance of PPE, and ensuring its consistent and proper use.
Compliance with the Occupational Safety and Health Act has also seen substantial growth. Many employers now understand
the importance of complying with the legislation, thereby ensuring that workplaces are equipped with emergency exits and proper ventilation, training programmes are undertaken and hazard control measures are implemented. GAWU has tirelessly worked to ensure workers know their rights under the OSH Act, and feel empowered to demand safe and healthy working environments.
Despite these significant achievements, we recognise that challenges persist. Workplace deaths and injuries remain a tragic reality, often resulting from gaps in compliance, outdated practices, and, in some instances, a lack of prioritisation of safety over productivity. The Union remains deeply concerned about these incidents, and is emphasising that no worker should suffer harm simply for earning a living.
We also recognise that as industries evolve, new risks emerge. The digital transformation of workspaces brings both opportunities and challenges. AI and digital tools can enhance monitoring, predict risks, and automate dangerous tasks, significantly reducing the likelihood of human injury. However, the digital age also demands new forms of vigilance, including protecting mental health, ensuring fair and ethical use of monitoring technologies, and preventing cyber-related hazards.
In observance of OSH Month 2025, GAWU has undertaken several activities to build greater awareness of the importance of occupational safety and the role of technology in revolutionis-
ing the field. The Union has hosted seminars and workshops for union members. These sessions explored several critical topics. Our workshops also offered practical training, empowering workers to identify unsafe conditions immediately. We see these initiatives as necessary to future-proof workplace safety.
As we look ahead, GAWU remains resolutely committed to advancing occupational safety and health in Guyana. We pledge to: Continue advocating for more vigorous en-
forcement of OSH standards.
• Support the modernisation of legislation to reflect technological advancements.
• Educate and train workers on emerging safety technologies.
• Encourage employer investment in digital solutions that prioritise workers’ welfare.
• Promote research and dialogue on the ethical implications of AI in workplace management.
We firmly believe that while technology would en-
hance human dignity, it also must be used to safeguard and protect human lives, not marginalise workers or compromise their rights. As we embrace innovation, we must listen to workers' voices, needs, and experiences in evolving safety and health practices.
GAWU calls upon all stakeholders — Government, employers, and workers — to embrace the revolution in occupational safety and health, thus ensuring that the future of work is more produc-
tive and fundamentally safer and healthier.
As we observe OSH Day 2025, let us recommit to a future wherein every worker in Guyana could enjoy their right to a safe, healthy, and dignified working life. GAWU stands ready to lead the way in building this future — one in which technology is harnessed for good, and wherein the safety and well-being of every worker is paramount.
Together, let us revolutionize safety for a brighter, more secure tomorrow.
Page Foundation
Day 12
Things to do
•Make a special check on your revision cards, you should be focusing on the information you do not yet know by heart
• Keep reducing your pile of revision cards. It will not matter if you cannot do this for all of your revision cards: just review as many as you have time to do.
• Give yourself a mock exam
Taking stock of your position
In these last couple of days before the exam, your key focus is best placed on assessing what you know.
1) Put the pile of revision cards for each section of material on the table in front of you.
2) Some piles will be larger than others, depending on how much you knew already and how much time you have been able to spend reducing each set of cards, but that is no problem.
3) Take the first pile, glance at the title of each card and try reciting what you think is on that card. You are unlikely ever to be perfect at this, and there is no need to be. If you have found another way to test yourself that suits your
learning style better, then you will use that method.
4) If you feel you know nearly all of the material on the card, put it on one pile – let’s call that pile A; if you feel much less confident about the contents of the card, put it another pile, let’s call this one B.
For each section, you can ignore for now the pile A cards: you can look at these every now and then tomorrow, and be tween exams, as a confidence boost and reminder. With the pile B cards, check each one and be ruthless: can you realis tically expect to remember this card for the exam, and is it essential that you know this material, or should the card be added to your discarded pile?
For those cards with material you absolutely have to learn, because you are sure it will come up in the exam or it is part of an area you want to cover, use them as flash cards. For each flash card, glance at the title, cover the card, recite the material as best you can, then check how well you have done. There is no easy way to do this and it can be a little tedious, but repeating this process over and over will give you the best chance of remembering the material.
Below are past CXC Maths and English questions to help you review.
CSEC QUESTIONS
English Maths
Answer ONE question from this section.
Your answer in this section should be approximately 250 to 300 words in length.
You MUST write in Standard English. EITHER
7. Speaker A: I am going to start eating more local food because that is what makes our Caribbean Olympic athletes stars.
Speaker B: Nobody is going to get me to eat yams and sweet potatoes. That is backwardness.
Write an essay supporting the views of EITHER Speaker A OR Speaker B and justifying the kind of food that you prefer to eat.
By Sylvia Plath
I am silver and exact. I have no preconceptions. Whatever I see I swallow immediately Just as it is, unmisted by love or dislike. I am not cruel, only truthful ‚ The eye of a little god, four-cornered. Most of the time I meditate on the opposite wall. It is pink, with speckles. I have looked at it so long I think it is part of my heart. But it flickers. Faces and darkness separate us over and over. Now I am a lake. A woman bends over me, Searching my reaches for what she really is. Then she turns to those liars, the candles or the moon. I see her back, and reflect it faithfully. She rewards me with tears and an agitation of hands. I am important to her. She comes and goes. Each morning it is her face that replaces the darkness. In me she has drowned a young girl, and in me an old woman Rises toward her day after day, like a terrible fish
Summarise the poem What type of poem is it?
Describe the tone, mood, atmosphere, and persona
List two examples of imagery, metaphor/simile and all the figures of speech found in the poem
Describe how the poem makes you feel
RCC demands perpetrators, institutions be held fully accountable for Adrianna Younge’s death
The Rights of the Child Commission (RCC) in Guyana has joined widespread sadness and outrage over the tragic and untimely death of 11-year-old Adrianna Younge, calling for those involved to be held accountable and brought to justice.
In a statement on Sunday, the Commission declared that no child should ever be denied their fundamental right to safety, protection, and life.
“Adrianna’s tragic death underscores the urgent need for a swift, transparent, and thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding this tragedy. We demand that all individuals involved, including alleged perpetrators and institutions responsible for her welfare, be held fully accountable under the law. Justice for Adrianna is not negotiable—it is a moral imperative,” the RCC stated.
The 11-year-old girl had gone with relatives to the poolside of the Double Day Hotel at Tuschen, East Bank Essequibo (EBE) on
Wednesday afternoon and disappeared shortly after. Her body was found on Thursday morning in the same pool, which was previously searched but there was no sign of her, with marks apparent on her body, sparking widespread public outrage and suspicions.
The Commission reaffirmed the principles enshrined in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC), ratified by Guyana, which ensures certain guarantees for children.
Article 6 of the UNCRC
states that every child has “The right to life…to the maximum extent possible; while Article 19 guarantees the right to protection from “all forms of physical or mental violence, injury, abuse, neglect, or exploitation,” and Article 39 ensures “The right to recovery and reintegration for victims of violence, neglect, or exploitation.”
According to the RCC, “Adrianna’s case is a harrowing reminder of our collective duty to protect children and uphold their rights without exception. We call
Ministry of Education to provide counselling following
The Ministry of Education, in a statement Sunday, announced that the Ministry has organised a special intervention to support the pupils and staff at Parika Primary School where Adrianna was a pupil.
On Monday, April 28, a specialised team from the Ministry’s School Support Services will visit the school to provide trauma counselling, with a strong focus on grief support, it added.
The intervention will be led by Ann Greene, former Head of the Childcare and Protection Agency (CPA),
death of 11-yr-old
who brings a wealth of experience in child protection, emotional care and grief and trauma counselling.
The sessions will aim to provide pupils, teachers and staff with a safe space to process their emotions, receive professional support, and begin the journey toward healing.
The Ministry noted that, as it once again extends heartfelt condolences to the family, friends and community of 11-year-old Adrianna Younge, it mourns alongside them during this period of unimaginable loss, and continues to offer its
deepest sympathies as it navigates this most difficult time.
The Ministry, it said, remains committed to prioritising the mental health and wellbeing of all affected, and will continue to monitor and provide support as necessary in the weeks ahead.
The Ministry stands in solidarity with Adrianna’s family, the staff and pupils of Parika Primary School, and remains dedicated to offering comfort, compassion and care during this time of grief. May her soul rest in peace, the statement concluded.
Autopsy on 11-year-old Adrianna...
There has been widespread mistrust in the Force, especially the Region #3 Division, after the police failed to properly investigate the disappearance of the young girl. The discovery of her body sparked outrage with protest actions spreading from Region Three to other parts of the country, calling for justice.
Adrianna’s family has already expressed their distrust of the GPF and called for an independent investigation.
Meanwhile, the Commander of Regional Division #3, Assistant Commissioner Khalid Mandall, has been sent on administrative leave to fa-
cilitate ongoing investigations into the young girl’s death, which is being led by the Force’s Major Crimes Unit.
The actions of several members of the regional police team that responded to the report of Adrianna’s disappearance are under question, with both President Ali and Vice President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo demanding answers.
This was after the police reported initially that there was footage of the hotel, showing that the 11-yearold girl had entered a motorcar and leaving the hotel but her family was adamant that she never left since they reviewed footage from
on law enforcement, judicial authorities, and social services to act urgently, ensuring no stone is left unturned in the pursuit of truth and justice.”
The Commission went on to state that this tragedy must galvanise systemic action. To this end, it urged communities, caregivers, and institutions to remain vigilant advocates for children’s safety.
“Report negligence, demand accountability, and prioritise child protection at all levels,” the RCC implored.
It went on to express condolences to Adrianna’s family, loved ones, and the many communities grappling with this unimaginable loss.
“Our hearts are with you,” the RCC said, adding that it stands ready to support the pursuit of justice and to ensure Adrianna’s death will not be in vain.
The Commission further noted that it will closely monitor this investigation and collaborate with stakeholders to prevent such tragedies.
FROM PAGE 3
a neighbour’s security camera, which showed no signs of her leaving.
Hours after Adrianna’s body was discovered, the police admitted to releasing “inaccurate” information.
In addition to the Commander being sent on admin leave, three police officers in the division are also currently under close arrest, and a number of other police ranks were also questioned.
The GPF said too that investigators have thus far contacted and questioned the proprietor of the Hotel and all employees, who were present there on the day of the incident. The owner and some staff are said to be in custody.
“We implore anyone with information to come forward and assist authorities. Enough is enough. Let Adrianna’s memory ignite a nation where no child’s right to life and dignity is compromised,” the missive detailed.
Moreover, the RCC reminded the State and Government of their obligations under the UNCRC, and reiterates its expectation that this matter will be handled in keeping with the law and in a transparent manner.
The RCC is an independent body mandated to uphold and advocate for children’s rights under national law and international conventions, including the UNCRC.
Meanwhile, another constitutional agency within the Human Rights Commission, the Indigenous Peoples Commission (IPC), has also demanded justice over the young girl’s death.
“The death of Adrianna is not just a family tragedy; it is a loss to the entire nation. As an organization
committed to the protection of the rights and dignity of all people, especially children, we believe it is imperative that every effort be made to uncover the truth behind this tragedy and hold those responsible accountable for their actions,” the IPC stated.
The Commission has joined calls for a transparent, thorough, and impartial investigation into Adrianna’s death, one that is conducted without delay or interference.
