Guyana Times - Friday, June 12, 2026

Guyana’s child health screening programme is “unparalleled” globally – Mount Sinai Executive

Edghill, Chinese execs discuss challenges, improvements on infrastructure projects in Guyana

Thwarted supermarket robbery Killed bandit was wanted by Police for shooting incident

Ganja found hidden in garbage heap in Mahdia

Corentyne hire car operators demand crackdown on private vehicles transporting passengers …no formal complaints received

Gun found hidden at construction site; Venezuelan arrested

Canadian pilot fined for raw gold transport at CJIA

Murder of 7-year-old Great-grandmother still hospitalised after “gruesome and despicable act” – Crime Chief

Ponzi scheme operators fined, jailed

…drug bond suspect to face Judge, jury for money laundering

The Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU) has secured convictions against Yuri Garcia Dominguez and Ateeka Ishmael for operating a Ponzi scheme in Guyana that defrauded hundreds of investors of hundreds of millions of dollars.

The convictions were handed down on Thursday by Magistrate Sunil Scarce at the Vigilance Magistrates’ Courts.

For the offence of operating a Ponzi scheme, Dominguez and Ishmael were each fined $1 million and sentenced to one year of imprisonment.

In relation to a separate charge of carrying on a business without registering with the Guyana Securities Council, contrary to Section 47(10) of the Securities Industry Act, Cap. 73:04, Dominguez was fined $100,000 and sentenced to 18 months’ imprisonment. Ishmael was fined $100,000, with a default sentence of six months’ imprisonment.

According to SOCU, the offences occurred between May 18 and October 16,

2020, at Coldingen, East Coast Demerara, where the couple operated the investment scheme without legal authorisation.

The matter came under investigation after numerous persons reported that they had invested substantial sums of money in the scheme and suffered financial losses. SOCU conducted an extensive investigation over several months before instituting charges against the pair.

Attorney-at-Law

Eden Corbin represented the defendants, while SOCU was represented by Prosecutors Attorney-atLaw Darin Chan, Deputy Superintendent Neville Jeffers and Sergeant Aaron Daniels. In 2025, Dominguez was wanted in connection with 58 new fraud charges, adding to the staggering 150 charges he and his wife Ateeka Ishmael already faced.

SOCU said the convictions are a significant development in the enforcement of Guyana’s financial crime laws, particularly in relation to investment fraud, unregistered financial activity and investor protection.

Money laundering

Meanwhile, SOCU has also secured the committal of Terrence Williams to stand trial in the High Court on a money laundering charge.

Williams was committed to stand trial on Monday by Magistrate Wanda Fortune at the Diamond Magistrates’ Courts following proceedings under the AntiMoney Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism Act.

The charge alleges that Williams, who was employed as a store attendant at the Ministry of Health’s Material Management Unit (MMU) drug bond at Diamond, East Bank Demerara, and others had access to pharmaceutical supplies and testing kits stored at the facility. Investigators allege that

between January 2021 and November 2022, quantities of drugs and testing kits were removed from the bond and sold.

The matter was initially reported to the Golden Grove Police Station before being referred to SOCU for further investigation.

During the investigation, Police searched Williams and his vehicle, where they reportedly discovered $4.58 million in Guyana currency, US$5760, a .380 pistol, and ammunition. The items were seized as investigations continued. Williams was subsequently charged

and convicted in relation to possession of the firearm and ammunition.

A special audit conducted by the Audit Office of Guyana found that drugs and testing kits valued at approximately $343.8 million were missing from the MMU bond during the period under review.

SOCU subsequently charged Williams with money laundering, alleging that he acquired, possessed or controlled approximately $7.49 million in cash and foreign currency while knowing, or having reasonable grounds to believe, that the funds represented proceeds of crime.

Following his committal, Williams was granted $500,000 bail and ordered to report to SOCU once per month pending the hearing and determination of the matter before the High Court.

Williams was represented by Attorney-atLaw Eden Corbin, while SOCU was represented by Prosecutors Attorneys-atLaw Darin Chan, David Braithwaite and deputy superintendent Neville Jeffers.

BRIDGE OPENING

JUNE 12, 2026

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Friday, June 12 – 14:15h–15:45h and Saturday, June 13 –15:10h–16:40h

FERRY SCHEDULE

Parika and Supenaam departure times – 05:00h, 10:00h-12:00h, 16:00h, 18:30h daily.

WEATHER TODAY

Morning thundery showers are expected to ease to light showers by midday, clearing to sunny skies in the afternoon. Clear skies are expected at night. Temperatures are expected to range between 23 degrees Celsius and 29 degrees Celsius.

Winds: North-Easterly to Easterly between 2.68 metres and 5.36 metres.

High Tide: 14:19h reaching a maximum height of 2.49 metres.

Low Tide: 07:49h and 20:06h reaching minimum heights of 0.60 metre and 0.73 metre.

Guyana’s child health screening programme “unparalleled” globally – Mount Sinai Executive

Expanded health services for adolescents, improved support for children with autism, and greater attention to mental health challenges are among the priorities seeing progression under the GuyanaMount Sinai National Healthcare Initiative, and executive director of Mount Sinai Rachel Vreeman, MD, has described Guyana’s child health screening programme as unparalleled globally.

The remarks were made during President Dr Irfaan Ali’s briefing on the progress of the Guyana-Mount Sinai National Healthcare Initiative during the second-quarter Steering Committee meeting at State House on Thursday.

Key pillars of the project include the upgrading of digital health services, school health programmes focused on child health screenings, and the expansion of cardiovascular and cancer treatment services. President Ali and members of the Steering Committee also assessed the implementation of future projects as Guyana continues its transition towards a modern healthcare economy.

Speaking at the meeting, Executive Director Vreeman praised the country’s achievements in child health screening.

“I was just telling the President, and I tell everyone, that Guyana’s ability to move forward with this national child health screening programme is unparalleled around the world. I have not seen a single country that has been able to move forward this kind of early childhood initiative with the speed and coverage that Guyana has,” she stated.

Dr Vreeman reaffirmed Mount Sinai’s commitment to partnering with the Government of Guyana to transform the country’s healthcare system.

“It’s very much our privilege to partner with the Government of Guyana and to report to President Ali on our progress in working together to transform the healthcare system of Guyana,” she said.

According to Dr Vreeman, one of the most significant achievements of the initiative has been the advancement of a national child health screening programme.

“To date, more than 86,000 children and adolescents across Guyana have received health screenings assessing their dental health, vision, hearing, development, and overall physical wellbeing.”

“This is going to transform what primary care looks like for the children of Guyana and what it looks like for the health of the next generation. To have the data and the ability to respond to health issues in children and adolescents at this level is incredible. I think Guyana can be incredibly proud of what has been achieved,” she said.

Looking ahead, Dr Vreeman noted that the next phase of the programme will focus on expanding services for adolescents and young people.

She explained that efforts are underway to strengthen diagnostic and therapeutic services for children with conditions such as autism while equipping Guyana’s paediatricians to become leaders in adolescent health care.

“We’re working to help equip Guyana’s paediatricians to be the next champions and to lead adolescent health into the future. This includes addressing mental health challenges, addressing substance use issues, and expanding the screening programmes and health services available to children and youth across the country,” she added.

Success of partnership

Meanwhile, Health Minister Dr Frank Anthony expressed satisfaction with the success the partnership has achieved in Guyana.

Anthony highlighted the progress of the initiative, noting that it has delivered significant results for the country.

“We are happy to work along with Mount Sinai. This partnership has already given us a number of great results. Already, in school health, we have been able to screen more than 4000 children in nursery and secondary schools, and based on these findings, we have been able to help these children,” he said.

It was also noted that work has been done in primary health care, with the partnership developing new guidelines and training physicians to provide improved primary healthcare services for the population.

“Already, we are seeing more people complying with the treatment, and people are staying on these treatments for longer periods. We are going to expand this into other areas such as respiratory care and kidney care. So this is an exciting time, and we continue to work with this partnership,” Anthony added.

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Guyana-Mount Sinai National Healthcare Initiative

The ongoing transformation of Guyana’s healthcare system has increasingly become one of the most consequential pillars of national development. While investments in hospitals, technology, and specialist services often attract public attention, the growing emphasis on child and adolescent health may ultimately prove to be among the most impactful initiatives undertaken in recent years. The progress reported under the Guyana-Mount Sinai National Healthcare Initiative reveals the importance of shifting healthcare from a model centred primarily on treatment to one that prioritises prevention, early detection, and long-term wellbeing.

The significance of a nationwide child health screening programme extends far beyond the immediate identification of medical conditions. Comprehensive screening creates the foundation for a healthier population by ensuring that developmental, sensory, dental, and physical health concerns are detected before they become more severe and costly to address. Early intervention has long been recognised globally as one of the most effective strategies for improving health outcomes, educational attainment, and overall quality of life.

The scale of the programme undertaken in Guyana is particularly noteworthy because it echoes a commitment to reaching children across geographic, economic, and social boundaries. Such an approach strengthens the principle that access to quality healthcare should not be determined by location or circumstance. When health systems are able to identify challenges early, children are afforded a greater opportunity to reach their full potential, while families receive the support necessary to navigate complex health concerns.

Equally important is the initiative’s focus on strengthening services for children with developmental conditions, including autism. Across many societies, developmental disorders remain underdiagnosed or are identified only after critical intervention windows have passed. Improving diagnostic capacity and expanding therapeutic support represent essential steps toward creating a more inclusive healthcare environment. These efforts not only benefit affected children but also provide reassurance and guidance for families who often face significant challenges in accessing specialised care.

The decision to place greater emphasis on adolescent health is similarly timely and necessary. Adolescence is a period marked by profound physical, emotional, and social changes. Health challenges that emerge during these years frequently have lifelong implications if left unaddressed. By equipping healthcare professionals with specialised skills in adolescent medicine, Guyana is positioning itself to respond more effectively to the unique needs of young people.

Particularly encouraging is the recognition that mental health and substance use issues must form part of this broader healthcare agenda. For too long, mental health has remained an area of limited discussion and inadequate investment in many developing countries. Yet the evidence is overwhelming: mental health conditions among young people can affect educational performance, social development, workforce participation, and long-term economic productivity. Addressing these concerns through screening, early intervention, and accessible support services is therefore a national development imperative.

The integration of digital health services into this transformation further highlights the forward-looking nature of the initiative. Modern healthcare systems increasingly rely on data-driven decision-making, and the collection of comprehensive health information allows policymakers and practitioners to identify trends, allocate resources efficiently, and measure outcomes with greater accuracy. Reliable health data can strengthen planning and ensure that interventions are targeted where they are most needed.

As the country continues to experience rapid economic growth and expanding national revenues, expectations regarding public services are naturally increasing. Healthcare remains one of the sectors where citizens expect tangible improvements in quality, accessibility, and outcomes. Investments in preventive care, child health, and adolescent wellbeing represent a strategic use of resources because they generate benefits that extend across decades rather than years.

A healthier generation contributes directly to stronger educational performance, a more productive workforce, and reduced long-term healthcare costs. Children who receive timely treatment for vision, hearing, developmental, or mental health challenges are better positioned to succeed academically and socially. In turn, these outcomes support national competitiveness and strengthen human capital, which remains the most valuable resource of any country.

The progress achieved thus far serves as a reminder that healthcare transformation is not solely about constructing facilities or acquiring advanced equipment. It is equally about creating systems capable of identifying needs early, supporting vulnerable populations, and ensuring that every child has the opportunity to thrive. The continued expansion of child and adolescent health services shows an investment in Guyana’s future.

Prime Minister, Brigadier (Retired) Mark Phillips, on Thursday shared in the excitement with the Embassy of Mexico in Guyana, where guests gathered to watch the opening ceremony and first FIFA World Cup 2026 match between Mexico and South Africa. Hosted by Deputy Head of Mission David Alejandro Díaz Barrionuevo, the lively event brought together diplomats, business leaders and invited guests for an evening of football, friendly rivalry and plenty of shared cheer, highlighting the power of sport to bring nations and people closer together (Office of the Prime Minister/Facebook)

Murder, rape, and embezzlement cases are among 13 matters heard in Berbice

…June Assizes set to begin next week

The February 2026

Berbice Criminal Assizes are nearing their conclusion after a series of murder, sexual offence, attempted murder, abduction and embezzlement matters were heard before Justices Simone Morris and Deborah Kumar-Chetty at the Berbice High Court.

