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Update: Man remanded on murder and arson charges

Nationnews Desk
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Update: Man remanded on murder and arson charges

A 54-year-old man charged in connection with a fatal house fire in Bank Hall, St Michael, has been remanded to prison.

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WIBISCO revenue dips in 2026

Shawn Cumberbatch
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WIBISCO revenue dips in 2026

Revenue and profits dipped at the West India Biscuit Company Limited (WIBISCO) in the first half of its 2026 financial year, following challenging market conditions and operational difficulties across both local and export segments.

This was detailed in the published chairman’s report and condensed financial statements for the six months ended February 28.

WIBISCO recorded a $4.37 million net profit in the period, down from the $4.9 million in net income earned in the same six months in 2025. Revenue was $39.3 million, compared to $40.5 million in the first six months of financial year 2025.

Chairman Chloe Bermudez said: “The first half of the 2026 financial year presented challenging market conditions and operational difficulties across both local and export segments.

“Revenue for the six months ending February 2026 totalled $39.3 million, three per cent below the prior year.

“The shortfall was due to reduced demand in some of our product categories and to various challenges in export markets, driven largely by logistics constraints, shipment timing issues, and changing consumer dynamics.”

Bermudez said notwithstanding these challenges, “export markets remain an area of focus despite the short-term disruptions which affected our shipment volumes”.

She stated: “Management is actively working with regional partners to normalise supply flows and to rebuild momentum over the remainder of the year.

“Operating expenses were tightly controlled below the prior year, helping to moderate the impact of reduced revenue. Further, we remain focused on maintaining quality production and efficiency.”

“Operationally, the company made important progress during the period. Key manufacturing issues were addressed through specialist technical support, resulting in improved equipment reliability and more consistent production outcomes,” the chairman reported.

“Packaging upgrades and process improvements were also implemented to support product quality and long-term efficiency.”

She added: “The company also maintained its commitment to employee wellbeing and workplace safety, with continued focus on training, engagement and a proactive safety culture.”

The good news for shareholders was that the biscuit manufacturer’s directors declared an interim dividend of 25 cents per share payable this month.

Bermudez said WIBISCO’s balance sheet “remains strong, and it is well positioned to expand its facilities through a disciplined capital programme”.

“This approach will support the additional capacity required and [to] remain aligned with the company’s growth strategy,” she explained.

“Looking ahead, management’s priorities are clear regarding recovering revenue momentum in both local and export markets and in continuing to improve manufacturing performance.” (SC)

PM warns process used to re-appoint CARICOM SG could have long term effects for Trinidadians

Nationnews Desk
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PM warns process used to re-appoint CARICOM SG could have long term effects for Trinidadians

Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar says the “surreptitious and odious process” used regarding the reappointment of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Secretary General, Dr. Cara Barnett, could have long term effects for the people of Trinidad and Tobago.

In a statement posted on her Facebook page, Persad-Bissessar said that she was again calling on the 15-member regional integration grouping “for transparency on the surreptitious and odious process used to reappoint” the Belizean-born economist for another five year term.

“Trinidad and Tobago remains committed to CARICOM, but until this matter is transparently resolved, the organization and its secretariat should absolutely expect no quarter from my Government.

“This is not a simple run-of-the-mill administrative appointment; it’s an appointment with long-term ramifications for my citizens. It’s an appointment that directly affects the future over the coming five years of Trinidad and Tobago’s economy, security, integration, and foreign affairs. Therefore in the interest of my citizens wellbeing I will mercilessly, relentlessly, and if needed, ruthlessly publicly prosecute this matter until transparency is achieved,”  Persad-Bissessar wrote.

Late last month, in a brief statement, the CARICOM chairman and St Kitts and Nevis Prime Minister, Dr Terrance Drew, said that Barnett had attained the “required majority” from among regional leaders regarding her re-appointment at last month’s CARICOM summit held in Basseterre.

However Trinidad and Tobago has insisted that it was “not invited” to the deliberations that led to Barnett’s re-appointment, with Port of Spain adding that Antigua and Barbuda and The Bahamas were also absent.

