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Prime Minister Gaston Browne on Thursday confirmed the resignation of Customs Comptroller Raju Boddu, due to what the government believes is ‘wilful neglect’ linked to vehicle purchase breaches.

Several transfers have also been made as the government tightens oversight.

The Prime Minister revealed the development during the sitting of Parliament’s Lower House on Thursday morning .

Boddu tendered his resignation, bringing an unexpected end to his longstanding tenure at the helm of the Customs and Excise Division.

Reports indicate that Boddu submitted his resignation earlier this week, a move that has taken many by surprise.

In his letter, Boddu reportedly cited health concerns as the primary reason for stepping down.

Boddu, an experienced customs administrator, has served in Antigua and Barbuda for several years, earning a reputation for his strict enforcement of customs regulations and efforts to modernize the division.

Officials have not yet announced who will act in the position pending a formal replacement.

Archbishop Edward Joseph Gilbert, former Bishop of Roseau and later Archbishop of Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago, died in Florida on Wednesday at age 88.

Born in the United States on December 26, 1936, Gilbert served as Bishop of Roseau from 1994 to 2001, where he reorganized the diocese, launched the Diocesan Synod, promoted vocations, and appointed the first woman chancellor. He also established the Dominica Catholic newspaper.

Appointed Archbishop of Port of Spain by Pope John Paul II in 2001, Gilbert led the archdiocese until his retirement in 2011. A member of the Redemptorist order, he was ordained in 1964 and held a Doctorate in Canon Law from The Catholic University of America.

He died in New Smyrna Beach, Florida, after a period of illness.

The management of Beryllium security company has filed a criminal complaint with the police after millions of dollars in cash was stolen from one of its trucks on the weekend.

A 32-year-old driver of the security company has been listed as the prime suspect in the theft of more than J$15 million.

It is reported that on Saturday, the suspect, along with four other security officers, went to the MegaMart Superstore to service the ABM.

The driver was left in the armoured truck, but on the return of the other workers to the vehicle, they observed that he was missing.

They made checks with the security personnel at MegaMart and viewed CCTV footage which revealed that the driver exited the front of the vehicle with a backpack.

He then went to the back of the armoured truck, then entered but he was later seen exiting the armoured vehicle with the same bag and left the compound.

He left his uniform and the firearm assigned to him.

A team later went to his house in the central parish of St. Catherine, but he was not found.

The efforts to contact him via cellular phone proved futile.

Young people from across Barbados have urged policymakers and international partners to channel more financing into disaster resilience, rather than response, during the National Youth Platform marking the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction (IDDRR).

Held under the global theme ‘Fund Resilience, Not Disasters,’ the forum brought together youth leaders, government officials, and representatives of the United Nations and development partners to spotlight the urgent need for greater investment in measures that protect communities from climate and disaster risks.

Speakers emphasized that while young people are among the most affected by disasters, they are also vital contributors to national resilience efforts.

Captain Robert Harewood, Deputy Director of the Department of Emergency Management, said youth engagement is critical to Barbados’ disaster preparedness. ‘Involving young people in national resilience planning ensures a safer, more sustainable future for all,’ he said.

United Nations Resident Coordinator Simon Springett echoed the call for intergenerational collaboration, stressing that youth priorities must be integrated into policy and financing decisions. ‘No single entity can tackle these challenges alone,’ he said. ‘Strengthening our collective response is essential, and this National Youth Platform is a step in that direction.’

Saskia Carusi, Deputy Chief of the UN Office for Disaster Risk Reduction for the Americas and the Caribbean, noted that disasters are becoming more destructive due in part to ‘risk-blind investments’ that heighten vulnerability. She underscored the need for smarter, risk-informed financing to reduce future losses.

Delivering the government’s keynote address, Minister of Home Affairs and Information Wilfred Abrahams said that investing in resilience is not a cost but a safeguard.