Among the most significant outcomes of the session was the conviction of Anil Sancharra, called “Dan Pole” and “Rasta”, and Vinod Gopaul, called “Magga”, for the September 2020 murders of West Coast Berbice cousins Isaiah and Joel Henry. The pair were unanimously found guilty on two counts of murder following a trial before Justice Simone Ramlall. Sentencing has been deferred until June 26 pending psychiatric evaluations and probation reports.

Justice Ramlall heard a total of five matters during the assizes, comprising two murder cases, two sexual offence matters and one abduction and assault causing actual bodily harm case.

In the other murder matter, an accused pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 18 years’ imprisonment after deductions were made for the guilty plea.

One sexual offence matter resulted in a unanimous guilty verdict for the offence of sexual activity with a child family member. The accused was sentenced to 18 years’ imprisonment and will become eligible for parole after serving 15 years.

Meanwhile, three accused jointly charged with abduction and assault causing actual bodily harm were acquitted after a jury returned unanimous notguilty verdicts.

The final matter before Justice Ramlall is the retrial of Krishna Tulapersaud, also known as Krishna Tulerpersaud, who is indicted on two counts of sexual activity with a child family member.

The charges allege that the offences were committed during February 2013 and February 2014.

Tulapersaud had previously been found guilty and sentenced to 14 years’ imprisonment. However, he successfully appealed the conviction, and the Court of Appeal ordered a retrial before a new jury.

State Counsel Marisa Edwards is presenting the State’s case while attorney-at-law Arudranauth Gossai appears for the accused. The prosecution is expected to call six witnesses.

The matter is the final case listed for hearing

during the February session of the Berbice Assizes. Meanwhile, Justice Deborah Kumar-Chetty heard eight matters comprising two murder cases, two attempted murder matters, three sexual offence cases and one embezzlement and larceny matter. Among those was the

case of Satish Ramnarish, who pleaded guilty to murder committed in the course or furtherance of a robbery and was sentenced to life imprisonment. He will become eligible for parole after serving 20 years.

In the other murder matter, Andrew Seegobin was convicted and sentenced to

18 years’ imprisonment.

One attempted murder accused, Mulshankar Sukharam, pleaded guilty to the alternative count of felonious wounding and was sentenced to 15 years and six months’ imprisonment. Another accused charged with attempted murder was acquitted.

The sexual offence matters also produced mixed outcomes. Anthony Jeffrey pleaded guilty to rape and assault causing actual bodi-

ly harm and was sentenced accordingly, while Dexter Philadelphia was acquitted by a jury. In another matter, a formal verdict of not guilty was directed after the complainant indicated that she did not wish to give evidence.

Justice Kumar-Chetty also presided over the embezzlement and larceny trial of Hemraj Singh Pahalad, who was found guilty by a jury. He was subsequently sentenced to two years and

seven months’ imprisonment for embezzlement and five years’ imprisonment for larceny, with the sentences ordered to run concurrently. Combined, the two judges heard 13 matters during the February 2026 Berbice Criminal Assizes, with convictions, guilty pleas and acquittals recorded across a wide range of serious offences.

The June session of the Assizes is expected to open on Tuesday next week.

FRIDAY, JUNE 12, 2026

Food Network 12:00 Movie - Steal Your Heart (2023) 13:30 PAW Patrol: The Mighty Movie (2023)

15:00 Cartoons 16:00 Indian Soaps

17:00 The Young & The Restless

18:00 Documentary: Nat Geo Animals

19:00 The Evening News

20:00 Stop Suffering

21:00 Heartland

22:00 Movie - Trigger Warning (2024)

Page Foundation

Decimals

Decimals are numbers that have parts that are not whole. Our decimal system splits whole numbers into tenths, hundredths, thousandths, and so on.

Decimal Place Value

Decimal place value extends our understanding of place value to decimal numbers. Decimal places are the digits to the right of the decimal point. The place value of a number helps us to understand the value of each digit in the number. To determine the value of each digit in a number we can use a place value chart or place value grid.

For example, let’s place the number 5.793 into the place value chart.

The digit 5 goes in the ones column. The digit 7 goes in the tenths column. The digit 9 goes in the hundredths column. The digit 3 goes in the thousandths column.

This means that the number 5.793 is equivalent to 5 ones, 7 tenths, 9

Fhundredths and 3 thousandths.

Zero place holder

Sometimes we need to use zero as a placeholder in decimal numbers. For example, the number 0.05 has zeros in the ones column and the tenths column.

To indicate there are no ones and no tenths.

Ordering decimals

You will sometimes be required to compare the size of two decimal numbers or write a list of decimal numbers in order of size.

Ascending order means from smallest to largest while descending order means from largest to smallest.

Let’s look at two techniques that can be used to help order decimals.

Extra zeros

Another helpful method is to write extra zeros on the end of the decimals so that all numbers have the same amount of decimal places. It can also aid comparison to write the numbers in a vertical line.

For example, which of the following numbers is the largest: 0.08, 0.4, 0.32?

Here we will put a zero on the end of 0.4 so that all the numbers have two decimal places and write them in a vertical line. 0.08

rom pigeons in big cities to penguins in Antarctica, all birds have similar features. They all have wings, though they cannot all fly. All birds also have feathers. In fact, birds are the only living animals that have feathers.

Birds have fascinated people throughout history. Many people keep birds as pets or enjoy watching them in the wild or at zoos.

Birds are found almost everywhere on Earth. There are more than 10,000 species alive today. Different types have adapted to different habitats, from deserts to rain forests to cities.

Many birds migrate, or fly long distances, between their winter and summer homes. For

0.40

0.32

Looking down the column of the first decimal place we can see that 4 is the highest digit. Therefore 0.4 is the largest number on this list.

Compare each place value It can be helpful to compare one decimal place at a time. This should be done starting with the tenths and grouping the numbers accordingly, before moving on to comparing the next decimal place.

For example, let’s put the following numbers in ascending order: 0.5, 0.2, 0.25, 0.52, 0.05, 0.02, 0.052, 0.025, 0.205, 0.502

All of the numbers have zero units, so we will start by comparing the first decimal place and grouping the numbers accordingly.

Now within each group we will look at the subsequent decimal places to order them from smallest to largest.

By RoBeRt B Shaw

So the final answer is: 0.02, 0.025, 0.05, 0.052, 0.2, 0.205, 0.25, 0.5, 0.502, 0.52.

example, many European birds travel to Africa for the winter. This helps them find enough food year-round.

Birds are warm-blooded, just like humans. However, birds are more closely related to the group of animals called reptiles than they are to mammals. In fact, many scientists think that birds developed from dinosaurs, which were reptiles, millions of years ago.

Birds vary greatly in size. The bee hummingbird is the smallest living bird. It is only about 2.5 inches long and weighs less than three grams. The largest living bird is the ostrich. Some male ostriches can stand eight feet tall and weigh 300 pounds (135 kilograms).

(Adapted from kids.britannica.com)

That morning tide, that upswing of the air, wages against the wing of the house I lie in; tuning now to its waves, my curtain rings clink like a bustling housekeeper’s bunch of keys. Sleepers, awake: for doors and stairs are creaking musically, skirting as though the entire house were stretching in the sun, letting the dew steam off its chalky shingles. Linen quivers; a warm, barny smell rides in at the window. Light is taking sway: the firmament of shadow overhead sifts out of the room, revealing unmysterious ceiling. Square and white, its four corners boast no dangling spies. Once again I dreamt of dead relations, Grandmother in the garden, another summer, pinching a done flower from its stem, yesterday’s day-lily. Handing it to me absently, passing on —into what hidden place? No protocol governs these wordless meetings. So often now I’m strange to my own skin. I could be standing there at the door— not now, but twenty years from now— taking this in, from the sun’s first foothold, a thin, quaking beard where pinned scraps conjured out of dust exult and swarm. And see, my heavier self lies long and motionless in bed, grown a sound sleeper, guessing nothing at all, till the light widens, and the wind blows the white curtains in.

(Source: Poetry [March 1972])

Write about a day when every thought you have is visible to everyone around you.

Edghill, Chinese execs discuss challenges, improvements on infrastructure projects in Guyana

…as Minister represents Guyana at major infrastructure development forums in China

Public Works Minister Juan Edghill is presently in China, where he engaged a number of executives from top Chinese construction firms that are currently undertaking a number of major infrastructure projects in Guyana.

Among those the Minister engaged were the global executive leadership of China Railway Construction Corporation

completed the US$260 million new Bharrat Jagdeo Demerara River Bridge and is now working on the new Wismar-Mackenzie Bridge in Linden, Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice).

Earlier this year, the public works Minister had reported that the Linden Bridge would be completed in June 2026. The 233-metre-long fixed, high-span precast concrete bridge will

West Bank Berbice; and Skeldon, Corentyne, Berbice.

The company is currently contracted to design and construct a new modern general hospital at Bartica, Region Seven (Cuyuni Mazaruni). The sod was turned back in April for the new Euros 136.1 million state-of-the-art facility, which is expected to be completed within two

(CRCC) and China CAMC Engineering Co Ltd.

In a statement on Thursday, Edghill said, “Discussions focused heavily on project implementation, challenges affecting ongoing works, lessons learned, and strategic measures to improve project delivery in support of Guyana’s national development objectives.”

CRCC is involved in the building out key infrastructure projects in Guyana. Last year, the company

feature four lanes and will replace the previous twolane steel structure.

Meanwhile, China CAMC Engineering is playing a major role in modernising Guyana’s public health infrastructure. Over the past year, the company completed six new modern regional hospitals across Guyana at Diamond, East Bank Demerara; Enmore, East Coast Demerara; De Kinderen, West Coast Demerara; Lima, Essequibo Coast; Bath Settlement,

years.

Nevertheless, these engagements took place on the side-lines of the 12th China–LAC Infrastructure Forum and the 17th International Infrastructure Investment and Construction Forum in Macao, China, where Minister Edghill is representing Guyana. He is accompanied by Head of Procurement and Contracts at the Public Works Ministry, Andy Mahadeo. These two high-level events bring together

Government officials, industry leaders, development partners, and technical experts from across the region and beyond to discuss emerging trends, best practices, and innovations in infrastructure development.

Optimising benefits

Edghill served as one of the keynote speakers, underscoring that Guyana’s invitation to the forum strongly signals its position as a rising leader in the infrastructure sector.

Reaffirming the spirit

a deep commitment to sustainable development. Guyana, which I have the honour of representing, is one of the most rapidly developing economies in the world. We are consciously heightening our investments in infrastructural projects, to which China has been a major partner.”

“This 12th China-LAC Infrastructure Forum is not merely a forum but a bold recommitment to the declaration that China and Latin America and the Caribbean are partners in development. To this end,

gramme of cooperation for inclusive development across the divide is entirely achievable through committed partnerships. To achieve this, he urged delegates to pursue a dedicated plan of action targeting the enhancement of the partnership between China and Latin America and the Caribbean.

“Innumerable opportunities abound for us to build out areas of cooperation and to strengthen collaboration mechanisms, such as joint projects, capacity building, and knowl-

of bi-regional South-South cooperation, Edghill emphasised that Guyana and the other States of Latin America and the Caribbean look forward to working closely with China to strengthen the cooperation implementation process, with a view to optimising the benefits that can accrue to both sides.

“We have clear developmental visions, ambitious infrastructure plans, rich natural resources and

we all remain committed to the shared vision of a green, digital, and connected future,” Edghill stated.

The Minister further highlighted that Guyana looks forward to continued collaboration with like-minded states to effectively confront global challenges while working towards the sustainable development of their respective countries and peoples.

He posited that a pro-

edge sharing,” Minister Edghill noted.

It was further noted that Guyana’s active participation reflects the Government’s unwavering commitment to maintaining constructive engagement with international partners while aggressively advancing its agenda of modernising and expanding critical public infrastructure for the benefit of all Guyanese.

Murder of 7-year-old

Great-grandmother still hospitalised after “gruesome and despicable act” – Crime Chief

The 72-year-old great-grandmother of seven-year-old Adriel Aftab Mohamed, who was murdered, remains hospitalised and will be re-interviewed by Police once she is medically fit, Deputy Commissioner of Police (Law Enforcement) Wendell Blanhum said on Thursday.

Blanhum made the disclosure while speaking with reporters on the side-lines of an event, where he was asked for an update on the case.

He noted that the murder case is currently before the court and therefore remains under judicial consideration.

“That matter is presently

before the court. It is under judicial scrutiny and, therefore, I cannot comment any further pertaining to that matter,” he said.

