Guyana Times - Saturday, May 30, 2026

Citibank gets approval to open local office

…to offer unique solutions for global investors looking to invest in Guyana

United States-based financial institution Citi has received regulatory approval from the Bank of Guyana to establish a representative office in Georgetown, marking a significant development in the country’s expanding financial sector.

In a statement published on its website on Friday, Citi said the approval allows Citibank, NA, to formally establish a presence in Guyana after maintaining business relationships with the country for nearly three decades without a physical office.

According to the company, the move is intended to strengthen its support for Guyana’s rapidly growing economy, particularly in areas such as infrastructure development and export financing.

“After almost three decades of a close relationship with Guyana without an on-the-ground presence, this new office is strategically established to enhance the delivery of products and services in the country and to strengthen our collaborative partnerships with the Government, its agencies, financial institutions and the private sector. This underscores our commitment to supporting the nation’s economic growth and the development of LATAM,” Head of Citi

in Latin America, Julio Figueroa, said.

Citi stated that the Georgetown office will help facilitate access for clients and partners to international markets while supporting Guyana’s broader economic development and financial infrastructure.

Head of International at Citi, Ernesto Torres Cantú, said the establishment of a local presence will allow the institution to better understand Guyana’s business environment and provide support to both international investors and local companies seeking opportunities abroad.

“The expansion of our unparalleled global network marks a milestone for Citi. An on-the-ground

presence enables a strong understanding of local business dynamics, the culture, the regulations, and how to help clients navigate any environment. This allows us to provide unique solutions to global clients looking to invest in Guyana and support the ambitions of Guyanese clients growing abroad,” Cantú stated.

The approval follows months of discussions between the Government of Guyana and Citi regarding investment opportunities and the expansion of international financial services in the country.

In November 2025, Citi had announced plans to establish a representative office in Guyana, pending approval from the Bank of

Guyana. At the time, the company said Guyana’s economic growth and investment climate presented a strong opportunity for expansion.

The Government had welcomed the announcement, describing it as evidence of increasing international confidence in Guyana’s economic outlook and investment environment.

Senior Minister within the Office of the President with responsibility for finance, Dr Ashni Singh, had previously said the move reflected ongoing efforts to modernise the financial sector and strengthen the legal framework governing banking and financial services.

The establishment of repre-

sentative offices by foreign financial institutions became possible following amendments to the Financial Institutions Act passed in 2024.

The legislation created provisions for international financial institutions to establish representative offices locally as part of broader reforms aimed at modernising Guyana’s banking sector and improving access to global financial services.

President Dr Irfaan Ali had also announced earlier this month that the Bank of Guyana had licensed three major international financial institutions to operate representative offices in the country. Those institutions included Citibank and OneAmerica from the United States, along with Crown Agents from the United Kingdom.

During that announcement, the president said the entry of major international financial institutions signalled deeper integration of Guyana into the global financial system and increased competition within the local banking sector.

Citi currently operates in more than 180 countries and jurisdictions and provides financial services to Governments, corporations, institutions and individuals worldwide.

BRIDGE OPENING

MAY 30, 2026

Housing, agri, infrastructure, service concerns raised as hundreds flock

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Saturday, May 30 –16:00h–17:30h and Sunday, May 31 – 16:35h–18:05h

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY

Thundery showers are expected during the day and at night. Temperatures are expected to range between 23 degrees Celsius and 28 degrees Celsius.

Winds: East-North-Easterly to East-South-Easterly between 2.25 metres and 3.12 metres.

High Tide: 15:56h reaching a maximum height of 2.44 metres.

Low Tide: 09:30h and 21:39h reaching minimum heights of 0.65 metre and 0.79 metre.

undreds of residents from across Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne) turned out on Friday as Vice President (VP) Dr Bharrat Jagdeo hosted a Public Day along with several Cabinet Ministers at the University of Guyana’s (UG) Berbice Campus at Tain.

From early in the morning, residents streamed into the venue carrying files, letters, application documents and photographs as they sought assistance with a wide range of issues affecting their daily lives. The concerns raised spanned housing, agriculture, infra-

technical officers reviewed documents, investigated complaints and sought immediate solutions where possible. In several instances, matters were addressed on the spot, while others were referred for follow-up action by the relevant agencies.

Not receiving adequate responses

Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha, speaking with this publication, said many of the persons attending the outreach had done so because they were not receiving adequate responses through normal channels.

structure, drainage, employment, public assistance, land matters, community development and Government services, with many residents taking the opportunity to speak directly with Ministers and senior Government officials responsible for addressing their problems.

The outreach transformed sections of the university campus into a one-stop Government service centre, with ministries and agencies establishing stations where residents could present complaints, seek updates on applications and request intervention in matters that, in some cases, had remained unresolved for months.

Representatives from a wide cross-section of Government ministries and agencies were deployed to the outreach.

These included the Ministries of Local Government and Regional Development, Housing and Water, Health, Home Affairs, Education, Agriculture, Labour, Public Works and Finance, along with agencies such as Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI), the Small Business Bureau (SBB), the Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS) and the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA). Their presence allowed residents to access multiple Government services and have concerns directed immediately to the relevant authorities.

Ministers sat face-toface with residents while

“Many persons came here because sometimes they are going to the offices within the region and they are not getting the regular feedback and they are not getting the problem addressed properly,” Mustapha explained. He noted that many matters were

being resolved during the outreach itself, while others were being referred for further action. According to the Minister, agriculture-related concerns featured prominently among the issues raised. Farmers sought assistance relating to livestock, crop losses, access to planting materials and land matters, while representatives from agencies, including the Guyana Livestock Development Authority (GLDA), the National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI) and the Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB), were available to provide support. Mustapha said instructions were given to the agencies to assist farmers who suffered losses and required intervention.

Apart from agriculture, infrastructure issues also occupied a significant portion of the discussions. Residents complained about roads requiring repairs, damaged bridges, drainage challenges and unfinished community works, while contractors used the opportunity to raise concerns relating to ongoing Government projects.

Infrastructure issues

Public Works Minister

Juan Edghill said his Ministry received reports concerning road works, drainage concerns, bridge

restoration and issues affecting contractors. Among the concerns raised, he noted, were allegations that some contracts were being passed from one contractor to another, a practice he warned could affect the quality of projects.

“…whether it’s an outstanding road, the restoration of a bridge that the contractor would have probably destroyed while construction and did not repair, or issues of drainage, and they are also concerns that have been raised, but a very small percentage, about contractors taking the job and giving it to subcontractors, and then that subcontractor said, ‘Better yet, another subcontractor.’” Edghill noted that once such situations exist, there will be serious problems arising.

“…they see, they observe, and they’re engaging the engineers to ensure that once somebody gets a contract, we are not allowing subcontractors, because you don’t want people just getting a contract and then selling it,” he pointed out.

Housing-related concerns

Meanwhile, housing matters also generated significant interest, with scores of residents seeking updates on applications, allocations, titles and other housing-related concerns.

Editor: Tusika Martin

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Protecting special needs children must be non-negotiable

The allegations emerging from the David Rose School for Special Education have rightly sparked outrage and concern across Guyana. At the heart of the matter are children entrusted to an institution designed specifically to nurture, educate, protect and empower those with special educational needs. Any indication that such trust may have been violated demands a thorough investigation as well as decisive and meaningful consequences.

The Education Ministry’s response to the incident reflects an appropriate recognition of the gravity of the situation. The immediate placement of the teachers under administrative leave, the launch of an investigation, and the introduction of measures aimed at strengthening accountability are necessary steps in restoring confidence in a system that exists to serve some of the nation’s most vulnerable children.

Educational institutions are environments where children develop socially, emotionally and intellectually. This responsibility becomes even more significant in schools that cater to children with special educational needs. Such students often require greater patience, specialised support, individual attention and compassionate guidance. They depend on educators for instruction and also for reassurance, understanding and protection.

Children with special needs are unique in their abilities, challenges and methods of communication. Their educational journey is often shaped by dedicated interventions, carefully structured learning environments and professionals trained to appreciate their individual circumstances. These children deserve to be treated with dignity and respect at all times. They deserve classrooms where encouragement replaces intimidation and where care replaces fear.

Any form of abuse directed at children within the education system is unacceptable. When allegations involve children with special educational needs, the seriousness of the matter is amplified. Such children may be less able to articulate mistreatment, defend themselves or report wrongdoing. This places an even greater obligation on educators and administrators to uphold the highest standards of professional conduct and ethical responsibility.

The teaching profession carries with it immense trust as parents entrust educators with the care of their children for significant portions of each day. That trust is not automatic; it is earned through professionalism, compassion and a demonstrated commitment to the wellbeing of every student. Any conduct that undermines this trust strikes at the very foundation of the education system.

Disciplinary action, where wrongdoing is established, must therefore be swift, firm and proportionate to the severity of the offence. There can be no room for leniency when the welfare of children is compromised. Educators who violate professional standards, particularly in ways that cause harm to students, must face the full consequences available under administrative and legal frameworks. Failure to do so would send a dangerous message that misconduct can be tolerated or excused.

The Ministry of Education’s stated zero-tolerance approach to abuse deserves strong support. Such a policy must be more than a statement of intent; it must be consistently enforced. Accountability serves not only to address individual wrongdoing but also to reinforce professional standards throughout the education sector. It assures parents that student welfare remains paramount and demonstrates that institutions are prepared to act when those standards are breached.

Equally important is the Ministry’s decision to strengthen oversight mechanisms. The establishment of a Board of Governors with parental representation is a constructive measure that can help improve transparency, encourage stakeholder engagement and provide an additional layer of accountability. Schools function best when families are active partners in the educational process and when concerns can be raised and addressed through structured channels.

This incident should also serve as an opportunity for reflection on the treatment of children with disabilities and special educational needs. A society’s commitment to inclusion is measured by policies alone as well as daily actions. Respect, empathy and protection must remain central to every interaction involving children who rely on specialised educational support.

Ultimately, the focus must remain on the students, their wellbeing, safety and development. Every child who enters a classroom deserves to feel secure, valued and respected. Every parent deserves confidence that their child is being cared for in a nurturing environment. Every educational institution has a duty to uphold those principles without exception.

The outcome of the ongoing investigation will be closely watched, and if the allegations are substantiated, the harshest disciplinary measures available should be pursued. Anything less would fail the affected students and their families. Protecting children, especially those who are most vulnerable, must never be open to compromise.

The resilience of indentured women

By Dr raDica Mahase

As T&T celebrates 181 years since the arrival of the first group of Indian indentured labourers, and given that both our Prime Minister and President are descendants of these labourers, I find it fitting to write about the women who came during Indian indentureship. From 1845 to 1917, approximately 147,600 Indian labourers immigrated to Trinidad under the indentureship system. Of this group, female labourers comprised 29 per cent, or roughly 42,800 women and girls. In 1917, when the Indian indentureship system officially ended, only about 25 per cent of female labourers were repatriated to India. The majority remained in the colony and made Trinidad their home.

Often, when we examine the labour scheme, we assume that men and women shared the same experiences. But this was far from true. The indentureship system affected women in particular ways, and they faced challenges that were specific to them. Yet we do not speak enough about these experiences or about how Indian women entered a world that tried, at every stage, to control them.

First, it was not easy for women to migrate on their own. India was a deeply patriarchal society. Women were not always free to register or leave India on their own. Thus, the number of female emigrants remained low, with a ratio of 40 women to 100 men. After 1879, for example, Magistrates often refused to register single women unless they had the permission of their fathers,

husbands or sons, and they often asked the local Police to investigate the background of women who wanted to migrate. Yet Indian women also found ways to negotiate these restrictions. Some married Indian men at the immigration depot in Calcutta so they could migrate as part of a couple rather than as single women. This shows that even within a system designed to control them, Indian women found ways to exercise agency and create possibilities for themselves.

Second, some women were kidnapped, tricked or forced to migrate in order to fill quotas on the ships. Of course, the official records did not always include these cases. After all, Indian indentureship came in the aftermath of African slavery, and it was very important for the colonists to present it as something different. But interviews with survivors, court documents and letters sent to relatives in India tell another story.

Dharajia remembered that one day a group of arkatias, or recruiters, came to the river where she and three other women were washing clothes. They told the women that they had to go with them to Calcutta and forced them onto a bull cart. No one was around to stop them. When they reached Calcutta, they were taken to the Garden Reach depot and registered. They tried explaining their situation to the Magistrate, but he did not understand Bhojpuri, and the interpreter did not tell him what they were saying. One of the women stopped off in South Africa because she was pregnant and the ship’s journey was

too much for her. The others continued to Trinidad.