“I emphatically put on the record … that Trinidad and Tobago was not invited by email, telephone or in person to that meeting where that particular decision was made,” that country’s CARICOM and foreign affairs minister, Sean Sobers, told the Trinidad and Tobago Parliament last month.

Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar, who left the Basseterre summit prior to the retreat of regional leaders on Nevis, said on March 25, Sobers wrote to Prime Minister Drew, “formally placing on record Trinidad and Tobago’s objection to the re-appointment of Dr. Carla Barnett as Secretary-General of CARICOM.

“Our concern is straightforward: the proposed re-appointment was not included on the provisional agenda for the Fiftieth Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government in St. Kitts and Nevis, was not considered during plenary, and was reportedly addressed only during the Heads of Government Retreat…from which Trinidad and Tobago and other Member States were excluded through their authorised representatives.

“This raises serious concerns to the use of improper procedures to circumvent the process and facilitate Barnett’s reappointment,”  Persad-Bissessar said, adding that “Trinidad and Tobago therefore maintains that the re-appointment was not undertaken in accordance with Article 24 of the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas, which requires formal consideration and appointment by the Conference”.

She said to ensure full transparency, further letters dated March 31, 2026, were sent to Prime Minister Drew and directly to the Secretary-General seeking clarification on the process followed.

“These letters requested details on when and how the matter was placed on draft agendas, what communications were issued to Member States, whether governments were informed following the Joint Communiqué and closing press conference, and whether any draft decision was circulated confidentially after the Retreat.

“They also sought an explanation for any confidentiality surrounding the matter, given the importance of preserving Member State confidence in CARICOM’s Rules of Procedure and collective decision-making.”

Persad-Bissessar said further, on March 31, 2026, the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Foreign and CARICOM Affairs wrote to Janice Miller, Chef-de-Cabinet, Office of the Secretary-General, “formally requesting clarification and documentation regarding the re-appointment of the CARICOM Secretary-General.

“The letter noted that previous re-appointments, such as in 2016, adhered to proper procedures, with decisions recorded and reflecting the views of all Heads of Government. The Permanent Secretary emphasized that the current process appears not to have conformed to CARICOM’s Rules of Procedure.

“To date, no response has been received. The people of Trinidad and Tobago who finance 22 per cent of CARICOM’s budget deserve transparency, accountability, and faithful adherence to agreed rules,” Persad-Bissessar added.

Barnett became the eighth CARICOM Secretary General on August 15, 2021, by “unanimous appointment” of the regional leaders. (CMC)

Rapper Offset shot in Florida 

Nationnews Desk
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Rapper Offset shot in Florida 

Former Migos rapper Offset has been shot outside a casino in Florida, according to US media reports.

The 34-year-old, whose real name is Kiari Kendrell Cephus, is in a “stable” condition and being “closely monitored” in hospital, a spokesperson told Variety.

The Seminole Police Department have told BBC Newsbeat the incident happened on Monday evening and that two people have been detained in connection with the shooting.

BBC Newsbeat has contacted Offset’s representatives for comment.

Police said an incident took place “at a valet area” after 19:00 on Monday, outside of Seminole Hard Rock Hollywood” and “resulted in non-life threatening injuries to an individual”.

The force also said the “investigation is ongoing”.

Offset is best known for being part of the hip-hop trio Migos along with Quavo and Takeoff.

He married US singer and rapper Cardi B in 2017 and the couple have three children.

They later separated and filed for divorce in 2024.

Multi-platinum group Migos first went viral with the song Versace in 2013.

Another hit followed in 2017, Bad and Boujee, which made it to number one on the Billboard Hot 100.

They have been described as one of the most influential groups of their generation.

In early 2022, the trio split with Quavo and Takeoff forming their own duo, Unc & Phew.

Offset pursued a solo career.

Months later in November 2022, Takeoff was shot dead at a bowling alley in Houston, Texas.