However, the crime chief provided an update on the child’s grandmother, who remains hospitalised, from an act of violence.

The lifeless body of the child was found lying in a pool of blood, while his great-grandmother was found stabbed in the neck and lying on the ground at about 05:05h on June 5. According to reports received, a relative went to the home, where he discovered the 72-year-old woman injured and the child motionless inside the house. The injured woman was taken to the De Kinderen Regional Hospital, where she was admitted as a patient.

On the other hand, the child suffered a gaping wound to his neck, and a knife, suspected to have been used during the incident, was recovered at the scene.

“Definitely, the grandmother is still hospitalised. As soon as she recovers, the Police will ensure that we re-interview her. On completion, we will prepare the case file and send it to the DPP for legal advice. Most definitely, we will institute charges based on the DPP’s recommendation,” Blanhum told the media.

He also condemned the attack, describing it as a “very gruesome and despicable act”.

“What I can tell you is that the perpetrator committed a very gruesome and despicable act. I do not want to divulge certain information pertaining to the act committed by the perpetrator, apart from what I revealed to the media before,” he said.

Hours after the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) advised that Shaeed Mohammed, called “Max”, be charged for the brutal murder of seven-year-old Mohamed, he was escorted by Police to the Leonora Magistrate’s Court and arraigned. He had reportedly confessed to the act before being charged.

The 23-year-old farmer of Providence, East Bank Essequibo (EBE), who also has links to Zeelugt, EBE, appeared before Magistrate Alisha George at the Leonora Magistrate’s Court. He was not required to plead to the indictable charge and was remanded to prison. The case will continue on July 20.

Removing… …(political) thorns

The tradition of getting rid of political opponents has a hoary past. Didn’t Cain kill Abel who’d “curried” God’s favour?? But the killings are more often farmed out!! When Archbishop Thomas Becket opposed King Henry II getting involved in Church business – firing priests - the exasperated monarch made his famous outburst – “will no one rid me of this turbulent priest?” It would be the cry of all later rulers – including elected ones – who resisted new institutions devolving their power. Becket, of course, was soon murdered – which tradition “Fat Boy” Burnham followed here, when he had Rodney assassinated!!

And this bad habit doesn’t only play out in internal politics – it’s just as prevalent in international politics – as we saw with the recent extraction of Mad Maduro!! During the 1945-1989 Cold War between the USA and the USSR (Russia), countless leaders were assassinated because they were considered “turbulent”!! Gruesomely, there was Congo’s Patrice Lumumba who resisted his country’s rape by those who came bearing “democracy” – starting with the colonial power Belgium. He was chopped into pieces, and pureed with acid!! Gotta make sure, no?? A tooth that survived was kept by Belgium and only returned to his family in the Congo a few years ago!!

On the other side, the Ruskies did more than their fair share of executions to get rid of turbulent challengers. The 1930s’ “Great Purge” to decide who’d succeed Lenin as the Top Dog wasn’t about using some powerful laxative!! Hundreds of Stalin’s rival leaders murdered and Trotsky had to flee to foreign!! But – like Joe Louis told his opponent – “you can run but you can’t hide”!! Trotsky was assassinated in Mexico City 6 years after fleeing!! But chickens do come home to roost – there were at least four assassination attempts on Stalin!! And back in the good, ole US of A, it’s now clear that JFK – who ordered quite a few assassinations in his day including the removal of Jagan – was assassinated by the US deep state!! And that ain’t just the fevered imagination of “conspiracy theorists”!!

Today we see the principle playing out in the “Holy Land” where it all began – with the Israeli’s Mossad considered the best in the world in the assassination game!! They took that game to a whole new level when using hacked smart phones, they tracked Iranian leader’s Khameni location –and launched pin-point missiles to take out he and dozens of his leadership corps!! The THOUSAND civilians killed are just “collateral damage since when making “assassination” omelettes some shells gonna be cracked!!

So, can this happen in our neck of the woods?? Heck yes!! Didn’t Cord assassinate Bishop and his entire Cabinet in Grenada to “protect the revolution”??

Seriously…we gotta watch out!!

…sex

offenders

By your Eyewitness’s book, sex offenders are real scum of the earth!! Your Eyewitness understands that there may be reasons for some of them doing what they do –for example abused childhood etc!! But understanding doesn’t mean accepting. These perverts gotta be put away, treated and very carefully taken back into society!! Because we know that their deviant urges are almost never extinguished, their behaviour should be monitored. And this brings to the introduction of a sex offenders register – and the debate as to whether it should be available to the public!! Your Eyewitness is pleased that we will now follow the US in making sex offender registries open to the public. There, the registries exist at both the federal and state levels, with the federal registry known as the National Sex Offender Public Website (NSOPW) integrating data from all state registries. And the public can access this information through their respective website!! To check persons exhibiting deviant sexual behaviour and report them to the authorities!!

…investment risks

The Govt has invited investors for a “Guyana Ammonia and Urea Plant (GAUP)” to make fertiliser at Wales –using the gas brought ashore!! Brazil just announced their interest in the fertiliser – assuring investors of a market!!

Bethany Village celebrates 1st Tambaqui harvest

Residents of Bethany Village in Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam) are celebrating, following the successful harvest of the community’s first batch of Tambaqui fish.

She noted that the successful harvest demonstrates the value of community collaboration and the benefits of embracing new avenues for development and self-sufficiency.

According to Bethany Toshao and Director General of the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs, Sonia Latchman, the harvest is the result of months of hard work, careful planning, and commitment from community members involved in the aquaculture project. The initiative is part of ongoing efforts to promote fish farming as a sustainable source of income and nutrition within Indigenous communities.

Latchman described the achievement as a proud moment for the village and a testament to what can be accomplished through collective effort.

“As Toshao of Bethany Village, I am proud to celebrate the successful harvest of our first batch of Tambaqui. This achievement marks an important milestone for our community and reflects the hard work and dedication of everyone involved,” Latchman stated.

According to Latchman, the project extends beyond fish farming and is an investment in the future of the village. She explained that aquaculture has the potential to provide sustainable livelihoods, generate additional income for families, and improve access to fresh, locally produced food.

“The project is creating new opportunities for sustainable livelihoods, strengthening food security, and supporting the growth of aquaculture in Bethany. I commend all those who contributed to making this success possible and look forward to seeing the project continue to thrive,” she said.

The Toshao also praised residents who played an active role in the initiative, noting that their dedication and perseverance were instrumental in making the first harvest a success. She expressed confidence that the knowledge and experi-

ence gained during this production cycle would help strengthen future harvests and encourage wider participation in aquaculture activities.

She further highlighted the importance of community-led projects in building economic resilience and reducing dependence on traditional sources of income.

Such initiatives, she said, empower residents while contributing to the long-term growth and development of the village. Residents have welcomed the successful harvest as an encouraging sign for the future, expressing optimism about the benefits the project could bring to the community.

Canadian pilot fined for raw gold transport at CJIA

Crime Chief and Deputy Commissioner of Police (Law Enforcement) Wendall Blanhum has indicated that no further legal proceedings will be pursued against the 48-year-old Canadian pilot who was previously detained at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA), Timehri, in connection with the transporting of a quantity of raw gold.

The Canadian-based Guyanese Pilot was taken into custody in late May of 2026 following the discovery of a quantity of raw gold at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA), Timehri. According to reports, at about 02:45h, Police and customs officials

intercepted the outgoing passenger during screening procedures at CJIA.

Preliminary investigations revealed that the raw gold was found in the luggage of the Pilot, who was an outgoing passenger destined for Toronto, Canada. Upon the discovery, he was questioned about the relevant documents to ex-

port the mineral, but he responded in the negative. As such, he was detained, and the raw gold was weighed in his presence, amounting to 0.563 ounces.

Responding to questions from reporters on the issue on Thursday, Blanhum said that the Pilot paid the required fine after attempting to depart the airport with

the gold.

"As far as I'm aware, he would have paid the necessary fine for attempting to leave the airport with that amount of gold, and as a result, the Director of Public Prosecutions recommended no further proceeding against him," Blanhum stated.

When asked whether the fine had been paid without the matter passing through

the court system, Blanhum explained that the Guyana Police Force acted on the advice of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP).

He noted that the DPP has the authority to determine whether charges should be instituted and that, after reviewing the case file, a decision was made not to proceed further.

"The DPP has the pow-

er to state who is to be charged and who is not to be charged. Having perused the file, which disclosed that the Pilot paid the money or the fine, the DPP decided that we should not proceed any further," he said.

Back in March, over 15 ounces of raw gold were found during routine screening at the CJIA, Timehri, thus leading to the arrest of a Canadian couple.

Gun found hidden at construction site; Venezuelan arrested

Police in Regional Division Four B are investigating the discovery of a firearm that was

found during an operation at Prospect Housing Scheme, East Bank Demerara (EBD), on Thursday.

According to Police, ranks received information that a man had entered a business establishment and was later seen carrying what appeared to be a firearm.

Acting on the report, Police went to Prospect Housing Scheme, where they made contact with a 26-year-old Venezuelan national.

Further investigations

led officers to a construction site in the area, where a search was conducted. During the exercise, Police discovered a black pistol with an empty magazine concealed at the location.

Ranks also found several cellular phones and a Rambo-style knife during the search.

The firearm, magazine, cellular phones and knife were seized and lodged as investigations continue.

The Venezuelan national remains in Police custody.

Thwarted supermarket robbery Killed bandit was wanted by Police for shooting incident

The 24-year-old man who was shot and killed on Wednesday night during an attempted armed robbery at a supermarket on Mandela Avenue, Georgetown, was wanted by Police in connection with a firearm-related offence.

Dead is Nia Emmanuel, an unemployed resident of Norton Street, Lodge, Georgetown.

According to Police, the incident occurred at about 20:40h at the People’s Choice Supermarket when three men entered the business premises. Investigators said one of the suspects was armed with a handgun and, along with the others, confronted two unarmed security guards, ordering them to lie on the ground.

by drain along Mandela Avenue with gunshot injuries. He was subsequently examined by a doctor and pronounced dead.

In an update issued on Thursday, investigators disclosed that he was wanted in connection with an alleged discharging of a loaded firearm with intent to cause harm that occurred on November 3, 2025.

Police recovered a .38 revolver at the scene containing three live rounds and one spent shell. Three 9mm spent shells were also found and lodged as evidence pending further examination.

The body was escorted to

During the robbery attempt, a Police rank who was on mobile patrol reportedly observed the incident and approached the suspects.

Police said the armed suspect discharged a round in the direction of the officer, who responded by firing his service weapon. The suspects then fled the supermarket in different directions.

The armed suspect was later found in a near-

Memorial Gardens Funeral Home, where it is awaiting a post-mortem examination.

Police said efforts are continuing to locate the two other suspects who escaped following the incident.

Investigations remain ongoing.

Ganja found hidden in garbage heap in Mahdia

Police in Regional Division Eight are investigating the discovery of a quantity of suspected cannabis during an operation conducted at School Street, Mahdia, Region Eight, on Wednesday, June 10, 2026.

According to Police, the discovery was made between 03:00h and 03:40h as ranks carried out searches in the area. During the exercise, officers found a large black plastic bag among a garbage heap. The bag contained leaves, seeds, and stems suspected to be cannabis. Further examination revealed two separate transparent plastic bags inside the larger bag, also containing leaves, seeds, and stems suspected to be cannabis.

The narcotic was taken to the Mahdia Police Station, where it was weighed and amounted to 120 grams. No arrests have been made, but Police investigations are continuing.

Lethem labourer remanded on cocaine trafficking charge

A25-year-old labourer of St Ignatius Village, Central Rupununi, Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo), has been remanded to prison after being charged with possession of narcotics for the purpose of trafficking.

Junior Thomas was charged with Possession of Narcotics for the Purpose of Trafficking, contrary to Section 5(1)(a)(i) of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (Control) Act, Chapter

10:10.

According to Police, Thomas was arrested on Wednesday after he was found in possession of three grams of cocaine.

He appeared before Magistrate Omadatt Chandan at the Lethem Magistrate’s Court on Thursday, where the charge was read to him, and he pleaded not guilty to the offence.

The court remanded him to prison, and the matter was adjourned to August 12.

Corentyne hire car operators demand crackdown on private vehicles transporting passengers

…no formal complaints received – Police

For hire car operators along the Corentyne Coast in Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne), the issue of private vehicles carrying paying passengers has moved beyond a mere nuisance and is now being described as a serious threat to their livelihoods.