Third, women gave themselves agency and reinvented themselves in Trinidad’s plantation society. Here, the story became even more complex. Whereas in India their labour often went unrecognised, in Trinidad they were compensated in monetary form for their work. Their wage-earning status gave them a sense of selfworth. Women also became landholders as they acquired Crown land through the commutation system, which was implemented in 1869 to encourage time-expired Indian labourers to settle in the colony. Under this scheme, they could give up the right to a free return passage to India in exchange for land or cash. From 1869 to 1889, 1873 Indian women chose the land grant rather than a return passage to India.

Many Indian women took advantage of other opportunities that existed, and upon completion of their contracts, they moved towards the town areas, seeking employment as midwives, seamstresses and domestic servants. Some Indian women returned to India and then remigrated as ordinary passengers, paying their own passage back to the colony. During the period 1881 to 1892, 141 men paid their passages to Trinidad while 97 women did the same. Thus, we see that Indian women were not merely surviving; they were actively creating a secure future for themselves and their children. Indian women also renegotiated social life. Because there were fewer Indian women than men in the col-

ony, women had some leverage in marriage and relationships. Some changed partners, left marriages in which they were unhappy and had children with more than one man. Widows were no longer completely ostracised and could find other partners. This knowledge was enough to empower Indian women. But this agency also came at a terrible cost. Indian men were not always able to deal with these changes. Violence, physical abuse and wife murders became part of the history of indentureship. The issue of “horning” and jealousy was not simply about morality. It was also about men trying to regain control in a society where women were beginning to make choices for themselves.

After indentureship, Indian women continued to create space for themselves. Some became midwives, seamstresses and domestic servants. A small group of educated women became visible as teachers, clerks and professionals. Over time, Indo-Trinbagonian women moved into politics, medicine, law, business, education and public life. This brings us right back to where we are today. T&T is now led by women who are descendants of these Indian indentured women. Their great-grandmothers helped to pave the way. They were strong and courageous women who navigated poverty, patriarchy and plantation life while passing on values of hard work, resilience and ambition. Their stories remind us that Indian Arrival Day is about resilience, hard work and sheer courage. Let us honour their lives. (T&T Guardian)

Consumer experience must be world-class in modern Guyana – Finance Minister

…says Guyanese businesses need to change the way they operate

As Guyana continues to build out its tourism and hospitality with dozens of new hotels and restaurants being opened, senior Minister with responsibility for finance Dr Ashni Singh says there needs to be better service delivery at these establishments in order for the country to be competitive in the region.

Dr Singh made these remarks on Friday afternoon while presenting the feature address at the Private Sector Commission’s (PSC) 34th Annual General Meeting (AGM) held at the Marriott Hotel in Georgetown.

Without singling out any establishments, the Finance Minister believes that there is still a lot of room for improvements in the quality of service that is being delivered by local businesses – something that he says needs to be changed as Guyana undergoes this unprecedented transformation.

“I’m speaking across the entire spectrum that anybody in Guyana, whether a citizen or a visitor…the consumer experience must be a world-class experience if we are to achieve a modern Guyana… Sometimes, I think the emphasis is on cutting the ribbon and not necessarily on making sure that the service that follows…is as impeccable as the physical appearance of the edifice. I want to urge you to consider these things because they are all a part of the building of a modern Guyana,” the Minister noted.

Globally competitive

According to Dr Singh, this is not just applicable to the service industry but to all sectors, including construction, logistics, engineering and fabrication, advisory services, etc.

In fact, he recognised that within the oil and gas industry, Guyanese compa-

nies are already operating in accordance with internationally recognised standards in order to capitalise on contracts and opportunities from major players like United States oil major ExxonMobil and its tier one contractors.

“For us to continue to grow in the manner that we’ve been growing and for us to realise the potential to which we refer, it is absolutely imperative that we are globally competitive, that we not only secure transactions and deals and contracts, but that we are able to deliver them at world-class quality and world-class efficiency… Guyanese companies understand that in order to win a contract with a company like ExxonMobil or with one of their tier-one contractors, they have to be competitive, they have to deliver on time [and] they have to observe a comprehensive array of standards, including health and safety standards and other standards,” he noted, adding that this must be applicable across the board.

The Finance Minister went onto add that this is a shared responsibility and everyone has a role to play in ensuring that services, whether public or private, in Guyana are world-class.

“This is not the other guy’s responsibility or the Government’s responsibility or somebody else’s. This is a shared responsibility to ensure that we’re competitive and that we are world-class and that we achieve the kind of quality that we want to achieve because that is essential to maintaining the growth momentum and to realising our global and regional presence,” he posited.

Market presence

Meanwhile, on the issue of regional presence, Minister Singh lamented the lack of presence by

Guyanese businesses in the regional and international markets, especially at a time when the Guyanese Government is pushing to be a global leader in every sphere.

According to the finance Minister, getting to that global leadership position requires looking beyond Guyana’s borders for opportunities to expand. Dr Singh believes that many local companies have the po-

tential to expand their footprints outside of Guyana.

“In this era, when you are growing as rapidly as you are and when you have ramped up your productive capacity as much as you have, are you exploring as aggressively as you should opportunities outside of Guyana as much as you are inside Guyana? … I believe that there remains a significant unrealised potential for Guyanese companies to expand outside of Guyana even if initially only into regional markets,” he asserted.

Dr Singh reminded us that Guyanese companies like Gafoors and Demerara Mutual Life, among others, did this in the past, when they expanded into Caribbean markets at a time when the conditions were not as favourable as today.

“I always take great pride when I see Guyanese companies penetrating markets outside of Guyana, even if it’s a very modest or tentative beginning… As you’re building up this capacity that you’re building up, I want you to consider the potential for expansion beyond Guyana’s borders to establish yourselves,” the Minister urged the local Private Sector.

Additionally, Dr Singh also called for Guyanese companies to be bolder, noting that business cannot operate as usual in the current transformation of the local economy.

“In this era, if we are to truly grow and realize our potential and take advantage of bigger and bigger opportunities, and penetrate newer and newer and bigger markets, strategic partnerships, innovative and creative ways to mobilizing capital, deployment of technology to realize the opportunities and the advantages of scale are all things that you are urged to consider,” he stated, while emphasising the Government’s

continued commitment and support for the growth and development of the local Private Sector.

Private Sector Commission Meanwhile, Chairman of the PSC, Gerald Gouveia Jr, during his remarks, explained that the focus of the umbrella Private Sector body over the past year has been to protect democracy and stability in Guyana by serving as observers at the 2025 elections, to continue promoting the country on the world stage, and to give unwavering support to Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs).

SATURDAY, MAY 30, 2026

Page Foundation

Set notation Set notation is the system of mathematical symbols used to describe sets and their relationships, often represented using Venn diagrams.

The universal set

The universal set is denoted by U, and is the list of every element given.

Example

The universal set, U, of integers from 1 to 12 is written as {1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12}.

Subsets

A subset would be a selection of these elements. The elements of a set could be a set of integers, shapes, people, etc.

Example

If we wrote a subset of the universal set U, for example, A = {prime numbers}, we would have the set A = {2, 3, 5, 7, 11}.

Empty Set

We also have the empty set (or null set), ϕ, which contains no elements.

Example

If set B = {numbers greater than 12}

Then B = ϕ, because there are no numbers greater than 12 in the universal set.

There are also symbols that are used to describe set relationships.

Coral reefs are like the rainforests of the ocean, as they are home to a wide and diverse range of species. These reefs are made up of polyps, or individual coral organisms. Coral polyps are tiny and soft-bodied with a hard base made up of a protective limestone skeleton. This forms the structure of coral reefs, which begin when a polyp attaches itself to a rock on the sea floor and divides into thousands of more coral polyps. As colonies of coral polyps grow, they join with other colonies and become reefs, some of which have been growing for over 50 million years!

Materials:

• Cardboard tubes

• Cotton balls

• Glue or tape

• Paper plate

• Pipe cleaners

• Markers

• Toothpicks

• Straws

• Scissors

Sets Cont’d

Union The set of even numbers, C = {2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12} And the set of multiples of 5, D = {5, 10}

Then the union, �, of C and D can be written as C � D = {2, 4, 5, 6, 8, 10, 12}.

Note that 10 appeared in both sets, but we did not write it twice in the union.

Complement

The complement of a set is denoted by an apostrophe (′). It refers to all elements in the universal set that are not in the given set.

Example

If U = {1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12}

The complement of set A = {2, 3, 5, 7, 11} would be the following set, A′ = {1, 4, 6, 8, 9, 10, 12}.

We can also combine symbols to describe sets in many ways.

The complement of C � D = {2, 4, 5, 6, 8, 10, 12} would be written as (C � D)' and it would consist of the numbers not in C � D that still exist in the universal set.

(C � D)’ = {1, 3, 7, 9, 11}.

Intersection

To find the intersection of two or more sets, we find the elements that are contained within both/all of the sets only.

Example

• Hole puncher

Instructions

1. Using the hole puncher, punch 5-6 holes at the top of the cardboard tube.

If U = {1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12}

The intersection, ∩, of the set of odd numbers, E, and the set of prime numbers, F, would be written as E ∩ F. E = {1, 3, 5, 7, 9, 11} and F = { 2, 3, 5, 7, 11}

Therefore, E ∩ F = {3, 5, 7, 11} and (E ∩ F)’ = {1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 9, 10, 12}.

Cardinality

The cardinality of a set, n(A), is the number of elements in a set.

Example

If A = {2, 3, 5, 7, 11}, then n(A) = 5.

By Peter Davison

2. Glue your cardboard tube to the paper plate. The plate represents the ocean floor.

3. Attach pipe cleaners to the top of the cardboard tube, through the holes you punched earlier. These are the tentacles of your coral, keep adding more until it looks like a real polyp!

4. Add life – zooxanthellae! Colour dots and other shapes all along the cardboard tube.

5. Glue cotton balls all around the base of the cardboard tube, where it attaches to the plate. The cotton balls represent the calcium carbonate skeleton of the coral that helps it stick to the

6. Defence mechanisms: Give your coral polyp a way to defend itself or catch its prey by adding nematocysts, or stinging cells. Cut a small piece of straw, and place a toothpick in it. Slide the straw and toothpick down onto one of the tentacles. The toothpick will be the harpoonlike barb that is shot out from the tentacle in response to movement or chemical changes in the water.

(Adapted from childsci.org)

I am an old woman living in a house beset with men. It has been years since I heard a child Singing to itself. These little men of mine are so little mine. They live in the same dwelling but at a terrible distance. They bring me their flowers but never notice me. They wrestle with themselves, with each other, father and son, at all hours. I carry them platters of food. They eat. They think themselves to be alone. They walk like rustaceans. There is no way for me to say, “Awake.” I must go on forever, smiling, servile, alert for the accident of their waking. Once young men stirred out of sleep and smiled to find me naked beside them. They gave me the flower of themselves, the flower of their dream. My little men do not yet know they have been presented flowers. They cannot recognize the face of the beloved in their dream. How can they know, unless they wake, that they have only been pretending to be asleep?

(Source: Poetry [August 1969])

Create a new holiday, and explain how it’s celebrated.

WORD SEARCH

GDF rank shot, injured as another border patrol comes under attack in Cuyuni River

Arank of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) was injured on Friday during a patrol along the Cuyuni River in Region Seven after coming under fire from the Venezuelan shore, in the latest in a series of incidents along Guyana’s western border.

In a statement, the GDF said the incident occurred at approximately 12:03h while a patrol was escorting civilian commuters in accordance with established operational procedures. The patrol came under hostile fire originating from the Venezuelan side of the river.

The soldiers returned fire in line with operational protocols and continued the escort, ensuring that all civilians reached their destination safely. One rank sustained injuries during the exchange. He was given first aid at the scene and subse-

quently medically evacuated to Georgetown for further treatment. The Force said he is in a stable condition and that his family has been notified.

The GDF on Friday reiterated that it maintains an active operational presence along the western border and remains committed to protecting its personnel, safeguarding border communities, and defending Guyana’s territorial integrity.

The incident comes against the backdrop of heightened tensions along the border, following a series of attacks on GDF patrols over the past months.

Earlier this month, President Dr Irfaan Ali said the Government had informed international allies and engaged Venezuela diplomatically while strengthening its national security

response to repeated incidents in the Cuyuni region.

The president stated that Guyana was responding through a combination of diplomacy, intelligence-sharing, and enhanced military readiness. He said additional security resources were being deployed to strengthen border protection, including the introduction of new assets to support riverine operations.