“It is vital that the investigative process is not only comprehensive but also fair, so that justice may be served and her memory honoured. The Commission demands that all those who are responsible for this heinous act be brought to justice, ensuring that such a tragedy does not repeat itself,” it stated.
Meanwhile, the IPC is also urging the public to remain calm and allow the investigation to proceed without obstruction, further emphasizing the importance of peaceful demonstrations that respect the rule of law and the process of justice.
“Adrianna’s death serves as a painful reminder of the need for stronger protection of our children and communities. The IPC calls on all sectors of society—government, civil society, and local communities—to unite in the pursuit of justice for Adrianna and to reaffirm our commitment to safeguarding the lives of all children, particularly those who are vulnerable.
“Let us come together in the spirit of justice and unity to ensure that Adrianna’s death is not in vain, and that her story leads to meaningful change in how we protect our children.”
11-year-old Adrianna Younge
Kebra Duncan to be sentenced for 2019 killing, after pleading guilty to manslaughter
More than five years after the violent death of Edino Jose, the man accused of taking his life, Kebra Duncan, has admitted responsibility, but not to murder. Duncan is now awaiting sentencing after pleading guilty to the lesser charge of manslaughter.
Duncan appeared in the Georgetown High Court on Tuesday before Justice Nareshwar Harnanan, where he was formally arraigned on a murder indictment. However, instead of proceeding to trial on the capital offence, Duncan pleaded not guilty to murder and confessed to the unlaw-
ful killing of Jose during a fight on September 15, 2019.
State Prosecutor Preneeta Seeraj, outlining the circumstances of the case, told the court that Duncan and Jose became embroiled in a violent altercation that quickly spiralled out of control.
Duncan would later claim that during the scuffle, Jose armed himself with a broken beer bottle and attacked him.
Hours after the deadly encounter, Jose’s lifeless body was discovered lying near a trench, by a passer-by.
Police were called to the scene and immediately
launched an investigation.
Duncan was later located and taken into custody. Upon being informed of the allegations against him, he reportedly admitted to killing Jose.
In a written caution statement given to police investigators, Duncan detailed the events that led to the young man’s death.
He said that during the confrontation, he threw a brick at Jose and then struck him with a cutlass.
At some point, Jose jumped into a nearby trench, but Duncan told investigators he dragged him out and left him motionless on the embankment before fleeing the
scene.
A post-mortem examination confirmed that Jose’s death was caused by multiple blunt force injuries, with drowning contributing to his death.
Following his admission of guilt, Duncan was remanded to prison and will remain incarcerated until his sentencing, which is scheduled for May 22, 2025.
The State’s case is being prosecuted by a team led by State Counsel Seeraj, along with Abiola Lowe and Mtumika Lumumba.
Duncan is being represented by Defence Attorneys Tanza Sarabo and Jed Vasconcellos.
Man pleads guilty to manslaughter in death of elderly aunt
Keith Harris, the man accused of the brutal murder of his elderly aunt, has admitted responsibility for her death. Harris pleaded not guilty to the charge of murder but accepted guilt to the lesser offence of manslaughter before Justice Nareshwar Harnanan at the High Court in Demerara.
The 52-year-old confessed to fatally stabbing his 76-year-old aunt, Audrey Statia Elizabeth Harris-Hayde, during a violent confrontation at her Princes Street, Werk-enRust, Georgetown home in December 2022. His sentencing will be on May 7.
Harris had initially been committed to stand trial for murder. However, with his admission to manslaughter, the court heard that he unlawfully killed his aunt following an argument on December 2, 2022, a crime that shocked the quiet community in which she lived.
According to facts previously reported, Harris had been living in the bottom flat of his aunt’s two-storey home. The elderly woman, who had cared for him since childhood after his mother abandoned him and his siblings, was reportedly attempting to get him to move out at the time of the deadly incident.
On the morning of December 2, neighbours re-
called hearing shouts, windows breaking, and frantic screams coming from the house. Concerned residents quickly summoned the Police. By the time officers arrived, Audrey HarrisHayde was found lying in a pool of blood inside her home, bearing multiple stab wounds.
Investigations later revealed that the victim and her nephew had gotten into a heated argument earlier that morning after she insisted that he leave the residence. During the confrontation, Harris armed himself with a knife and inflicted two stab wounds to both sides of her neck. At the time, Harris-Hayde was reportedly holding a hammer, although she never managed to defend herself.
After stabbing her, Harris fled the scene, es-
caping in an unknown direction. Police launched a manhunt for the suspect, who went into hiding immediately after the attack.
At the scene, HarrisHayde’s husband, Lawrence Hayde, gave an emotional account of the events leading up to the tragedy. He recalled that he had left their home around 7:30h after sharing a cup of coffee with his wife. Before leaving, he kissed her goodbye, unaware it would be the last time he would see her alive.
Hours later, while on his way to work, Hayde received a distressing call informing him that his wife had been attacked. “I told the driver to turn back the truck,” he said, recounting how he rushed back home, only to find his home cordoned off and police officers investigating the grim dis-
covery.
“As I entered the premises, they told me what had happened. When I went upstairs, I saw my wife lying there in a pool of blood,” Hayde said, his voice breaking with emotion.
Hayde explained that his wife would have celebrated her 77th birthday later that month. He also disclosed that Harris, too, had a history of mental illness and drug abuse, and that tensions between the two had been growing in recent times.
Police, at the time, had confirmed that Harris had been engaged in frequent verbal altercations with his aunt, often under the influence of drugs.
Following his guilty plea to manslaughter, Harris was remanded to prison pending sentencing.
How many times…
…police
reform?
After Adrianna’s murder, there’s talk once again about “reforming” the Police Force. Yep, again!! This has been going on so many times that the real question is: why’s the task never been completed?? Your Eyewitness has expatiated (ad nauseam!!) as to why there’s the NEED for reform. There were the colonial masters, who wanted to keep us as loyal Kikuyus; then there was Burnham, who wanted to keep us loyal bowers and scrapers! They trained the police to keep their knees on our necks. Well, on the necks of most of us!!
So, how do we begin to count the ways why police reform got nowhere?? Let’s start with the government in question that succeeded Burnham and his successor Hoyte – the PPP. Now, if there’s ANY government that should’ve wanted – no, yearned! – to straighten the police, it would be them, no?? After all, hadn’t the police hounded and harassed them for the (in) famous 28 years?? Well, Rodney did draw some fire away from them between 1974 and 1980; but yet!!
So, what went down?? Some say Laurie Lewis, the Commissioner of Police they inherited, might’ve had “files” on them. But your Eyewitness doesn’t buy that! While there had to’ve been some amount of peccadilloes committed, they couldn’t have amounted to much. Jagan was Mr Clean, and he’d demonstrated that if any of his underlings stepped off the straight and narrow, they had to take the rap.
Others say they might’ve been afraid they were going to be overthrown by the police, cause the 1992 elections showed 92% of them supported the PNC. Yes…dear reader – they used to announce how the Disciplined Forces voted!! But let’s get serious, shall we?? Have you EVER heard of a Police Force overthrowing a GOVERNMENT?? A hot-dog stand maybe, but NOT a Government!! Police are trained to think very LOCALLY – like hustling motorists for a fried rice, but not hustling a head of state out of office!!
Your Eyewitness believes there’s a much simpler answer. Jagan never liked firing people. Hoyte had been ordered by the IMF to slim down the bloated Civil Service, and had started to do so; but Jagan refused to continue the axing. Not that he got any credit for that… but that was him and his “working class”!! His successors – Janet and Jagdeo – however, might’ve been more hard-nosed, but they were confronted immediately by a rampaging PNC under Desmond Hoyte’s “slow fyaah; mo fyaah” strategy!! They desperately needed the police to keep the peace by any means necessary, and they weren’t about to poke no ants’ nest!!
Then, after the police came under fire and suffered the most losses EVER in their history, a shake-up became harder. But how about now – after Adrianna??
…PNC will rig??
After the democratic restoration of 1992, the PNC riggers were given the bum’s rush as their “Committee to RE-Elect the President” (CREEP) failed to gain traction. They faced a dilemma!! Nah…not to explain why they’d go to the polls backed by CREEPs!! - but how to tell ANYBODY they were supporting DEMOCRACY!!? After all, nobody heard no booming voice from the heavens to suggest a PNC’s Damascene conversion!!
Well, Hoyte set the ball rolling with the PNC-Reform (PNC/R) in 2001 by imitating the PPP’s “CIVIC” with a welter of new, fresh faces. Didn’t work – and he passed on. Corbin then had the bright idea of creating the PNC/Reform/One Guyana. But the acronym came out PNC-R1G!!! Couldn’t live it down at the 2006 elections. By 2011, they linked up with 4 paper “parties”, dumped their name, and called themselves APNU –and did better!!
For 2015, they hitched up with the AFC as APNU-AFC and took government!! Then Granger had APNU try to RIG in 2020!!
Can Aubrey rig in 2025!!
…the AFC can resurrect?
WE know you can’t cash the same cheque twice, don’t we?? So, what’s Hughes gonna be doing with the AFC now that he’s announced they’ll be going solo come 2030??
Hope to collect those half votes??
Dead: Audrey Statia Elizabeth Harris-Hayde
Keith Harris
Police concerned about motorcycle accident scenes being tampered with ...as
motorcyclists’ lawlessness, deaths continue
The Guyana Police Force (GPF) has raised concerns over an alarming trend where motorcycles are removed from accident scenes be-
fore investigators arrive, potentially compromising critical evidence in traffic collisions.
Superintendent of Police, Raun Clarke, Traffic Officer for Regional Division 4A (Georgetown), speaking on a recent epi-
that when persons involved in accidents with motorcycles; the motorcycles are being removed from the scene of the accidents, which tampers with
sode of “Road Safety and You”, highlighted the issue, stating, “We also find
the accident scene and tamper with the accident investigation.”
Clarke noted that motorcyclists continue to pose a significant challenge on the country’s roads.
“Motorcyclists have continued to be challenging how they’re using the road,” he said. “Because they are using a smaller vehicle, they tend not to adhere to the rules governing the road. If there is a line of traffic, you would find that the motorcyclists would always overtake on either the right side or the left side continuously.”
While overtaking on the right is permitted, Clarke emphasised that overtaking on the left is illegal and dangerous. He also pointed out that while helmet use has increased, many motorcyclists still flout basic safety laws, including riding without licences or safety helmets.
“Most of the motorcyclists you find, that when you stop them, they are not driving with driver’s licences, which is already an offence,” Clarke added.
“We are advocating safety. We are advocating that
not please everybody. The police are there to protect and preserve life,” he said. “For those who are commenting negatively, it is just my opinion to say that the only way you would want to comment negative-
you ensure that you equip yourself with a driver’s licence, ensure that you traverse the road with a safety helmet, ensure that you drive on the road in accordance to law.”
The police have intensified enforcement efforts, targeting helmetless riders and those involved in dangerous driving. “Our enforcement posture we would have intensified,” Clark said. “Most persons traversing on the motorcycles were being arrested for failing to wear safety helmets, dangerous driving.”
Meanwhile, Assistant Superintendent Sherwin Henry, from the Traffic Headquarters’ Education Section, echoed these concerns, revealing that motorcyclists account for a high number of road fatalities.
“Motorcycles are the highest number of road users who lost their life on the roadway,” Henry said. “Last year we had only one pillion rider lose their life compared to this year— seven.”
Despite criticism on social media about traffic campaigns targeting motorcyclists, Superintendent Clarke made it clear that the police will continue to enforce the law. “We can-
ly is if you want to use the road in an unsafe way and you don’t want the police to do what they have to do to mitigate against you using the road in a safe way.”