His record label paid tribute to the rapper in a statement: “Senseless violence and a stray bullet has taken another life from this world and we are devastated.” (BBC News)

New air service from Halifax

Antoinette Connell
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New air service from Halifax

A new non-stop air service from Halifax on Air Canada to Barbados has been launched for the end of this year.

In announcing the flight, the Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc (BTMI) said it will mark a significant milestone for the destination and the first new route established from the Canadian market in several years.

The new service will operate on Thursdays from December 17 on Air Canada’s 177-seat Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft.

Minister of Tourism and International Transport, Ian Gooding-Edghill, in welcoming the move, acknowledged the airline’s role in bringing the route to fruition and its confidence in Barbados as a destination.

“Increasing airlift and improving accessibility to the island remains a key priority of this Ministry, and this new route is directly aligned with our overall airlift strategy for the destination. We are continuing to explore other opportunities both in our key source markets and emerging markets to ensure that we are well positioned to stimulate sustainable growth for Barbados,” he said.

In a press release, the BTMI stated that the service reflected the strength of Barbados’ relationship with Air Canada and the success of sustained, strategic efforts to expand access and drive growth.

The new route, it explained, was the result of more than a year-and-a-half of focused engagement, data-driven planning and close collaboration with the carrier and key strategic partners, underscoring Barbados’ commitment to building meaningful partnerships that deliver long-term value.

Andrea Franklin, chief executive officer of BTMI, said that with the new non-stop service, Barbados continued to strengthen its position within the Canadian market, enhancing

ease of travel while reinforcing its reputation as a premier Caribbean destination.

“The route is expected to drive incremental growth, support tourism stakeholders and further solidify the island’s long-standing relationship with Canada,” she said.

Canada continues to be one of Barbados’ key source markets, with steady growth in visitor arrivals and increasing demand across key regions, including Ontario, Quebec, Western and Atlantic Canada. The new service, the BTMI added, will not only enhance connectivity but also position Barbados to further capitalise on that momentum.

BTMI director, Canada, Eusi Skeete, said the launch marked a defining moment in the Canadian market.

“In the last year we have achieved the highest visitor arrivals from Canada in 45 years, welcomed expanded capacity on Air Canada from Toronto and increased frequency from Montreal.

“Over the past 18 months, we have taken a highly strategic and intentional approach to amplifying our presence in Atlantic Canada through engaging trade partners and consumers, strengthening our partnerships with key stakeholders and positioning Barbados as the preferred choice for Atlantic Canadians,” he stated.

“This new service is a direct outcome of that work, and it unlocks new opportunities particularly in regions where demand is growing and access has been limited. We will continue to reinforce Barbados as a destination that is not only aspirational but now increasingly more accessible.” ( PR/AC)

Great last day for Barbados

Jonteau Coppin
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Great last day for Barbados

Barbados delivered one of the defining moments of this year’s CARIFTA Games at the Kirani James Athletics Stadium in Grenada when it owned the Under-20 Girls’ 800 metres with a one-two finish yesterday.

Co-captain Ashlyn Simmons led the way to secure gold in 2:09.07, while Danya Skeete followed closely to claim silver in a personal best 2:10.50.

With one lap remaining, the pair broke decisively from the field, working in tandem to extend their advantage and seal the country’s only one-two finish of the competition.

Their success was matched in the field, over long distances and in the relays.

Debuting in the Under-20 category, Jayden Walcott struck gold in the shot put with a winning throw of 18.41 metres, while Luke McIntyre controlled the Under-20 Boys’ 5000 metres, producing a composed run of 15:42.51 to secure top honour.

The Bajans capped off the Games by also winning gold in the final event as the quartet of Nadal Skeete, Aidan Moore, Jahkye Brewster and Shamarii Greenidge-Lewis captured the Under-20 Boys’ 4×400 metres relay with a new record time.

The results lifted Barbados’ medal tally to 17 medals, including six gold.

Subscribe now to our eNATION edition for the full story. For the latest stories and breaking news updates download the Nationnews apps for iOS and Android.