He also pointed to the expansion of intelligence capacity, noting that information from international partners was being used to assess whether there was any pattern to the incidents. According to him, the border patrol unit was being further developed with closer integration with community policing groups to improve intelligence sharing, monitoring, and real-time information flow.

Ali further outlined that the Government was working to improve infrastructure and operational systems to address existing challenges along the border while reinforcing national security capabilities.

Security alliances

The President also referenced Guyana’s participation in the “Shield of the Americas”, a multinational security and political alliance established in March and involving 18 countries, including Guyana.

He said the initiative is aimed at strengthening intelligence sharing, coordinating joint military efforts, and addressing transnational threats such as smuggling and drug trafficking. According to him, the arrangement supports greater regional integration through joint exercises, enhanced

information-sharing platforms, and coordinated security responses.

Incidents along the border

The Cuyuni River area has experienced multiple security incidents involving GDF patrols in recent years.

In 2025, several attacks were reported, including an incident in February in which six soldiers were injured when a GDF patrol boat came under fire. In May, armed individuals reportedly launched multiple attacks on riverine patrols, though no injuries were recorded in those instances.

In August 2025, a Joint Services patrol escorting election officials and ballot boxes also came under fire while operating in the Upper Cuyuni River. The team was not injured and completed its mission.

Earlier this month, an-

other GDF rank was injured after a patrol escorting civilian vessels came under fire in the same general area of Region Seven. The soldier sustained gunshot injuries and was evacuated to Georgetown for treatment.

The Government has consistently maintained that the border controversy with Venezuela must be resolved through legal means at the International Court of Justice case on the Guyana–Venezuela border, rather than through the use of force.

Officials have reiterated that while Guyana respects the Venezuelan people and continues to welcome cooperation and peaceful engagement, it rejects any form of aggression or attempts to resolve the territorial issue outside international legal mechanisms.

Housing, agri, infrastructure, service

The Minister within the Housing Ministry, Vanessa Benn, said all of

issues ranging from identifying house lots and pending allocations to title-relat-

the Ministry’s departments were represented at the outreach, enabling officials to deal with a broad range of matters.

“We are particularly pleased when it turned out today that all the various departments of the Ministry of Housing are here,” Benn said. According to the Minister, residents were able to receive assistance on

ed matters and occupancy concerns.

She noted that both Housing and Water Minister Collin Croal and Ministry officials spent the day engaging residents and addressing concerns as they were raised. Benn said the response from the public had been encouraging, with Ministry officials working continuously from

the start of the exercise to process applications and review cases brought forward by residents. She also noted that some residents travelled from neighbouring Region Five to access the outreach. Housing Minister Collin Croal and VP Jagdeo also met directly with residents as officials worked to address cases throughout the day. Minister within the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, Stephen Jacobs, said the outreach reflected the Government’s commitment to direct engagement

with citizens.

“This is the type of Government we have here, where we come on the ground, speak to individuals, and really understand. People can come here and meet the Vice President, meet the Ministers and talk directly to them,” Jacobs said.

Throughout the day, residents moved between service desks and meeting rooms, many leaving with commitments for follow-up action or immediate intervention from the relevant agencies. Friday’s exercise is part of a series of public outreaches being conducted across the country by VP Dr Bharrat Jagdeo, aimed at bringing services closer to citizens while allowing senior officials to receive firsthand feedback from communities.

Over 22 trucks to Region 6

Meanwhile, the VP also handed over 22 trucks to the 19 Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs) and three municipalities in Region Six, fulfilling a key manifesto promise aimed at strengthening local governance and improving community ser-

vices.

of communities, urging local authorities not to allow the trucks to remain idle or parked in compounds.

Consumer experience must

“Over the past years we have worked and built those goals together,” he posited, noting that it is time now to go after the opportunities, especially with Guyana now taking centre stage on all world forums.

“So, that’s why I described this first year as a year of positioning and preparation. We positioned the Private Sector to protect democracy; we positioned the Private Sector to engage with the world, and we positioned the SMEs to become more structured and financeable. The next year is going to be execution.”

“Now that we’ve opened the doors, we have to walk through them. We have formed relationships, and now we have to turn those relationships into projects. We have spoken about the consortiums; now we have to formalise them and start bidding for these contracts

that are coming out and start chasing the doors… That’s exactly what we’re positioning the Private Sector to do for the last 12 months,” Gouveia Jr stated.

Elected leadership team

During Friday’s AGM, the PSC elected its leadership team for the 2026–2027 term and reaffirmed its commitment to advancing Private Sector development, economic growth, and national prosperity.

Gouveia Jr was re-elected Chairman for a second term alongside Kathy Smith, who is also returning as Vice Chairwoman. Imran Saccoor has also returned as treasurer and Manniram Prashad as corporate coordinator, while Josephine Tapp was appointed honorary secretary, replacing Clinton Urling, who held the post over the past year.

Canadian-based Guyanese Pilot busted with raw gold at CJIA

A48-year-old Canadian-based Guyanese Pilot was taken into custody on Thursday following the discovery of a quantity of suspected raw gold at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA), Timehri.

According to reports received, on the day in question, at about 02:45h, Police and customs officials intercepted the outgoing passenger during screening procedures at CJIA.

Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspected raw gold was found in the luggage of a 48-yearold Pilot and Guyanese-born Canadian citizen, who was an outgoing passenger des-

tined for Toronto, Canada. Upon the discovery, he was questioned about the relevant documents to export

Porter slapped with murder charge over death of pensioner

One of three young men who were arrested for the death of 69-year-old Mohammed Faizul Shaheed, whose body was found in his Providence, East Bank Demerara (EBD) home, was arraigned with murder on Friday.

Twenty-two-year-old Yanick Williams, also called “Lashup” or “Gap”, of Back Street, Peter’s Hall, EBD, appeared before Senior Magistrate Dylon Bess at the Diamond/ Grove Magistrate’s Court on Friday, where the charge was read to him.

The porter was not required to plead to the indictment and was remanded to prison until June 15, 2026.

Williams was among three young men taken into custody on Monday last for the murder of Shaheed,

Charged: Yanick Williams, also called “Lashup” or “Gap”

known as “Fizul” and “Artist”, who was brutally murdered at his home between Saturday, May 16, 2026, and Tuesday, May 19, 2026.

It was reported that the deceased was last seen alive on Saturday, May 16, 2026, at about 21:00h. His partially decomposed body was discovered on Tuesday, May 19, by relatives who went to check on him after calls to his phone went unanswered.

An autopsy proved that he had died from a brain haemorrhage due to multiple blunt traumas to the head. Upon receiving this information and based on intelligence received, two teenagers along with Williams were identified as suspects and were subsequently arrested. Following investigations, a murder charge was instituted against Williams.

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. The suspected raw gold was subsequently taken for testing as investigations continue.

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.

It was reported that the raw gold was found concealed in the carry-on luggage of a 62-year-old man and a 59-year-old woman. Both individuals are Guyanese/Canadian citizens and were preparing to depart Guyana on a scheduled flight to Toronto, Canada. According to reports, customs officials intercepted the items during the screening process and immediately reported the matter.

The two passengers were subsequently detained for further processing. The gold was weighed in the presence of the couple and amounted to 15.521 ounces.

Essequibo labourer jailed 24 months for illegal gun, ammo

Forty-five-yearold Ramkaran Ramnauth, a labourer of Bounty Hall, Essequibo Coast, Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam), was on Thursday slapped with a 24-month jail sentence topped with a $100,000 fine for the unlicensed possession of a firearm and ammunition.

Ramnauth pleaded guilty to both charges when he appeared before Magistrate Ravindra Mohabir at the Anna Regina Magistrate’s Court on Thursday.

As such, he was sentenced to 24 months’ imprisonment on each count and fined $50,000 on each count. The sentences will run concurrently.

Better Hope man remanded on larceny charge

Danny Rajkumar, 35, a labourer from South Better Hope, East Coast Demerara (ECD), was remanded to prison on a charge of breaking and entering and larceny.

Police stated that Rajkumar was arrested on Sunday in connection with the breaking and entering and larceny committed against a Mon Repos, ECD businessman, which occurred sometime between May 23 and May 24, 2026, at his premises. Police instituted charges against Rajkumar, and as such, he made a virtual appearance before Principal Magistrate Judy Latchman at the Sparendaam Magistrate’s Court and pleaded not guilty to the charge when it was

read to him. He was remanded to prison and will make his next court appearance on June 15, 2026.

Forgetting…

…the past?

Your Eyewitness is all for forgiving folks for hurtful things done to him in the past!! But forgetting them?? Naah!!

“Forgiving”, after all, is more about our own mental wellbeing, innit?? In putting aside feelings of resentment or anger toward individuals who’ve done us wrong in one way or another, we’re freeing up our own minds for more positive feelings!! It certainly doesn’t mean accepting or excusing the ones who put us down!! That would be crazy to do!! Remember Santayana’s caution? “Those who forget the past – especially the hurtful ones – are doomed to repeat them!!

And this brings us to the recent love fest expressed with that has-been, ex-St Vincent PM Ralph Gonsalves – which your Eyewitness already kvetched about – and with PM Mia Mottley of Barbados!! For rapacious Ralph, he’s already yesterday’s news – so no more need be said. But Mottley?? Mama Mia!! How could we decide to have her Bajans now having the right to just show up at our ports with their Barbados IDs – and be accepted to enter our fair land to do as they please??!!

Have we forgotten how they treated us back in the day when Burnham had made us hungry, homeless and broke? Even if you were just passing through – in transit, as your Eyewitness was on several occasions – they’d put you on that “Guyana Bench” where you’d be forced to cool your heels for hours!! And when some official eventually showed up, they would treat you like dirt as they tried to dig up dirt on you by asking the most demeaning questions!! THEY, of course, had forgotten when they were in the same boat after the abolition of slavery; we’d allowed thousands and thousands of them to immigrate here to enjoy our higher wages!!

The question is: what are we getting for giving them the privilege once again? For us to travel to their speck in the Atlantic where their tourism industry was fatally wounded by COVID?? Why should we pump our money into their comatose economy?? Trinidad, of course, had also done us in when we showed up at their airports. But right now they’re backing us to the hilt against the machinations of Devious Delcy and her Venezuelan hordes ready to occupy our Essequibo!! And we’re just allowing them to invest!!

In the meantime, the militant Mia has been burnishing her liberal credentials by taking pot shots at the US removing our western nemesis, Mad Maduro!! She’s got her eyes set on the UN Secretary General post – and is playing to the Third World votes!!

Our waiver of visas for Bajans signals that we’re trusting them in addition to forgiving them. Let’s not forget, however, that while forgiveness is given, trust is earned!!

…AI usage spending!

As your Eyewitness has been highlighting, AI is having its moment – as trillions of US greenbacks are being poured into the data centres supporting it!! Pressie was able to attract Cerebras – one of the cutting-edge companies in the cutting-edge industry! – to commit to a 100 MW data centre to anchor our gas pipeline in Berbice!! And their recent IPO raised US$5 billion in cash that valued them at US$40 billion!!

Well, two grandaddies of the compute business –Anthropic (Claude) and OpenAI (ChatGPT) – are about to follow Cerebras and launch their IPOs!! Anthropic, the comparative newbie after just five years, just raised US$65 billion with a US billion-dollar valuation – leapfrogging the pioneer OpenAI!!

However, the news that one company accidentally spent US$500M in one month on Anthropic’s Claude, which generates code, has created a backlash!! Companies such as Microsoft are now placing caps on how much their employees can spend on these Charbots!! This, of course, means less revenue towards the bottom line!! Is a shakeout pending??

…retired furriners?

Pressie recently made a pitch for foreign-based retired Guyanese to return with their pensions!! But maybe he should also follow Panama, where non-citizen pensioners can earn residence rights – if they have a US$1000 pension!! They’re attracted by our tropical vibes!!

Son arrested after mother found dead with marks of violence at WCD home

The motionless body of 55-year-old Surujdai Kahriu, also known as “Sharda”, was discovered in her Cornelia Ida, West Coast Demerara (WCD) home on Thursday, suspected to have been murdered. Preliminary investigations revealed that the deceased resided at the house with her two sons, and on the day in question, one of the sons returned home and found the woman’s body. The other son, a 24-year-old construction

worker who was reportedly seen in the house prior to the discovery, was later arrested.

As detectives processed the scene, marks of violence were observed on the woman›s body, which was subsequently taken to

the Ezekiel Funeral Home awaiting an autopsy.

The Police have since

retrieved CCTV footage that is being reviewed as investigations continue.