‘Every dollar spent on resilience saves many more in recovery,’ he said. ‘For Small Island Developing States like Barbados, shifting from reaction to prevention is not optional – it is the difference between vulnerability and viability.’

A youth-led panel discussion explored how innovation, partnerships, and financing can drive resilience across the Caribbean. UNICEF Youth Advocate for the Environment Maria Marshall called for young people to be recognized as ‘powerful agents of change,’ noting that their ideas and local knowledge can strengthen community preparedness.

The event also featured the launch of the World Tsunami Awareness Day 2025 Film Festival, set for November, which aims to raise awareness about tsunami hazards in the Caribbean through film and community engagement.

Head coach Hubert Busby has named his 23-woman squad for the Reggae Girls’ upcoming friendly international against Caribbean rivals Trinidad and Tobago.

In announcing the roster, Coach Busby highlighted the importance of maintaining a stable foundation of players who have navigated the team through recent high-stakes matches.

‘I think if you look at the roster, there’s a strong core of players that have been with this group for a while now,’ Busby stated. ‘We’ve used the opportunities to maintain that core, and it’s allowed us to build our group. You’ve seen a lot of those players participate in some really big matches where they’ve gained some really valuable experience.’

While acknowledging that past results may not have always reflected their performances, Busby pointed to the ‘invaluable experience’ gained, particularly for the younger collegiate players, who are now excelling in their respective programs.

The core remains largely intact, but the selection also introduces fresh faces poised to challenge for positions. A key addition is defender Tiana Harris, who has been impressing while playing in France and Portugal.

‘Tiana is a player we’ve been following for a while. It was a great opportunity to bring her in to add to the competition for places, but also add to the depth in the back line.’

Another player earning a recall is defender Gabrielle Gayle, whose performances in Mexico have caught the coaching staff’s eye.

‘She’s a local-born player that we want to see how she’s kind of progressed in the last year and a half playing abroad,’ Busby said. ‘This is a great opportunity for her to make a claim.’

The squad also sees the inclusion of promising youth talent, such as Jaileah McPherson, captain of the U20 side. After a conversation with her collegiate coaching staff, her schedule was cleared to allow for national team duty.

This friendly renews a regional rivalry. The last time the two teams met was on August 31, 2018, at the National Stadium in Kingston, where Jamaica secured a decisive 4-1 victory.

The goals that day came from Giselle Washington, Jody Brown, and a brace from superstar striker Khadija Shaw, who is not featured in this current squad.

The match against Trinidad and Tobago will serve as a key tune-up for the CONCACAF Women’s World Cup qualifiers, which begin in November.

FULL SQUAD:

Goalkeepers: Rebecca Spencer (Chelsea W FC), Sydney Schneider (Tampa Bay Sun FC)

Defenders: Allyson Swaby (Crystal Palace W FC), Tianna Harris (Damaiense FC), Konya Plummer (Fenerbahçe), Chantelle Swaby (Leicester City W FC), Tiffany Cameron (Halifax Tides FC), Gabrielle Gayle (Lancaster Inferno SC)

Midfielders: Olufolasade Adamolekun (Hearts FC), Jaileah McPherson (Florida International), Deniesha Blackwood (Cruz Azul W FC), Israela Groves (Athlone Town FC), Atlanta Primus (Southampton W FC), Vyan Sampson (INAC Kobe Lionesses)

Forwards: Kayla McKenna (FC Zurich Grasshoppers), Natasha Thomas (Ipswich Town W FC), Shania Hayles (Newcastle United W FC), Jody Brown (Marseille W FC), Njeri Butts (University of Florida), Kalyssa Van Zanten (Houston Dash FC)

The Caribbean Institute for Meteorology and Hydrology (CIMH), in collaboration with Rutgers University’s Center for Ocean Observing Leadership (RUCOOL), the University of the Virgin Islands (UVI), and the IOC Sub-Commission for the Caribbean and Adjacent Regions (IOCARIBE-GOOS), successfully completed the recovery of the Vetlesen Caribbean Hurricane Ocean Glider earlier this week.