The programme also touched on enforcement activities in other areas.
Inspector Kevin Woodland from Region Three (Essequibo Island West Demerara) said that his ranks are on the roadway daily to curb reckless driving. “From six when our duty starts, we would be on the roadway to avoid these drivers from driving recklessly, dangerously, and carelessly,” he explained.
Sergeant Ronald Payne from Region Four B, East Bank Demerara (EBD) reported similar efforts along the busy Heroes Highway.
“We are doing our lectures to drivers, lectures to schools. We’re even going out to different locations and doing lectures. We are also doing distribution of flyers notifying the public about the speed limits and enlightening them about ticket offences.”
The police, through both enforcement and education, say they will continue their push to make the roadways safer for all users. “One accident is yet too many,” Superintendent Clark stressed.
The police officers during the Road Safety and You programme
Superintendent Raun Clarke, Traffic Officer for Regional Division 4A
Assistant Superintendent Sherwin Henry
Hundreds turn out to support Labour Ministry’s annual OHS Walk
The Ministry of Labour proudly hosted its Annual Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Annual Walk, on Sunday, April 27, 2025, with an impressive show of support from hundreds of workers, public, and private sector agencies.
“You have contributed enormously to changing the culture regarding health and safety in Guyana…Every year this event is getting bigger and for that we are truly grateful.”
Encouragingly, the Ministry reported a further
decrease in workplace fatalities this year; a positive indicator that the nation’s commitment to occupational safety and health is paying off.
The walk was a powerful reminder that protecting lives is everyone’s business — and together, we are creating safer, healthier workplaces
The walk kicked off at 06:15h from the Ministry’s forecourt on Brickdam, and concluded at the historic 1763 Monument. It was held under this year’s theme: “Revolutionising Health and Safety: The Role of AI and Digitisation at Work”.
Delivering the keynote address at the event was Labour Minister Joseph Hamilton, who expressed deep appreciation for the contributions made by stakeholders, particularly those in the oil and gas sector, including Exxon, for setting higher standards in workplace safety.
Minister Hamilton noted,
across Guyana.
It brought together participants from a wide range of agencies and companies, including the Office of the Prime Minister, Ministry of Public Works, Ministry of Health, Maritime Department, Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC), The Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA), and the National Insurance Scheme (NIS).
Corporate and private sector support was strong, with representatives from ExxonMobil, MACORP, Guyana Shore Base Inc. (GYSBI), SBM Offshore, Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI), Guyana Power and Light Inc (GPL), Centre for Local Business Development (CLBD), Bounty Farm, Guyana Port
Inc, Bourbon Guyana, Massy Guyana, TechnipFMC, Guyana National Shipping Corporation Ltd, and the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA) joining the walk.
Also in attendance were the Guyana Energy Agency (GEA), GUYOIL, Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), Muneshwar Limited, SEACOR Marine, Bureau of Statistics, MODEC, Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB), National Milling Company of Guyana Inc (NAMILCO),
GMIN Ventures Guyana Inc, EXPRO, GENEQUIP, ODITC, National Commission on Disabilities, Global Compliance Service Guyana Inc, and many others who came out to show their commitment to occupational safety and health.
Labour Minister Joseph Hamilton speaking at the event
Over two dozen contracts worth more than $6B tendered for hinterland roads
– as Govt prepares to roll out large-scale road works in Regs. 1 & 9
The People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) Government, through the Ministry of Public Works, has gone out to tender for over $6 billion worth of contracts to rehabilitate hinterland roads.
The contracts being tendered for are in Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) and in Region One (Barima-Waini). The contracts for the rehabilitation of Region One roads amount to $2.946 billion, while the cost of the contracts for Region Nine roads are $3.717 billion.
According to the tenders for Phase 1A (Lots 1-21), internal roads in Shea ($176.9 million), Maruranau ($228.9 million), Achiwib ($195.8 million), Rupertee ($157.1 million), Massara ($203.6 million), Kwatamang ($146.7 million), as well as a contract for $197.4 million for internal village roads in Kwatamang that will link Annai to the Secondary school.
A sum of $148.4 million will be spent on rehabilitating Bounty Avenue, Malaria Camp Road in Lethem, while $166.4 million will be spent on rehabilitating in-
ternal roads in Tabatinga, Lethem.
Additionally, $241.1 million will also be spent on rehabilitating the old culvert city road network in Lethem, while $272.8 million will be spent on rehabilitating the Culvert City Road to Moco-Moco bridge and $197.6 million on the Tabatinga back road, both in Lethem.
Meanwhile, over $560 million is being spent on internal roads in St Ignatius, Region Nine, while $136 million is being spent to install culverts from Lethem to Pirara, and $74.3 million to rehabilitate roads in Lethem’s commercial zone.
Reg. 9 development
Only recently, while addressing residents during a public meeting at Yupukari Village, President Ali had assured that several villages in Region Nine will benefit from enhanced infrastructure works, as well as vehicles, to improve transportation access.
The Government’s efforts to develop Region Nine’s infrastructure, take place alongside one of the largest projects the region has ever seen, namely the Linden to
Mabura Hill Road, which has an updated completion date of October 2025.
Works on the Linden to Mabura Hill road started in 2022, but there were delays after the contractor halted works between June and August 2024 due to procurement challenges, which resulted in downtime.
The previous condition of this road had posed significant challenges for commuters and transport operators. Heavily laden lorries frequently toppled off the
roadway, and deteriorated bridges required manual alignment of boards for crossings, often with unsafe outcomes.
However, when completed, the pertinent piece of infrastructure would significantly improve connectivity between Linden and the inland regions of Guyana.
Region One
Meanwhile in Region One, the contracts cover the rehabilitation/construction of the Acquero ac-
cess road in Moruca and the Kwebanna to Kumaka Road (Phase Three), both to the tune of $200.1 million each. Additionally, phase two and one of the Kumaka to Kwebanna Hills Road will cost a total of over $417 million.
The internal roads of Kumaka and Mabaruma (Phase Two, compound internal roads) will also be rehabilitated/constructed at a cost of $170.4 million each, while $200.1 million in works will be done
on the Thomas Hill Road in Mabaruma.
A sum of $274.4 million was also set aside for the Khan Hill South Road in Mabaruma, while $200.1 million will go towards constructing the White Creek Road, and $74.4 million for the reconstruction of the White Creek Bridge in the municipality.
Work will also be done on the Green Hill main access road in Mabaruma, to the tune of $274.4 million, as well as the Hobo Hill Road in Mabaruma, to the tune of $200.1 million.
The Government also put aside $80.6 million for rehabilitation of the Barabina Hill Road, $74.4 million for the reconstruction of the Wauna Main Bridge, and $36.7 million for the rehabilitation of the Kaituma Hospital Road to Community Road.
Last but certainly not least, the main access road for Matthews Ridge will be rehabilitated/constructed at a cost of $371.8 million.
According to the Ministry in a notice, the bids will be valid during 180 days of the date they were opened, which will be on May 7, 2025.
President Dr Irfaan Ali during his recent visit to Region 9
Formal immigration policy likely at some stage – VP
– says jobs abound that Govt wants locals to take advantage of
Guyana has grown at such a rapid pace that the opportunities for employment abound all around, and, according to Vice President (VP) Bharrat Jagdeo, a formal immigration policy is likely to be introduced at some point in time.
Jagdeo was at the time speaking during a recent forum organised by the University of Guyana (UG) Economic Society. According to the VP, who was responding to a question about job availability, job opportunities are actually all around.
“The opportunities are going to abound. At some stage, we’re going to have to have a formal immigration policy. Right now, so as not to overload the labour market, like the bridge where the Chinese are building, we allowed them to bring in their labourers. Because if we had to wait on our people, that bridge would take a long period into the future.”
“And they have a deadline to finish it at the end of the year. The same way like some of these roads. But they supplement the labour market. In the future, we’d have to have a migration policy. We haven’t gotten there as yet. We allow it on an ad hoc basis. That is why we’re evolving now.”
Jagdeo noted that by next year, the electronic ID cards will be issued, which will feature biometric data for citizens and non-citizens, enabling the Government
to track everyone, determine how many skilled persons are in the country and be able to make policy decisions with the labour market in mind… though he emphasised that Guyanese will get additional benefits from the card.
“We have a shortage of plumbers, masons, electricians, all of these. And you have seen it reflected, if you talk economics, in the higher price you have to pay for a plumber now or an electrician if you call them home. Because there are shortages in these areas. That is why, outside of the 30,000 scholarships through the GOAL (Guyana Online Academy of Learning) programme and making university free, we also did about 20,000 persons who were trained in (technical vocational) skills by Minister Hamilton and Vindhya Persaud through the WIIN (Women's Innovation and Investment Network) programme.”
“So, to fill that gap, in other regions it is turning out to be the same. We haven’t been able, in all the regions, to get as much employment as we have in (regions) three and four. But we’re faced with labour shortages in many skill areas,” Jagdeo further explained.
The VP noted that for persons working blue collar jobs such as in construction, there is no shortage of opportunities. When it comes to other, more technologi-
cally focused jobs, Jagdeo assured that opportunities are also growing in these areas.
The same holds true for the medical field, where he noted there is a great demand for medical workers.
“You can walk off one construction site and go to another and get a job immediately. And the salaries have gone up. But if you start transitioning to white collar, a lot of this is dependent too on what you study. And this is going to be vital for the future. Because if you’re an accountant or someone in technology or engineering, then immediately you’re mopped up by everyone. Government, private sector, oil and gas, etc.”
“Now if you studied something else, it becomes slightly harder. And so, the choice of career will have to shift to where the opportunities are, in agriculture. That is why we’ve laid out our diversification plan for agriculture, but smart agriculture, using more technology. AI (Artificial Intelligence). The digital society, bringing our Government services,” Jagdeo added.
In addition to the electronic ID, the Government has also been implementing a more streamlined, automatic process for immigration services. Back in October, several electronic gates (e-Gates) were installed at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport
(CJIA) to streamline the processing of incoming and outgoing passengers. The e-Gates will allow
up to six passengers to be processed simultaneously under the supervision of a single officer. Travellers opting for self-check-in will have their passports and identities verified using biometric data, such as photographs.
Once verified, passengers will pass through a physical gate and proceed to customs. One major advantage of the system is its ability to use existing data, speeding up departure processing for passengers returning within a short period.
For added security, the e-Gates are integrated with the Global Resilient Critical Communication (GRCC) database, which works with INTERPOL to screen flagged individuals. If a passenger’s identity fails to be verified, the gate will remain closed, and the system will alert immigration officers.
The E-gates at the CJIA are part of the Government’s push to improve immigration services
Guyana, India host early morning yoga, health activities
The Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the High Commission of India, hosted a successful 06:00h yoga and health information session at the National Park, in Georgetown, on Sunday, April 27, leading up to International Day of Yoga.
The activity was organised as part of ongoing efforts to promote physical wellness, mental health, and the benefits of holistic living among Guyanese citizens.
The session also served to highlight the strong cultural and diplomatic ties between Guyana and India, particularly through the shared appreciation for yoga as a global practice of health and unity.
Present at the event were Dr Frank Anthony, Minister of Health; Dr Amit Telang, High Commissioner of the Republic of India to Guyana, along with other senior officials from both the Ministry of Health and the High Commission, who took part in the morning’s activities.
Participants engaged in a series of guided yoga exercises focusing on breathing techniques, stretching, mindfulness, and relaxation.