Drivers who operate between New Amsterdam and Skeldon are now calling on Police to intensify enforcement against what they describe as an expanding network of pri-

vate vehicles offering transportation services without complying with the regulations imposed on licensed hire cars.

Their concerns were recently aired during a gathering of operators, where drivers outlined the impact the practice is having on their earnings at a time when fuel prices, maintenance costs and other expenses continue to rise.

Leading the call for action by the Police was President of the Upper Corentyne Hire Car

Association, Rajish Kumar, who said operators have been raising the issue for years with little success.

“The private hire is a disease. Nobody is doing nothing. If you pay attention, you can see private cars operating everywhere. We have been complaining for years, and nothing is happening. As an association, we have raised concerns, and we are still looking for assistance because our members are suffering,” Kumar said.

According to Kumar, the

issue extends to more than competition among transport providers.

He argued that passengers who use private vehicles for transportation are often placing themselves at risk, while legitimate operators continue to lose business to persons who are not licensed to provide the same service.

Kumar said members of the association have repeatedly voiced concerns about the issue and are hoping that renewed public attention will

prompt stronger action from the relevant authorities.

For long-time driver

Atherley McDonald, who has

spent more than 15 years in the industry, the concern is one of fairness. McDonald said licensed hire car operators are required to comply with numerous regulations and operational requirements, while private vehicles engaged in similar activities are often able to operate without the same restrictions.

“We as hire car drivers, we’re providing a service whereby we have to work with rules. You can’t wear short pants, you can’t get additional music in your car, you can’t use tint, and all kinds of things. We’re working with all these rules and regulations, paying the road service fee and all these things, while private car men are stopping and picking up work and doing all kinds of things,” he said.

McDonald believes the problem has worsened over the past several years and is now affecting operators throughout the Corentyne.

He is calling on the Home Affairs Ministry, the Guyana Police Force and other relevant authorities to intervene and ensure that the laws governing public transportation are enforced equally.

Another driver, Ivor Dhuman, said one of the most frustrating aspects of the issue is watching potential passengers board private vehicles while licensed hire cars remain parked nearby.

He contends that the practice is occurring openly and is contributing to declining earnings for legitimate operators.

“When you report to the Police, the Police just leave them alone. The private car picking up passengers in front of you, plus they’re driving more harder than you, with more speed, picking up passengers in front of you. We want the authority to look into the private hire and take them off the road so we could work at ease,” Dhuman said.

Dhuman added that drivers are facing increasing pressure from both rising costs and reduced passenger numbers, making it difficult to maintain a reasonable income.

For Delroy Watts, the issue cannot be separated from the escalating cost of operating a vehicle.

Watts noted that fuel prices have increased significantly over the years, while other expenses continue to climb.

“The gas price is very high. Normally we used to pay $175 for a litre. Now we’re paying $226. So we just raise the price a hundred or two hundred dollars more, and still people don’t want to pay for the gas. The price is so high that you can’t work with it. Not only the gas, the tyres, everything,” he explained.

As PACE justice training opens Crime Chief calls for stronger techdriven policing, prosecutor collaboration …as

Deputy Solicitor

General urges continuous training, expanded use of plea bargaining

Some 71 participants, including 40 Police prosecutors, will benefit from a two-day joint training programme being conducted under the Partnership of the Caribbean and European Union (PACE) on Justice Project, which commenced on Thursday at the Guyana Police Force Officers’ Mess, Eve Leary.

Facilitated by former Director of Public Prosecutions of Jamaica and King’s Counsel Paula Llewellyn, along with European Union expert Anselmo Morales Torres, the training brings together prosecutors, Police investigators and other justice sector stakeholders as part of efforts to strengthen criminal investigations, prosecutions and the broader administration of justice in Guyana.

Among those delivering remarks at the opening ceremony were the crime chief of the Guyana Police Force, Wendell Blanhum; director of public prosecutions (DPP), Shalimar Ali-Hack; Chargé d’Affaires of the European Union Delegation to Guyana, Spiros PolycandriotisVan Duynhoven; and officer-in-charge of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Guyana, Dhiraj Singh.

Deputy Solicitor General Shoshanna Lall delivered the feature address on behalf of Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister Anil Nandlall.

Addressing participants, Lall underscored the importance of continuous training for criminal justice stakeholders and highlighted ongoing reforms being supported through the PACE Justice Project.

“One of the three interventions on this PACE justice project is to empower stakeholders, including the judiciary, our prosecutors, our Police, our lawyers, all of the actors in the criminal justice landscape, through training and capacity building,” she said.

Lall noted that the training would focus heavily on technology and its growing role in investigations and prosecutions.

“We have these two very experienced facilitators who will guide us through training as to the use of the technology that is relevant to prosecuting, investigating, and the necessary training that is also necessary,” she stated.

The Deputy Solicitor General said the Government has invested heavily in improving justice sector infrastructure and human resources but stressed that such investments must be complemented by training.

“We can speak about the

many new courts that the Government has built over the last couple of years, including in our very, very rural areas; the appointment of new Magistrates and Judges; and new legislation and rules, but all of that will count for nothing if we do not equip our justice actors with the proper training,” Lall said.

She also pointed to emerging areas requiring specialised expertise, including anti-money laundering and countering the financing of terrorism (AML/CFT), social media regulation and artificial intelligence legislation.

Discussing criminal justice reforms, Lall urged greater utilisation of recently enacted legislation, including plea bargaining provisions.

“The AG himself has worked on bringing those laws on board and has expressed some amount of concern that the cases are not being subjected to the plea-bargaining regime as it should,” she said.

Lall noted how plea bargaining and restorative justice measures were intended to help address court backlogs and provide alternatives to traditional adversarial proceedings.

Sessions of the training programme are expected to focus on strengthening investigative and prosecutorial practices, enhancing the use of technology and improving coordination among criminal justice stakeholders.

The programme forms part of broader regional efforts under the PACE Justice initiative to improve efficiency, accountability and effectiveness across Caribbean justice systems.

Enhanced investigations and prosecutions

During her remarks, the DPP, Ali-Hack, praised the collaborative approach adopted by the European Union and UNDP under the

PACE Justice Programme, noting that the initiative has addressed legislation, procedures, training and technol-

ogy within the justice sector.

“When they met with me,

I asked for the judiciary and the prosecution to be trained alike. Because if the judiciary and the prosecution, which includes the investigators, are not operating from the same perspective or singing from the same hymn book and the same hymn and the same stanza at the same time, we will not make progress in the courts with the cases,” Ali-Hack said. She noted that technological support received through the programme has already enhanced investigations and prosecutions.

“We have been using technology; as you rightly said, we have gotten lots of equipment, and we have been benefiting from it. We have been using it.

Former APNU/AFC MP freed of drug trafficking charge

Former A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance for Change (APNU+AFC) Member of Parliament (MP) Devin Sears has been freed of a drug trafficking charge after Magistrate Rushell Liverpool upheld a no-case submission made by his attorneys.

Magistrate Liverpool ruled that there was insufficient evidence linking Sears to then more than 300 kilograms (kg) of marijuana found in a vehicle he was driving in 2025.

The ruling was handed down on Thursday at the Linden Magistrate’s Court. The charge stemmed from an incident on October 20, 2025, when Police ranks at the Old Bamia Checkpoint on the LindenSoesdyke Highway stopped

a dark blue Toyota Hiace minibus, BAJ 4486, registered to the Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice) Tourism Committee Inc.

Police said Sears was driving while 69-year-old farmer Albert Sandy occupied the front passenger seat.

A search of the vehicle reportedly uncovered 22 black plastic bags and four large brown canvas bags containing cannabis weighing 310.71 kg – more than 680 pounds.

Investigators alleged that when questioned, Sears reportedly said he was transporting “tourism plants” and later re -

mained silent after being cautioned.

Sears and Sandy were subsequently charged with possession of narcotics for the purpose of trafficking and appeared before Magistrate Liverpool on October 23, 2025.

While Sears pleaded not guilty, Sandy admitted ownership of the cannabis, pleaded guilty to the charge and told the court he had paid Sears to transport him to Parika. Sandy was sentenced to four years’ imprisonment.

Sears was initially remanded but later secured $400,000 bail from the High Court.

Corentyne hire car operators demand...

He said operators are often criticised whenever fares increase, but many passengers are unaware of the financial pressures facing drivers.

The cost of fuel, tyres, repairs, servicing and general vehicle maintenance has steadily increased, making it increasingly difficult for operators to remain profitable.

Budram Singh, who has worked in public transportation for two decades, echoed those concerns.

According to Singh, operators are now caught between rising expenses and competition from private vehicles.

“The gas prices are going up. The Police are not doing anything about the private car. A couple of years ago, the fare was $700. We can’t work for $700 now. Everything is going up. The extra money that we are supposed to make, the private car is making,” Singh said.

No formal complaints

The drivers’ concerns were subsequently put to Regional Division Six Commander Assistant Commissioner Shibpersaud Bacchus.

In responding, Bacchus said his office has not received formal complaints

from hire car associations or operators regarding the issue.

“My office hasn’t received any formal complaint from any association or any members or operators from that category. However, the traffic department, as we would have to conduct enforcement exercises throughout the region, and if their private car has been within those stop-andsearch exercises or enforcement exercises, we usually do charge those persons,”

Bacchus said.

The commander explained that one of the challenges facing investigators is obtaining evidence necessary to successfully prosecute offenders.

According to him, persons found inside vehicles often claim they are merely receiving a lift rather than paying for transportation, making it difficult to establish that an offence has occurred.

Bacchus noted that Police have also targeted taxi services that use private vehicles bearing company logos and other identifying markings.

He said enforcement exercises have previously been conducted in New Amsterdam and across the Corentyne to address those concerns.

FROM PAGE 12

A private vehicle as a hire car is illegal

Regional Traffic Officer

Assistant Superintendent Charles Hook also addressed the matter, stressing that operating a private vehicle as a hire car is illegal.

“Private hire is an offence. It’s an offence against the state, and persons who travel with private vehicles are not fully covered by the insurance. In the event of them involving an accident, then they wouldn’t benefit from anything in terms of having a reward from the insurance company. So we are asking persons to desist from travelling in private vehicles,” Hook said.

The traffic officer acknowledged that enforcement remains challenging, particularly when operators work from private residences and only travel after receiving telephone calls from customers.

However, he urged members of the public to report offenders and provide vehicle registration numbers whenever possible.

According to Hook, information supplied by citizens can assist Police in identifying and prosecuting operators who use vehicles for purposes other than those for which they are licensed.

Procurement stakeholders trained to strengthen transparency, compliance in Public Sector system

The Public Procurement Commission (PPC) has completed its procurement training for consultants, suppliers, and contractors, aimed at strengthening transparency, accountability, and participation in Guyana’s public procurement system.

The training was held at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC) and brought together procurement stakeholders from across the country. According to the PPC, the session provided a platform for professional engagement, knowledge sharing, and practical learning on procurement processes.

The Chief Executive Officer of the PPC, Michael

Singh, said stakeholder education is central to building a transparent, competitive, and legally compliant procurement environment. He said the Commission remains committed to equipping suppliers, contractors, and consultants with the necessary knowledge and tools to effectively participate in procurement opportunities and support national development.

Delivering the feature address, Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance, Gail Teixeira, said public procurement should be viewed as a key instrument of national development rather than only a commercial process. She

said each contract awarded contributes to improvements in infrastructure, public services, and overall quality of life.

Teixeira also highlight-

Crime Chief calls for stronger...

FROM PAGE 13

courses will have timely trials, and that has been happening,” she added.

Encouraging active participation throughout the training, Ali-Hack told attendees: 'There's no stupid question. You have the experts here… Ask the questions.”

Integrate technology into policing & criminal probes

It has improved both the investigations and the prosecution,” she stated.

Ali-Hack highlighted significant progress in reducing criminal case backlogs in the High Court.

“Between 2020 and 2024, we had about 300 cases listed for assizes. From 2025, those have come down to like 100 and something. And this is a remarkable improvement, and it is a part of the results of all the justice improvements that we have been involved in,” she said.

The DPP explained that efforts are focused not only on reducing existing backlogs but also on preventing new ones from developing.

“So that's my approach with maintaining a standard and status quo so that

Delivering the feature address, Crime Chief and Deputy Commissioner of Police (Law Enforcement), Wendell Blanhum, said the objectives of the PACE Justice Programme align closely with the Guyana Police Force’s modernisation agenda and strategic goals.