The recovery marks a major milestone in the region’s efforts to strengthen ocean observation systems that enhance hurricane and tropical cyclone modeling for the Caribbean.

The mission, supported by the G. Unger Vetlesen Foundation, forms part of the 2025 International Challenger Mission, a global initiative promoting ocean science collaboration and data sharing to support climate resilience.

Launched off the west coast of Barbados in mid-July, the glider collected critical data on ocean temperature and salinity from waters around Barbados, Trinidad and Tobago, and Guyana.

Models constructed from the data will provide essential inputs for forecasting that will improve understanding of ocean-atmosphere interactions, a key factor in predicting hurricane intensity and trajectory.

Dr. David Farrell, Principal of the CIMH, highlighted the collaborative nature of the project has been a key factor in its success.

‘This mission demonstrates the power of regional and international collaboration in advancing scientific understanding of our oceans,’ remarked Dr. Farrell. ‘By leveraging technology and partnerships, we are taking a major step toward establishing CIMH as a regional hub for marine science and for ocean glider research and innovation. The data collected will directly support improved hurricane forecasting, ocean observing and modelling, and climate resilience across the Caribbean fisheries, among others.’

Dr. Lorna Inniss, Regional Coordinator and Head of IOCARIBE-UNESCO, emphasized that the glider’s mission is not only a scientific achievement but is also contributing to reduced fragmentation of regional ocean governance and the attainment of the 2030 Agenda, based on ‘The Science we Need for the Ocean we Want’. Inniss stated.

‘When we see the how the glider data has positively impacted hurricane forecasting already, it is clear that a fleet of Caribbean gliders and other monitoring platforms, interconnected as a regional ocean observing system, will assist in solving several ocean-related challenges.’

Meanwhile,Dr. Doug Wilson, Director of the UVI Ocean Glider Laboratory and Project Coordinator for IOCARIBE-GOOS, emphasized the importance of regional partnerships in ocean observing. Dr. Wilson said ,’The ocean and atmospheric phenomena that impact all Caribbean nations do not respect international boundaries, and this project – collecting ocean data and sharing with neighboring countries – shows the value of collaboration. Congratulations to CIMH and partners on leading the way in expanding regional ocean observing capabilities.’

The mission also highlights the transformative role of applied ocean science in advancing both regional and global weather research. Dr. Scott Glenn, Co-Director of RUCOOL and co-lead for the Global Ocean Observing System (GOOS) Co-Design Programme’s Tropical Cyclone Exemplar, noted that in addition to strengthening the Caribbean’s observing and forecasting capabilities, the data collected by the glider also contributes valuable insights to global research on ocean-atmosphere interactions. Dr. Dr. Glenn noted, ‘This glider mission is one of five globally coordinated pilot studies to better observe the essential ocean features and processes that impact hurricane intensity. What we learn here will be shared with other regions so that we all benefit from the improved accuracy and lead time for life-saving tropical cyclone forecasts.

Following the recovery of the hurricane glider, a technical session was held at the CIMH, bringing together students, scientists, and marine professionals to explore the glider’s mission and its role in advancing regional ocean observing capabilities. The event also included live data demonstrations and discussions on integrating ocean science into climate resilience and disaster risk reduction planning.

This mission represents the first in a series of collaborative glider recoveries and deployments planned for the Caribbean, furthering efforts to build capacity in marine science, strengthen partnerships, and improve data-driven decision-making for disaster risk reduction and climate adaptation.

The 2025 Canadian horseracing season at Assiniboia Downs (ASD) concluded spectacularly recently, culminating in the crowning of two new dominant forces in the winner’s circle.

Jockey Damario Bynoe and trainer Steve Keplin Jr. both secured their first-ever leading titles, headlining a year of record-breaking handle and thrilling competition.

Jockey Bynoe sealed his championship day with a statement, blazing to victory in two races on the closing card.