The collaboration organised another health and wellness activity at the National Park, also in the run up to International Day of Yoga (June 21), whose 2025 theme
Informational literature on health and wellness was among some of the items on offer at the event
ious people-centric initiatives, including free healthcare vouchers, and advice on nutrition and healthy lifestyle.
Speaking at the occasion, Health Minister, Dr Anthony, noted the expanding cooperation in the healthcare sector be-
the Yoga initiative, also underlined the scope for expanding cooperation between India and Guyana in healthcare and wellness.
The Ministry of Health reaffirmed its commitment to supporting initiatives that encourage healthy lifestyles and expressed
is 'Yoga for One Earth One Health’.
The Ayush Information Cell from the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre engaged people on Yoga and Ayurveda, alongside the Ministry of Health’s information booths on var-
tween India and Guyana, which received further impetus during Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s historic visit to Guyana in November, 2024.
High Commissioner Amit Telang, while expressing gratitude to the Minister for his support to
gratitude to the High Commission of India for its continued partnership. The idea of a world yoga day was promoted by Prime Minister Modi, who suggested the date chosen be the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere (the June solstice).
(L-R) Dr Amit Telang, High Commissioner of the Republic of India to Guyana, took part in the yoga session with Dr Shanti Singh and Dr Frank Anthony, Minister of Health
Govt objects to “disproportionate” panel for BBC World Questions programme in Guyana
The Guyana Government has raised concerned over what it describes as a disproportionate panel that has been selected for the upcoming recording of the BBC World Questions programme next month.
Set for Tuesday, May 6, 2025, the BBC World Questions will tape a programme in Guyana to debate the country’s political and economic future in the country’s capital, Georgetown.
The BBC World Service programme will be presented by the BBC Correspondent, Jonny Dymond. The panellists include Parliamentary Affairs and Governance Minister, Gail Teixeira; Opposition Leader, Aubrey Norton; Businesswoman and civil society activist, Ayodele Dalgety Dean, and Editorin-Chief of the Stabroek News, Anand Persaud.
However, while it welcomed the BBC’s interest in engaging with the Guyanese public and exploring the democratic and developmental issues facing the country, the Guyana Government has “strongly” objected to the current composition of the panel.
This publication has seen a correspondence sent by Public Affairs Minister Kwame McCoy to the Series Producer, Helen Towner, in which he expressed disappointment over the selected panellists, whom he says do not reflect a fair or balanced cross-section of Guyanese perspectives.
According to the Minister, both Ms Dean and Mr Persaud are known to espouse positions that are overtly critical of the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) Government, and who despite not be-
ing formally aligned with the political opposition, have publicly demonstrated strong anti-Government sentiments.
This coupled with the inclusion of the Opposition Leader further compounds the imbalance.
“The panel, as currently constituted, is disproportionately skewed in favour of opposition and dissenting voices, while placing the Government at a numerical and ideological disadvantage.”
“We do not believe this reflects the BBC’s stated commitment to fairness, impartiality, and balanced debate. Nor do we believe this adequately represents the diverse and nuanced perspectives of the Guyanese people,” the correspondence detailed.
McCoy further contended that the panel as proposed,
risks projecting distorted narrative of the political and social landscape in Guyana, rather than providing an equal platform for genuine dialogue.
“We understand that the BBC may have relied on information provided by local representatives or advisors,” the Minister noted.
“However, in the inter-
Chicken pen furore
est of journalistic integrity and in keeping with the high standards of the BBC World Service, we strongly urge you to reconsider the panel’s composition. It is essential that the programme presents an accurate, balanced and fact-based discussion on matters affecting the people of Guyana.”
According to McCoy, Government is willing to collaborate with the BBC to ensure that World Questions is a success and a model for meaningful public discourse but added that such success hinges on fair representation and an equitable platform.
Scheduled to be recorded in front of a live audience at the Marriott Hotel in Georgetown, the hourlong BBC World Service programme, which puts people and their questions at the heart of the debate, will fea-
ture a debate with leading politicians, journalists and civil society activists as well as take questions from the public audience.
Gwenan Roberts, Commissioning Editor, BBC World Service English, says: “We are thrilled to be coming to Guyana’s capital Georgetown for BBC World Questions, in what is a period of unprecedented economic growth for the country. We encourage audiences to attend and look forward to hearing about the issues that matter most to people locally.”
The ‘BBC World Questions: Guyana’ programme will be first broadcast on World Service English on Saturday, May 10 and will be available online, on BBC Sounds and on most other podcast platforms.
Hope/West Enmore businessman claims EPA already addressed issue …claims residents trying to shut down establishment
Following a report made by several residents of Hope, West Enmore, East Coast Demerara (ECD) of stench and air pollution caused by a large-scale double-deck chicken pen in their neighbourhood, the poultry farmer, who has since been identified as Kevin Adolphus, is now publicly defending himself.
Last week, a resident
of the area, who wished to remain anonymous, had claimed that the issue has been affecting the community for quite some time. However, the situation rapidly escalated after the poultry farmer decided to ramp up his operations by expanding the chicken pen to a two-storey structure.
According to the resident following the discomfort, mul-
tiple members of the community had reached out to the poultry farmer to resolve the situation. However, these efforts failed due to alleged hostility displayed by the mother of the business man.
Following these efforts to peacefully resolve the situation residents had moved to authorities such as their Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC) and the main
Deputy Superintendent dies after car plunges into trench
Deputy Superintendent of Police Dexter Brown lost his life early Sunday morning after the vehicle he was driving crashed into a bridge and ended up submerged in a trench along the East Coast of Demerara (ECD).
The fatal accident took place around 01:20h on Sunday, along the Montrose Public Road.
Brown, 37, of Toucan Drive, South Ruimveldt Gardens, Georgetown, was
driving a motorcar, bearing registration number PAG 6458, when tragedy struck.
Investigators revealed that the vehicle, which is owned by a 30-year-old businesswoman from Ann’s Grove, ECD, was proceeding west along the public road at what was described as a fast rate. It was during this time that Brown reportedly lost control of the car, resulting in it colliding with a concrete bridge at Montrose.
The force of the impact caused the car to overturn and plunge into a trench adjacent to the roadway, where it remained submerged.
Residents in the area, along with police ranks, worked quickly to extract the unconscious Deputy Superintendent from the submerged vehicle. Brown was rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), but despite efforts to save him, he was pronounced dead upon arrival.
The wrecked vehicle has since been removed from the scene and is being kept at the Sparendaam Police Station pending examination by a
licensing and certifying officer. Brown’s body is presently at the GPHC mortuary, awaiting a post-mortem examination.
Meanwhile, the circumstances surrounding the incident remain under active investigation.
Brown’s death comes several years after he made headlines in an unrelated matter. In October 2021, the senior officer was charged and remanded to prison after being caught transporting over 20 pounds of marijuana in the trunk of his vehicle.
At the time, police reports indicated that Brown had attempted to evade a police roadblock in West Berbice but was later intercepted at another checkpoint in Mahaica.
The current status of that drug-related case remains unclear. When asked to clarify when exactly Brown had been reinstated to active duty within the Force, officials would only confirm that the inquiry had been received and noted.
Further investigations into Sunday’s fatal crash are continuing.
agency responsible for dealing with matters of such nature, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
However, the residents had expressed their dissatisfaction with these two entities stating that both bodies have neglected the issue.
In a follow up interview with this publication on Sunday the business man denied these claims. According to Adolphus following the complaints made by some of the residents, the EPA, among other agencies, had visited his home several times.
“EPA would have visited me many times, not two site visits, Sanitary would have visited me, Guyana Livestock Development Authority (GLDA) would have visited me. All the establishments you could think of would have visited my location, and they have no issue with me, no; they have no issue.”
The business man added, “Last week, Sunday, they’ve been going around and reaching out to all the Ministers and whoever, when they have outreach, explaining the situation to them and every time they would reach out to one of the Ministers, the Ministers would send the relevant agencies to come and look at the situation when the people come and look at the situation, they find no problem, no fault with me.”
The poultry farmer is alleging that a family living some 100 feet from his establishment are the main ones behind the smear campaign he added that they are planning on opening a mechanic shop and as such is trying to get his business shut down.
“These people have come and reached me at this location here – all the kids grew up here, how many years and nothing bothered them. They
want to open their house and they want to open a mechanic shop behind of my pen and that is where the issue came from.”
Moreover, Adolphus suspects that his business has been attacked by the residents, the business man revealed that since the recent back and forth with the residents, a letter was sent to him from the NDC asking him to halt operations shortly after which his livestock has mysteriously began to die.
“My chickens have started to die 30-40 chickens keep dying. I would have contacted GLDA. GLDA would have come, collected samples, take it to the lab, give me a bunch of antibiotics. I got about four or five vet come. Look at the birds they said that, medically speaking, they can’t explain when they did the blood test, they found toxins in the bird blood.”
He added, “after receiving the letter from their contact at NDC, and I said, I’m standing my ground, I’m not closing because this is covetousness, nothing is bothering them and shortly after now, I’ve been rearing chickens for years, and nothing happened to my chickens and all of a sudden now, they started to die.”
The businessman, who has been rearing poultry
all his life, told this publication that he will not allow his neighbours malicious attempts to shut down his business succeed.
In a bid to get more clarity on the situation this publication has made efforts to contact the Head of the agency, however these efforts remain futile.
The EPA has a mandate to take necessary steps for the management, conservation, protection, and improvement of the environment. As such, it takes steps to prevent or control pollution; assess the impact of economic development on the environment, and promote sustainable use of natural resources.
Over the years, one step the Agency has taken is to develop regulations, strategies, action plans and guidelines to support its efforts to curb some of the more persistent environmental issues. This week, we will examine the EPA’s Environmental Guidelines for poultry rearing.
The EPA in 2022 had released guidelines for persons desirous of rearing poultry. According to the agency If you plan to set up, or are operating a poultry rearing operation with 500 birds or more, then you need to apply to the EPA for Environmental Authorisation.
The controversial chicken pen
Dexter Brown
Public Affairs Minister Kwame McCoy
Minister Edghill issues ultimatum to trucks, heavy-duty equipment owners
...as infrastructural works planned for city
After a stern warning on Saturday to individuals parking trucks and heavy-duty vehicles and equipment in recreational areas, Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill declared that “For the last time, all the owners of the heavy-duty equipment, caravans, trucks, haulers and everything else that is on this carriageway, you have until Monday afternoon to remove them. If not, the Ministry will confiscate
struction of a new play area for children.
However, trucks and heavy-duty vehicles are encumbering the carriageway, creating a hazard and unsafe environment.
He stressed that the area was developed for the benefit of the residents and children, so all obstruction must be cleared immediately.
Minister Edghill also warned that the same rules will apply to all businesses and small operators.
veloped by the Government of Guyana for families, children, and people to come out and recreate. And on this embankment, we now have people opening mechanic shops, parking heavy-duty trucks, and servicing those trucks on the railway embankment," he said.
“We have made efforts to find the owners… the owner of these trucks must remove them with immediate effect, and seize all mechanical work and construction
them and remove them.”
Minister Edghill gave the ultimatum during an inspection of infrastructural projects across Georgetown, where, at Station and Owen Streets, Kitty, he highlighted the improvements made along the railway embankment, including the con-
Truck
“We will not tolerate people using these spaces that have been created for the benefit of families and children for people to convert it to use like this,” he emphasised.
"I'm on the Lamaha Railway Embankment, a green space that has been de-
or repairs or vehicles on this embankment,” he declared.