Team Barbados medals

Sherrylyn Clarke
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Team Barbados medals

Team Barbados medal count at the 2026 CARIFTA Games, St George’s, Grenada.

Gold Medals

Ashlyn Simmons Under-20 Girls’ 1500 metres 4 minutes 36.94 seconds (personal best)

Ashlyn Simmons Under-20 Girls’ 800 metres 2:09.07

Kamaal Armstrong Under-17 Boys’ shot put 15.96 metres (personal best)

Jayden Walcott Under-20 Boys’ Shot Put 18.41m

Luke McIntyre Under-20 Boys’ 5000m 15:42.51

Under-20 Boys’ 4x400m (Nadal Seale, Aidan Moore, Jahkye Brewster, Shamari Greenidge-Lewis) 3:05.49 (Meet record)

Silver Medals

Kadia Rock Under-20 Girls’ 400 metres 53.21 seconds

Laila McIntyre Open Girls’ 3000 10 minutes 15.61 seconds

Danya Skeete Under-20 Girls’ 800 metres 2:10.50

Bronze Medals

Shania Mottley Under-17 Girls’ High Jump 1.69 metres

Mixed Relay (Nadal Seale, Kanedra Morgan, Zachary Wall, T’Nia Lashley) 3:24.36, (junior national record)

Zindzele Renwick-Williams Under-17 Boys’ 3000m 9 minutes 26.95 seconds

Under-17 Boys’ 4×100 metres (Tyrell Clarke, Josiah Gill, Asher Brandford, Jalino Hamlet) 42.25 seconds

Under-20 Girls’ 4×100 metres (Semara Olton, Kadia Rock, Afia Greenidge, Alike Harewood) 45.40 seconds

Aaron Massiah Under-20 Boys’ Triple Jump 15.26 metres

Under-17 Boys’ 4x400m (Khalil Bryan, Taje Coward, Jamiko Devonish, Jalino Hamlett) 3:19.90

Under-20 Girls’ 4x400m (Kanedra Morgan, Ashlyn Simmons, Danya Skeete, Kadia Rock) 3:40.68

Barbados wins seven gold on opening day of CARIFTA Aquatics

Nationnews Desk
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Barbados made a powerful start to the 39th CARIFTA Aquatic Championships capturing seven gold medals, one silver, and two bronze medals on the opening day of competition on Saturday at the Stade Georges Gratiant in Lamentin, Martinique.

Leading the charge was distance specialist Heidi Stoute, who delivered an outstanding performance to win gold in the Girls’ 15-17 800 metres freestyle in 9:27.49 minutes, giving Barbados an early boost in the medal standings. 

Another standout performer was Mihael Sobers, brother of Olympian Alex Sobers, who secured two gold medals on the day. 

He first dominated the Boys’ 13-14 1500 metres freestyle, touching the wall in 17:29.23 minutes, before returning later to claim victory in the 50 metres backstroke in 28.97 seconds, showcasing his versatility and endurance in the pool. 

Barbados also struck gold through Christian Vanderpool, who powered to victory in the Boys’ 11-12 200 metres breaststroke with a winning time of 2:46.27, while Keniel Ledgister added another top podium finish in the Boys’ 11-12 100 metres butterfly, stopping the clock at 1:05.78. 

Relay teams were equally impressive, contributing significantly to the medal tally. The Boys’ 11-12 400 metres freestyle relay Zachary Ladipo, Keniel Ledgister, Joshua Parris and Christian Vanderpool gave a strong collective performance to capture gold in 4:12.26, while the Girls’ 15-17 400 metres freestyle relay team of Toria Alleyne, Ayoka Martin, Jaiya Simmons and Heidi Stoute produced a superb swim to also secure gold in 3:56.85 minutes. 

Barbados also collected silver through Kaija Eastmond, who finished second in the Girls’ 13-14 100 metres butterfly in 1:07.34, adding to Barbados’ growing medal haul. 