His final tally of 60 wins decisively dethroned three-time ASD riding champion Antonio Whitehall, who finished second with 48 victories.

‘This has been an incredible season and a dream come true,’ said an elated Bynoe after securing the title.

With this milestone, Bynoe carves his name into the history books as the 12th jockey from Barbados to win a riding title in North America.

The final jockey standings saw Sven Balroop in third with 36 wins, followed by Prayven Badrie with 29 and Rachaad Knights with 24.

In the trainer’s ranks, Steve Keplin Jr. celebrated a hard-earned championship, saddling 40 winners throughout the meet. He finished eight wins clear of runner-up Mike Nault 32.

The remarkable achievements of the two first-time champions highlighted a banner year for the track. Darren Dunn, CEO of Assiniboia Downs, praised the season’s thrilling conclusion.

‘What a finish this year with record wagering and the remarkable achievements from Damario and Steve Keplin Jr.,’ Dunn said. ‘We are so grateful for our growing fanbase of loyal horseplayers, the horsepeople that are giving it their all every day, and all the staff that helps to bring it all together. Thank you for another outstanding season.’

Barbados has been named the Caribbean’s leading wedding destination for the second consecutive year, cementing its position as the region’s premier spot to tie the knot.

The accolade was confirmed at the World Travel Awards (WTA) Caribbean and North American Gala Ceremony held earlier this month at Sandals Grande in Saint Lucia.

In a release the Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. (BTMI), hailed the win as a reflection of the island’s ongoing dedication to fostering a world-class wedding industry.

Chief Operations Officer at BTMI, Cheryl Carter said in the statement: ‘Barbados is deeply honoured to receive this prestigious recognition as the Caribbean’s Leading Wedding Destination. This award is a testament to the pride our nation feels when welcoming couples to begin their lives together.

‘The dedication, flair, creativity, and expertise of our many wedding planners ensure that every wedding, regardless of the size or style, is truly a memorable occasion. Over the years, Barbados has staged weddings of every description from intimate to extravagant, drawing on our rich culture, stunning venues, and world-class hospitality. With this accolade, we reaffirm our commitment to excellence in delivering exceptional destination weddings.’

Director of BTMI’s Caribbean department, Graham Clarke welcomed the continued recognition of Barbados in the face of tough competition from neighbouring destinations.

‘I am happy that the title remains in Barbados this year, as we were able to eclipse some of our neighbours who were also competing for the honour,’ Clarke said in the release. He further credited local industry stakeholders for their role in securing the award.

‘This honour reflects not only our island’s unique appeal but also the dedication of our exceptional tourism stakeholders, whose hard work makes every celebration extraordinary,’ he added.

WTA founder Graham Cooke described the ceremony as an opportunity to recognise the region’s highest achievers.

‘Our winners are stellar examples of tourism excellence, and I congratulate each and every one for helping to raise the collective benchmark across the region,’ Cooke said.

Established in 1993, the World Travel Awards are regarded as the benchmark for industry excellence, celebrating outstanding achievements in travel, tourism, and hospitality worldwide.

The following is the CANANews and SPORTS Schedule for Thursday, October 16, 2025

BRIDGETOWN – Barbados has been named the Caribbean’s leading wedding destination for the second consecutive year, cementing its position as the region’s premier spot to tie the knot.

KINGSTON – The two leading newspapers in the island , Jamaica Observer Limited (JOL) and Gleaner Company Media Limited (GCML) on Wednesday announced that they have agreed to enter a formal joint venture (JV) by the close of the calendar year.

GEORGETOWN – President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali has reaffirmed Guyana’s unwavering commitment to maintaining Latin America and the Caribbean as a zone of peace, while making clear that the country will also stand firm against transnational crime, the illicit drug trade, and any form of destabilisation that threatens regional stability.

NEW YORK – The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) ihas joined the Center for Constitutional Rights in filing a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request seeking the Office of Legal Counsel’s (OLC) guidance and other related documents regarding lethal strikes on alleged drug smugglers in the Caribbean.