The suspect, nevertheless, remains in custody.

Cutlass-wielding 10-day worker shot while advancing toward Police

A59-year-old man from Alness Village, Corentyne, Berbice, Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne) was injured following a shooting incident at Kildonan Village on Thursday.

Police stated that they responded to a report of alleged threatening behaviour at Kildonan Village, and in the process of arresting the 10-day worker, he attacked them with a cutlass.

As a result, a round was discharged by an officer from his service firearm, which struck the man in his right knee and left foot.

The injured man was taken to the Port Mourant Public Hospital, where he was admitted in stable condition. The cutlass was retrieved at the scene as investigations continue.

Repeat fraudster jailed again after admitting to new multimillion-dollar fraud

Convicted fraudster Dave Rajeshwar Persaud has again been sentenced to prison after pleading guilty to two additional charges of obtaining by false pretence brought against him by the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU). Persaud appeared before Magistrate Delon Bess at the Diamond Magistrates’ Court on May 22, 2026, where he admitted guilt to both offences. He was sentenced to two years’ imprisonment on each charge, amounting to a total of four years behind bars.

The first charge stated that Persaud, with intent to defraud, obtained $1.8 million from Mitra Ramkumar by falsely claiming that he operated a business called “David R Persaud Group of Companies” and would invest the money and repay $3.222 million within 21 days. The second charge alleged that he fraudulently obtained a black Toyota Allion motor car, registration number PAF 1697, valued at $2.6 million from Joel De Souza after falsely claiming he would purchase the vehicle and pay for it by cheque. Persaud represented himself in court while SOCU was represented by Attorneys-at-Law David Brathwaite and Darin Chan along with Prosecutor Neville Jeffers.

The latest conviction adds to a growing list of fraud-related matters involving Persaud, who was previously convicted and sentenced in April 2025 for obtaining $30 million by

false pretence from a woman whose funds came from her late husband’s life insurance pay-out. According to reports published on April 12, 2025, by Guyana Times, Persaud had convinced the woman to invest the money in a fictitious company called “Dave Persaud Investment Co” with promises of a 50 per cent return within two weeks. Investigators later determined that the operation was a Ponzi-style scheme.

SOCU had stated that Persaud falsely presented himself as a businessman involved in grocery importation, distribution and auto sales while encouraging residents to invest in the non-existent company with promises of returns ranging from 50 to 80 per cent.

After collecting the money, Persaud fled Guyana and reportedly remained in neighbouring Brazil be-

tween September 2023 and April 2024 before being apprehended and returned to face charges. In that case, Magistrate Wanda Fortune sentenced Persaud to three years’ imprisonment after finding that the prosecution had proven all elements of the offence beyond a reasonable doubt. Persaud was also at the centre of another legal controversy in September 2025 when the Demerara High Court overturned a decision by Magistrate Delon Bess to dismiss three criminal matters against him.

According to SOCU, the matters had been dismissed after prosecutors were absent from a Zoom hearing on May 29, 2025. Prosecutors argued that they had previously been informed by the court clerk that the matters were adjourned to June 27, 2025, because Magistrate Bess would be sitting at the Leguan Magistrate’s Court.

However, when prosecutors appeared on June 27, they were informed that the matters had already been dismissed in their absence during a virtual hearing.

SOCU subsequently challenged the decision in the High Court, and acting Chief Justice Navindra Singh ruled in favour of SOCU, finding that the magistrate acted improperly by determining the matters while sitting in another magisterial district and without making proper enquiries regarding the prosecution’s absence.

The High Court quashed the dismissal and restored the matters.

More ganja found along Berbice River during joint operation

As Police continue their drug eradication exercise, a joint operation at Kimbia, Upper Berbice River, between Wednesday and Thursday led to the discovery of approximately three acres of farmland cultivated with

Guyanese former US superintendent jailed in US on immigration, gun charges

Ian Roberts, the former Des Moines school’s superintendent who was once an educational rising star, will serve two years in prison for his conviction on immigration and gun charges.

The sentence handed down Friday, May 29, in US District Court in Des Moines was a year less than what US Attorney David Waterman requested. Roberts’ attorneys had asked for probation.

US District Judge Rebecca Goodgame Ebinger said she had taken into account Roberts’ circumstances growing up in poverty in his native land of Guyana and the good he has done as an education professional, but also determined that the seriousness of his crimes warranted prison time.

Roberts also is expected to be deported after serving his sentence.

Roberts’ arrest and the revelations that followed about his misrepresentations have been tumultuous for Des Moines Public Schools.

Phil Roeder, a school spokesperson, said in a message to the Des Moines Register following the sentencing that the district “respects the legal process and the court’s jurisdiction in the sentencing of the former superintendent and will not comment further on this matter.”

Roeder said district officials and staff plan to continue focusing on supporting

students, families and staff, particularly as the school year is about to end and preparation begins for the 2026-27 school year.

“We have important work underway throughout DMPS [Des Moines Public Schools],” he said. “This includes the implementation of Reimagining Education and making community-supported investments in our buildings and programmes to create new opportunities for our students for years to come.”

Roberts, who resigned as superintendent after his September 26 arrest by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents, pleaded guilty on January 22 to federal charges of possessing a firearm as an illegal alien and making a false statement for employment.

Prosecutors alleged that Roberts illegally had four guns, including a load-

ed handgun left in his district-owned vehicle after he attempted to flee from ICE agents during his arrest, and that he falsely attested he was a US citizen when filling out his I-9 employment authorisation to work in Des Moines.

Waterman, in a sentencing memorandum to the US District Court for the Southern District of Iowa, recommended a three-year prison term for Roberts after a presentence investigation report showed he should serve between 30 and 37 months. The maximum sentence for the offences was 20 years in prison and $500,000 in fines, according to the sentencing recommendation.

Roberts’ defence, led by prominent Des Moines attorney Alfredo Parrish, asserted in a May 22 sentencing brief, unsealed Wednesday, that probation rather than prison time would be appropriate. It said “unique circumstances” should be factored into his sentence, such as the time he already has served, mainly in the Polk County Jail, since his September arrest and the period he will spend in custody awaiting deportation to Guyana.

The 173-page brief provided a lengthy biography of Roberts, saying he was “born into poverty in one of the world’s poorest nations” without “a snowball’s chance in hell of succeeding, yet he made an enormous impact in each community he worked in.” (Des Moines Register)

about 5000 cannabis plants. The plants ranged from two to four feet in height, and were uprooted and destroyed by fire.

The estimated value of the narcotics destroyed is $847,000. At the time of the operation, no arrests were made. Investigations are ongoing.

Earlier in the month, Police destroyed some $264,933,120 worth of ganja at Kimbia. It was reported that during a 16-hour exercise, Police discovered two fields with a combined area of approximately eight

acres, containing approximately 300,000 cannabis plants ranging from four feet to six feet in height.

In addition, two makeshift camps and two drying areas were also found at the location, with some 400 pounds of dried cannabis.

The cannabis plants, dried cannabis, camps and drying areas were destroyed by fire. Just last month, some $258 million worth of ganja was found and destroyed in the same area. In this case, two fields measuring about seven acres, with approximately 310,000 cannabis sa-

tiva plants ranging from two to six feet in height, were discovered along with two makeshift camps and two drying areas.

In addition, 380 pounds of dried cannabis and farming tools were also found at the location. Back in March, the Police reported that $551 million worth of ganja was destroyed at De Veldt, Upper Berbice River. During that raid, about 640,000 cannabis plants, ranging between four and 10 feet in height, were destroyed along with 850 pounds of dried cannabis.

Over 56,000 passengers entered Guyana during Diamond Jubilee celebrations – CJIA

More than 56,000 passengers were recorded entering Guyana during Guyana’s 60th Independence Diamond Jubilee “Homecoming” celebrations, marking a monumental milestone in passenger travel. The Cheddi Jagan International Airport

line-up of major jubilee festivities. The historic celebration featured marquee events such as the National Flag-Raising Ceremony, the One Guyana Flag Concert, and the Taste of Guyana culinary festival, alongside an array of high-energy shows and concerts showcasing

(CJIA) efficiently processed 48,500 of those arriving travellers. This influx, CJIA said on Friday, represents a 16 per cent increase in passenger traffic compared to the same period in 2025, emphasising the massive draw of the landmark six-decade sovereignty celebrations.

Notably, CJIA added that this growth in arrivals occurred despite global aviation headwinds, including soaring fuel costs and strategic flight reductions by major airlines in other international regions. Defying these broader trends, international carriers have continued to demonstrate confidence in the Guyanese market, increasing airline seating capacity to Guyana by six per cent so far in 2026.

Thousands of diaspora members and international tourists flooded into the country, drawn by a vibrant

world-renowned international artistes. Commenting on the operational outcomes, Aviation and Public Utilities Minister Deodat Indar recognised the resilience and ongoing modernisation of the local aviation sector.

Indar stated that the strong numbers recorded at CJIA reflect the steady growth of Guyana’s aviation sector, noting that the airport is operating at a highly efficient level while maintaining dependable service standards. He added that this growth aligns with the strategic economic framework and infrastructure vision established under the leadership of His Excellency President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali to position Guyana as a key regional travel hub.

The smooth handling of the passenger surge was supported by targeted infrastructure and opera-

tional upgrades executed by management alongside key industry stakeholders, including airlines, ground handling crews, customs officials, and immigration agencies. In alignment with President Ali’s vision to reduce travel bottlenecks and enhance the visitor experience, the CJIA implemented several passenger efficiency measures. These joint efforts focused on optimising terminal workflows, integrating advanced digital screening technologies,

increasing frontline security personnel and expediting baggage handling mechanisms.

Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips visited several flood-affected villages in Region Nine (Upper TakutuUpper Essequibo), following continued heavy rainfall. During the visits, Prime Minister Phillips engaged with residents and local authorities to gain a first-hand understanding of the situation as assessments and response efforts continue (Prime Minister Mark Phillips/Facebook)

EKAA HRIM labour dispute

Govt secures jobs for 15 Indian quarry workers; 5 return to India

…as Ministry finds no further monies owed, citing foreign-governed

The Labour and Manpower Planning Ministry has secured alternative employment for 15 of the Indian national workers, who recently left Indian-owned quarry company EKAA HRIM.

On Friday, the Ministry said that the company has agreed to cover the repatriation costs to India for five workers who had three months or less remaining on their contracts, while discussions with the Indian High Commission continue regarding the remaining 15 workers.

In its most recent update on the state of negotiations between Indian-owned quarry company EKAA HRIM and the aggrieved workers, the Ministry said on Friday that as of May 25 the workers have been paid all outstanding wages and salaries for up to May 16, while the company has committed to addressing occupational health and safety concerns that have been raised.

“On May 25, 2026, all

employees received their outstanding April salaries, as well as their salaries through May 16, 2026. Copies of the bank transfer and breakdown of payments to each employee have been provided by the company to the Ministry,” the Ministry said.

“Several occupational safety and health concerns were raised by workers while operating at the quarry. The Ministry spared no effort in investigating and addressing these concerns with company management and thus recommended the relevant reliefs in relation to concerns. The Ministry remains engaged to ensure that the identified recommendations are fulfilled and the workspace is such that it complies with all occupational safety and health protocols. The Ministry of Labour and Manpower Planning remains committed to exercising its lawful authority in the protection of all workers in Guyana, whether local or foreign,” the Ministry said.

As pertaining to claims by the workers of other monies owed according to their contract, the Ministry noted that the contracts for several of the workers were written up so as to be governed by laws outside of Guyana. The Ministry concluded that there were no further monies owed to the workers beyond the outstanding wages and salaries which were handed over.

“The workers informed the Ministry that a sum of US$2500 was outstanding and owed to them. As a result, each worker was asked to provide copies of their contracts and any other supporting documentation in support of their contention,” the Ministry said.

“Eleven workers possessed contracts stating that a sum of US$2500 would be deducted and paid as a bonus at the end of the contractual period. However, further examination revealed that these contracts contained clauses stating that they were governed by the laws of Mauritius

in some instances, and the laws of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in others. There was no evidence to support the contention that the monies were being withheld from the workers, nor was any contract presented that could be applied to the laws of Guyana for enforcement.”

For the remaining work

ers the Ministry said the contracts did not provide for any other monies to be paid.

“In the case of the remaining twenty-six (26) workers, their contracts indicated that, for the first six months, salaries would be paid at a specified rate, with an increased rate applicable from the seventh month onwards to completion of the contract. This indicated that the initial sixmonth period represented a probationary phase and that, upon confirmation of employment in the seventh month, workers would benefit from an increased remuneration,” the Ministry said.