Bronze medals were earned by Gabriella Babb, who placed third in the Girls’ 11-12 100 metres butterfly in 1:13.45, and Kaija Eastmond, who added another podium finish with third place in the Girls’ 13-14 50 metres backstroke in 31.70 seconds. (ML)

Man charged with murder and arson in Bank Hall case

Nationnews Desk
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Man charged with murder and arson in Bank Hall case

Update

A 54-year-old man charged in connection with a fatal house fire in Bank Hall, St Michael, has been remanded to prison.

Police said Ricardo Okella Stanford, of Bank Hall, was formally charged with murder and arson in relation to the death of Shanell Smith on March 27.

Stanford appeared before Chief Magistrate (ag) Douglas Frederick in the District ‘A’ Criminal Court today and was not required to plead to the indictable offences.

He was remanded to the Barbados Prison Service (Dodds) and is scheduled to return to court on May 5.

*********

Earlier Story

A 54-year-old man has been charged with murder and arson in connection with an incident in Bank Hall, St Michael.

Ricardo Okella Stanford, of Bank Hall, was arrested and charged in connection with the death of Shanell Smith on March 27.

Stanford is scheduled to appear in the District ‘A’ Criminal Court on Tuesday, April 7, 2026.

CWI facing fireworks on social media

Philip Spooner
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CWI facing fireworks on social media

Several West Indies fans have taken to social media platforms to tell Cricket West Indies (CWI) how they truly feel about the challenges facing the game in the region.

The regional governing body recently embarked on a campaign to promote its ideology following the publication of the 2025 annual report. The outreach features graphics on its social media pages, with statements from president Dr Kishore Shallow, chief executive officer Chris Dehring, and director of cricket Miles Bascombe.

All three ended with a call to action and directed readers to access the 2025 annual report on CWI’s website.

This follows recent attempts to engage the public, including a media conference hosted by the trio and open to journalists from around the world. A few days later, they made an appearance on the Mason & Guests radio talk show on Starcom Network, addressing concerns over the revamped Regional Four-day First-class Championship, which is down to 12 matches from 28 last year. They also explained the board’s position on the schedule of matches for the upcoming international home series.

In its most recent financial report released last month, CWI disclosed that in 2025 it recorded a significant net income loss compared to a net surplus of over US$22 million in 2024. The board said its cash resources had also fallen from US$17.5 million in 2024 to US$1.7 million in 2025.

The responses from the public on the CWI platforms varied. Some were well thought out and articulated, some offered ideas on the way forward, others were humorous and aimed at gaining “likes”, while a few questioned the organisation’s ability to remain a viable force on the international stage.

In response to Dehring, one fan on Instagram asked: “What’s the strategy to achieve this goal? We need to see some signs of substance, not just nice words. What’s the plan boss”?

Another fan on Facebook took Bascombe to task, saying: “Targeted improvements that don’t show up on scoreboards . . . . So, all those marginal gains amounting to nothing tangible/ measurable?”

Another poster, under the name Ganesh Mahabir, believed to be the former Trinidad and Tobago spin bowler, called for an audit of CWI as soon as possible. This was echoed by others, some of whom called for the resignation of the board of directors.

Amid the present financial challenges, Dehring posited the view that “the major task at hand is to revamp our production pipeline to make it fit for purpose in the modern paradigm”.

In Bascombe’s post, he urged the fan to support the regional side despite the poor showing on the field.

Last year, West Indies men played ten Tests – winning one (in Pakistan), losing eight and drawing one. Among the defeats was one to Australia in which the Windies suffered the embarrassment of being bowled out for 27 in Jamaica – the lowest total in the history of West Indies cricket. The women’s team fell short at the qualification tournament in Pakistan and failed to qualify for the World Cup in India.

Bascombe noted: “The 2025 cricket year is best understood not through wins and losses alone, but through the lens of deliberate, measurable improvement. Building a winning international team is not a single event – it is the accumulation of marginal gains across technique, conditioning, tactics and culture and systems that, over time, translate into sustained performance.

“By that measure, 2025 was a year of meaningful forward movement for CWI.” (PS)

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