Bahamas News
PM Davis: Interpol Americas Regional Conference reflects the ‘critical need for a unified and strategic response to the growing complexities of transnational crime’
NASSAU, The Bahamas – During his Official Remarks at the 26th Interpol Americas Regional Conference, on September 11, 2024, Prime Minister and Minister of Finance the Hon. Philip Davis said that it was a “distinct honour” to welcome participants and said that their assembly at the event in The Bahamas reflected the “critical need for a unified and strategic response to the growing
complexities of transnational crime.”
“From organized criminal networks to cyber threats, human trafficking, and the illegal arms and drug trades, these challenges transcend borders, requiring solutions that are grounded in international cooperation,” Prime Minister Davis said, at the event held at Atlantis Resort, Paradise Island.
He added: “Interpol is a cornerstone in fostering these high-level partnerships, enabling law enforcement agencies to work seamlessly across jurisdictions. Through collaboration, intelligence sharing, and joint operations, we fortify our collective security framework. The strength of our partnerships lies not only in our shared commitment but also in the integration of our resources, expertise, and resolve to protect our citizens and secure our region. It is this collective effort that will ensure we remain resilient in the face of evolving threats.”
Prime Minister Davis noted that, in the “rapidly changing world,” criminal networks were becoming more sophisticated and adaptable, making it essential that the approach to combating those threats evolved in tandem.
“No single nation can face these challenges alone,” he said. “The need for a shared, coordinated response has never been more critical.”
“Our collective success depends on our ability to work together, pooling our resources, intelligence, and best practices,” he added. “This shared approach strengthens our capacity to anticipate, prevent, and respond to criminal activities that threaten the safety and stability of our nations.
“By aligning our strategies and deepening our cooperation, we not only enhance our national security efforts but also contribute to the overall security of the region.”
Prime Minister Davis stated that The Bahamas recognized the importance of that collaboration.
“We have invested in advanced technology, reinforced our legal framework, and enhanced our law enforcement capabilities,” he said.
“However, these efforts are only as strong as the partnerships we build with our international counterparts. Our shared commitment to safeguarding our societies is what makes this conference, and our continued cooperation, so essential.
He added: “While we often focus on the technical aspects of crime prevention — intelligence sharing, law enforcement strategies, and legal frameworks — it is essential that we never lose sight of the human cost. Behind every statistic lies the reality of individuals and families whose lives are disrupted or destroyed by the impact of crime. Whether it is human trafficking, drug smuggling, or violent crime, the human toll is profound, particularly in vulnerable communities.”
Prime Minister Davis noted that In the Caribbean and Latin America, they had seen firsthand how organized crime infiltrated societies, exploiting economic vulnerabilities and eroding social cohesion.
“The illicit activities we face not only undermine our economies but also compromise the very fabric of our communities,” he said. “This makes it all the more important that we address not just the symptoms of crime but the root causes that allow these networks to thrive.”
“By strengthening our cooperation through Interpol, we not only enhance our ability to dismantle criminal networks but also to protect the most vulnerable among us,” he added. “Our shared commitment must extend beyond law enforcement; it must also focus on reducing the socioeconomic conditions that make our citizens susceptible to criminal exploitation. Addressing this human impact is key to ensuring lasting security and stability across our region.”
Prime Minister Davis noted that, as they all reflected on the discussions and collaborations during the conference, it was clear that the strength of their relationship had never been more important.
“The challenges we face are dynamic, but so too are the opportunities for deepening our ties and enhancing our collective security,” he said. “This conference represents not just an exchange of ideas, but a reaffirmation of our shared commitment to a safer and more
secure future for our nations.”
He added: “Moving forward, it is vital that we continue to build on the progress made here. Our collaboration through Interpol must remain proactive, adaptive, and resilient. By reinforcing our partnerships and constantly evolving our strategies, we will be better equipped to anticipate and respond to emerging threats.”
Prime Minister Davis expressed his “sincere gratitude” to Interpol for its leadership and for facilitating those critical conversations.
“I also extend my heartfelt thanks to each delegate here for your ongoing dedication to the safety and security of our region,” he said. “The outcomes of this conference will resonate far beyond these walls, shaping the future of our cooperative efforts in combating transnational crime.”