The Ministry noted that

the initial issue whereby the workers complained of their passports being withheld has already been resolved given that the travel documents were returned to the workers, while the company produced a record of the workers signing when they retrieved and returned their documents to the company. EKAA HRIM said they were given the passports for safekeeping.

“The company subsequently provided the Ministry with copies of its ledger, which reflected records of the date(s) on which workers uplifted their passports to conduct transactions such as obtaining driver’s licences, opening bank accounts, and remitting monies to their families in India, as well as the dates on which the passports were returned to the company. The ledger also showed the signatures of workers on each occasion when passports were uplifted and returned. As it currently stands, the issue concerning passports

contracts

has been resolved, and the workers are now in possession of their passports,” the Ministry noted.

The workers’ situation has been under investigation since earlier this month when the Indian nationals working at the company made several damning allegations against the company, including unsafe health and safety working conditions, workplace injuries, allegations concerning the reported death of a worker on May 12, allegations of workers being prevented from leaving the work site, unjustified salary deductions and that their passports and other property were being withheld by the company’s management.

The company has denied all wrongdoing. The Indian nationals were reportedly employed by Ekaa Hrim Earth Resources for the past three years. Statements have been obtained from all of the workers, and officials at the Indian High Commission in Georgetown were engaged.

Cubans get bail over alleged Prashad Nagar human trafficking ring

Cuban nationals

Raudel Valverde and Yenifer María Quevedo Millán, who were earlier this month remanded to prison on Trafficking in Persons (TIP)-related offences, were on Thursday granted bail when they made their second court appearance. Valverde was charged with unlawfully withholding documents and recruiting by force or coercion for the purpose of exploitation, while Quevedo Millán was charged with harbouring for the purpose of exploitation.

Both accused reappeared before Magistrate Faith McGusty at the Georgetown Magistrate’s Court, where they were able to secure bail. Valverde was granted $150,000 for unlawfully withholding documents and $750,000 for

TIP recruitment. Quevedo Millán, on the other hand, was placed on $750,000 for TIP and harbouring. As part of their bail conditions, Police stated that they are required to report to the TIP Unit at Criminal Investigations Department (CID) Headquarters every Friday until the determination of the matter. They will make their next court appearance on June 19, 2026.

The charges that were read against Valverde earlier this month stated that between March 1 and April 19, 2026, at Amla Avenue, Prashad Nagar, he recruited several individuals by means of deception for the purpose of commercial sexual exploitation. Police further stated that between April 11 and 12, 2026, at the same location, he acted or purported to act as an employment agent and knowingly confiscated the woman’s passport in furtherance of trafficking. It was reported that the accused initially contacted the virtual complainant (VC) and offered her legitimate employment as a store salesperson in Guyana. However, upon her arrival in the country, Valverde collected her passport and refused to return it unless she repaid a sum of US$5400. He and his co-accused then forced the woman into commercial sex work at the Magic City Nightclub, where she was allegedly required to work every night. Further, he alleged-

ly informed her that she was indebted to him and demanded monthly rent of US$300 for accommodation at his residence in Prashad Nagar.

In light of the demands, the woman refused to work and moved out of the Prashad Nagar address to another property in Melanie, East Coast of Demerara (ECD), where she met approximately 28 other Cuban nationals engaged in similar activities. The second defendant, Quevedo Millán, was accused of harbouring the VC through force or other means of coercion for the purpose of commercial sexual exploitation between April 11 and 19, 2026. Earlier this month, the court was told that she had knowledge of the victim’s situation and actively assisted in recruiting, har-

bouring and coercing her while benefiting financially through rent payments.

At that time and based on all the evidence presented in court, the Magistrate remanded both of the accused with a fixed date of May 28 to return to court.

Reported abuse at David Rose School

Teachers suspended after video shows students being beaten with belt

eachers at the cen -

Ttre of an investigation into allegations involving the David Rose School for Special Education remain on administrative leave as the Ministry of Education warns that disciplinary action and possible legal consequences may follow pending the outcome of its probe. Education Minister Sonia Parag on Friday revealed that teachers involved in the ongoing investigation at the David Rose School for Special Education remain under scrutiny as the Ministry moves to implement additional measures aimed at strengthening oversight and accountability at the institution.

The Minister made the disclosure after visiting the school earlier in the day, where she met with parents and family members of the immediately affected students, along with the head teacher and other staff members, to discuss the steps being taken to address what she de -

scribed as a deeply troubling matter. As one of the immediate actions arising from the incident, Parag announced plans to establish a board of governors for the institution, with representation that includes parents, in an effort to strengthen oversight, accountability, and

engagement between the school and the families it serves. She also assured parents and relatives that the Ministry is treating the matter with the utmost seriousness and urgency.

According to the Minister, the Ministry, in collaboration with its Welfare Unit,

Special Educational Needs Department, and an administrative team, is conducting a thorough investigation into the matter, with decisive action expected against anyone found to have been involved, whether directly or indirectly.

Parag further reaf -

firmed the Ministry’s zero-tolerance policy against abuse within the education system, emphasising that every child, particularly those with special educational needs, must be treated with dignity, patience, care and protection while under the supervision of educational institutions. The Education Ministry said it remains committed to ensuring that every child within the education system is protected and treated with dignity.

In expressing how disturbed she was by the incident, the Minister stated, “I am hurt by the video currently being circulated publicly, which appears to show acts of abuse being perpetrated against students of the David Rose Special Education Needs School in Georgetown. No child should ever be subjected to such treatment, particularly within a school environment entrusted with their care, development, and protection. Our children with special

educational needs, as all children do, deserve patience, compassion, dignity, and love. They deserve to learn in spaces where they feel safe, supported and valued.”

She added, “To the parents and families affected by what they have seen, I wish to say that I understand the distress, hurt, and anger this incident has caused. As parents, guardians, and caregivers, you place enormous trust in our education system each day when you send your children to school. That trust must never be violated. It is precisely because the Government of Guyana continues to place significant emphasis on strengthening special education support and services that this matter is being treated with the seriousness and urgency it deserves.”

The Minister posited that the Education Ministry remains committed to ensuring that every child is protected and treated with dignity.

Cable company loses millions in Alberttown fire …commends GFS for swift response

One day after the fire at Lot 32, Third Street, Alberttown, Georgetown, was swiftly brought under control by firefighters and prevented the blaze from spreading, it has been reported that the cable and internet company suffered millions of dollars in losses despite the swift response by the Guyana Fire Service (GFS). Atlantic Cable TV Network, which has been in operation for approximately 26 years, was left

blackened in the aftermath of the fire, which was eventually brought under control by firefighters. The fire occurred in a two-storey building along Third Street, Alberttown.

Reports indicate that the blaze began at the back of the property on the lower level, with firefighters battling the fire from outside the building.

Speaking with this publication, Paula Farina, manager of the company, explained that the fire

started around 15:30h. The affected area housed laptops, air conditioning units, office materials, televisions and a small data room. Farina explained that the area is usually staffed by three persons who handle customer payments and signups for new services; however, she was the only person on the premises at the time of the incident.

“…I smelled something burning smelling like smoke or something to that effect, so I immediately came outside and started to look around to see where the smoke was. As soon as I got back into the building, I followed the scent, and it was coming from the back restroom/ washroom area. We had some storage bins with documents, records and stuff from previous years at the back there, and that was on fire. So I exited, came back outside, and called the fire service.” While visibly distressed, she stated that millions of dollars were lost in the fire.

“The fire service had to break the glass to get the windows open and start

their work. It’s mainly an office downstairs here that holds computers, AC units, office equipment, and televisions, and we’ve got a small data room downstairs that carries a few local channels. So, millions of dollars in damages, millions of dollars.”

Meanwhile, the company urged customers to bear with service disruptions in affected areas until the weekend, stating that issues affecting various paid subscription services would be resolved.

“Yes, we’re trying to, as

I said, not the entire network is down. It’s just the main areas affected by this fire, namely the Harbour Bridge and Queenstown areas. We’re trying to get power back up and run -

ning so that service can hopefully be restored over the weekend.”

Investigations are still proceeding into the actual cause of the fire.

Mayor Mamdani names Haitian-American as NYC Sheriff

aitian-American for-

Hmer New York Police Department (NYPD) lieutenant Edwin Raymond, who gained national attention for speaking out against Police quotas and misconduct inside the department, has been appointed the new sheriff of New York City by Mayor Zohran Mamdani.

The appointment marks a major moment for Raymond, a Brooklyn native and son of Haitian immigrants whose career shifted from Police officer to one of the city’s most visible voices on Police accountability and reform.

“Edwin Raymond represents the kind of public servant New Yorkers deserve: principled, courageous and deeply committed to justice,” Mamdani said in a statement announcing the appointment.

Raymond most recently served as the nation’s first social justice liaison in the New York State Attorney General’s Office, where he worked on issues tied to law enforcement accountability and public trust.

Before that, he spent 15

years in the NYPD, serving in Brooklyn precincts and later rising to lieutenant and commanding officer in Brooklyn North Community Affairs before retiring in 2023.

Raymond became widely known after publicly criticising quota-driven policing practices within the NYPD, becoming one of the department’s most recognised whistle-blowers during na-

tional debates over policing reform. His advocacy earned him support from civil rights groups and public officials, along with recognition from organisations including the NAACP.

“I look forward to continuing that work as sheriff by helping build a safer, fairer and more accountable city for all New Yorkers.”

Raymond said. (Excerpt from The Haitian Times)

American sentenced to over 10 years for selling elderly data to Jamaican scammers

ANorth Carolina man has been sentenced to over 10 years in prison after being convicted of running a seven-year scheme in which he victimised millions of elderly Americans by selling their personal information to Jamaican lottery fraud scammers.

Assistant Attorney General A Tysen Duva of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division said Troy Murray, 57, will also serve three years of supervised release and has been ordered to forfeit US$5,214,688.48.

In January this year, Murray pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to com-

mit wire fraud.

According to court documents, Murray orchestrated a scheme in which he organised, maintained and sold lists containing the names, phone numbers, physical addresses, and in some cases ages and email addresses of elderly Americans to individuals in Jamaica involved in lottery fraud operations.

Between 2016 and 2023, he sold these lists to Jamaican scammers who used the information to target elderly victims in lottery fraud schemes, earning him hundreds of thousands of dollars annually.

Prosecutors described

Murray as a prolific and well-known lead list broker for Jamaican fraudsters. Scammers would typically contact him via call, email or text, requesting lists of names. He would then set a price per list, usually around US$500 for 100 to 300 names.

After receiving payments, Murray used the proceeds to purchase farm equipment, vehicles and collectable items such as bars and coins made of precious metals. He also transferred portions of the funds to one of his sons for personal expenses and business use. (Excerpt from Jamaica Observer)

3 held during Kaia Sealy protest released on bail; TTPS confirms Sealy not designated a fugitive

Two protesters and a social media personality, who were arrested by Police on Wednesday during a demonstration near the office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), were released on their own bail last night after being charged in connection with their conduct during the activity.

Guardian Media was, however, unable to confirm the charges laid against the accused or the amount of the bail via Police sources last night.

Alyssa Phillip and her mother Camille Caresquero

were arrested as they staged a demonstration outside the Sacred Heart RC Church, walking distance away from the DPP’s office on Richmond Street, Port-ofSpain.

Phillip’s arrest came after ACP North-West Sean Henry warned her and other protesters to stop chanting.

Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar has defended the actions of the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) in shutting down the protest outside the DPP, warning that attempts to intimidate prosecutorial officials “will not be tolerat-

Charges to be laid in tragic death of 4-year-old Rikki Samuel

Police say they expect to lay charges in connection with the death of four-year-old Rikki Samuel, who was killed in a multi-vehicle crash on the Vieux FortLaborie Highway last October.

The crash happened near Hewanorra International Airport and the Marine Base, leaving 11 people injured and resulting in the death of the young boy.

Rikki, who was in kindergarten, was travelling with his father, taxi driver Jonard Samuel, when their vehicle was involved in the collision.

Superintendent of Police Stephen Victorin, who leads the Southern Division, told St Lucia Times that investigators have made progress and are preparing to lay charges.

“The investigation into that matter has advanced be-

cause initially, the suggestion was that a gentleman might have suffered some medical difficulty during the collision. [But] that has been dispelled. So the intent is to prefer charges,” Victorin said. Victorin did not say what charges would be laid but told the St Lucia Times that the public will be updated as the case progresses. (Excerpt from St Lucia Times)

BVI: Masked gunmen hit Pier Park

For the third time in less than three years, masked gunmen have robbed the House of Luxury jewellery store in the Cyril B Romney Tortola Pier Park (TPPL) in broad daylight last week.