The Minister and his engineering team were at the time on an outreach touching several communities in Georgetown, where he also engaged residents and inspected areas for developments where roads,
driver killed after
drainage and bridges are concerned.
As the Government moves to address persistent challenges affecting residents as it relates to dilapidated roads, bridges, and clogged drains which causes flooding after heavy rain fall, these issues were highlighted during site inspections on Saturday, led by Minister Edghill.
Upon inspecting these areas, residents were assured that swift interventions will be taken to remedy these issues.
Areas engaged include Agricola, Container city, Rasville, Benn Kirton Drive, Rivers View, Sussex and Hill Street, Middle Road, Barbie Dam, Bamboo Drive, Meadow Brook, Kitty, BelAir Park, North Sophia and Merriman’s Mall.
Residents said many of the issues, especially poor drainage and irrigation, stemmed from what they described as neglect by the Mayor and City Council (M&CC).
“The Government of Guyana will not neglect Georgetown or any ward in Georgetown because of the incompetence and the infantile politics of City Hall,” the Minister asserted in response to residents.
“People are suffering and we will intervene. The Government will do what it takes to ensure the lives and
failing
livelihoods of people are improved,” he stated.
and draft detailed plans for execution.
to negotiate turn
– as truck runs off road, crashes through fences and comes to a stop under homeowner’s shed
Alorry driver is now dead after failing to negotiate a turn, running off the road, and crashing into a vehicle shed in a private yard. The fences to two private properties were also damaged in the process.
The dead man has been identified as 67-year-old O’Neil Adrian of Woodley Park Village, West Coast Berbice (WCB), Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice).
The crash occurred on Saturday afternoon.
Cotton Tree Public Road. As
According to the police, Adrian was driving motor lorry GLL 1539, and was proceeding
the driver was negotiating a bend, he lost control of the vehicle, which collided with concrete fences and came
to a stop in a vehicle shed. As a result, the driver was pinned inside the vehicle.
The police said that with the assistance of public-spirited citizens, the driver was taken out and rushed to the Fort Wellington Public Hospital, where he was pronounced dead on arrival.
Homeowner, Bhoomesh Shivnarine said that, sometime between 16:30h and 17:00h on Saturday he was at his Lot 24, Cotton Tree Village home when he heard the impact.
“I was in the backyard and all I heard was a lot of noise from an impact and there was a lot of dust, and when I ran and came in front, I saw the truck. The
driver was inside, and the people came and they tried to get him out. We tied the rope on the steering wheel and we were able to pull the steering wheel and then take him out.”
According to the villager, the injured driver was talking as they were trying to get him from the wreckage.
“The guys said they called the police but nobody showed up. And then I called the police and when the police came, they said they did not receive any message,” Shivnarine added.
The fences of two properties, and a car ramp which held some vehicle rims that were being stored in the
shed, were damaged.
Meanwhile, the wife of the lorry driver, Chitraika Beharry, explained that the now dead man worked for a private contractor, driving a lorry that transported cane harvesters.
According to Beharry, her husband left home at about 06:30h on Saturday to go to work and returned midday for lunch, and she
the doctor told us to wait outside, and I waited and then they called me in and they told me that he is no more. They told me that he had internal bleeding in his stomach and that is what made him stop breathinghis heart give up. They took him and did X-rays, that is what the doctor told me,” the now widowed woman said.
has not seen him again.
The grieving widow said she received a call that her husband was being transported to the Fort Wellington hospital.
“When we went there,
been together for forty years and has one
The names of residents from various communities were collected to assist engineers who are expected to return to these areas shortly, to conduct inspections
Heavy-duty equipment encumbering the roadways
Dead: O’Neil Adrian
Public Works Minister Bishop Juan Edghill inspecting a bridge during the outreach
The grieving widow Chitraika Beharry
The crashed vehicle under the shed
A resident showing Minister Edghill a drain overrun with bush, which causes flooding in the area
east along
The couple had
child.
The police said the body is currently at the Bailey’s Funeral Home awaiting a post mortem examination.
Dr. Tariq Jagnarine
Elders often bring a sense of comfort and joy to the home. These people are the reason why holidays feel special: with the love they provide us and the blessings that they give us. But they also are very feeble due to their age, and require lots of love, attention, and constant care all the time.
Elderly people cannot entirely depend on their younger generation, especially since members of that generation have a life of their own. However, there are numerous other ways to take care of the elderly:
Visit them every now and then
Even if the elderly one has a home care service attending to them, it is important to visit them now and then. Many older people have Alzheimer's or dementia; therefore, it is imperative to take care of them by allowing them to socialise with loved ones.
Visiting them not only helps with their memory and mental health, but the person visiting them can
Guyana’s 2025 first quarter oil production averaged 631,000 barrels of oil per day, which goes hand in hand with the more than $126 billion in total royalty and profit oil payments that were received during that time frame.
According to the data released by the Ministry of Natural Resources, the first quarter saw oil production from the Prosperity Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessel servicing the Payara fields, peak at 258,000 barrels of oil per day.
Meanwhile, the Liza Destiny and Unity FPSO vessels recorded oil production peaks of 156,000 barrels of oil and 257,000 barrels of oil per day respectively. The first quarter production figures also align with the earnings.
The Natural Resource Fund’s (NRF) financial position and performance statement had revealed that the fund received $17.5 billion
ascertain whether or not their needs are being taken care of. Check if something needs to be fixed, or if their meals are being prepared healthily.
A person can help them acquire any external help, such as having a private nurse in the bay area.
Check if they are taking their medicine on time
Elderly people are often kept on medications, which have to be taken on time even when they are stable. These medications are for the benefit of their health, especially for problems that are bound to arise due to old age. Therefore, it is imperative to make sure that
HEALTH TIPS
CARING FOR AN OLDER ADULT
things one can do to revamp their place are:
- If they are in a wheelchair, install ramps for moving to elevated places
- Installing grab bars in the bathroom and areas that tend to be slippery
- Adjust lights according
their medicines are given on time.
If one does not live with their elders, then one can set alarms for different medications of the day, in order to remind them that their medicine is due.
Revamp their living space
Elders often have special needs, and needs must be taken care of. Some of the
to their needs.
- Install a raised toilet seat.
- Install smoke detectors.
- Adding auto-sensor lights would aid them during the night.
- Try keeping the decor of the house minimalist.
- Keep things that they frequently use in lowered areas, instead of high
shelves.
Hire help
Understandably, everyone has a life of their own, and people cannot take care of their elderly loved ones all the time. Sometimes some older people need constant monitoring, and their needs need to be met. In such a case, it is essential to hire in-home nursing care. These people are experts in taking care of all the needs of older people. They understand that the elderly need much attention, care and patience, and can provide them with everything professionally.
Do things they love
When one plans to visit their elderly ones, or lives with them already, it is essential to spend time with them doing things they love. Spending time bonding with them is not only important to their health, but also imperative for their cognitive and motor skills. If they are kept busy doing things they love, such as knitting, playing chess, or even watching a football match together, it helps to keep their mental activity healthy, despite their age.
Healthy meals are essential
As time passes, the elderly tend to become weak due to their old age, which is why it becomes essential to provide them with meals that keep them healthy and active.
If the elderly in the house need special care when it comes to their meals according to their requirements, the best thing to do is to hire a home care service, as they know what meals should be given to elders according to their current health status, or learn healthy food choices for everyone.
Keep them active
The elderly often lose their motor skills because they have not been active enough. It becomes a problem as their muscles start getting stiff from inactivity, and then they require aid such as a wheelchair to be moved around. They also gain weight and have issues such as cholesterol and other heart-related diseases. To avoid that from happening, it is essential to help them go out on walks, help them move around, and if they know how to play
sports such as golf, make sure that they go to play at least once a week.
Create a Schedule
Elderly people are usually resistant when it comes to change. Therefore, it is important to create a schedule for them so that they can stick to it. This schedule can be related to everyday activities such as their mealtime or shopping, cooking, and cleaning. And the weekly schedule would include their doctor's appointment and such. One can also hire a caregiver service to assist the elderly when it comes to sticking to such a schedule.
Take care of yourself
Most importantly, it is necessary for an individual to take care of themselves. Sometimes taking care of elderly loved ones can be a hassle and leave a person drained, and people often forget to take care of themselves during the process. Therefore, one should also make sure that they are well-rested, are having their meals on time, and are taking time out for themselves. Only then would one be able to take care of their elderly loved ones.
“The purpose of life is not to be happy. It is to be useful, to be honourable, to be compassionate, to have it make some difference that you have lived and lived well.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson
“We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.” – Winston Churchill
in royalties for the month of January and $30.4 billion in profit oil, ending the month with a balance of $696.7 billion.
No royalties were received for February 2025, but inflows of $47 billion in profit oil were recorded for the month. As at February 28, 2025, the closing balance for the NRF was $662.5 billion, while there had been $83.4 billion in transfers from the NRF to the consolidated fund, presumably to help fund the record breaking $1.382 trillion budget that had been passed that very month.
In March, there was again no royalty payments to the NRF, nor was there any outflow. Profit oil payments amounted to $31.2 billion, with the closing balance at the end of the month recorded at $696.2 billion.
Last year, Vice President (VP) Bharrat Jagdeo had revealed that as much as 60 per cent of all of Guyana’s revenue from the oil and gas sector has been saved
in the NRF, while less than half of Guyana’s oil revenue so far had been spent
Jagdeo had pointed out that as of September 2024, US$3.2 billion ($665 billion) remained in the NRF. Also last year, the NRF received inflows from six oil lifts from the Liza Unity, Destiny and Prosperity FPSO vessels… four of those lifts occurring in the third quarter.
The funds in the NRF have their origins in the
oil-rich Stabroek Block offshore Guyana, where US oil major ExxonMobil and its partners – Hess Corporation and CNOOC – are producing light sweet crude using the Liza Destiny, Liza Unity, and more recently, the Prosperity FPSO vessels.
A total of 225 oil lifts were recorded from the Stabroek Block last year. Additionally, it is anticipated that the ONE GUYANA FPSO, which will be
ExxonMobil’s fourth oil producing vessel in the block, will start up this year, when production is expected to reach 250,000 barrels of oil per day.
The fifth FPSO, which would be named ‘Errea Wittu’, meaning “abundance” in the Warrau Indigenous language, would meanwhile operate in the Urau project. It would have an oil storage capacity of two million barrels, an oil production design rate of 250,000 barrels per day, and be able to offload approximately one million barrels onto a tanker in approximately 24 hours.
This vessel would be delivered by MODEC, a Japanese company that has confirmed construction of this FPSO. Start-up of the US$12.7 billion Urau development is targeted for 2026.
‘Jaguar’, the sixth FPSO, is earmarked for Exxon’s Whiptail project. Government has said that by the time this FPSO comes online in 2027, Guyana is
expected to be producing as much as 1.2 million barrels of oil per day. This FPSO is currently in the final stages of construction.
In 2022, for the first time, Guyana used oil funds to finance a national budget. In fact, in 2022, the Government withdrew a total of $126 billion (US$607.6 million) in three tranches from the NRF which went towards financing Guyana’s national development plans.
In 2023, US$1.002 billion was withdrawn to finance national development priorities. The last of eight withdrawals for last year was made on December 27, 2023, from the NRF to the Consolidated Fund, to the tune of US$152.1 million (equivalent to $31.6 billion).
In October 2024, the Government made a withdrawal of $62.3 billion (US$300 million) from the NRF, marking the fourth tranche of the $329.8 billion in withdrawals approved by Parliament for 2024.