“Before we conclude, I warmly invite you to experience why ‘It’s Better in The Bahamas’,” Prime Minister Davis added. “Take some time to enjoy our beautiful sun, sand, and sea, and discover the richness of Bahamian hospitality and culture.”
PHOTO CAPTION
Photos show official remarks being delivered at the 26th Interpol Americas Regional Conference, Atlantis Resort, September 11, 2024 by Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Philip Davis, Minister of National Security Wayne Munroe, INTERPOL President Ahmed Naser Al-Raisi, and Commissioner of Police Clayton Fernander. (BIS Photos/Eric Rose)
DEAR EDITOR,
Sometimes the best ideas come from experiences far away from home.
It was while I was living in Europe that I saw how excited people were about England’s iconic double-decker buses. It was a symbol of culture – and visitors looked forward to the ride as an experience in itself rather than just a method of transportation.
That sparked a thought: What if we brought that same excitement to The Bahamas, but made it uniquely Bahamian?
In November 2024, that thought became 2 Storeys Tours. I wanted visitors to see Nassau in a way they had not been able to before. That meant they could come straight off a cruise ship and onto a double-decker to see what makes our country what it is – to see our beautiful waters and to discover what makes us Bahamian.
We wanted to create something memorable, something visitors would associate with their Bahamian vacation, just as people associate double-decker buses with England.
The bus may catch your attention, but The Bahamas is what makes the experience unforgettable.
We also believe tourism should create opportunities for Bahamians.
We started less than five years ago with one very used double decker bus.
Now thanks to cruise ship business, we have quadrupled the size of our little fleet. We now have four shiny new red and blue buses, so we can say Welcome Ashore in style.
Depending on the season, between 70 and 80 percent of our business is cruise-passenger driven. Even during the slower season for hotels, the cruise ships arrive filled with people looking to explore historic Nassau and we are giving them the closest to a bird’s eye view as they can get. And they love it.
Turning an idea into a functioning business has been an exciting journey, but certainly not without challenges. From planning and preparation to finally seeing our buses on the road, the experience has taught us patience, perseverance, and the importance of believing in a vision.
We are proud of how far we’ve come, and even more excited about what lies ahead.
Building partnerships helped us to get to where we are today – building them further will take us to where we can reach tomorrow.
Our ambition is to make 2 Storeys Tours a recognised and trusted name in Bahamian tourism. We want to continue improving our tours, developing new experiences, embracing environmentally responsible tourism, and building meaningful relationships – and eventually take the 2 Storeys Tours experience beyond Nassau to other islands.
Above all, we want to build something that lasts.
Looking back, it’s incredible to think that an observation while living in Europe could lead to a business right here at home.
What began as an idea became a business with a purpose, and we’re only getting started.
Our inspiration came from abroad. Our passion comes from home. And our future is proudly Bahamian.
By: KEEVON MAYNARD
President, 2 Storeys Tours
Bahamas News
Federal Investigation into Florida Turnpike Tragedy that Killed Three Children of Bahamian Mother
NTSB examining roadside assistance driver’s actions, SUV speed and seat belt use after six people perish in fiery collision
ORLANDO, FLORIDA — October 29, 2026 — Federal investigators have joined the investigation into a horrific Florida Turnpike collision that claimed six lives, including all three children of a Bahamian mother, as questions intensify over what caused the deadly crash.
The United States National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has confirmed that it is opening an investigation into the October 23 accident, which occurred around 9:31 p.m. near mile marker 252 in Orange County.
The agency’s involvement brings federal scrutiny to a tragedy that has devastated several families and prompted an extraordinary
outpouring of sympathy and disbelief.
Among those killed were siblings Charles Milton, Jakara Milton and Dalvena Green, the three adult children of Marshall Clarke-Milton and her husband, Charles Milton Sr.
The siblings were traveling with three others to Universal Orlando’s Halloween Horror Nights, reportedly on their first trip together.
They never arrived.
FEDERAL INVESTIGATORS EXAMINE WHAT WENT WRONG
The NTSB confirmed to FOX 35 Orlando that its investigation will examine the training and performance of the roadside assistance driver, the actions of the SUV driver, including speed, and whether the occupants were wearing seat belts.