Shots were fired during the incident, which occurred shortly before 16:30h on May 29, but no injuries were reported, Police said in a five-sentence statement released the same afternoon.

“Preliminary reports indicate that masked men armed with firearms entered the establishment, stole jewellery, and made their escape via a vehicle,” the statement noted.

The next morning, Police said they had recovered a ve-

hicle “similar to the one believed to have been used” in the robbery.

Since then, Police have provided no other details about the robbery despite requests from the Beacon.

They have not said how many perpetrators were involved, provided physical descriptions of them, or described the alleged getaway car.

Tortola Pier Park Ltd was similarly tight-lipped.

“At this time, the matter remains under active investigation by the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force, and as such, Tortola Pier Park Limited is limited in the details that can be publicly disclosed,” TPPL told the Beacon,

adding, “For official information relating to the investigation – including any confirmation regarding the number of perpetrators, items stolen, damages sustained, or reports of shots fired – we kindly encourage you to contact the [RVIPF] directly.” The statement added that TPPL’s top priority is the safety of its tenants, visitors and staff.

Management from the House of Luxury did not respond to the Beacon’s requests for comment.

The afternoon after the robbery, however, the store was open and showed no signs of damage as it received a slow trickle of customers. (Excerpt from The BVI Beacon)

IShowSpeed highlights A&B as standout of Caribbean tour

Ied” during the ongoing State of Emergency (SoE).

In a statement yesterday, Persad-Bissessar praised Police for what she described as a quick response to secure the DPP’s office from possible threats.

Meanwhile, Kaia Sealy remains out of the country seeking medical treatment, and the TTPS says it is not labelling her a fugitive.

However, they were unable to confirm Sealy’s exact whereabouts or whether there is a deadline for her return. (Excerpts from Trinidad Guardian)

nternet personality and live streamer IShowSpeed has highlighted Antigua and Barbuda (A&B) as one of the standout destinations on his recent Caribbean tour, describing his visit as a memorable experience filled with adventure, culture and local hospitality.

Speaking during a recap of his 14-day journey across the Caribbean, the content creator recounted swimming with stingrays at Stingray City, drag racing and meeting local residents. He also spoke about an encounter with Prime Minister Gaston Browne, who played reggae music during the visit.

IShowSpeed said he enjoyed meeting members of the Rastafarian community and later travelled by helicopter to Barbuda, where he praised

residents for their warm welcome. He said locals greeted him with a deer burger shortly after his arrival and described the island as a unique destination.

The A&B stop formed part of a wider Caribbean tour that included visits to Trinidad and Tobago, Grenada, Barbados, St Lucia, St Vincent and the Grenadines, Dominica, Guadeloupe, St Kitts and

Nevis, Puerto Rico, and other destinations. The streamer, who has millions of followers across social media platforms, said the Caribbean tour was among the most enjoyable trips he has undertaken and expressed appreciation for the people and cultures he encountered throughout the region. (Antigua Newsroom)

Around the World Trump will soon decide on Iran deal, demands reopening of Hormuz Strait

Oil falls on hopes for USIran ceasefire agreement

Oil futures fell more than two per cent on Friday, closing out their steepest weekly decline since early April as traders awaited word that the US, Israel and Iran had reached agreement on a ceasefire.

Brent crude futures for July, which expired on Friday, settled at US$92.05 a barrel, down US$1.66, or 1.8 per cent. WTI US oil futures finished at US$87.36 a barrel, down US$1.54 or 1.7 per cent.

“Obviously, the market thinks the ceasefire will be all easy-peasy and is done and dusted,” said John Kilduff, a partner with Again Capital.

The three-month war between the US and Iran has been marked by frequent chatter of an impending end to the conflict that would open the crucial Strait of Hormuz, used to transit one-fifth of the world’s oil and gas supply. Even with both sides suggesting an agreement was forthcoming, their characterisations of the deal were still somewhat different.

Iran’s Fars news agency said the agreement – which it has not decided yet to approve – required Iran to open the strait without restrictions, but the Islamic Republic would reopen the waterway “according to its own pre-determined arrangements”. Iran has said after the conflict that it would regulate traffic through the strait, charging fees to transit.

US President Donald Trump has again called on Iran to immediately re-open the strait. The closure of the waterway has driven energy prices sharply higher worldwide. Recent sessions have been volatile, with swings by as much as US$6 for both benchmarks on conflicting signals over a potential reopening of the strait.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

WHO puts Ebola outbreak death rate at

“huge” 30-50

per cent

The death rate of the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo is between 30 per cent and 50 per cent, the World Health Organization (WHO) has said, as its head arrived in the country to support efforts to contain the disease.

Anaïs Legand, from the WHO’s high-threat pathogens team, said the revised death rate estimate is based on confirmed cases. “It’s huge. It means that up to five out of 10 people are likely to die,” Legand told reporters in Geneva.

She also said that a patient had recovered from Ebola and was discharged from a health centre in the DRC on May 27 after two negative tests, the first recovery to have been confirmed in the outbreak.

The WHO has recorded 10 confirmed and 223 suspected Ebola deaths in the DRC since the outbreak was declared on May 15, among more than 1000 confirmed and suspect-

ed cases.

Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the organisation’s Director General, arrived in Kinshasa on Thursday and was due to travel to the centre of the outbreak, in the north-east Ituri province, on Friday, but the trip has been pushed back by a day.

“Together, we will overcome this outbreak,” Tedros said to Congolese citizens, promising to do “everything in my power to help”.

The true scale of the outbreak may be significantly larger, the WHO said, because the virus is believed to have circulated undetected for some time.

The outbreak is the 17th recorded Ebola epidemic in the vast central African country, which has a population of more than 100 million. The disease was first identified there in 1976, and its death rate has averaged 50 per cent across all outbreaks, according to the WHO. (Excerpt from The Guardian)

US President Donald Trump said on Friday he would soon decide on a proposed deal to extend the ceasefire with Iran, though the two countries still appeared to differ on significant issues that have been central to the conflict.

Trump said on Friday morning that he would

meet in a secure White House room to make a “final determination” on the proposal, which would extend an early-April truce for another 60 days, giving negotiators time to forge a permanent end to the war.

Iran’s semi-official Fars news agency, citing sources, said Trump’s comments were an “attempt to por -

tray a fabricated victory”.

Fars said the strait would be reopened under Tehran’s conditions after the US lifts its blockade on Iranian ships.

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said the US blockade would be removed slowly if it happens.

Fars said there was agreement to release

US$12 billion of Iran’s frozen assets.

Trump said no money would be exchanged “until further notice” – a possible reference to Iran’s demands for toll payments in the strait, war damage reparations or a release of frozen Iranian assets. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Trump call with Taiwanese President on hold

President Trump is no longer expected to speak with Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te this fall, multiple sources familiar with the discussions told CBS News.

When Mr Trump visited China earlier this month, Xi warned him that Taiwan could become a “very dangerous situation” if mishandled.

Mr Trump twice made international headlines in mid-May when he indicated that he would have a conversation with Lai before making a decision about selling a new pack -

age of defensive military weapons to the democratic self-governed island.

“I’ll speak to him,” Mr Trump told reporters last week when asked if he’d speak to Lai before green -

lighting the arms sale.

“I have to speak to the person that right now is – you know who he is –that’s running Taiwan,” Mr Trump said two weeks ago on Air Force One.

No sitting US President has spoken directly with a Taiwanese leader since 1979 due to diplomatic sensitivities in managing relations with China, although in December 2016, while Mr Trump was President-elect, he received a congratulatory call from then-Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen. Taiwan’s de facto embassy in the US told CBS News this week that it’s still waiting to hear from the US about a phone call. A White House official referred CBS News to the President’s comments. (Excerpt from CBS News)

Polish President threatens to strip Ukraine’s Zelenskyy of top state honour

Poland’s President wants a state body to discuss stripping Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy of Poland’s top honour, following Ukraine renaming an army unit after nationalist fighters who killed Poles in World War II.

Poland has been a staunch supporter of Kyiv during Russia’s war in Ukraine, and former President Andrzej Duda awarded Zelenskyy the Order of the White Eagle in 2023.

But the Ukrainian leader caused indignation in Poland by signing a decree earlier this week naming a military special forces unit “Heroes of the UPA” after

the Ukrainian Insurgent Army (UPA).

To some Ukrainian nationalists, the UPA are regarded as heroes for their resistance against the Soviet

Union and Nazi Germany.

But UPA fighters were also involved in the Volhynia massacres in what is now western Ukraine from 1943 to 1945 when Poland says

around 100,000 Poles were killed.

Responding to Zelenskyy’s decree, Polish President Karol Nawrocki said that he was “outraged” and had proposed “the withdrawal of the Order of the White Eagle from President Zelenskyy”.

According to Nawrocki, the Chapter of the Order of the White Eagle, an advisory council that oversees the state decoration, will meet on June 8.

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk said the Ukrainian leader’s move “wounds our historical sensitivity” and is “worrying from the point of view of our relations”. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

“Poison seller” who sold toxic chemicals online globally admits aiding suicides

Aman has pleaded guilty to 14 counts of aiding suicides in Canada after he sold toxic chemicals online.

Kenneth Law, 60, entered the guilty pleas in an Ontario court on Friday as part of a deal with prosecutors, who withdrew more serious murder charges.

Authorities said the former chef also sold about 1200 packages of the tox-

ic substances to recipients –whom he met in online suicide forums – in 40 countries, roughly a quarter of which were sent to the UK.

The charges all relate to Canadian victims – but families of British victims have said they were angry UK prosecutors would not charge Law over the deaths of 79 Britons, which authorities say are linked to products he supplied.

The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) said it had agreed to the Canadian plea bargain on the basis that Law’s sentence takes the British deaths into account.

A letter from the CPS, seen by the BBC, said Law would not face charges in the UK because he could challenge the extradition after being convicted of similar offences in Canada.

Specialist CPS prosecu-

tor Andrew Hudson said that including UK victims in the Canadian sentencing process was the “quickest and most effective route” to justice. Hudson said a successful extradition was “far from guaranteed and would have taken years to conclude”, while any UK prosecution “could have been blocked under double jeopardy principles”. (Excerpt from BBC News)

An unusual job offer or cash infusion is apparent. Attending social events and exploring the possibilities will spark your interest and help you discover something or someone who can improve your life. Embrace whatever comes your way, and exhaust every chance you get to turn your attention to personal success without taking a risk. Know when to say no.

Take control of your health and well-being. Physical activity and opening your heart will have an impact on relationships. Choose to have an open mind, and express your feelings and intentions through kind gestures. Don’t share health or financial concerns prematurely. Research alternative options before making decisions that are time-consuming or unnecessary.

Speak up, clear the air and move along. Carrying the weight of the past forward will alter your chance to follow your aspirations. Clear a path that leads to freedom. Take comfort in knowing that taking control is the way to satisfy your soul. Keeping up with growing demand will help you maintain wealth management.

You’re in a better position than you think. Don’t let skepticism and negativity influence what you choose to do. Limiting your input will also diminish your chance to advance. A positive attitude will get you much further than criticism. Approach offers and suggestions with a smile and questions, and share your unique perspective regarding what you can contribute.

Explore the possibilities, learn something new or attend an event that sheds light on what’s novel and exciting in an area that interests you. A change in your professional direction or picking up a pastime that eases stress or brings you in contact with like-minded people will help you explore possibilities and encourage you to embrace life.

Sit tight, observe and consider the consequence of a change. Don’t feel the need to make a decision when the vibe isn’t right or when someone is trying to strong-arm you. Personal growth and physical self-improvement will offer higher returns and boost your ego. You can’t buy love, but you can earn it by offering kind gestures.

Close the doors you find most frustrating. Focus on what flows and can carry you to a place you want to go. Pursuing your interests will help you recognize new outlets for the attributes and experience you already have. The idea is to use what you’ve got in new and exciting ways. Build your base.

Pump up your progress by taking action. A change in the dynamics of your relationships with others will diversify as you branch out and pursue your dreams. Visiting a friend, traveling or spending more time with someone you love will be the game-changer you need to satisfy your desires.

Ignoring health issues will make things harder than they need to be. You can have fun without jeopardizing yourself physically or causing problems with someone close to you. A move, or rearranging your space to suit your mental, emotional and financial needs, will put your mind at ease. Honesty is the best policy when dealing with joint ventures and shared expenses.

