Bahamas News
BAHAMAS: Minister Dames Lauds RBDF role in crime fighting
#Bahamas, April 25, 2018 – Nassau – At the Royal Bahamas Defence Force (RBDF) Officers Commissioning, Long Service and Good Conduct Ceremony, April 20, 2018, Minister of National Security the Hon. Marvin Dames told RBDF members present that their role in the fight against transnational organized crime, such as narcotics and human smuggling, small arms trafficking, and poaching had over the last several months reaped significant results.
“As an Agency, you continue to set the standards in a diverse range of areas such as search and rescue and disaster preparedness, locally as well as regionally,” Minister Dames said, during the Ceremony held on the Lower Grounds of Government House. “For this, you ought to be commended.”
“Additionally, Officers and Marines continue to instill positive values to young Bahamians through programmes like the nationally recognized Defence Force Rangers programme which just last year won the National Youth Organization of the Year Award sponsored by the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture,” he added.
Minister Dames said all were “truly appreciative” of Governor General Her Excellency Dame Marguerite Pindling for taking time to formally recognize the service and outstanding accomplishments of the men and women of the Royal Bahamas Defence Force. It was equally pleasing to see so many family members, friends, and loved ones present on that “wonderful occasion.”
“I am honoured to share in this very special occasion where 13 junior officers will receive their instruments of commission,” he said. “Having served admirably as Marines, these young officers elected to transition into the Officer Corps and were successful in completing their initial Naval Officer Training Courses and their tasks as junior managers which brings us here today. Congratulations.”
However, Minister Dames admonished them to not take their commissioning lightly.
“Your Instrument of Authority will signify that the Governor General as statutory head of state has, reposed her trust in you to safeguard the Commonwealth of The Bahamas,” he pointed out. “Commissioned Military Officers should therefore conduct themselves with the highest levels of leadership, integrity and professionalism.
“I am equally honoured to witness the awarding of some 101 officers for their long service and good conduct within the organization. Medals will be awarded to 23 members who have served for 18 years while Rosettes will be presented to 15 members who have served for 25 years and another 63 members who have served for 30 years or more. Congratulations to all of you.”
Minister Dames quoted former Congresswoman and U.S. Senator, Margaret Chase Smith, who once said “Public service must be more than doing a job efficiently and honestly. It must be a complete dedication to the people and to the nation.” He noted that the RBDF members had continuously demonstrated what it meant to serve with honor, dignity and pride.
He added that he noted with interest, the organization’s theme for the year: “Security through Partnership.”
“Undoubtedly, The Bahamas, like many nations, are experiencing crime and security challenges,” he stated. “Our government believes, that only through engaged collaboration with each other and our local communities, can we effectively tackle our security challenges and preserve the peace and prosperity of our nation.”
Most recently, he said, The Bahamas had witnessed what can be achieved through genuine partnership, as the Defence Force – in collaboration with the Police, Customs, Immigration and the Correctional Services – had already executed that year a number of successful law-enforcement operations.
“These partnership initiatives will become the norm as we work to build a more secure nation for all who live and visit,” he said.
“In a few short months you will be provided with the opportunity to showcase to the region and the world your leadership as you host the Annual Regional Military Tradewinds Exercise,” Minister Dames added. “I congratulate you.”
Minister Dames used the opportunity that day to commend the RBDF members for “your service to country in guarding and protecting our borders.”
“On behalf of the Government and the people of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas, I wish to extend congratulations to all of you who have been recognized here today,” he said. “I wish the very best to you and your families and the entire complement of Officers and staff of the Royal Bahamas Defence Force who continue to protect our sovereignty.”
By Eric Rose
Photo Caption: At RBDF Officers Commissioning, Long Service and Good Conduct Ceremony at Government House, April 20, 2018, Sub-Lieutenant Earnestine Cleare receives her sword and Letter of Commission from Governor General Her Excellency Dame Marguerite Pindling. Minister Marvin Dames looks on, centre, and Commander Royal Bahamas Defence Force, Commodore Tellis Bethel, is at left.
(RBDF Photo/Marine Seaman Kyle Smith)
The Bahamas, August 27, 2026 – The Royal Bahamas Police Force wishes to inform members of the public that several individuals are scheduled to appear before the Magistrate’s Court on Thursday, 27th August 2026, at 12:00 noon.
The individuals and charges are as follows:
An 18-year-old female is scheduled to be arraigned on the following charges:
Three (3) counts of Murder
Three (3) counts of Attempted Murder
Three (3) counts of Possession of a Firearm with Intent to Endanger Life
Three (3) counts of Possession of an Unlicensed Firearm
Two (2) counts of Possession of Ammunition
Armed Robbery
Abetment to Armed Robbery
Stealing
Receiving
The charges stem from three separate shooting incidents and an armed robbery that occurred on Friday, 21st August 2026, and Saturday, 22nd August 2026.
