By Tiana Cole | HGP Nightly News
Antigua & Barbuda
Prime Minister Gaston Browne says the fight against drug trafficking in the Caribbean must be rooted in cooperation and conducted under clear legal authority. Speaking at the United Nations General Assembly following remarks by Trinidad and Tobago’s Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, Browne underscored the need for rules of engagement that protect sovereignty, minimize risk to life, and ensure information sharing.
He noted Antigua and Barbuda stands ready to work with partners against traffickers but expressed concern over the buildup of military assets in the Caribbean, including a nuclear submarine. Browne warned that the region must continue to be respected as a zone of peace.
Barbados
Meanwhile, Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley also used the UN platform to caution both the United States and Venezuela, stressing that rising tensions and military buildups in the Caribbean pose grave risks to the region—even from the possibility of accidents.
Mottley pointed to the September 5th U.S. strike on a ship near Venezuela, which left 11 people dead. The U.S. claimed they were narco-terrorists linked to the violent “Tren de Aragua” gang. However, Venezuela disputed that account and recently launched three days of military exercises, showcasing Russian-built fighter jets.
Jamaica
In Jamaica, the Constabulary Force (JCF) has raised the alarm about a troubling midyear surge in suicides, warning of a potential worsening mental health crisis if urgent interventions are not prioritized.
Between January and September 2025, Jamaica recorded 44 suicides, down from 53 during the same period in 2024. While the year-on-year decline appears positive, the JCF noted a sharp reversal in recent months. July saw an increase of 33%, August rose by 20%, and September by 25% compared to last year.
Police officials warn that unless stepped-up interventions are implemented, the island could face an escalating crisis, particularly among youth and young adults.
