HGP Regional News Recap – Gun Violence, Police Misconduct, and a Fragile Ceasefire
By Antonio Dey | HGP Nightly News
Barbados at a Crossroads Amidst Rising Crime
Barbados is facing a critical moment in its fight against crime, with government officials urging a unified national response to tackle gun violence and related social issues. Deputy Prime Minister Santia Bradshaw and Minister of Home Affairs Wilfred Abrahams made the call during a public meeting on Sunday night, just hours after a deadly shooting spree rocked two districts in St. Michael.
The afternoon attack, carried out by four men on two motorcycles, claimed the life of a young man, marking the country’s 26th homicide for the year, and the seventh in June alone. The shooting occurred at 2:48 PM at White Hall Main Road and St. Stephen’s Hill. Another man was wounded and is currently receiving hospital care.
Trinidad and Tobago Police Commissioner Under Investigation
In Trinidad and Tobago, Deputy Commissioner of Police Suset Martin is under investigation for alleged misconduct in connection with gun dealer Bren Thomas. The revelation was made by the recently appointed Commissioner, Erla Harewood-Christopher, during a press conference.
The misconduct stems from Thomas’s controversial 2022 arrest in Barbados, which was later deemed an abduction by a high court judge. At the time, Thomas was awaiting a flight to the U.S. when he was allegedly taken to Trinidad and charged with multiple firearms and explosives offences. In April 2023, a court ruling deemed the arrest unlawful, prompting an official apology from the then-Attorney General, Reginald Armour, to Barbados.
International: Trump Claims Ceasefire in Israel-Iran Conflict
Former U.S. President Donald Trump has announced a complete ceasefire between Israel and Iran, potentially bringing an end to the 12-day war that has displaced millions. However, Israeli officials have not confirmed the truce.
On Tuesday morning, the Israeli military reported missile launches from Iran, with explosions heard in Tel Aviv and Be’er Sheva. A building in Be’er Sheva was reportedly hit, resulting in three fatalities.
The latest escalation followed joint Israeli-U.S. attacks over the weekend on Iran’s nuclear facilities, amid accusations that Tehran was nearing the production of a nuclear weapon.
In a statement posted on his Truth Social platform, Trump wrote:
“I would like to congratulate both countries—Israel and Iran—on having the stamina, courage, and intelligence to end what should be called the 12-day war.”