SPORTS

NEW DELHI – While the scoreline reads a dominant 2-0 series victory for India, the story of the recently concluded Test series against the West Indies was one of resolute spirit and a powerful tribute from an unlikely source, the home side’s coach, Gautam Gambhir.

The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) ihas joined the Center for Constitutional Rights in filing a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request seeking the Office of Legal Counsel’s (OLC) guidance and other related documents regarding lethal strikes on alleged drug smugglers in the Caribbean.

The ACLU noted that, in testifying last week before the US Senate Judiciary Committee, US Attorney General Pam Bondi refused to confirm the existence (or nonexistence) of such guidance.

But the ACLU said on the same day, in a different hearing, Charles Young, who is nominated to serve as the US Army’s general counsel, acknowledged the existence of this opinion in an exchange with Senator Jeanne Shaheen, explaining that the ‘opinion was derived through an interagency lawyers working group’ including representatives from the White House and several executive branch agencies.

The ACLUC said public reporting also indicates that the OLC has issued an opinion, and that it asserts ‘sweeping, unprecedented claims of presidential authority to use military force against people alleged to be affiliated with drug cartels.’

Jeffrey Stein, staff attorney with the ACLU’s National Security Project, said: ‘All available evidence suggests that President Trump’s lethal strikes in the Caribbean constitute murder, pure and simple.

‘The public deserves to know how our government is justifying these attacks as lawful, and, given the stakes, immediate public scrutiny of its apparently radical theories is imperative,’ he added.

The ACLU said that, since early September, President Donald Trump has ordered five strikes on private boats traveling in the Caribbean Sea, reportedly killing at least 27 people.

In attempting to defend the legality of the strikes, the ACLU noted that the Trump administration has stated that drug cartels designated as terrorist organizations are ‘non-state armed groups’ whose ‘actions constitute an armed attack against the United States.’

‘But the United States is not in an armed conflict with drug cartels, and the people the government’s strikes have killed are civilians under international law,’ the ACLUC said. ‘For this reason, members of Congress from across the political spectrum, former government officials from both Republican and Democratic administrations, legal experts, civil society groups, and international bodies say the attacks appear to violate both international and domestic law.’

Baher Azmy, legal director of the Center for Constitutional Rights, said ‘in a constitutional system, no president can arbitrarily choose to assassinate individuals from the sky based on his whim or say-so.

‘The Trump administration is taking its indiscriminate pattern of lawlessness to a lethal level,’ he said. ‘The public understanding of any rationale supporting such unprecedented and shocking conduct is essential for transparency and accountability.’

In responding to the October 14 announcement of an airstrike killing six people in the Caribbean, Amnesty International USA’s Director for Security and Human Rights, Daphne Eviatar, described the airstrike as ‘murder-plain and simple.

‘There is no plausible legal justification for the Trump administration to use the US military to kill whoever it unilaterally deems a ‘terrorist”, she said. ‘This was the fifth US strike in the Caribbean since early September, bringing the body count-by the administration’s own admission-to 27.

‘These airstrikes outrageously flout international law and set a dangerous precedent for other leaders around the world,’ Eviatar added. ‘Congress must do everything in its power to stop these murders and hold those responsible accountable.’

She noted that, on September 3, the US claimed it bombed a boat allegedly departing from Venezuela, killing 11 people.

On September 15, Eviatar said Trump claimed responsibility for another lethal strike on a boat in the Caribbean, reportedly killing three people.

Days later, she noted that Trump announced a third strike killing three more people.

On October 2, Eviatar said US media reported that President Trump had declared drug cartels as ‘unlawful combatants’ and that the US is in a ‘non-international armed conflict’ with them.

‘Such pronouncements reveal an incorrect understanding and application of international law, and do not change the fact that these airstrikes are clearly illegal under international human rights law,’ Eviatar said.

The next day, she noted that US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced a fourth strike that he said killed four people near Venezuela.