The Prosperity FPSO
11 people killed, more than 20 hurt after SUV rams into Vancouver street festival
Eleven people have been killed and multiple others injured after the driver of a black SUV slammed into a crowd Saturday evening at a street festival in Vancouver celebrating the contributions of the Filipino Canadian community, police say.
It happened shortly after 8 p.m, where the Lapu Lapu Day Block Party was winding down, after drawing up to 100,000 people through the day.
Police say the 11 people killed range in age from five to 65 years old.
On Sunday afternoon, 30-year-old Kai-Ji Adam Lo was charged with eight counts of second-degree murder in relation to the crash, according to police. Lo was set to appear in court on Sunday for a bail hearing.
In a statement, the Vancouver Police Department said the charge assessment was ongoing and further charges are anticipated.
"The person in custody does have a significant history of interactions with police and health-care professionals related to mental health," Interim police Chief Steve Rai told a briefing on Sunday.
In a statement read Sunday morning, Prime Minister Mark Carney said more than 20 people were injured.
Police look over a black SUV that was later removed on a flatbed truck from the scene where a vehicle was driven into a crowd at the Lapu Lapu festival in Vancouver on Saturday evening (Excerpt from CBC News)
Rai told reporters that the injured were taken to nine area hospitals and the number of dead "could rise in the coming days or weeks."
Rai, in a midnight news briefing, said bystanders held the suspect until police could arrive. He said the man was known to police "in certain circumstances."
"We are confident that this incident was not an act of terrorism," Vancouver police said on X.
Kris Pangilinan, a Toronto-based journalist, flew to Vancouver to attend the Lapu Lapu Day celebrations. He said the show was wrapping up when the incident happened.
He said crews lifted a barricade that had been blocking traffic to allow a vehicle to enter. While some cars were being guided carefully through the crowds, Pangilinan said
one car suddenly plowed through the street at high speed.
"Then we realized what was happening and everybody started yelling," he said. "[The driver] just slammed the pedal down and rammed into hundreds of people. It was like seeing a bowling ball hit — all the bowling pins and all the pins flying up in the air."
"It was like a war zone.... There were bodies all over the ground," he said, adding he saw "countless" people injured.
James Cruzat, a Vancouver business owner, was at the event and heard a car rev its engine and then "a loud noise, like a loud bang."
"We saw people on the road crying, others were like running, shouting, or even screaming, asking for help," Cruzat said.
US deports Jamaican national wanted for murder
Jeovann Anthony Forde, a Jamaican national who has been wanted by local authorities for murder, was deported by the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency.
“Forde’s removal demonstrates ICE Philadelphia’s
unyielding dedication to protecting public safety by addressing significant threats within our communities,” said ICE enforcement and removal operations acting field office director, Brian McShane.
“This operation highlights the expertise and persistence of our officers in locating and
apprehending individuals wanted for serious crimes, ensuring accountability and preventing further harm,” he added.
ICE said authorities in Jamaica had issued an arrest warrant for Forde on February 22, 2022, for murder.
TT opposition slams
Antigua Opposition Leader repeats call for PM Browne to step down pending outcome of court case
Leader of the Opposition Jamale Pringle is again calling for Prime Minister Gaston Browne’s immediate resignation due to concerns regarding the ongoing Alfa Nero legal battle in the United States of America.
Pringle believes the prime minister should step down as head of government until the case before the US Federal Court concludes.
“I’m calling on the Prime Minister that at this point he needs to step down as Prime Minister of this country pending the outcome of this Alfa
Nero situation. It is necessary, it would be good for the country if he utilised that means to show that his word is not just an action and not just against others, but he also believes in what he would have done in the past,” Pringle said.
This demand follows US District Judge Jesse Furman’s recent decision to lift a temporary stay on subpoenas, which allows for the release of sensitive wire transfer records linked to PM Browne, his wife Maria Bird-Browne, his son Gaston Andron Browne III, the West Indies Oil Company
Ltd. (WIOC), and several Antigua-based individuals and businesses.
The case originates from the 2022 seizure and subsequent July 2024 sale of the luxury yacht Alfa Nero. Russian national Yulia Guryeva-Motlokhov, claiming rightful ownership of the yacht, has accused the Antiguan government of mishandling the sale and is seeking financial records to expose alleged corruption in the transaction. (Antigua Observer)
Trump considers sending migrants to Rwanda
The US could start deporting illegal migrants to Rwanda in a deal replicating the British Tory scheme abandoned by Labour.
The central African state has already received US deportees, including at least one Iraqi, according to a diplomatic cable reported in the US.
The cable suggested Rwanda might join the list of “third countries” where Donald Trump’s administration sends deportees. The list includes El Salvador, which has taken in hundreds. (Excerpt from The Telegraph)
Grenadian man wanted for sex crimes captured in St Vincent
A48-year-old
Grenadian man wanted for sexual crimes against a minor was apprehended in neighboring St Vincent.
Roger Johnson, a resident of Mt Granby in St John parish, was captured on April 19 by the Royal St Vincent and the Grenadines
Police Force. Following his arrest, Johnson was extradited back to Grenada on April 24, where he was promptly charged with six counts of sexual intercourse with a minor.
Political Leader of the National Transformation Alliance (NTA) Gary Griffith, says the issue of campaign financing must be urgently addressed ahead of any further election in T&T.
Calling for a regulatory framework to be put in place, he said there was currently no accountability in terms of the “obscene” amount of money being spent to finance and promote elections in the country.
Speaking with reporters at the Larry Gomes Stadium, Malabar, Arima, yesterday afternoon–following a day-long motorcade which began in Diego Martin–it was a sunburnt Griffith who admitted the issue had arisen during the current election preparation.
He claimed, “Campaign financing was stink. When you have political parties getting $150 million, one of them spending, and if you think I lie, you just have to add the advertisements from CNC3 and TV6 on a nightly basis." He said millions of dollars were being spent.
With 17 political parties contesting tomorrow’s General Election, Griffith added, “Fourteen of us did not have that luxury because the other two major parties... when you give a contractor a $100 million contract that really costs $20 million, they take $40 million out, half of that, and give it back to the party who gave them the contract and say thank you very much for the contract but also remember me if you get into government.”
Griffith indicated that providing people with cash, household appliances, and other inducements had put smaller parties at a disadvantage.
He said, “It was really filthy the way money was just being spent. That’s taxpayers’ money being spent indirectly.
“It’s not fair to the other political parties. It is what is going to keep that PNM or UNC-till-you-die support, but we worked with what we had, and I do hope we can find something to control campaign financing.”
He described the process as “very untidy”.
“It is unethical. Whether it is illegal or not remains to be seen. That can only be seen if we do some legislation to put an end to this.” (Source: TT Guardian)
St Kitts and Nevis officially established its Medicinal Cannabis Authority on Friday.
The inauguration ceremony, held at the Authority’s new headquarters on Prince’s Street in Basseterre, marks a significant milestone in the Federation’s journey toward a regulated medicinal cannabis industry.
During the ceremony, Cannabis Board Chairperson Jihan Williams-Knight outlined the Authority’s core mandate: creating safe, legal access to cannabis for patients over 21 with qualifying medical conditions, while balancing education with preventing misuse.
“It is our job as the
Grenadian authorities have publicly thanked their Vincentian counterparts and members of the public who assisted in the successful apprehension.
Johnson remains in custody pending his first court appearance, scheduled for April 28, 2025, at the St George’s Magistrate’s Court. (Loop Caribbean News)
‘obscene’ election spending St Kitts and Nevis launches Medicinal Cannabis Authority
Medicinal Cannabis Authority to navigate these legal nuances, address public health concerns, and dispel negative stigmas to ensure that access to medicinal cannabis is clear, transparent, and never unreasonably denied,” WilliamsKnight stated.
Agriculture Minister Samal Duggins, who oversees the Authority, described the launch as both a cultural and economic advancement.
In a significant policy decision acknowledging decade of Rastafarian advocacy, Duggins announced: “Based on the Rastafari Rights Recognition Act 2023, the Authority has decided that the licensing fee for Rastas will be waived and will be completely
free. This is not just the establishment of an institution—it is a commitment to fairness, respect, and historical acknowledgement.”
The ceremony included expressions of support from Acting Prime Minister Geoffrey Hanley and Attorney General Garth Wilkin, reinforcing the government’s commitment to developing a robust and transparent medicinal cannabis industry.
With its regulatory framework now in place, St Kitts and Nevis positions itself as an emerging leader in responsible medicinal cannabis policy implementation throughout the Caribbean region.
(Excerpt from Loop Caribbean News)
The White House said this month it wanted to deport one million migrants from the US this year
Around the World
Meta faces Ghana lawsuits over impact of extreme content on moderators
Meta is facing a second set of lawsuits in Africa over the psychological distress experienced by content moderators employed to take down disturbing social media content including depictions of murders, extreme violence and child sexual abuse.
Lawyers are gearing up for court action against a company contracted by Meta, which owns Facebook and Instagram, after meet-
ing moderators at a facility in Ghana that is understood to employ about 150 people.
Moderators working for Majorel in Accra claim they have suffered from depression, anxiety, insomnia and substance abuse as a direct consequence of the work they do checking extreme content.
The allegedly gruelling conditions endured by workers in Ghana are revealed in a joint investiga-
tion by the Guardian and the Bureau of Investigative Journalism.
It comes after more than 140 Facebook content moderators in Kenya were diagnosed with severe post-traumatic stress disorder caused by exposure to graphic social media content.
The workers in Kenya were employed by Samasource, an outsourcing company that carries
Putin’s top Ukraine negotiator plotted to send expired Covid vaccines to Africa
Vladimir Putin’s key man in talks with Donald Trump was behind a secret plot to challenge US influence by donating expired Covid vaccines to Africa, The Telegraph can reveal.
The scheme was spearheaded by Kirill Dmitriev, the head of the Russian sovereign wealth fund, who now holds a major role in Russia’s negotiations with the US over Ukraine.
In classified letters obtained by a European in -
telligence source and provided to The Telegraph, Mr Dmitriev urged the Russian health ministry to push back the expiration date on 6 million doses of the Sputnik Light jab by two months.
The doses were to be donated as “humanitarian aid” at a Russia-Africa summit originally scheduled for October 2022.
“The key competitors of Russian vaccines, including the United States, are already supplying a num -
ber of countries with free vaccines,” Mr Dmitriev wrote in a letter to Mikhail Murashko, the Russian health minister, which was marked as classified.
“Due to the current geopolitical situation, the possibility of organising humanitarian deliveries of Russian vaccines to friendly African countries is extremely urgent. We also request your assistance in promptly extending the shelf life of over 6 million doses of the vaccine Sputnik Light.”
It remains unclear whether Mr Dmitriev, whose father was a wellknown Ukrainian biologist, offered any scientific justifications for extending the shelf life of the jabs.
Anthony Cox, a professor of clinical pharmacy and drug safety, said: “Changes in expiration dates should be based on scientific data about the stability and potency of the vaccine, and there are clear ethical concerns if political considerations are in play.” (Excerpt from The Telegraph)
Russia says last Ukrainian troops expelled from Kursk region, Kyiv denies assertion
Russian President Vladimir Putin hailed on Saturday what he said was the complete failure of an offensive by Ukrainian forces in Russia's Kursk region after Moscow said they had been expelled from the last village they had been holding.