The agency investigates serious transportation accidents to identify safety failures and recommend measures that could prevent similar tragedies.
Its involvement does not establish wrongdoing by either driver.
The Florida Highway Patrol is conducting a separate investigation into the collision.
According to the preliminary police account, a Road Ranger roadside assistance truck had been parked in the highway median before its driver received instructions to assist a disabled box truck on the opposite shoulder.
As the Road Ranger moved across the northbound lanes, it collided with a 2023 Chevrolet Traverse carrying six adults.
Both vehicles left the roadway and caught fire.
All six occupants of the SUV died at the scene. The Road Ranger driver survived with minor injuries.
MOTHER CHALLENGES EARLY ACCOUNT
Witnesses reportedly told investigators that the SUV was traveling at high speed without its headlights illuminated.
However, those observations have not been established as the definitive cause of the collision.
Clarke-Milton has challenged suggestions that her children or their companions were responsible, urging investigators to examine the evidence before reaching conclusions.
She wants investigators to establish the SUV’s actual speed and determine whether its headlights were operating.
The family’s concerns underscore the importance of the continuing investigations, particularly given the movement of the roadside assistance vehicle across active highway lanes.
ALL THREE CHILDREN LOST
For Clarke-Milton, the investigation unfolds against an almost incomprehensible personal tragedy.
She lost all three of her children simultaneously.
In an emotional interview with FOX 35 Orlando, the grieving mother described the terrible feeling that overcame her when she could not reach them.
“My heart sank,” she said, recalling the moment she feared her children were involved.
The siblings were among six people whose lives ended during what should have been an enjoyable evening together.
The other victims included Timothy Williams and Shawn Palmer. A sixth person’s identity had not been publicly confirmed in the latest reports reviewed.
The family’s heartbreak has resonated across The Bahamas and beyond, with expressions of sympathy accompanying calls for answers.
SEARCH FOR ANSWERS CONTINUES
The Florida Highway Patrol has indicated that a crash report is expected within approximately ten days of the accident.
The NTSB’s investigation will examine broader transportation safety concerns, including the operation of roadside assistance vehicles and the circumstances surrounding the collision.
For the grieving families, the findings cannot reverse the tragedy.
But they may establish what happened on that stretch of Florida’s Turnpike and whether anything could have prevented six people from losing their lives.
For one Bahamian mother, the loss is especially devastating.
Three children left for an evening of entertainment. Not one came home.
Nassau, The Bahamas, October 22, 2026 — The National Computer Incident Response Team of The Bahamas (CIRT-BS) has issued a cybersecurity advisory warning businesses, government institutions and other organisations about the growing threat posed by Akira ransomware, a cybercriminal operation capable of stealing sensitive information, disrupting networks and demanding ransom payments.
Active since March 2023, Akira operates through a Ransomware-as-a-Service model, with affiliates exploiting weaknesses in computer networks to gain unauthorised access.
Once inside, attackers can steal confidential data, disable recovery systems and encrypt files, preventing organisations from accessing critical information.
Particularly concerning is Akira’s use of double extortion, threatening to publish stolen information unless victims pay. Some attacks involve data theft without encryption.
The October 22 advisory identifies vulnerabilities involving Cisco and SonicWall firewalls, VPN services, Microsoft Remote Desktop Protocol, Veeam backup systems and outdated Windows and Linux operating systems. VMware ESXi and Nutanix AHV environments are also potential targets.
Attackers may exploit unpatched software, stolen login credentials and inadequately secured remote-access applications, including AnyDesk and RustDesk.
Warning signs include unexpected administrator accounts, unusual remote logins, unauthorised software installations, suspicious backup activity, mass file changes and ransom notes.
CIRT-BS recommends immediate security updates, multifactor authentication, restricted remote access, stronger network monitoring and secure backups maintained separately from operational systems.
Organisations should also remove unnecessary internet exposure of remote desktop services, limit administrative privileges and regularly test backup restoration.
The advisory does not identify any confirmed Akira attack against a Bahamian organisation but highlights vulnerabilities that could expose institutions to serious financial and operational disruption.
Cybersecurity incidents can be reported to CIRT-BS at soc@cirt.bs or through its official website.