“The role and relevance of Pace Justice, the partnership of the Caribbean and European Union on the Justice Regional Program, aims to strengthen institutional capabilities, cooperation, and collaboration among our key stakeholders, such as the Guyana Police Force, the Chambers of the Director of Public Prosecution, the Attorney General's Chambers, and the Judiciary,” Blanhum said.

He explained that the programme supports the force’s ongoing efforts to integrate technology into policing and criminal investigations.

“As part of our ongoing reform initiative, the Guyana Police Force continues to incorporate technology into our daily operations across areas such as intelligence, investigation, and prosecution,” he said.

Blanhum also addressed public criticism often directed at the criminal justice system when cases are dismissed, noting that many setbacks result from challenges such as reluctant or untraceable witnesses. The crime chief highlighted the successful collaboration between investigators and prosecutors in several high-profile matters, including the recently concluded Henry Boys case.

“This success would not have been possible without the tremendous seamless support given by the DPP to the Police throughout the investigation and prosecution phases, ultimately presenting a case that left a 12-member jury convinced beyond a reasonable doubt,” Blanhum stated.

He urged participants to maximise the opportunity.

“To the members of the Guyana Police Force who have been carefully selected for this specialised training, I implore you to take full advantage of this golden opportunity,” he said.

ed the constitutional role of the PPC and stressed the importance of maintaining public trust through integ-

rity, transparency, and accountability. She said procurement activities directly impact the development of schools, roads, bridges, health facilities, and other community infrastructure.

The Minister called for a stronger culture of integrity across both public and private sectors, urging contractors and suppliers to maintain professionalism, quality, and reliability in their work. She said trust remains a critical factor in sustaining business and development partnerships.

She also noted the increasing participation of

small and medium-sized enterprises, women entrepreneurs, and emerging contractors in Guyana’s procurement system, stating that greater inclusion is creating broader opportunities in the country’s expanding economy.

Presentations during the training were made by PPC Attorney-at-Law Esther Osborne, Training Officer Antonio Yhan, and Procurement Specialist Prakash Sookdeo. The sessions covered legislative requirements, procurement procedures, administrative review mechanisms, and best practices for participation in procurement processes.

Participants engaged in discussions on procurement governance, compliance, and challenges within the system. The PPC said the level of participation reflected growing interest in strengthening procurement standards and improving transparency in the sector.

The Commission said it remains committed to promoting a fair, competitive, and transparent procurement environment as Guyana continues its infrastructure expansion and economic growth. It thanked participants for their engagement and contributions to the training programme.

US sanctions Cuba’s national oil company, blasts Castros

The United States has levied additional sanctions against Cuba, this time targeting the Caribbean island’s Stateowned oil and gas company, Union Cuba-Petroleo.

On Thursday, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio issued a statement describing the company as a tool for Cuba’s “repressive security apparatus”.

“While the Cuban people have suffered fuel shortages and blackouts because of decades of under-investment in critical infrastructure, Cuba’s Communist leaders have diverted energy resources to line their own

Brazilian

pockets,” Rubio wrote.

He then proceeded to denounce the Castro family, whose members governed Cuba for decades, for profiting from the country’s oil.

“As regular Cubans wait for weeks to fill their cars and suffer relentless blackouts, the Castro family flies around on a private jet, the Government buses in fake protesters for publicity stunts, and the regime prioritises keeping the power on in luxury tourist hotels,” Rubio said.

He added that Union Cuba-Petroleo’s assets “were unlawfully expropriated from American own-

ers years ago”, a reference to the Cuban Government’s efforts in 1960 to nationalise oil production.

That effort, in turn, was a reaction to a US decision under then-President Dwight Eisenhower to cut off US oil exports to Cuba.

The sanctions are the latest step under US President Donald Trump to apply pressure to the island’s communist Government.

The island is reliant on oil imports to power its ageing electricity grid, as well as for daily necessities, such as shipping and transportation. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

woman, 38, accused of years of “elaborate fraud” in posing as child

A38-year-old woman has been arrested in Brazil accused of pretending to be a 12-year-old girl to deceive a couple who took her into their home for more than a year.

Amanda Maria Souza de Oliveira was charged in the southern state of Santa Catarina with fraud and false identity offences.

During the nearly 16 months she lived with the couple in the city of Joinville, she reportedly had all her expenses paid, a bedroom decorated with toys and children’s furnishings, and a party to celebrate her purported 12th birthday.

The case has been widely reported in local media, prompting disbelief that Oliveira allegedly managed to sustain the deception for so long.

After she was arrested just over a week ago, it emerged that Oliveira had previously been charged in several other Brazilian

Amanda Maria Souza de Oliveira

states for allegedly carrying out similar schemes.

The alleged deception unravelled after an aunt who occasionally visited the family became suspicious of Oliveira’s age. After searching online, she found reports of a similar case in Rio de Janeiro three years earlier in which Oliveira had allegedly deceived another family.

The earliest known case involving Oliveira dates to the late 2000s in her home

state of Ceará.

Rafael Luiz Siewert, Oliveira’s lawyer, said that after interviewing her he had “identified elements that justified requesting a psychiatric evaluation”.

The Judge granted the request, and proceedings have been suspended until it is established whether Oliveira is fit to stand trial. In the meantime, she remains in prison. (Excerpt from The Guardian)

Venezuela deploys troops against illegal miners in key gold belt

Venezuela has deployed troops to target illegal groups controlling key gold deposits, according to local residents and human rights activists, as the Government seeks to attract foreign investment to the longstalled mining sector.

Troops have been deployed near Las Claritas in southern Bolivar state, according to residents and activists who monitor the area. The town is one of the main hubs of illegal gold mining in the mineral-rich Orinoco Mining Arc, a vast

area near Venezuela’s borders with Guyana and Brazil.

Venezuela’s Communications Ministry did not immediately respond to a request ⁠for comment, and the Government has not publicly addressed the operation.

Five residents told Reuters they heard explosions and gunfire, keeping many people off the streets and forcing businesses to close.

A shopkeeper in Las Claritas said drones flew

T&T PM says no rights are absolute, defends SoE

Prime Minister (PM) Kamla PersadBissessar has defended the Government’s use of emergency powers, insisting that restrictions imposed under the State of Emergency (SoE), including the controversial 500-metre no-protest zones, are lawful, constitutional and necessary to protect national security.

“Any lawyer doing Law 101 knows that no rights are absolute. Constitutional rights are never absolute,” she told the House during Wednesday’s parliamentary debate.

The PM said freedoms such as speech, assembly and association are all subject to regulation, particularly during a state of emergency authorised under Sections 8, 9 and 10 of the Constitution.

Addressing criticism of the recently established no-protest zones around key state institutions, PersadBissessar sought to demonstrate that the restrictions affected only a tiny portion of

the country’s land area.

According to calculations she presented, Trinidad and Tobago’s total land area is approximately 5131 square kilometres, while the restricted zones cover only 11.77 square kilometres.

“That is 0.23 per cent of our total land area,” she said.

“Therefore, all citizens have 5119.23 square kilometres of land where they can protest.”

She added that this means citizens still have access to 99.77 per cent of the country’s territory for demonstrations, assemblies and other public

gatherings.

The PM ended by insisting that the majority of citizens support the continuation of the emergency measures.

“I caused a poll to be done, and the majority of law-abiding citizens support the extension of the SoE,” she said.

“I say again that law-abiding citizens back the SoE,” Persad-Bissessar declared, adding that the temporary measures were necessary to prevent Trinidad and Tobago from enduring “another violent 25 years” of crime and bloodshed. (Excerpt from Trinidad Guardian)

A&B: Japan offers assistance turning sargassum into commercial products

Antigua and Barbuda (A&B) could receive Japanese technical assistance to develop a facility capable of processing sargassum seaweed into commercial products, following discussions held during Agriculture Minister Anthony Smith Jr’s recent visit to Japan.

The proposal emerged as part of wider talks between A&B and Japanese officials on agriculture, fisheries, food security and sustainable development, according to information provided

during Thursday’s post-Cabinet media briefing.

While A&B has acquired equipment capable of harvesting sargassum, Director General of Communications Maurice Merchant said disposal remains a major problem once the seaweed is collected.

According to Merchant, Japanese officials indicated they are prepared to dispatch a technical team to A&B to examine both the harvesting process and opportunities to convert the seaweed into marketable by-products.

The initiative could help transform a costly environmental nuisance into an economic opportunity while reducing the impact of recurring sargassum invasions on beaches, tourism sites and coastal communities.

Officials have not yet announced a timeline for the proposed facility, but Cabinet was told that Japan stands ready to provide technical expertise should A&B decide to move the project forward. (Excerpt from Antigua Newsroom)

J’ca: Vaz promises compensation rules after island-wide blackout

Ilow overhead for hours during the night. All of the residents declined to be named out of fear for their safety.

Non-Governmental organisations and UNbacked investigators have said much of the mining activity in the region is controlled by organised crime groups and armed factions.

The operation comes as Venezuela’s new Government tries to reopen sectors long closed to foreign capital. (Excerpt from Reuters)

n the wake of last week’s island-wide blackout, Energy Minister Daryl Vaz says future electricity licences will include mandatory compensation provisions, insisting that “sorry” is not enough for customers and businesses that suffered losses.

Speaking in the House of Representatives on Wednesday, Vaz said the June 5 outage had exposed significant gaps in Jamaica’s electricity regulatory framework, noting that there is currently no legal provision requiring compensation for consumers affected by major power failures.

The Minister said the issue had become even more pressing given the scale of disruption caused by the outage, which left households, businesses, and public institutions across the island without electricity.

Vaz argued that many small operators, including vendors and event promoters, suffered significant financial losses during the outage and should not simply be left with an apology.

In the meantime, Opposition Member of Parliament for Westmoreland Eastern Dr Dayton Campbell suggested that the Government explore ways to assist those who lost money because activities scheduled for the blackout weekend could not proceed.

Campbell proposed that permits already approved for events be transferred to future dates rather than requiring affected individuals to pay again.

Responding, Vaz described the proposal as “an absolute, reasonable, rational” suggestion and said he expected discussions with the Ministry of Local Government on the matter. The blackout occurred on June 5 and affected customers across the island. A preliminary report has already been submitted by the Jamaica Public Service Company, while a final report is expected to be provided to the Office of Utilities Regulation as investigations continue into the cause of the outage. (Excerpt from Jamaica Observer)

Around the World

OIL NEWS

China learns to live on less fuel, oil markets relieved

Three months into the Iran war, the oil market is coming to grips with an unexpected new reality: China, the world’s largest importer, needs much less fuel than previously thought.

Gasoline sales at Sinopec, which runs China’s biggest network of petrol stations and is the world’s largest refiner, dropped eight per cent on-year in April while diesel fell six per cent, according to industry sources briefed on internal data.

Fuel use in China had already been falling in recent years due to slowing economic growth and the rise of electric cars and trucks, but the recent decline is especially steep and has caught industry players by surprise.

Goldman Sachs estimates the drop in the use of gasoline and related products was about 20 per cent in April, while China-based GL Consulting put the decline at around 15 per cent.

Unlike during the pandemic, it is not that Chinese are moving around less. Instead, they are changing the way they travel: rail journeys grew around 10 per cent in March and April annually, compared to around 5 per cent last year, according to Ministry of Transport data. Travel by subway or taxis, which are electrified in many cities, is also growing rapidly, the data shows.

China’s EV fleet, by far the world’s largest, also got more use in April. Charging rose 69 per cent from a year earlier to an all-time high, according to the state-backed China Charging Alliance.

The figures indicate that China can operate on less fuel than previously thought, which means less need for imported oil. About half of China’s crude oil consumption is refined into diesel or gasoline. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Air testing confirms “no hazard exists” at Pentagon after lockdown incident

Normal operations have resumed at the Pentagon after the building was earlier placed on lockdown following the detection of an “air quality issue” that sent hazardous material (hazmat) response teams to the scene.

The building’s systems detected on Thursday morning a “potential air quality issue, prompting immediate precautionary safety measures and evaluation”, said Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell in a statement.

“Subsequent testing confirmed no hazard exists, and normal operations have resumed,” he said.

Police in the building had been wearing gas masks and full chemical protective gear during the incident, US media reported.

The Pentagon was as-

sisted by Arlington Fire & EMS, who posted on social media that they were responding to a hazardous materials incident.

Earlier, Parnell had said “standard protection protocols, including a shelter-inplace order for the affected area” of the building, where the US Department of Defence is headquartered, were in place.

