Local News
Venezuela Increases Military Presence near Guyana Border
Satellite images have revealed that Venezuela is expanding its military bases near the border with Guyana, while also deploying forces to the jungle frontier.
These actions come amidst escalating threats from President Nicolás Maduro regarding the potential annexation of the oil-rich neighbor.
Despite Maduro’s assurances during mediation talks in December that military action against Guyana would be avoided, recent images shared by the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) in Washington indicate a notable buildup of Venezuelan forces.
Christopher Hernandez-Roy, deputy director of CSIS’s Americas program, remarked on the contradictory nature of the situation, highlighting that while Venezuelan diplomats engaged with Guyanese counterparts in discussions, the military conducted tank drills in close proximity to Guyana. This juxtaposition underscores what Hernandez-Roy describes as Maduro’s “duplicitous policy.”
Venezuela has long asserted its claim to the resource-rich Essequibo region, constituting two-thirds of Guyana’s territory. However, Maduro has intensified Venezuela’s claim to this disputed area in recent months, even garnering supposed popular support through a vote in December.
Despite diplomatic efforts to ease tensions between the two nations, the aerial imagery reveals a stark reality of escalating militarization along the border. CSIS warns that such provocative actions by Venezuela increase the risk of miscalculation and loss of control over the situation.
The international dispute is currently under arbitration at the International Court of Justice in The Hague. Nevertheless, Maduro seeks to circumvent this process and negotiate directly with Guyana, a move that complicates the resolution of the conflict.
Analysts speculate on Maduro’s motives, initially interpreting his saber-rattling as a domestic strategy to bolster support ahead of anticipated elections. However, there are indications that this aggressive posture may also serve to pressure Guyana into sharing revenue from recent oil discoveries.
Venezuela’s economic woes, despite its substantial oil reserves, add further complexity to the situation. Hernandez-Roy suggests that while Maduro’s actions may have originated from domestic concerns, the current strategy appears aimed at coercing concessions from Guyana.
Amidst growing regional tensions, Brazil has deployed additional troops to its borders with both Guyana and Venezuela. Furthermore, the United States has pledged to enhance Guyana’s defense capabilities with new aircraft, helicopters, military drones, and radar technology.
In response to the escalating situation, Guyanese officials plan to engage with leaders of the Caribbean Community (Caricom) to discuss a coordinated regional response to the crisis.
Education
Seven Young Ballers Embark on an Eight-Day Basketball Adventure in Orlando
Seven young boys from the British Virgin Islands are set to experience basketball at its finest as they head to Orlando, Florida From November 23 to 28. The ballerswill participate in the Jr. Orlando Magic Youth Basketball Camp, an opportunity that combines skill development, fun, and a front-row seat to the NBA world.
The trip is organised through Sports Vision Academy, led by Mr. Eustace “Boss” Freeman. The young athletes—Niquan Freeman, Kyle Gumbs Jr., Jahy Smith, Ke’mori Daway, Tiondre Martin, Jaiden Cameron, and Jadey Glasgow—will be accompanied by Freeman himself, alongside Jovaughn Cameron and Roy Garraway.
“It’s the first time attending this camp, and the boys will also get the opportunity to attend an NBA game as well,” Freeman shared enthusiastically. “They will witness the Bulls take on the Magic, which is bound to be an unforgettable experience.”
The camp promises not only to refine their basketball skills but also to expose them to professional-level gameplay and sportsmanship.
Freeman expressed deep gratitude to the sponsors who made the trip possible, including the BVI Olympic Committee, Travel Wize LTD, and HNF. “Today’s youth are tomorrow’s stars,” Freeman said, reflecting on the impact this trip could have on the boys’ futures.
For these young ballers, this is more than a camp—it’s a chance to dream big and see where their talent can take them.
Crime/Police
Teen Arrested in Connection With Series of Burglaries Across Virgin Islands
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) has made a major breakthrough in addressing a string of burglaries that had left communities across the Territory on edge. A 17-year-old male from Jost Van Dyke has been arrested and charged in connection with multiple burglaries in Butu Mountain, East End, Great Mountain, and Mount Healthy.
The young suspect faces four counts of burglary and one charge of criminal damage, marking a significant development in the RVIPF’s efforts to combat crime in the region.
“This arrest demonstrates our commitment to addressing the concerns of our residents and ensuring that offenders are held accountable,” said Acting Commissioner of Police Jacqueline Vanterpool. She also called attention to the broader issue of youth involvement in criminal activities, emphasizing the need for community collaboration to tackle the problem. “It will take an all-hands-on-deck approach to solve this serious problem,” Vanterpool added.
While the arrest represents progress, police officials urge residents to remain vigilant. The RVIPF continues to seek information related to these burglaries and encourages the public to come forward with tips.
Anyone with relevant details can contact the RVIPF Intelligence Unit at 368-9339 or submit tips anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 800-8477 (TIPS) or 1-284-800-8477.
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