Spend more time at home or with someone you trust to look out for your best interests and less with those who try to take advantage of you. Working in unison with someone who shares your dreams and is intent on reaching such aspirations will add to the momentum you build and the results you achieve.

Take your time, think matters through and dismiss anger. Verify facts, and map out a plan that is simple, affordable and helps you move on without malice. Change can be good if you are open to trying something new and are eager to explore what’s available. Social events that offer mental stimulation will point you in the right direction.

Choose to do something you enjoy. The opportunities and connections you encounter by following your heart and allowing yourself the pleasure of participating in life’s little joys will change your mindset regarding how or where you want to live. A physical change will boost your confidence and fetch compliments. Romance is on the rise.

TGill’s 104 trumps Sooryavanshi’s 96 as GT enters IPL final

not-so-straightforward pitch. However, a near-solo effort from Vaibhav

Sooryavanshi couldn’t drag Rajasthan Royals (RR) into the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 final. Gujarat Titans (GT) executed the second-highest successful chase in any knockout or playoff match in all T20 cricket, setting up a repeat of Qualifier One against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCR) in the final. This time, however, GT will be playing at their home ground in Ahmedabad.

Sooryavanshi’s IPL 2026 ended on 776 runs at a strike rate of 237.3, with this innings just as good as his 97 in the Eliminator, albeit slower. He had to overcome an initially twopaced pitch, a weak RR middle order that turned chaotic after an injury to the new No. 4, Ravindra

but was caught at deep third with a century in sight for the second time in a row.

Sooryavanshi’s shots once again left jaws on the floor, but Shubman Gill and B Sai Sudharsan almost cruised through the chase from the moment Jofra Archer got off to an indifferent start in the first over. Both of them followed Sooryavanshi into the 700s for the season, but in their own style of taking fewer risks. The difference between the sides, though, was just that: Sooryavanshi was one, Gill and Sudharsan two.

Drama before the match

Half an hour before the match began, Gill was furious at having to redo the toss because the match referee didn’t hear the call made by Riyan Parag. Both sides were desperate to bat first on a used pitch. Not for the first time, a team Captained or coached by Kumar Sangakkara won a big toss on the second attempt, chose to bat first, and the opposition Captain aced the chase in conditions that had improved for batting. Ravi Shastri conducted both tosses for the broadcast here and in the 2011 One Day International (ODI) World Cup final.

Jadeja, and a bowling attack that could exploit the conditions. From his slowest 50 – still only 31 balls –Sooryavanshi got to 96 off 47

entire powerplay – straight into the sight screen off a 153 kph hard-length ball from Rabada. Siraj bowled through the powerplay despite a shoulder injury.

215 runs from 20 ovs) Sai Sudharsan hit wicket b Brijesh Sharma 58 Shubman Gill (c) lbw b Archer 104 Jos Buttler † not out 9 Washington Sundar c Ferreira b Burger 16 Rahul Tewatia not out 17 Extras (b

Siraj and Rabada back to making an impact They went for 100 in seven overs between them in Qualifier One, but GT’s two new-ball pillars, Mohammed Siraj and Kagiso Rabada, produced a wicket each in their first overs. They were back to hitting good, hard lengths with regularity. Siraj was short of a length for the first four balls, hitting Sooryavanshi’s bat low on two occasions before drawing a top edge to dismiss Yashasvi Jaiswal. Rabada defeated Dhruv Jurel with a 146 km/h delivery that seamed away to force a mishit to mid-off in the second over.

The Jadeja experiment

In all likelihood, to provide Parag and Donovan Ferreira more favourable points of entry, RR promoted Jadeja to No. 4, and he did more than just see off the new ball. For a while, he struck at a better rate than Sooryavanshi, who could hit just one six in the

Jadeja’s injury derails progress Things were going smoothly for RR when the pain from the tennis elbow Jadeja is carrying flared up, forcing him to retire hurt. Despite an ordinary first over from Rashid Khan that went for 18, RR fell away in the middle overs. Jason Holder, enjoying his best bowling season in the IPL, took out Parag and Dasun Shanaka in his first two overs, again using his height and the middle of the pitch to good effect. Still trying to protect Ferreira’s point of entry, RR promoted Archer and sent Jadeja back in. From 82 for two in eight overs, when Jadeja first retired, RR went to 118 for five in 12.4 overs when he came back. In this period of 28 balls, Sooryavanshi faced only nine deliveries and benefited from a reprieve when Sai Sudharsan misjudged a catch and ran in late from deep square leg.

Sooryavanshi, Ferreira give RR a finishing kick

Even though Jadeja struggled for fluency in his second coming, he and Sooryavanshi became the first pair to register two half-century stands in the same T20 innings. Sooryavanshi set some less quirky records in the pro-

cess: more than 500 runs in the powerplay of a single tournament; quickest to 1000 IPL runs; and most boundaries in a single tournament, to name just three. Hitting hard lengths over long-off and extra cover was the highlight of his innings. He also backed away to hit an uppercut over point.

Sooryavanshi wanted to hit away from deep third on 97 in the last game but found the fielder. This time he tried to clear the man, but Rabada got the bouncer high enough to draw the edge again, moving to 28 wickets and reclaiming the Purple Cap.

However, Rashid’s nightmare continued into his second over, the last of the innings, when Ferreira hit him for four sixes – down the ground and from the crease.

Archer misfires

As with the bat, RR relied too heavily on one player with the ball in Archer, who had given them seven first-over wickets this season. On this occasion, though, he gave width to Sai Sudharsan twice and slipped onto the pads of Gill twice. There were also signs of the pitch improving for batting. The spongy bounce disappeared, the ball skidded on, and Gill and Sudharsan took risk-free hitting to the next level.

Sudharsan got a head start, enjoying a life on 14 off

eight, but Gill caught up and went past him with some delightful batting even outside the powerplay. While Sooryavanshi had to clear fielders, it seemed in the second innings that there weren’t enough fielders on duty, with gaps everywhere for Gill to exploit.

This hundred from Gill was the fastest by a GT player; the century stand between Gill and Sudharsan was a world-record 11th, and the chase was GT’s highest. The most unimaginable feat of the night, though, belonged to Sudharsan, who lost his bat while hitting a ball to the off-side square boundary for the second time in two nights and was out hit-wicket again.

(ESPNcricinfo)

Plaisance United, Melanie FC crowned Commander’s Cup youth champions

Plaisance United and Melanie Football Club emerged as champions when the curtains came down on another edition of the Commander’s Cup Youth Football Tournament, winning the Under-13 and Under-17 divisions, respectively.

The annual championship, organised by Regional Division Four C in partnership with the East Demerara Football Association (EDFA), attracted 26 teams this year, including police youth groups and football clubs from villages along the East Coast Demerara corridor.

Plaisance United secured the Under-13 title after defeating Golden Grove Stars in the championship match. Melanie Football Club finished third in the division.

Individual honours in

the Under-13 category were dominated by Joshuan Connell, who was named both Most Valuable Player and Best Goalkeeper.

Shaquille Callender finished as the division’s leading goal-scorer.

In the Under-17 competition, Melanie Football Club produced a strong performance to defeat BV/ Triumph United and claim the championship trophy. Buxton United secured third place in the category.

Keena Petrie was named the Most Valuable Player in the Under-17 division, while Jermain Cox earned the Best Goalkeeper award.

Trevon Glasgow ended the tournament as the division’s leading goal-scorer.

Organisers hailed the tournament as another successful staging of youth football development on the

East Coast and noted that participation and competitiveness increased significantly this year.

They also acknowledged the support of sponsors

Guy America Construction Inc, Double D Trading and Distribution, Prestigious Imports and Exports, A & B Construction Inc and Modern Graphics, whose

contributions helped ensure the successful hosting of the tournament.

Recognition was also extended to the EDFA, club representatives, volunteers,

supporters and community members whose efforts contributed to the smooth running and success of the competition.

EDFA postpones Youth Ensemble League matches due to poor ground conditions

The East Demerara Football Association (EDFA) has postponed all scheduled Under-13 and Under-15 league matches this weekend after persistent rainfall left playing venues unsuitable for football.

The association announced the decision on Friday, citing the continuous and torrential rainfall experienced over the past week, which has adversely affected the condition of the grounds.

In a statement issued by Tournament Coordinator Luan Gooding, the EDFA said the welfare of all participants was the primary consideration behind the postponement.

“Please be advised that there will be no Under-13 and Under-15 League matches this weekend due to the recent weather conditions and the current state of the playing grounds,” the statement noted.

The association added that the safety of players, officials and supporters remains its top priority and that competition will resume only when the venues are deemed fit for play.

The EDFA also informed teams and stakeholders that a revised schedule will be communicated once an assessment confirms that the grounds are suitable for football activities.

The postponement affects all fixtures that were scheduled to be played this weekend in the association’s youth competitions.

The EDFA thanked clubs, players, parents and supporters for their understanding and cooperation as it continues to monitor the situation and await improved weather conditions.

Annandale Secondary and New Campbellville Secondary emerged champions of two secondary schools’ tape-ball cricket competitions held during Guyana’s Independence celebrations, with both teams securing victories in their respective finals last week.

Annandale Secondary captured the Independence Cup on May 26 after defeating Covent Garden Secondary in the final played on the Sports Hall tarmac. Chasing 59 for victory, Annandale reached 61-3 to seal the title and earn the championship trophy and medals. Nathan Chaterpaul led the successful run chase with 34 runs, while Vishan Kalpoo claimed 2-23 for Covent Garden. Earlier, Covent Garden posted 58-3 after being sent in to bat, with Shawn Hussein top-scoring with 31. Matthew Persaud was the pick of the bowlers for

Annandale, New Campbellville claim secondary schools tape-ball cricket titles

with 2-19. Adams was named Player of the Competition, while the trophies and medals were donated by the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport.

Meanwhile, New Campbellville Secondary won the International Import and Supplies-sponsored InterSecondary Schools Tape-Ball Cricket Competition after overcoming Bishops’ High School in the final played at the National Park tarmac on May 27.

Batting first, Bishops’ High School scored 58-4, with Aryan Persaud making 27 runs. Shahid Sukhai claimed 3-29 for New Campbellville.

In reply, New Campbellville reached 61-2 to secure victory. Lakhan Ganesh top-scored with 38, while

Andrew Narine took 2-29 for Bishops’. Makhaya Jones was named the competition’s Most Valuable Player. Covent Garden Secondary also won a second Independence Trophy competition sponsored by the minister within the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, Steven Jacobs.

The two events were coordinated by James “Uprising” Lewis, who expressed gratitude to International Import and Supplies Chief Executive Officer Joe Jagmohan, Minister Jacobs and the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport for their support.

Lewis said the next schools’ tape-ball cricket tournament is scheduled for June 13, following the completion of CXC examinations, pending sponsorship arrangements.

Future Warriors tournament broadens reach, impacting more young cricketers

ExxonMobil Guyana is set to continue its significant investment in youth development and grassroots sports through the fourth edition of the FL Sport Future Warriors Tapeball Tournament for Primary Schools.

The tournament, powered by ExxonMobil Guyana and organised by FL Sport, was officially launched on Friday at ExxonMobil Guyana’s headquarters, Block C, Plantation Ogle, East Coast Demerara. The initiative marks the fourth year of a successful partnership between the company and FL Sport and continues to serve as a major platform for introducing young players to organised cricket while promoting teamwork, discipline, leadership, and sportsmanship.

Speaking at the launch, FL Sport representative John Ramsingh announced a major expansion of the tournament, which will continue to follow an inter-county format while increasing participation from 12 to 16 schools per county.

“This season, we are increasing participation from 12 schools per county to 16 schools per county. This expansion means we will now reach 624 students, compared to 468 over the previous two seasons, an impressive increase of 25 per cent,” Ramsingh said.

He noted that the programme has already had a far-reaching impact on youth cricket development across Guyana.

“In the first three seasons, we had reached more than 1000 new-build cricketers. And to be exact, 1092,” he added.

The tournament’s fourth edition will feature more than 80 primary schools competing across Guyana’s three counties. Action begins in the Demerara Zone on May 30 and 31 at the National Stadium, Providence. Competition then moves to the Berbice Zone on June 13 and 14 at the Albion Sports Complex before concluding the regional qualifiers in the Essequibo Zone on June 20 and 21 at the Anna Regina National Stadium.

The expanded tournament will also feature an enhanced prize structure designed to reward outstanding performances. Individual awards will be presented for most runs, most wickets, and the most valuable player (MVP).

For the first time, a third-place playoff match will be contested, while trophies will be awarded to the teams finishing first, second, third, and fourth.