Just before 11:00h EDT, the Pentagon Force Protection Agency sent an email to Pentagon personnel to shelter in place in four corridors from the second to the fifth floors, according to CBS News, the BBC’s US news partner.

The email told staff to comply with the directive and move in-person meetings to virtual meetings, according to CBS News.

(Excerpt from BBC News)

US lawmakers press Israel to let cancer patients out of Gaza for treatment

More than 60 members of the United States Congress have called on Israel to lift restrictions on Palestinian cancer patients in Gaza so that they may seek treatment in hospitals in the occupied West Bank and East Jerusalem.

Fifty-one members of the House of Representatives and 11 members of the Senate signed Thursday’s letter, ad-

dressed to Secretary of State Marco Rubio. They include Senators Bernie Sanders and Chris Van Hollen and Representatives Madeleine Dean and Greg Casar.

The letter calls on the Administration of President Donald Trump to facilitate the medical evacuation of child cancer patients and their caretakers, as well as obtain Israeli guarantees

that they will be allowed to return to Gaza.

“There is no conceivable reason that allowing kids with cancer to drive 40 minutes for lifesaving medical treatment should be controversial,” said Deyar Jamil, a fellow at the human rights group DAWN, which helped craft the letter.

“Such cruelty would not be possible without US politi-

cal cover, and we are grateful for the members of Congress who are demanding an end to it.”

The United Nations estimates that about 11,000 cancer patients are currently living in Gaza, where Israel’s systematic destruction of the healthcare system has left them unable to obtain adequate treatment. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

Thai court sentences 2 Uyghur men to death for 2015 Bangkok bombing

AThai court has handed out death sentences to two Uyghur men from the north-western Chinese region of Xinjiang for a 2015 bombing in the centre of Bangkok that killed 20 persons.

The explosion occurred at the Erawan Shrine in the centre of Bangkok, an area popular with foreign tourists. As well as the 20 persons killed, another 120 were injured. Five of the dead were from mainland China and two from Hong Kong.

“The actions of both defendants constitute multiple separate offences,” the court statement said, adding the sentence included punishment for the charge of premeditated murder, which resulted in the death penalty.

The convicted men, Adem

Karadag and Yusufu Mieraili, have previously denied all charges brought against them and will appeal against

Alabama inmate’s

the death sentence, said Chamroen Panompakakorn, one of their lawyers. “Don’t be frightened; there are three

other courts,” he said.

Choochat Kanpai, their other lawyer, said the court had not considered multiple factors in their defence, adding he would ask for an extension to file an appeal.

Under Thai law, those appeals will have to be made within a month of a verdict.

The case has taken more than 10 years to reach trial, with prosecutors collecting evidence from hundreds of witnesses. They also struggled to find an appropriate interpreter for the suspects.

No group claimed responsibility for the bombing, but security experts have said it was an act of retaliation against the forced deportation of more than 100 Uyghurs from Thailand in the previous month. (Excerpt from The Guardian)

nitrogen gas execution hinges on last-minute appeal

to Supreme Court

Adeath row inmate in Alabama is waiting on a ruling from the US Supreme Court to see if the state will be allowed to carry out his scheduled execution Thursday night using nitro-

gen hypoxia.

The Alabama Attorney General’s Office petitioned the high court to reverse a federal judge’s decision to permanently ban the state from putting Jeffrey Lee to

death using the controversial and relatively new execution method that Alabama first introduced in 2024.

The application, from Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall and his asso-

Iran says no final decision made on deal

that Trump hopes could be signed soon

President Donald Trump on Thursday said the United States and Iran could sign a peace deal as soon as this weekend that would reopen the Strait of Hormuz to shipping, but Iran countered that it had not reached a final decision on an agreement.

The deal, if confirmed, would be the most significant diplomatic breakthrough yet to end the three-month-old war, which has killed thousands and sent global energy prices sharply higher.

Iranian media reported Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei as saying that large parts of the text under negotiation have been finalised, but Iran would not compromise on its red lines.

“We have not reached a

President Donald

says that the United States and Iran could sign a peace deal as soon as this weekend, but Iran disagrees

final conclusion on this matter,” he said. “This is a very important issue that is currently being reviewed by the relevant decision-making bodies.”

Trump, meanwhile, told reporters at the White House: “We just made a great settlement of the war

with Iran.”

“The strait will officially open as soon as we sign, which could be soon, very soon, maybe over the weekend in Europe,” Trump said, adding Vice President JD Vance could sign for the United States. (Excerpt from Reuters)

ciates, then made its way to the Supreme Court. Marshall travelled to Washington, DC, on Thursday to ask justices to vacate a Tuesday ruling by the US District Judge Emily Marks, which barred Alabama from executing Lee using its nitrogen hypoxia protocol.

In an unprecedented decision, Marks found the protocol unconstitutionally cruel and in violation of Lee’s constitutional rights under the Eighth Amendment.

Lee, 49, had been scheduled to die by nitrogen hypoxia at 18:00h on Thursday, according to court filings. With the justices’ decision still pending hours before the scheduled time, a spokesperson for Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey’s office told CBS News in a statement that “the governor remains prepared to move forward with the planned execution” while the state “continues to defend its execution protocol in the courts.”

Alabama’s appeal argued that executing Lee by firing squad instead of nitrogen gas, as his legal team proposed and Marks accepted in her ruling, was “not feasible or readily implemented” because Alabama does not currently have a protocol in place for it. (Excerpt from CBS News)

A change to how you allocate your money will help you save. Structure your schedule to meet your demands. The balance between work and play will make your life easier. Looking out for your best interests will ward off anyone’s attempts to sabotage your reputation or position. A selfimprovement project will turn out better than anticipated.

Filter through the possibilities. Let your emotions help you express your feelings. The best way to find out how someone feels about you is to open a dialogue and ask. Truth is the best foundation for any relationship you want to pursue. Positive change begins within. Keep your cash in a safe place to avoid overspending.

Choose the road that encourages you to learn, to explore and to gain insight into what excites you most. You thrive when busy and engaging in playful banter and flirtatious gestures. Get out, strut your stuff and meet people who are go-getters and enthusiasts of the same things you are. Turn your desires into your daily routine.

A snap decision will lead to conflict. Observe, then consider all your options. Showing compassion, loyalty and respect will be what makes a difference in any emotional situation you face today. Look for a moneymaking opportunity, a new job or a safe investment, and you’ll make a financial gain. A lifestyle change will improve your health and well-being.

A direct approach to life, love and what you desire most will leave nothing to chance. Stop dreaming and reminiscing when following through with your intentions will make you feel alive. Opportunity is apparent, but you must be willing to take a leap of faith, bare your soul and make things happen. Personal growth is within reach.

Pursue a learning expedition and see what transpires. Something or someone you encounter will help you decide what’s best for you. Making a move for the wrong reason will lead to backtracking. Say yes only to people and things you want in your life. An opportunity to chase something that brings you joy will encourage encounters with like-minded people.

You may not agree with or like everyone you encounter, but they will offer insight into how to deal with opposition. Set boundaries, and be quick to make changes that allow you to dodge inappropriate gestures. Timing is everything, and if you stay one step ahead of whoever you’re dealing with, you will come out a winner.

Put more time and energy into traveling, learning and discovering what makes you happy. Take control, expand your circle and explore the possibilities of using your qualifications, skills and physical attributes to head in a desirable direction. A partnership will have a powerful and positive influence on your personal and financial growth. Romance is on the rise.

You’re in a better position than you realize. Protect your assets, possessions and reputation from anyone who may want to challenge you. Preparation and a plan will help you outmaneuver any opponent who wants to take you on. It’s time to live life your way. Change your surroundings to accommodate what brings you joy.

Stick close to home and loved ones. Personal changes will be uplifting and help you manage your time and money efficiently. Don’t miss out on an adventure with someone you love over a misunderstanding or lack of compromise. Aiming for equality in your relationships with others is in your best interest.

Don’t grumble or let anger take over. Walk away from what you cannot change and toward what makes you happy. A self-help day will assist you in putting your life in perspective and encourage you to make positive lifestyle changes that promote what you enjoy doing most. Let your imagination lead the way, and your heart will follow.

Hold tight; your best decisions will be made through deciding what’s possible and what offers the most rewards emotionally, physically and financially. Take it upon yourself to indulge in what makes you happy and to turn those very things into something tangible. Love who you are, and use your strengths to make what you desire a reality.

Taskin, Mustafizur set up famous series win for Bangladesh

Bangladesh secured their first One Day International (ODI) series victory against Australia after they won the second ODI by five wickets in Dhaka, chasing down a rain-adjusted target of 192, having earlier removed the visitors’ first three wickets before they had scored a run.

Australia reached 187 for eight in 42 overs when rain came but had done well to reach that far, becoming just the fourth team in ODI history to be zero for three. Taskin Ahmed and Mustafizur Rahman did the early damage and finished with three wickets each. Australia hung on through the 50s thanks to Marnus Labuschagne and Xavier Bartlett, who rescued them with a 103-run seventh-wicket stand.

Buoyed by his maiden half-century, Bartlett bowled an inspired first over when play resumed. A big appeal off the first

ball was followed by Tanzid Hasan giving a simple return catch. Bartlett then dropped Najmul Hossain Shanto off the fifth ball, although it was a tough chance, before the umpire raised the finger to an lbw

stump.

The recalled Soumya Sarkar got Bangladesh going with a lofted cover drive in the third over. He repeated the dose against Nathan Ellis in the next over, then Shanto took consecutive

appeal on the last ball, but Shanto’s review saved him with the ball missing leg

who was returning to the ODI side after five years.

Cameron Green made a further blow when he removed Litton Das with a snorter that took the glove after a brisk 21. Mosaddek Hossain, Bangladesh’s batting hero from the first game, played his shots from the start before giving Cooper Connolly a simple catch at longoff.

At 144 for five, with only the bowlers to come, the game was not quite closed out. However, Captain Mehidy Hasan Miraz withstood a blow to the side of the head to help Towhid Hridoy in the remaining part of the chase. The game ended up finishing in a rush as Hridoy hooked Meredith for a six, followed by a pulled boundary, and then Mehidy sealed victory with another hook that cleared the boundary.

The opening exchanges of the match were remarkable. Taskin set off one of the most extraordinary starts seen in Bangladesh when he clean bowled Matthew Short for the second consecutive innings, this time the batter leaving the ball from a good length. It meant Short had fallen for a duck three innings in a row, starting from the third ODI against Pakistan in Lahore.

boundaries off Bartlett in the fifth over.

Three more boundaries followed in as many overs,

Connolly followed in the next over when he fell first ball to Mustafizur. The delivery was going slightly away from the left-handed Connolly, who provided the thin edge. Renshaw fell in a similar way at the end of the same over, and Australia hadn’t opened their scoring.

Labuschagne and Bartlett. Labuschagne, who had been moved down to No. 7 and should have been run out on one, struck three fours in his unbeaten 55 off 85 balls. It was just his second ODI fifty since the 2023 World Cup final.

Bartlett, who walked in at 81 for six, was the aggressor and struck six boundaries, including two huge six-

aaa

Australia (42 ovs maximum)

Matthew Short b Taskin Ahmed 0

es over midwicket, in his 52 off 48 balls.

Taskin broke the partnership in the 41st over, cleaning up Bartlett with an in-ducker. Next ball he bowled a big off-cutter to fox Zampa. They were important blows because it meant the DLS target was more in Bangladesh’s favour after a two-and-a-half hour delay. (ESPNcricinfo)

Mehidy Hasan Miraz 6-0-30-0 Mosaddek Hossain 2-0-6-0

Cooper Connolly c †Litton Das

ing Ellis over square leg for a six. Shanto survived a half chance on 21 when

They were reduced to 25 for four in the eighth over when Mustafizur got Alex Carey to drive one uppishly at point, where Shanto took the simple catch. Mustafizur picked up three wickets in the powerplay for only the second time in his ODI career.

Labuschagne dropped a tough opportunity at short mid-wicket. Soumya then went after Adam Zampa, climbing into a high six over

er Matt Renshaw who got Australia the much-needed breakthrough in the 16th dle was poorly executed,

lowed soon after, caught behind off Riley Meredith,

Captain Josh Inglis tried to salvage the situation, striking five boundaries, including a beautiful squarecut six off Nahid Rana. He timed the ball well during his 34, but left-arm spinner Tanvir Islam neutralised his threat when Inglis’ miscued inside-out shot found deep cover. Tanvir wasn’t done, removing Green with a caught-and-bowled dismissal in the 22nd over.