The first shooting occurred in the area of Soldier Road and Baillou Hill Road, resulting in the death of a 51-year-old male.
The second shooting occurred in the area of Joe Farrington Road, resulting in the death of a 52-year-old male.
The third shooting occurred in the area of Gladstone Road, resulting in the death of a 36-year-old male.
The armed robbery occurred at a business establishment in the area of Carmichael Road and Baillou Hill Road.
A 21-year-old male is scheduled to be arraigned on one charge of:
- Murder
The charge stems from a shooting incident that occurred on Tuesday, 21st July 2026, in the area of Samson Street, Nassau Village, which resulted in the death of a 28-year-old male.
A 32-year-old male is scheduled to be arraigned on the following charges:
- Murder
- Attempted Murder
These charges stem from a shooting incident that occurred on Wednesday, 24th December 2025, in the area of Graham Drive, Yellow Elder, which resulted in the death of a 25-year-old male.
RBPF, PACD
Bahamas News
Bahama Brass Band Invitation Sparks Heritage Debate Ahead of TCI Constitutional Holiday
Turks and Caicos, August 20, 2026 – The planned participation of the Bahama Brass Band in the Turks and Caicos Islands’ inaugural Constitutional Holiday celebrations on August 30 has sparked public debate over culture, heritage and the historical contributions of Turks and Caicos Islanders abroad.
Organizers defended the invitation, saying the band’s inclusion is intended to highlight the deep historical ties between the two countries
and honor Turks and Caicos men who helped establish and develop the institution in Grand Bahama.
According to the organizers, the Bahama Brass Band began in 1955 in Pine Ridge, Freeport, with Turks and Caicos Islanders, including the late Deacon Reuben Hall Sr. of Middle Caicos and Jenkins Williams and Mervin Hendfield of North Caicos, among those who helped build its foundation. The band eventually grew to more than 50 men.
The organizers also pointed to the participation of Turks and Caicos men in The Bahamas’ Independence celebrations on July 10, 1973, arguing that their contributions became part of Bahamian history while maintaining strong connections to their homeland.
Supporters say bringing the band home represents an opportunity to honor those pioneers, showcase their regional influence and expose younger generations to an important part of Turks and Caicos history.
However, concerns raised publicly described the invitation as potentially disrespectful to local culture and heritage. Organizers acknowledged those concerns, apologizing to anyone who felt overlooked or offended, while maintaining that no disrespect was intended.
The committee said the event should ultimately unite rather than divide, presenting the band’s history as evidence of the reach and resilience of Turks and Caicos heritage.
PHOTO CREDIT: Bahamas Brass Band
NASSAU, Bahamas — Caribbean Bottling Company (CBC), local producers of Dasani products, proudly sponsored the fifth annual, Caribbean Hoopfest.
The tournament brings together Bahamian high school basketball teams and visiting teams from the United States for a competitive
showcase at the Kendal G. L. Isaacs Gymnasium. Following its inaugural year at the Kendal G. L. Isaacs gym and last year’s event at Loyola Hall, the tournament returned to the Kendal G. L. Isaacs gym this year.
During the weekend tournament, CBC kept athletes well hydrated with in-kind donations of Dasani Water, Powerade and Minute Maid Juices.
During the tournament’s final day, CBC provided additional support by offering Sprite No Sugar samples and inviting attendees to participate in its Spin the Wheel for a chance to win exciting prizes.
CBC was proud to support this incredible event, which provides young Bahamian athletes with valuable exposure to U.S. basketball scouts and coaches. This opportunity gives them the chance to earn scholarships, continue their education, and pursue their basketball careers in the United States.
Event organizer, Donald Francois shared his appreciation for CBC’s support.
“I want to express our sincere appreciation for Caribbean Bottling Company, who has been a tremendous supporter and an important part of the success of our program. Without CBC’s support, Caribbean Hoop Fest would not be able to function at the level it does today. And without Caribbean Hoop Fest, we would not have been able to provide the opportunities that have helped young Bahamian athletes gain exposure and pursue educational opportunities in the United States,” he expressed.
Since the program’s inception, several Bahamian student-athletes have been selected for scholarship opportunities, highlighting the
tournament’s growing impact on the development and advancement of young basketball talent in The Bahamas.
They are: Kelvin McDowells – Guard, Wodson Antoine – Power Forward, Justin Lafleur – Guard and Sean John – Guard.
After another successful edition of the tournament, Francois shared what he hopes he and Caribbean Bottling Company can achieve in the future.
“Our vision is bigger than basketball. We want to use the platform of Caribbean Hoop Fest to educate, develop, and create opportunities for young people and their families throughout the Bahamas. With individuals and organizations committed to our mission, we believe we can continue to grow the program and make an even greater impact,” Francois said.
For more details on community support, events and new products visit Caribbean Bottling Company at www.cbcbahamas.com today.
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