Participating schools will receive a range of equipment and educational resources, including cricket kits consisting of bats, balls, and stumps, agility training equipment, stopwatches, whistles, and electron-

ic tablets. The tablets will support both performance monitoring and educational activities, reinforcing the programme’s commitment to holistic youth development.

Technology will also play a central role in this year’s competition, with every match being live-scored through the FL Sport app. The innovation will allow parents, teachers, supporters, and cricket fans to follow matches remotely and stay updated on scores and player performances in real time.

Minister of Education Sonia Parag praised the government’s commitment to sports development and highlighted efforts to create greater opportunities for young athletes.

She pointed to President Irfaan Ali’s vision for sports development through various policies and initiatives, including the introduction of Friday afternoon Physical Education sessions in schools.

Parag revealed that discussions are underway with the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport to ensure cricket becomes part of those weekly PE programmes.

Rose Hall Town Cricket Academy set for July

TJuly 13 and will run until July 24. This highly anticipated academy is sponsored by Busta Soft Drinks and Bakewell.

As customary, the academy will be held at the Area H Ground in Rose Hall Town, and a host of experienced cricket coaches will share knowledge with cricketers and prospective cricketers.

According to the RHTYSC, all cricket equipment will be provided by the club. Importantly, one million in cash and prizes will be shared with participants of the academy.

Traditionally, the RHTYSC places great

emphasis on education, and as such, every child will receive a free educational package.

Admission and application to the academy are free. All interested participants should apply via telephone number 3334562 or 657-3571.

Each academy day is set to commence from 08:30h to 13:00h. Snacks will be provided on each day.

The academy has produced a host of national and international cricketers. Kevlon Anderson, Junio Sinclair, Assad Fudadin, Royston Crandon and Esuan Crandon are among those who graduated with distinction from this annual cricket academy in Rose Hall Town.

“We are working to ensure that those Friday afternoon physical education sessions include cricket as one of the sports through which students can develop their talent and skills,” she said.

ExxonMobil Guyana President Alistair Routledge reaffirmed the company’s commitment to supporting communities beyond its oil and gas operations.

“Sport is a way to develop community. It teaches

discipline, teamwork, and many life skills that help young people become leaders in their schools, communities, and future careers,” Routledge said.

Reflecting on his own sporting experiences growing up in Scotland, Routledge noted that ExxonMobil Guyana is proud to support initiatives that contribute positively to the development of young people and communities throughout the country.

Director of Sport Steve Ninvalle described the current period as a golden era for sports development in Guyana.

“It is the most exciting time that Guyana has ever seen in over 60 years of independence,” Ninvalle declared.

He commended FL Sport for its vision and ExxonMobil Guyana for its continued sponsorship, noting the tournament’s steady

growth since its inception in 2023.

“The Future Warriors Tournament was started in 2023, and it has progressed to now, where you have over 80 schools participating. It shows that your first step is never your best, but it gets you started,” he said.

Ninvalle also acknowledged the support of the Government of Guyana, emphasising that partnerships between the public and private sectors remain critical to the continued advancement of youth sports.

With expanded participation, increased rewards, enhanced technology, and continued corporate support, the 2026 Future Warriors Tapeball Tournament is expected to provide hundreds of primary school students across Guyana with an opportunity to develop their cricketing skills while building confidence, character, and a passion for sport.

UNICEF, GFF, RCC conclude child safeguarding workshop for football stakeholders

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), in partnership with the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) and the Rights of the Child Commission (RCC), recently concluded a two-day Prevention of Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (PSEA) and Child Safeguarding sensitisation workshop for football coaches, referees and key football officials from Regions Three, Four and Five.

The workshop was held at Cara Lodge Hotel in Georgetown and formed part of ongoing efforts to strengthen child safeguarding mechanisms within football while ensuring that children and adolescents participating in the sport are protected from violence, abuse, exploitation and maltreatment.

Recognising the risks that can exist in sporting environments, UNICEF supported capacity-building sessions tailored for coaches, referees, GFF personnel and RCC representatives who have safeguarding oversight responsibilities. The sessions focused on child safeguarding principles, the prevention of sexual exploitation and abuse, international standards, professional conduct and expected behaviour in youth sport settings.

Speaking at the opening of the workshop, UNICEF Representative of Guyana and Suriname, Anna Valente, emphasised the importance of safeguarding frameworks and continuous education for adults who work with children in sport.

She noted that every

child has the right to participate in recreational and sporting activities in safe environments that are free from abuse and exploitation. Valente also stressed that child safeguarding is a shared responsibility and highlighted the important role coaches and referees play as trusted figures in protecting the welfare of children.

According to Valente, children must also be empowered with knowledge of their rights and provided with safe, accessible and confidential mechanisms through which they can report concerns or seek support.

Rights of the Child Commission Chairperson Aleema Nasir also underscored the importance of creating safe sporting spaces for young people. She reminded participants that children cannot fully realise their potential if they do not feel secure and encouraged all stakeholders to take their safeguarding responsibilities seriously.

GFF President Wayne Forde said the federation remains committed to ensuring football environments throughout Guyana are safe, inclusive and protective spaces for children and young people.

Forde stated that the GFF has a responsibility to ensure that the rights of children are respected, protected and upheld by everyone involved in their development and supervision. He described safeguarding as a shared responsibility across the football community and welcomed the federation’s collaboration with UNICEF

and the Rights of the Child Commission.

The sensitisation sessions were aligned with international child protection standards, including the Convention on the Rights of the Child, UNICEF’s Child Safeguarding Policy and its Child Safeguarding Code of Conduct.

Organisers noted that while sport provides valuable opportunities for children to develop teamwork, leadership, discipline, resilience and problem-solving skills, global reports have highlighted vulnerabilities that can arise in sporting environments. These include sexual exploitation and abuse, harassment, trafficking and other harmful practices linked to weaknesses in safeguarding systems and unequal power dynamics. The GFF, UNICEF and RCC said they will continue working together on initiatives aimed at strengthening child protection and safeguarding systems within football while promoting safe sporting environments that support the wellbeing and development of children across Guyana.

The inaugural Beharry Group Under-19 Schools

T20 Cricket Tournament, which is being coordinated by the Petra Organisation, will bowl off on June 13 across Guyana, featuring approximately 80 secondary schools from eight zones in what organisers hope will become one of the country’s premier youth cricket competitions.

The tournament was officially launched on Friday at the Beharry Group’s head office on Charlotte Street, Georgetown, where Group Chief Marketing Officer Malissa Sylvester outlined the company’s vision for the event while Petra Organisation coordinator Azizi Christiani detailed the competition format.

According to Christiani, the tournament will be contested across eight zones. Zone One, comprising Regions One and Two, will feature 10 teams; Zone Two (Regions Three and Seven) will have nine teams; Zone Three (East Bank Demerara and Upper Demerara) seven schools; Zone Four (South Georgetown) 10 schools; Zone Five (North Georgetown) 12 schools; Zone Six (East Coast Demerara) 10 schools; Zone Seven (West

Beharry Group U19 schools’ T20 tournament bowls off June 13

Berbice) six schools; and Zone Eight (East BerbiceCorentyne) 14 teams.

The competition will begin with straight knockout matches within each zone. Once zonal champions are determined, the eight winning schools will advance to the national phase, where they will be divided into two groups of four based on net run rate rankings. Teams will play each other once within their respective groups,

a second chance by facing the winner of a playoff between the two second-placed teams for the remaining spot in the championship match.

Christiani said the tournament format was developed following consultations with several cricket stakeholders, including former West Indies fast bowler Reon King; Cricket Development Officer Anthony D’Andrade; and Minister within the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport Steven Jacobs.

with the top two teams from each group progressing to the playoff stage.

The playoff format will mirror the Caribbean Premier League system. The two group winners will meet in a qualifier, with the victor advancing directly to the final. The losing team will receive

He noted that the tournament is expected to run for approximately two to three months and will be played on grounds throughout the country, stretching from Moruca in Region One to communities in Berbice.

In her address, Sylvester said the Beharry Group views the tournament as an investment in youth development and national progress. She noted that the company, which has operated in Guyana for nearly 90 years, has long supported initiatives aimed at creating opportunities for young people and strengthening communities.

pation and inclusion by bringing together schools from across Guyana and providing students from different regions and backgrounds with opportunities to compete and represent their institutions. Approximately 80 schools are expected to participate.

Sylvester added that the initiative aims not only to develop cricket talent but also to encourage positive youth engagement, healthy lifestyles, school pride and community spirit while creating pathways for talent identification and growth.

Sylvester highlighted the role sport plays in teaching discipline, teamwork, resilience, leadership and accountability, describing these as qualities that extend beyond the playing field into education, business and everyday life. She said the tournament was designed to maximise partici-

The Beharry Group has supported a range of sporting disciplines and development programmes over the years, and Sylvester expressed hope that the Under-19 Schools T20 Tournament would become a sustainable fixture on Guyana’s sporting calendar and leave a lasting legacy for youth cricket.

The launch was attended by representatives of the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, the Ministry of Education, the Guyana Cricket Board and the Petra Organisation, which is coordinating the nationwide competition.

Chinelle Henry stars as Windies Women extend winning start

The West Indies Women continued their impressive run in the 2026 Ireland Women’s Tri-Nation Series with a hard-fought 25-run victory over Pakistan Women at Clontarf Cricket Club on Friday.

After winning the toss and choosing to bat, the Caribbean side produced an explosive batting display to post a formidable 199 for six from their 20 overs. Contributions came throughout the top order, with Jannillea Glasgow leading the way with 42 from 25 deliveries. Captain Hayley Matthews

added a brisk 40 from 20 balls, while veteran Stafanie Taylor chipped in with 39 from 23, as West Indies maintained a relentless scoring rate. Pakistan’s bowlers struggled to contain the flow of runs, although Rameen Shamim and Nashra Sandhu claimed two wickets each. Diana Baig also made a breakthrough, but the West Indies batters consistently found boundaries to push the total close to the 200-run mark.

Facing a challenging target, Pakistan Women responded with determination but ultimately finished on 174 for eight from their allotted 20 overs. Aliya Riaz anchored the chase with a fighting 37 from 28 balls, while Saira Jabeen contributed 30 from 19, and Fatima Sana provided late resistance with a quick-fire 27 from 14 deliveries.

West Indies’ bowlers held their

nerve during the chase, with Chinelle Henry delivering a match-winning all-round performance. The pace-bowling all-rounder followed up her unbeaten 33 from just 17 balls with outstanding figures of two for 13 from two overs to earn the Player of the Match award. Jahzara Claxton and Shawnisha Hector also chipped in with important wickets to keep Pakistan from mounting a serious challenge.

The victory gives West Indies Women backto-back wins in the tournament and strengthens their position near the top of the standings. After beginning the competition with a convincing triumph over Ireland, the Caribbean side has now showcased both batting firepower and bowling discipline in successive matches.

Indies Women (20 ovs maximum)

Matthews (c) c Saira Jabeen b Diana Baig 40 Deandra Dottin b Nashra Sandhu 17

Qiana Joseph c Saira Jabeen b Rameen Shamim 4 Stafanie Taylor lbw b Nashra Sandhu 39 Jahzara Claxton c & b Rameen Shamim 17 Chinelle Henry not out 33

Jannillea Glasgow run out (Fatima Sana/Diana Baig) 42 Shawnisha Hector not out 0

Extras (lb 2, nb 1, w 4) 7

Total 20 Ov (RR: 9.95) 199/6

Fall of wickets: 1-57 (Hayley Matthews, 4.6 ov), 2-64 (Deandra Dottin, 6.4 ov), 3-66 (Qiana Joseph, 7.4 ov), 4-120 (Stafanie Taylor, 12.4 ov), 5-122 (Jahzara Claxton, 13.3 ov), 6-187 (Jannillea Glasgow, 19.3 ov) Bowling O-M-R-W Fatima Sana 4-0-50-0 Diana Baig 4-0-58-1 Sadia Iqbal 4-0-33-0 Nashra Sandhu 4-0-29-2 Rameen Shamim 4-0-27-2

Pakistan Women (T: 200 runs from 20 ovs)

Muneeba Ali † b Henry 2

Gull Feroza c †Mangru

b Hector 4

Saira Jabeen c Joseph b Munisar 30 Ayesha Zafar c Claxton b Henry 7 Rameen Shamim run out (Glasgow/†Mangru) 18 Iram Javed run out (Claxton/†Mangru) 24 Aliya Riaz c †Mangru b Claxton 37 Fatima Sana (c) c Dottin