Australia’s resistance came in the form of a seventh-wicket stand between

b Mustafizur Rahman 0

Josh Inglis (c)† c Tanzid Hasan

b Tanvir Islam 34

Matt Renshaw c †Litton Das

b Mustafizur Rahman 0

Alex Carey c Najmul Hossain Shanto

b Mustafizur Rahman 13

Cameron Green c & b Tanvir Islam 25

Marnus Labuschagne not out 55

Xavier Bartlett b Taskin Ahmed 52

Adam Zampa b Taskin Ahmed 0

Nathan Ellis not out 2

Extras (lb 1, nb 2, w 3) 6

Total 42 Ov (RR: 4.45, 215 Mins) 187/8

Fall of wickets: 1-0 (Matthew Short, 0.4 ov), 2-0 (Cooper Connolly, 1.1 ov), 3-0 (Matt Renshaw, 1.6 ov), 4-25

(Alex Carey, 7.3 ov), 5-68 (Josh Inglis, 17.1 ov), 6-81 (Cameron Green, 21.1 ov), 7-184 (Xavier Bartlett, 40.2 ov), 8-184 (Adam Zampa, 40.3 ov)

Bowling O-M-R-W

Taskin Ahmed 8-1-33-3

Mustafizur Rahman 7-2-27-3

Nahid Rana 9-0-45-0 Tanvir Islam 10-0-45-2

Bangladesh (T:

West Indies Academy frustrated by Bandara’s heroics

Amagnificent unbeaten century from Anjala Bandara guided Sri Lanka to safety and ensured a draw against West Indies Academy on the final day of their four-day encounter at the Mahinda Rajapaksha International Cricket Stadium in Hambantota on Thursday.

Resuming the day at 173 for five with a lead of 148 runs, Sri Lanka faced the challenge of extending their advantage while batting out the final day. West Indies Academy entered play hoping for early breakthroughs that would leave them a

manageable target to chase.

However, Sri Lanka’s overnight batsmen, Anjala Bandara and Pulindu Perera, had other ideas. The pair displayed remarkable patience, discipline, and determination as they frustrated the visitors throughout the morning session. Their impressive sixth-wicket partnership yielded 162 runs and effectively removed any hopes of a West Indies victory.

The breakthrough finally came when Jediah Blades dismissed Perera for a superb 87. His innings came from 109 deliveries and in-

aaa SCOREBOARD

West Indies Academy 1st Innings

Mbeki Joseph c & b Abeyratne 13

Damel Evelyn c †Bandara

b Battage 35

Mavendra Dindyal c & b

Shakthi Udara 60

Kevlon Anderson lbw

b Shakthi Udara 2

Shaqkere Parris c Rasantha

b Shakthi Udara 55

Rivaldo Clarke (c)† c Battage

b Shakthi Udara 127

Amari Goodridge b Abeyratne 28

Johann Layne c Shanmuganathan

b Shakthi Udara 35

Ryan Bandoo c †Bandara

b Battage 0

Jediah Blades not out 1

Kelvin Pitman c Abeyratne

b Shakthi Udara 0

Extras (b 12, lb 1, nb 7, w 5) 25

Total 103.4 Ov (RR: 3.67) 381

Fall of wickets: 1-42 (Mbeki Joseph, 5.3 ov), 2-82 (Damel Evelyn, 12.6 ov), 3-101 (Kevlon Anderson, 19.6 ov), 4-134 (Mavendra Dindyal, 29.1 ov), 5-249 (Shaqkere Parris, 59.2 ov), 6-306 (Amari Goodridge, 82.1 ov), 7-379 (Rivaldo Clarke, 99.1 ov), 8-380 (Johann Layne, 101.2 ov), 9-380 (Ryan Bandoo, 102.2 ov), 10-381 (Kelvin Pitman, 103.4 ov)

Bowling O-M-R-W

Dinura Kalupahana 11-0-52-0

Nisala Abeyratne 14-0-76-2

Chamod Battage 16-2-65-2 Shakthi Udara 36.4-7-102-6

Tharinda Nirmal 21-3-66-0

Asitha Wanninayake 5-2-7-0

cluded 10 boundaries, leaving Sri Lanka well posi-

Sri Lanka Emerging Players 2nd Innings

Asitha Wanninayake lbw

b Layne 14

Ravindu Rasantha c Dindyal

b Blades 2

Dinura Kalupahana (c) b Layne 25

Sahan Kosala c Parris

b Layne 1

Sharujan Shanmuganathan

c & b Bandoo 11

Anjala Bandara † not out 189

Pulindu Perera c Bandoo

b Blades 87

Tharinda Nirmal run out (†Clarke) 40

Shakthi Udara lbw b Dindyal 12

Nisala Abeyratne not out 4

Extras (b 4, lb 4, nb 6, w 2) 16

Total 116 Ov (RR: 3.45) 401/8

Did not bat: Chamod Battage

Fall of wickets: 1-7 (Ravindu Rasantha, 2.1 ov), 2-43 (Asitha Wanninayake, 9.2 ov), 3-44 (Dinura Kalupahana, 9.6 ov), 4-46 (Sahan Kosala, 11.4 ov), 5-91 (Sharujan Shanmuganathan, 29.1 ov), 6-253 (Pulindu Perera, 65.5 ov), 7-345 (Tharinda Nirmal, 97.2 ov), 8-377 (Shakthi Udara, 110.2 ov)

Bowling O-M-R-W

Jediah Blades 14-3-43-2

Amari Goodridge 8-1-31-0

Johann Layne 16-0-61-3

Ryan Bandoo 25-0-104-1

Rivaldo Clarke 11-1-31-0

Kevlon Anderson 19-0-75-0

Shaqkere Parris 15-3-26-0

Mavendra Dindyal 8-0-22-1

tioned at 253 for six.

Bandara continued to

anchor the innings and found valuable support from Tharinda Nirmal. The pair further strengthened Sri Lanka’s position, as Nirmal contributed a solid 40 from 96 balls before being dismissed.

The day, however, belonged to Bandara. Producing a masterclass in concentration and technique, he remained unbeaten on a magnificent 189 from 326 deliveries. His marathon innings featured 13 fours and proved to be the cornerstone of Sri Lanka’s resistance.

By the close of play, Sri Lanka had reached 401 for eight, establishing an overall lead of 376 runs. With time running out and no realistic prospect of forcing a result, the match ended in a draw.

For the West Indies, Johann Layne picked up three wickets while Jediah Blades picked up two wickets. While the contest concluded without a winner, Bandara’s outstanding innings will be remembered as one of the highlights of the match, showcasing resilience and determination under pressure.

The teams will meet again in their next fixture, scheduled to begin on Monday, June 15, 2026, at 00:30h.

S&K Imports GY boards One Guyana T10 Tapeball Blast

Momentum behind the One Guyana

T10 Tapeball Blast shows no signs of slowing down, as S&K Imports GY has officially signed on as a corporate partner for the upcoming tournament.

Located at Lot 6, Saila Park, Crane Public Road, Vreed-En-Hoop, West Coast Demerara, this marks the first time the prominent business has aligned itself with the tournament.

The partnership reinforces the tournament’s skyrocketing commercial value and its deep-rooted cultural impact, setting the stage for an explosive 2026 season scheduled to bowl off on August 8.

“As a business, we are deep lovers of cricket, and we see this as the perfect avenue to drive community development,” a spokesperson for S&K Imports GY stated.

“Tapeball cricket is the heartbeat of grassroots sports in Guyana, and we want to see our local talent thrive on a massive platform. Supporting this tournament is about investing in our youth and our communities.”

Tournament organiser John Ramsingh welcomed the new backing, emphasising that corporate synergy is pivotal to elevating the overall tournament experience this year.

With the tournament rapidly approaching, organisers are issuing an urgent call to teams across the nation to lock in their spots immediately rather than delaying their entry while attempting to perfect their rosters.

Ramsingh emphasised that registration operates on a strict first-come, first-served basis, acknowledging that the fierce, highstakes nature of the competition often leads captains to overthink and deliberate over their line-ups for too long.

To guarantee entry, teams must pay the $35,000 entry fee now. This allows captains the necessary flexibility to finalise their ultimate 15-man talent pools closer to their respective zonal start dates. Entry caps are being strictly enforced to effectively manage the intensive schedule. The Berbice, East Bank/West Demerara, and Essequibo zones are rigidly capped at 16 teams each.

Meanwhile, the East Coast Demerara/ Georgetown zone will accommodate up to 32 teams.

Registration forms are currently available on the tournament’s official social me-

dia channels, or interested teams can register via direct WhatsApp at +592 635-2235.

The high-octane action begins with the Berbice Zone on August 8–9. Sixteen teams will battle across four premier venues, including the Port Mourant Community Centre Ground, No. 69 Ground, and the Welfare Ground in Canje. The regional action will culminate with the zonal finals on Sunday, August 9, at the Albion Sports Complex.

From there, the tournament caravan moves swiftly to the East Bank/West Demerara leg on August 15–16, followed quickly by the Essequibo zone on August 22–23.

In a strategic move designed to maximise fan engagement and support local cricket festivities, the competition will pause during the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) window. This thoughtful scheduling allows fans to fully immerse themselves in the professional franchise season without distraction.

Action resumes post-CPL with the highly anticipated Georgetown/East Coast Demerara leg, spanning September 26–27 and October 3–4. This gruelling regional phase leads directly to the historic national grand finale on October 11, 2026.

For the first time in the tournament’s history, the ultimate prize will be contested at the Anna Regina National Stadium in Region Two, bringing elite tapeball action directly to the passionate and cricket-starved fans of the Essequibo coast.

High stakes and life-changing rewards

The stakes for the 2026 season have reached an all-time high, courtesy of a revamped financial structure that introduces guaranteed cash prizes for every single team that reaches the quarterfinal stage of their respective zone.

Rewards begin at $25,000 for losing zonal quarterfinalists and scale up significantly, culminating in a hefty $500,000 purse

pocketed by the zonal winners before they even advance to the National Finals. At the national level, the rewards become life-changing for grassroots cricketers. Teams will compete for a massive $2,000,000 grand prize, while the national runner-up will take home $1,000,000. Beyond the financial windfall, the four national finalists will also earn the prestigious right to represent Guyana at the upcoming International T10 Tapeball Tournament later this October.

Individual brilliance will be celebrated just as handsomely alongside team success.

The tournament’s eventual Most Valuable Player (MVP) will walk away with $150,000 and a brand-new motorbike. Furthermore, specialised awards for the leading run-scorer and the top wicket-taker will see both players receive $100,000 and a new television each, ensuring that historic personal milestones are met with premier rewards.

Guyanese pugilists embark on 10-day T&T training camp

In anticipation of their participation in the upcoming Central American and Caribbean (CAC) Games and the Commonwealth Games, a complement of four amateur boxers jetted off earlier this week for Trinidad and Tobago (T&T), where they will be embroiled in a 10-day high-performance training camp. This move comes as the Guyana Boxing Association (GBA) intensifies preparation for those marquee events on the boxing calendar.

Leading the delegation is National Middleweight Champion Desmond Amsterdam, one of Guyana’s most experienced amateur fighters and a member of the country’s team at the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, England.

Amsterdam is joined by fellow Birmingham Games representative

Collin Lewis, rising star and Caribbean champion Terron Wintz, and the squad’s lone female boxer, the multifaceted Akeelah Vancooten.

Accompanying the athletes is former national champion and respected coach Jeff Roberts of the

New Amsterdam Boxing Academy, who has been tasked with overseeing the team’s development throughout the intensive training programme.

The camp, which runs from June 10 to 21 in the Twin-Island Republic, is expected to provide in-

ICC Women’s T20 World Cup

Dottin

valuable exposure and high-level competitive training opportunities for the Guyanese contingent as they continue preparations for the prestigious competitions scheduled for July.

represents a critical phase of the association’s preparation strategy as it seeks to ensure its athletes are adequately equipped to challenge for honours on both the regional and international stages.

to creating opportunities that will enhance the performance of Guyanese athletes at the highest levels of competition.

While the association has not yet officially finalised its teams for either the CAC Games or the Commonwealth Games, Ninvalle indicated that every effort is being made to ensure the nation’s best available boxers are properly prepared and positioned to contend for podium finishes.

Though the West Indies Women’s team could only manage two losses in their 2026 International Cricket Council (ICC) Women’s T20 World Cup warm-up matches this week, Barbadian all-rounder Deandra Dottin has looked promising with the bat, accumulating 95 runs. While her teammates were not quite up to the task in the warm-ups, Dottin is happy to be amongst the runs after a lot of hard work.