Russia also confirmed for the first time that North Korean soldiers have been fighting alongside Russian troops in Kursk, with the chief of the military General Staff praising their "heroism" in helping to drive out the Ukrainians.
However, Kyiv denied that its forces had been ex-
pelled from Kursk and said they were also still operating in Belgorod, another Russian region bordering Ukraine.
Ukrainian forces seized a swathe of territory in Kursk region last August in a surprise incursion that embarrassed Putin. Russian forces, later reinforced by North Korean troops, have been trying ever since to drive them out.
Putin, speaking amid intensified diplomatic efforts by the Trump administration to end the Ukraine conflict, said the expulsion of Ukrainian forces from Russian soil opened the way
for further Russian successes inside Ukraine.
The Ukrainian military, in a statement later posted on social media platform Telegram, said its forces were continuing their operations in some districts of Kursk region.
Ukraine also denied Gerasimov's assertion that all Ukrainian "sabotage groups" had been "liquidated" in Belgorod region, where Kyiv's forces launched an incursion last month.
Reuters could not independently verify the battlefield assertions of either side. (Excerpt from Reuters)
out content moderation for Meta using workers from across Africa. Majorel, the company at the centre of the allegations in Ghana, is owned by the French multinational Teleperformance.
One man, who cannot be named for legal reasons, said he attempted suicide owing to the nature of his work. He claims his contract was subsequently terminated and he has returned to his home country.
Facebook and other large social media companies employ armies of content moderators, often based in the poorest parts of the world, to remove posts that breach their community standards and to train AI systems to do the same.
Moderators are required to review distressing and often brutal pictures and videos to establish whether they should be removed from Meta’s platforms.
According to workers in Ghana, they have seen videos of a person being skinned alive and a woman being beheaded. The moderators claim mental health care offered by the firm was unhelpful, was not delivered by medical doctors, and that personal disclosures made by staff about the effects of their work were circulated among managers. (Excerpt from The Guardian)
Suspect in France mosque attack that killed Malian man on the run
Aman suspected of killing a Muslim worshipper in a mosque in southern France remains on the run, authorities say, in an incident that Prime Minister Francois Bayrou has branded as “Islamophobic”.
Both men were alone in the mosque in La GrandCombe, a former mining town in the Gard region, on Friday when the victim
was fatally stabbed. The assailant reportedly recorded the attack on his phone and filmed the dying Malian man, who was in his 20s.
A source close to the case, who asked not to be named, said the suspected perpetrator, while not apprehended, has been identified as a non-Muslim, French citizen of Bosnian origin, according to the AFP news agency.
After initially praying alongside the man, the attacker stabbed the victim about 50 times before fleeing the scene. The body was found later in the morning, when other worshippers arrived at the mosque for Friday prayers.
Marches ‘against Islamophobia’ have been organised throughout France in the victim’s memory.
(Excerpt from Al Jazeera)
California overtakes Japan to become the world’s fourth-largest economy
California has surpassed Japan to become the world’s fourth-largest economy, Gov. Gavin Newsom said, as he warned of the threat posed by President Donald Trump’s tariffs to the tech powerhouse’s fast-growing wealth.
The Golden State’s nominal gross domestic product (GDP) reached $4.1 trillion in 2024, according to preliminary data from the US Bureau of Economic Analysis, edging past Japan’s $4.02 trillion nominal GDP in the same period as recorded by the International Monetary Fund.
That means only the United States, China and Germany have larger economies than California, which
outpaced all three countries with growth of 6% last year, according to the release.
“California isn’t just keeping pace with the world — we’re setting the pace,” Newsom said in a news release Wednesday. “Our economy is thriving because we invest in people, prioritize sustainability and believe in the power of innovation.”
But Newsom also warned that the state’s economic prowess is being threatened by “the reckless tariff policies of the current federal administration.”
California, America’s most populous state with some 40 million people, accounted for 14% of the nation’s GDP in 2024, according to government data, driven by Silicon Valley and
its real estate and finance sectors.
Last week, Newsom sued Trump over his use of emergency powers to unilaterally enact sweeping global tariffs, which the governor said had hurt Californian families and businesses.
The lawsuit, filed in federal court on April 16, argues that Trump lacks the authority to enact tariffs against Mexico, China and Canada, or a 10% baseline tariff on imports from the rest of the world.
Twelve more states sued the Trump administration Wednesday for “illegally imposing” tax hikes on Americans through tariffs in a lawsuit the White House called a “witch hunt.” (Excerpt from CNN)
Kirill Dmitriev (left) is now Vladimir Putin’s top negotiator to discuss Ukraine peace talks with Steve Witkoff (right), the US special envoy
People march in La Grand-Combe, southern France, on April 27, 2025 to pay tribute to a young worshipper killed in a stabbing attack inside the Khadija mosque on Friday
An innovative approach to finding solutions will put you in a good position to negotiate with others and persuade them to see things your way. Follow your heart.
Keep your complaints to yourself and concentrate on maintaining an upbeat attitude. A creative outlet will help ease stress and give you time to consider unique ways to use your skills.
Live and learn. Keep your eyes open, observe and gather information to help you expand your goals to suit your financial and intellectual needs. Keep the momentum going.
Be careful sharing information. Keep your secrets, intentions and goals to yourself. Map out a journey that turns your personal or professional dream into a reality.
Put your mind at ease by checking facts before deciding to change or invest in someone or something. Information is your best friend in a debate, so listen carefully.
Pay attention to what's unfolding to avoid unwanted surprises. Someone will offer you an exaggerated point of view, hoping you'll trust their judgment. Do things for yourself.
Opportunity is apparent. Explore the possibilities and consider what they will entail. Travel if it will help you get closer to your target or someone you want to get to know better.
Participate in something that pumps you up and stimulates you mentally, physically and emotionally. An open mind will help you discover interesting outlets for your expertise and desires.
Don't expect everyone to be honest with you or to look out for your interests. Fend for yourself and rely on your intuition, and you won't be disappointed.
Make changes that add to your comfort and prompt you to be kinder to yourself. It's time to rejuvenate and reevaluate what's important to you. Search for ways to strike a balance between work and pleasure.
Pay attention. Someone will be eager to bait you into a no-win discussion or situation that leaves you anxious. Step away from negativity and concentrate on creative endeavors.
Avoid taking on too much. You'll find it difficult to meet demands if you overextend yourself financially or physically. Avoid indulgent behavior and bad influences.
RCB go #1 in IPL 2025 after Krunal’s all-round heroics
Asensational all-round display from Krunal Pandya led Royal Challengers Bengaluru to the top of the IPL 2025 table as they outbowled and outbatted Delhi Capitals in a tense clash on a tricky, twopaced surface at the Arun Jaitley Stadium.
A strong display with the ball set things up, as RCB sent DC in and restricted them to 162 for 8, with Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Josh Hazlewood picking up five wickets between them, and Suyash Sharma and Krunal strangling with spin through the middle overs. The chase was never going to be straightforward, though, given the conditions and DC’s attack, and RCB duly slipped to 26 for 3 after four overs.
Krunal, though, hauled RCB out of the mire and put them in front, over the course of a 119-run fourth-wicket stand with Virat Kohli, who made his sixth half-century of the season, and his fourth in a chase.
The recovery came in two phases. By the 10-over mark, Kohli and Krunal had put on 40 in 36 balls, and neither batter was looking fluent. But Krunal found his hitting range, and took off. Having been on 17 off 21 balls at one stage, he hit 56 off his last 26 balls. Kohli fell for 51 off 47 with RCB needing 18 off 13. There was no late twist, though, as Tim David finished with a flurry of boundaries, sealing victory with nine balls
remaining.
Strong start, strong finish, not too much in the middle
Abishek Porel struck the ball sweetly at the start of DC’s innings to score 28 off 11 balls, and Tristan Stubbs made an innovative 34 off 18 at the finish, but DC’s other batters struggled, scoring just 96 off 92 balls between them.
Faf du Plessis, returning from a groin injury and playing his first game since
April 10, and KL Rahul struggled for fluency in particular, scoring 22 off 26 and 41 off 39 respectively.
The surface was partly responsible for this, with the ball gripping and occasionally staying low too, and RCB’s bowling played its part too, with Suyash and Krunal especially suffocating through the middle overs, bowling at high pace into the pitch and keeping width to a minimum.
And DC suffered two crucial jolts
First, just when Axar Patel was beginning to look dangerous, having slogged Krunal for a six in the previous over, Hazlewood came back and bowled the DC captain in the 14th. This took some pressure off Suyash and Krunal - who may not have relished bowling to the left-handed Axar - and they finished their quotas by conceding a combined 13 runs across the 15th and 16th overs, against Rahul and a new-to-the-crease Stubbs. Then, when Bhuvneshwar dismissed Rahul in the 17th, DC sent in Ashutosh Sharma as their Impact Player. They had named a bowler-heavy XI despite batting first, with the hope that they could bring in the extra bowler if their top order enjoyed a good day. As it happened, they were forced to bring
in a batter, and he was out third ball, bowled by a legcutter from Bhuvneshwar.
Stubbs and Vipraj Nigam then provided the spark that DC had sorely lacked up to then, using the V behind the wicket smartly to collect a combined 36 runs across the 18th and 19th overs. Bhuvneshwar, though, cut short the fireworks with a superb 20th over, dismissing Stubbs and only conceding six runs (one of them off a leg-bye) despite bowling with an extra fielder inside the 30-yard circle with RCB having run into an over-rate penalty.
Brave Axar, electric Nair
Replacing Phil Salt, who was out with fever, Jacob Bethell played a short and exciting innings on IPL debut. He flicked Mitchell Starc for a six and a four off successive balls in the second over, before being done in by the slowness of the pitch, miscuing a pull off Axar to deep midwicket in the third over.
Despite the presence of the left-handed Bethell, Axar had bowled the first and the third overs. He ended up dismissing not one but two left-handers, with Devdutt Padikkal, RCB’s Impact Player, chopping on while attempting a cut two balls later.
Karun Nair had taken an excellent catch in the deep to send Bethell back, and he was soon in play once again when Kohli clipped one in his direction at midwicket and seemed to take off for a single before coming to an abrupt stop. Rajat Patidar hared out of his crease at the other end, and it was too late by the time he turned back and dived, with Nair’s direct hit finding him well short.
hits, a length ball launched over long-off with a full extension of the arms, showed just how much Krunal had got to grips with the conditions.
Krunal and Kohli turn it around
The first part of RCB’s recovery wasn’t pretty. The pitch was still a tricky one for run-scoring, and one moment summed it up perfectly. A short ball from Nigam seemed ripe for pulling, but it lost so much pace off the pitch that it was on its way down by the time Kohli met it with his inside edge.
For all their lack of fluency, though, Kohli and Krunal were ensuring RCB had wickets at the back end, and at the halfway mark they needed 99 off 60 balls.
It was Krunal who switched gears, and he did it dramatically, whipping Dushmantha Chameera for a leg-side six in the 11th over and clearing the boundary twice off Mukesh Kumar in the 13th: the last of these
And in the next over he showed he could do it against spin too, going over extra-cover off Kuldeep Yadav when he floated one into his arc.
DC’s last chance to get back in the game came in the 16th over, when Starc forced Krunal to miscue a pull with a sharp short ball angled across the left-hander from left-arm around. Running in from deep midwicket, Porel put down a sitter. Before this ball, RCB needed 40 off 25 balls.