Dottin shared after their

keen on

“peaking at the right time”

last warm-up fixture, “Going through today’s innings against Australia, it’s actually our second warm up game, it was basically for me to go to the crease and to find some form and get some runs so that I’m actually peaking at the right time for my team.”

“I think that I’ve been putting in a lot of hard work in the past, working on a lot of things, changing a couple of things but trying not to change too much,” the all-rounder further divulged.

Dottin went on to detail the pressure she felt, discussing being able to “peak” at the right time, with the World Cup one day away.

“At first, I was being hard on myself and putting a lot of pressure on myself

because things weren’t going the way I wanted it to. But I think that was actually the form and the pattern it was supposed to go, Dottin explained, “I wasn’t supposed to peak too early. So, now that I’m actually getting some runs and getting a feel of it, it’s really good. It’s coming at the right time.”

While the World Cup bowls off today, the West Indies’ women will open their campaign on Saturday, June 13, against defending champions New Zealand at the Rose Bowl, United Kingdom, from 13:30h.

In other team news, Vice Captain Chinelle Henry will be undergoing assessments ahead of the World Cup opener after sustaining an injury against Australia’s women on Wednesday during their last warm-up match.

The CAC Games are scheduled to be held in the Dominican Republic from July 24 to August 8, while the Commonwealth Games will take place in Scotland from July 23 to August 2.

According to GBA President Steve Ninvalle, the overseas encampment

The GBA President noted that training and sparring against elite opposition from throughout the Caribbean will provide the type of competitive environment that cannot be replicated locally, allowing Guyana’s fighters to fine-tune their techniques, improve their ring awareness, and build confidence ahead of their major assignments.

Ninvalle described the initiative as a vital investment in the continued development of boxing in Guyana, emphasising the association’s commitment

The GBA President also expressed gratitude to the Guyana Olympic Association (GOA) and Excel Guyana for their support in making the Trinidad and Tobago training camp possible, noting that such partnerships remain essential to the advancement of the sport.

GRFU intensifying youth rugby development drive – Gonsalves

TRugby Football Union (GRFU) is continuing its efforts to strengthen the sport at the grassroots level, with a renewed focus on youth development and school-based participation programmes.

Speaking on the sidelines of a recent event, GRFU President Ryan Gonsalves said the union is building on the success of its Easter “Get Into Rugby” camp and has already attracted approximately 100 young participants through its outreach initiatives.

According to Gonsalves, the Federation is working closely with schools as part of its “Get Into Rugby” programme, with several youth development officers and coaches playing key roles in the initiative.

“We have about 100 students onboard easily,” Gonsalves said, noting that youth development officers Carrin Carter, Tricia Munroe and several other former players have joined the effort to help rebuild and grow the sport.

He added that the union currently has three coaches actively involved in the programme and is identifying

schools where rugby can be introduced and developed. Gonsalves acknowledged that rugby remains a relatively small sport in Guyana but said the federation is taking a gradual approach to expansion.

“We are identifying different schools and working. Rugby is a small sport, so we can only work in small areas, and we can build as we go,” he explained.

The GRFU President also revealed plans to launch schools’ tag rugby competitions within the next month or two. However, he noted that ongoing poor weather conditions and logistical preparations have delayed the immediate rollout of the programme. Despite those challenges, Gonsalves expressed optimism about the future of youth rugby in Guyana and said the Federation remains committed to increasing opportunities for young players at both the school and club levels.

He said the ultimate goal is to see more youths actively participating in rugby, helping to create a stronger foundation for the sport’s long-term development across the country.

FLAIR PLAY – West Indies bring the entertainment

The West Indies always add sparkle to short-form cricket. International Cricket Council (ICC) Women’s T20 World Cup champions in 2016 and currently ranked seventh in the ICC T20I standings, they arrive with pedigree, power, and flair.

The West Indies – or the Windies, as they are known – are unusual in that the team is made up of players from across the Caribbean. What they have in common is a brand of excitement and flair that no one else brings to the game.

Led by their talismanic and hugely experienced Captain, Hayley Matthews, they sometimes struggle for consistency but never lack charm. Matthews is likely to be their biggest influence with the bat, and if she’s firing – which she usually is –can put on serious numbers. Ten years ago her Player of the Match performance helped West Indies win the final with a top score of 66. She has now amassed over 2700 T20I runs during her career, including three centuries.

With the ball, the Windies boast the oldest player in the tournament, Afy Fletcher. Also part of that victorious 2016 team, Fletcher has made over 100 T20I appearances with more than 100 wickets too.

With back-to-back wins in the tri-series in Dublin and their third-highest T20I total ever – against Pakistan in that series – the Windies may be hitting their stride at just the right time.

Clare McEwen speaks to bowler Karishma Ramharack ahead of the World Cup.

Whatever happens, you can be sure that they’ll be worth watching, as Ramharack explains.

What does the T20 World Cup mean to you?

Absolutely everything. It’s, of course, a cricketer’s dream. You know, it’s one of the biggest tournaments, if not the biggest tournament that you could participate in as a cricketer.

So, it means everything to me really.

What’s your first memory of the T20 World Cup?

My debut World Cup, where I made the team of the tournament [in 2023].

Yeah, that’s something that stands out to me.

What do you enjoy most about the T20 format?

I think the fact you have to think on your feet as fast as possible. It keeps you in the game by having to do that.

How do you feel about playing in the big iconic grounds in a World Cup?

Looking forward to playing at Lord’s, for sure.

It’s the home of cricket, and we’re really, really excited as a team to finally play there – some of the girls have not done so before.

For me, I’m very excited to go there, especially to play against England at home. It’s gonna be a big game. So, for me, it’s all about being

able to react to those situations.

Ten years ago, West Indies lifted the trophy. What do you think your chances are this time round?

If we’re being superstitious, maybe it’s the year again for us to do it [smiles].

But I think we’re in a good space. Of course, we’re looking to put on a show.

Which opponents are you most looking forward to coming up against?

At the start of the World Cup, we’re going to meet the world champs right now, New Zealand.

It’s important for us to start well and to end well. Just to get through those two teams – New Zealand and England – our first and last games in the group stage. Those are important games for us.

To get past those will be very important.

What do you think the atmosphere is going to be like?

I can’t even imagine, but I hope that, whatever, it goes well for this women’s team [laughs].

How would you describe West Indies’ progress since the last T20 World Cup?

I think we take it in strides. I believe that players are definitely improving, and that’s very, very important for the team.

I think we have a lot of youngsters who are putting their hands up and giving us performances here and there.

So as long as we all put them together, we can have the perfect game.

Speaking of young players, who are the young players or emerging stars we should be looking out for?

Definitely, Jahzara Claxton.

From the time I’ve seen her, she’s been a massive, massive talent for us.

The way she has improved coming into the international stage, it’s just amazing to see how she has grown.

I’m looking forward to seeing her put her hand up and taking us over the line.

How would you describe the West Indies’ style of cricket?

There’s always excitement – we put on a show, for sure.

And of course, we’re the underdogs.

We’re looking forward to bringing that excitement, that flair we always do.

With all of that, it’s about getting the right combinations and getting over the line again.

Why should people unfamiliar with women’s cricket watch the T20 World Cup?

I think, where the game has grown massively over the years, the support has been there. I know there’s no doubt that England would not show up.

Even when we play a series in England, the crowd is so massive that I feel just having this World Cup in

England, it’s gonna be such a great thing for that.

I believe crowd support is very important, and it’s such a massive stage that you can’t miss it.

You definitely can’t miss it.

You’re a role model to young cricketers now. How do you find that?

It’s very strange. As you know, I would have looked up to a lot of the girls growing up myself.

I take it as an opportunity to help, to share experiences, and just give back to the community back home.

I try to portray myself in a way that girls would like to be as well.

How do you feel your season is, personally, going so far?

I think coming over into England, prep has been going really well.

The entire team has done the work to get us through the stages that we will need to get to.

I believe that we’re very confident about our skills right now. The way we’ve planned.

Even when we make a mistake, we know that, okay, this should not happen.

And that’s the good part about it, knowing where we can mess up and how we can fix it in the next ball or the

next shot.

For me it’s just about remembering those things and executing on the day.

And you’ve had a bit of practice with the English weather as well over the last week.

That’s very changeable, I must say.

Some days are very cold, and then some days it’s very hot.

But the fact that we’re

here and able to acclimatise, the prep we’ve had, it’s very important for us going into the World Cup. It’s a plus for us.

What’s the future of West Indies cricket looking like?

A lot of youngsters coming up. A lot of talent that we’ve not been able to see on any international stages yet.

So I think we’re in pretty good hands, especially with the talent that we’re seeing coming through the system.

However, the way we develop their talent is what’s gonna tell us what the future looks like.

I’d love to say we’re dominating the next few years, but all that has yet to be seen.

I do think we have a pretty good bunch coming up who can take West Indies cricket further. (The New Women’s Sport Magazine)

West Indies T20 WWC fixtures

Saturday, June 13, 18:30h: v New Zealand, Hampshire Bowl

Thursday, June 18, 18:30h: v Scotland, Headingley Sunday, June 21, 10:30h: v Sri Lanka, Bristol Wednesday, June 24, 18:30h: v England, Lord’s Saturday, June 27, 14:30h: v Ireland, Bristol

Co-hosts Mexico got off to a victorious start, beating South Africa 2-0 as the largest World Cup in history kicked off Thursday at Mexico City’s famed Estadio Azteca.

While a joyous occasion for Mexico, the match was marred by three red cards – two for South Africa and one for Mexico – the most in an opening World Cup contest.

It was Mexico’s eighth time playing in the opening match of a World Cup and their first win in an opener, having previously lost five and drawn two – including against then-host South Africa at the 2010 World Cup.

And it was a fitting way to mark the occasion, as the Azteca, which got a much-needed face-lift ahead of the 48-team tournament that Mexico is co-hosting alongside the United States and Canada, became the first stadium to host three World Cups.

“It was an experience unlike

any other,” defender Israel Reyes said. “I don’t think I’ve ever had goose bumps like that. It was the pinnacle of something I had been hoping for and working toward in my career for years.

“It unfolded exactly as I had expected and envisioned – a dream come true for me.”

The more than 80,000 fans, largely clad in Mexico green, did not have to wait long to celebrate the tournament’s first goal. Julián Quiñones struck low through the legs of South Africa goalkeeper Ronwen Williams with fewer than nine minutes gone.

The goal for Quiñones, who was the top scorer in the Saudi league this season, was the earliest to start a World Cup since Philipp Lahm netted for Germany against Costa Rica after six minutes in 2006.

“I’m happy and excited to have scored in this packed stadium and with the fans supporting us the whole time,” he said. “We played well and we achieved this victory

as a team.”

South Africa’s hopes of getting back into the game were dented when midfielder Sphephelo “Yaya” Sithole was shown a straight red card early in the second half after he took down Brian Gutiérrez on the edge of the box when through on goal.

After some brief frustration from the Azteca fans, veteran striker Raúl Jiménez made sure of the opening win for the co-hosts when heading into the net from close range midway through the second half.

With his 46th international goal and his first in three World Cups, Jiménez tied Jared Borgetti for second place for the Mexican national team. He is six goals shy of leader Javier “Chicharito” Hernández.

“Honestly, we didn’t focus on [the difficult moments of the match],” substitute Érik Lira said. “We tried to do our job and give it our best.

“We know it’s a huge responsibility, because 11 Mexicans are representing a country of 180 million people, so we did the best we could, and from the moment the referee started the match, we went out there to win.”

Mexico also handed a World Cup debut to teenager Gilberto Mora in the second half. At 17 years, 240 days, he is the youngest player to play for Mexico in a World Cup and the sixth youngest in tournament history.

South Africa’s day took a further turn for the worse when Themba Zwane was sent off for

striking Roberto Alvarado in the face following a VAR review. It was the first time any team had received two red cards in a World Cup match since the Netherlands and Portugal were shown two each in 2006.

Brazilian referee Wilton Pereira Sampaio wasn’t finished yet, handing a third red card to Mexico’s César Montes in stoppage time. With three red cards, this World Cup is already just one shy of equalling the four from four years ago in Qatar.

Mexico, coming off a first-round exit at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, has three points in Group A and will play South Korea on June 18 in Guadalajara.

South Africa will play Czechia on the same day in Atlanta. (ESPN)