By the time Chameera broke the partnership with a slower legcutter to Kohli in the 18th, DC were almost out of it. David then hurried RCB over the line, going 6, 4 (plus no-ball), 4, 4 as Mukesh’s attempted yorkers in the 19th over ended up as a succession of full-tosses and half-volleys. (ESPNcricinfo)
Delhi Capitals have suffered their 3rd loss of the season
Krunal Pandya had an all-round brilliant day
RCB have climbed to the top of the table
Virat Kohli made 51 off 47 balls
MSuryakumar, Bumrah dazzle in MI’s fifth straight win in IPL 2025
sealed their fifth consecutive win in comfortable fashion this season to climb to 12 points in ten games. It was a near-perfect day for the hosts in front of 19,000 kids as they defeated Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) for the first time in a league-stage fixture.
Half-centuries from Ryan Rickelton and Suryakumar Yadav - who also became the third-fastest to 4000 IPL runs - helped them set 215, before Jasprit Bumrah’s four-for and Trent Boult’s three-for sealed a 54run win.
Mayank Yadav was back in LSG colours for the first time this season. His pace had dropped, but his slower ones were effective and took 2 for 40 in his four overs. Mitchell Marsh and Nicholas Pooran got starts but LSG’s middle order, including an out-of-sorts Rishabh Pant, crumbled again. The chase fizzled out with the last six wickets falling for 26 runs.
Mayank strikes on return
The day began with Mayank being announced as Shardul Thakur’s replacement. He took the new ball and bowled in the mid 130-
kph to early 140-kph range. The bumper he tried in the first over got spongy bounce and went above Rickelton’s head. But an overpitched ball next up was thumped down the ground.
In his next over, Mayank tested the middle of the pitch. Rohit Sharma hit two sixes with the pull, one in front of square and one behind. The response was a change in line, length and pace. It worked as Rohit reached out and sliced a slower length ball to short third.
Rickelton takes MI off to a flier Rickelton could’ve been run-out in the second over, but Aiden Markram missed a direct hit from point. Rickelton showed his trust in the pitch as he slogged and pulled balls off a length. He drove a full toss down to take 15 off Prince Yadav’s first over. There were no other chances created in the 66run powerplay. Having not conceded a
single six in the powerplay, Digvesh Rathi came in, but Rickelton slog swept him twice for two sixes over midwicket, before reaching a 25ball fifty.
Rathi changed ends and bowled quicker and straighter on return. Rickelton tried to capitalise on the googly when it was tossed up outside off, but it ended up slicing straight to point in the ninth over. He made 58.
SKY, finishers take LSG down Mayank was brought back with Suryakumar new at the crease. That didn’t work, as Suryakumar launched him over his head. Jacks then got a couple of boundaries behind square both sides of the wicket. The slower balls, though, did keep the batters down and MI moved to 105 for 2 in 10 overs.
Prince’s reverse-swinging yorker then knocked Jacks over for 29.
Suryakumar kept MI’s tempo going by hitting Bishnoi for a four and two sixes in the 13th over, but the 16-run over also saw dismissal of Tilak Varma.
Suryakumar brought up his 4000th run in the IPL with a ramp off Avesh Khan, and got another six off Prince over fine leg.
At 157 for 5 in 15 overs, MI were ready to launch, but Mayank set them back when he dislodged Hardik’s leg stump and gave away just five runs in the 16th over. Suryakumar was then dismissed for 54 off 28 balls, but MI kept finding the boundaries.
Rathi’s off-day continued at the death as LSG continued with just five bowlers. The over started with an edged reverse sweep that went for four. It finished with 19 runs as Naman Dhir and Corbin Bosch got under the ball and launched sixes over the leg side. MI soared past 200 with an over to go. Four full tosses from Avesh in the 20th over helped MI post 215.
Marsh, Pooran start well
Aiden Markram was able to slash Boult, who started from around the wicket, through the off side for a couple of fours. Marsh then launched a flick over square leg off Deepak Chahar that nearly went out of the ground.
Bumrah was slightly lucky to get Markram as hi middled flick went straight into the hands of deep-backward square. Pooran got hold of Chahar in his third powerplay over, scything two wide yorkers for six before pulling a short ball for one more as LSG posted to 60 for 1 in six.
Jacks does it again
With Mitchell Santner out due to a finger niggle and a left-hander on the tear, Jacks was brought on
ahead of Karn Sharma and he struck twice. The first ball was lobbed up in the slot but Pooran mistimed a lofted drive to long-off, where Suryakumar took a good catch.
Pant was back at No. 4 but endured another short stay at the crease. He edged a cut for four through third before miscuing a premeditated reverse sweep to Karn at short third. The wicket led to the two overs following the powerplay going for just 13 runs.
Boult et al keep set batters in check Ayush Badoni got off
to a watchful start. He was on seven off seven balls before making room and slashing Karn for two fours and a six. Marsh hit two fours off Hardik Pandya’s sole over but slowed down from 31 off 17 to 34 off 24. Hardik rang in the changes as five different bowlers were used between the eighth and 13th overs.
The asking rate rose close to 12 when Boult, on return, got Marsh with a slower ball and reduce LSG to 110 for 4. Badoni and David Miller continued the trend of the earlier partnership, with Miller, the new batter, getting off to a quick start (21 off 13) while the set batter slowed down.
Badoni got away with an undetected edge in the 14th over, but fell to a slower ball from Boult to end with 35 off 22 after being 30 off 15.
Bumrah brings the chase crashing down Bumrah returned with LSG needing 76 off 30 balls and got three wickets, starting with Miller’s. Bumrah followed Miller with a low full toss that was flicked to Bosch at deep midwicket. A dipping slower yorker had Abdul Samad early into the shot and knocked middle stump back. A paceon yorker smashed Avesh’s off stump. At 142 for 8, the game was effectively done. Bishnoi was able to launch a couple of sixes, the second of which was off Bumrah and brought out smiles and fist-pumps, but Bosch and Boult cleaned up the tail and completed MI’s 150th IPL win comprehensively.
Mumbai Indians have sealed their fifth consecutive win
Trent Boult picked up two wickets in the middle period
Jasprit Bumrah was amazing with figures of 4 for 22
Suryakumar Yadav made 54 off 28 balls
Inaugural Breakout T20 League…
Guyana Rainforest Rangers suffer another defeat
The Guyana Rainforest Rangers have suffered another defeat in the inaugural West Indies Breakout T20 League.
In a match played against the Trinidad & Tobago Legions on Saturday night at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy in Tarouba, Guyana Rainforest Rangers won the toss and elected to field first.
Trinidad and Tobago Legions posted 173 for 6 in their 20 overs, with Captain Joshua Da Silva’s score of 68 runs from 36 balls comprising 3 fours and 6 sixes, and Jyd Goolie providing excellent support with 49 from 30 balls (4x4, 6x3).
Ashmead Nedd and Jediah Blades were both economical in taking two wickets, while the other bowlers bled runs at alarming rates.
When the Guyana
Rainforest Rangers batted, openers Kevlon Anderson (27 off 20) and Rivaldo Clarke (23) gave them a strong start, but the innings lacked momentum, although a gutsy 33 from 28 deliveries
came from Kemol Savory. The score at conclusion of the Rangers’ 20 overs stood at 150 for 9, thanks to the Legions’ all-around bowling performance, in which Johann Layne and
GCB U19 Inter-County tourney…
Demerara, Berbice prevail in opening round
xcellent bowl-
Eing spells from Golcharran Chulai and Parmeshwar Ram weren’t enough to register wins for their teams in the opening round of the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) Male Under-19 50 Overs Inter-County Cricket Tournament.
Guyana Cricket Board
Select XI lost the toss in the first encounter, played against Berbice Under-19 at the Police Sports Club Ground in Georgetown, and the Berbicians posted a score of 214 all out in 48.3 overs.
In this collective effort, Matthew Pottaya top-scored with 40 from 44 balls, while Rampersaud Ramnauth and Ari Afrizal Kadir each contributed 23.
Ram of the Select XI had figures of 5 for 37 in his 10 overs, and Dave Mohabir supported with 2 wickets. Jonathan Mentore’s 13 was the top score for Select XI, who were bundled out
for an extremely disappointing 36 in 16.4 overs.
Salim Khan had figures of 4 for 15, while Pottaya GoodDay produced figures of 3 for 4 runs. Sanjay Algoo, also known as l9, claimed 2 wickets, and the Berbice team had a 178-run victory.
The other encounter was a low-scoring event between the Demerara and Essequibo Under-19 teams, played at the Imam Bacchus Sports Club Ground on the Essequibo Coast. Winning the toss and opting to bat first, Demerara scored an underwhelming
96 all out in 24.3 overs, of which Romeo Deonarain top-scored with 18.
Golcharran Chulai was the chief destroyer, taking 5 for 18 in his spell.
Essequibo, in reply, were bowled out for 73, with Ronaldo Jeffrey’s 14 being the top score, as Neerani Bani (4 for 16 ) and Jayden Dowlin (3 for 9 ) led their team to a 23-run victory.
Action is scheduled for Monday, April 28, when Berbice meets Essequibo at the Police Sports Club Ground and Select XI play Demerara at LBI.
Mikkel Govia each took two wickets, while Joshua James had figures of 3 for 35. The Rangers were thus defeated by 23 runs.
Leeward Islands defeat Jamaica Titans Leeward Islands Thunder got a well-deserved victory in their opening
game against the Jamaica Titans.
Batting first, Jamaica scored 123 for 6 in 20 overs, with Jordan Johnson top-scoring with a pedestrian knock of 40 off 45 balls.
Anderson Mahase had figures of 3 for 16 in 4 overs.
Kofi James with 39 and Captain Karima Gore
led the Thunder to the win, reaching 127 for 4 in 16.4 overs. The Jamaica Titans will meet the Guyana Rainforest Rangers at 14:00 on Tuesday, April 29th. A subsequent game would pit the Barbados Pelicans against the Windward Island Infernos.
The Retrieve Hard Court in the mining town of Linden was again a hive of activity as the Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ Linden edition continued with its third night of action.
Turf President was the first team to pick up a win on the night, defeating Coomacka 3-0. Clinton Carlyle opened the scoring in the 9th minute, while Anthony Layne netted a ‘Guinness Goal’ (which accounts for two goals) in the 20th for the win.
YMCA cruised past Hard Ball Management 2-0. An own-goal in the Guinness goal period in the 19th minute cost Hard Ball Management the three points.
Then LA Ballers edged High Rollers 2-1, and DC Ballers got the better of Assassa Ballers 3-0 on the back of a Donovan Francis Guinness Goal in the 19th. Kwesi Quintin had earlier added to their tally in the 7th minute.
Goals off the boots of Jermaine Samuels and Colwyn Drakes in the respective 7th and 15th minutes lifted Silver Bullets to a 2-0 win over Pro Ballerz. Swag Entertainment followed up with a 3-0 victory against Young Gunners. Allan Halley broke the ice be-
from the
tween the two teams in the 6th minute, while Kendolph Lewis made it a 3-0 affair when he found the back of the net in the 19th for a Guinness Goal.
In other results, Spaniards and Excuse the Rush played to a mil-all draw, while a brush between
a $500,000 grand prize. The tournament is billed to conclude on Friday, May 9th.
Bomberz and Realest Ballerz produced similar results. The teams in the Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ tournament are competing for
Golcharran Chulai had figures of 5 for 18
Da Silva top-scored with 68
Action between Guyana Rainforest Rangers and Trinidad and Tobago Legions
Matthew Pottaya receiving his Man of the Match award from GCB Competition Committee Chairman Shaun Massiah
Snippets
Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ tournament in Linden
