News
Ending the violence in TCI Demands Deep Solutions, Not Quick Fixes
Ed Forbes
Turks and Caicos, December 1818, 2024 – Turks and Caicos Islands can no longer afford to leave our future to chance when it comes to gang violence; It’s certainly a name we wish to erase.
Despite the concerted effort made by our dedicated law enforcement departments to infiltrate and disrupt these groups, there appears to be no abating when it comes to violent crimes.
It is evident the challenges facing our country runs deeper than the changing of guards. The population of TCI continues to grow immensely, and everything from our natural environment to our sense of security we once took for granted is being impacted.
We are seeing the impact with serious crimes, housing inequality, electricity hikes, food prices and the like. We are also beginning to see a generational divide in home ownership. Despite a bustling economy, there still seems to be so many challenges with unemployment particularly with our young men.
The question so many of our citizens continues to grapple with is, whether our government is moving fast enough to keep up with the
growing demands, and are we running a 1st world country with 3rd world resources?
The relentless scourge of violence shows the impact of the scope and scale of these tit-for-tat killings, and it’s hitting at the core of our being.
With that being said, not only should the police and the courts seek to inflict maximum disruption, penalties and arrest of the perpetrators, but seek to find real and sustainable solutions.
The writing is on the wall with the infiltration of gang violence, a number of them from our neighboring countries who are no strangers to violence. Unfortunately, fear in the communities will only deepen if it continues and innocent bystanders could eventually get caught up in the crossfire.
Let’s face it, dealing with gang related violence in TCI is out of our league. “Its a culture shock”. This goes beyond law enforcement arresting their way out of this one.
What we don’t want is for entrenched crime areas like Five Cays, Kew Town and Dook Yard, to become the prologue for further violence in other communities.
In my opinion, the only plausible way to bring this escalating horror to a grind, is to do the following.
-Tap into the knowledge and expertise of foreign Investigators who understand the complexity of these types of crimes.
Well-trained professional gang task force investigators, who also understand the importance of truce negotiations between these groups to help resolve their conflicts and save them from themselves.
-Jamaica, the United States and select countries in Central America, lived this horror and have been dealing with this level of violence for years before they were able to get it under control.
Therefore, why not expand our reach in such countries. What we need is intelligence-driven strategies and skilled boots on the ground.
A multifaceted approach with the right intervention, will help to prevent other young men in our communities from emulating this kind of violence or profiting from this lawless butchery of human lives.
The AGs office has taken progressive steps with the implementation of ordinances to tackle gang and organized related crimes, but we
cannot stop there. What we need now are the right resources to help reinforce it.
What is also important to understand is, because of our geographic location, wide open borders, and the use of the US currency, it’s a different dynamics which requires a unique approach.
Although the complexities of gang violence look pretty daunting and long lasting good outcomes far from guaranteed, we cannot recoil into our corners and wish it would go away.
In the interim, what have we done differently in the affected communities to strengthen our resolve?
-Do we have substations in these communities be it mobile units or brick and mortar buildings? 
-Is the department equipped with Ariel surveillance and would a helicopter rather then a fixed-wing aircraft prove to be more effective?
-Are we building trust in the respective communities by assigning police officers to specific neighborhoods to build relationships and familiarity with residents?
-Do we have committed and progressive leadership, with the ability to maintain high morale and motivation of our dedicated police officers?
-Are we strengthening the family structure within those communities through parenting classes, financial assistance, and conflict resolution resources?
-Are there tax incentives for employers willing to hire ex-convicts giving them a second chance?
-What long-term strategic plan are in place for a HM Coastguard ship to remain in our waters to deter or repatriate illegal migrants?
In these communities, there is a clear and present danger of them becoming a haven for drugs and weapons traffickers, because it appears more lucrative and there are limited alternatives.
In an age of uncertainty, our law enforcement agencies must have the ability to act with predictability and decisiveness.
It’s now an urgent matter that must concern all of us, whether we choose to confront the problem or just look the other way it’s obviously something we need to tackle head on. If you see something, say something.
Head to bed in a bra to reduce breast pain, nipple irritation and stretch marks
When you think about sleeping in a bra, “comfort” probably isn’t the first word that comes to mind — it may not even make the Top 10. But is it bad to sleep with a bra on?
Breast surgical oncologist Margaret Thompson, MD, explains the upsides and downsides of wearing a bra while you snooze.
Should you sleep in a bra?
Several factors may affect your decision to wear a bra to bed, but Dr. Thompson emphasizes that the risk of breast cancer should not be one of them.
“There’s no evidence that wearing a bra while sleeping increases your risk for breast cancer,” she states. “It really comes down to comfort and personal preference.”
But there are also other health issues to consider. Dr. Thompson lays out the pros and cons of sleeping in a bra.
Pros: Why sleeping in a bra might be good for you
Should you wear a bra to bed? There are some benefits, especially if you’re recovering from surgery or breastfeeding.
Lessens breast pain
Having the support of a bra day and night may help relieve breast pain (mastalgia). That’s good news, because up to 70% of women in the United States deal with it at some point in their lives.
Common causes include:
- Hormonal changes, which often occur as part of your menstrual cycle
- Locally advanced breast cancer, including inflammatory breast cancer
- Lactation (producing milk), which may cause your breasts to ache
- Large breasts, which may strain breast ligaments and tissue
- Recent surgery related to your heart or breasts
- Underwires, especially if your bras are too tight
“When somebody reports breast pain, one of the first things we ask is whether they wear an underwire bra,” shares Dr. Thompson. “It can dig into your skin or breast tissue, leaving you sore and tender.”
A soft sleep bra can keep your breasts from shifting and causing discomfort while you snooze.
Protects lactating breasts
If you’re breastfeeding, you know all too well that your mammary glands don’t care if you’re trying to rest. Swollen or full breasts can be painful, especially as you move during sleep or change positions. Wearing a clean and supportive bra while sleeping:
- Holds nursing pads in place
- Keeps nipples dry and free from bacteria
- Reduces nipple chafing
- Supports the structure of your breasts
Make sure your sleep bra is supportive, but not too tight. Wearing a bra that’s too tight while breastfeeding can lower your milk production and possibly lead to clogged milk ducts and mastitis — inflammation of the breast tissue.
Prevents fungal infections
Everyone loves to be warm and cozy in bed. But do you know what else loves a warm environment? Fungus.
“There’s a lot of skin-on-skin contact underneath your breasts, especially if you have larger breasts,” notes Dr. Thompson. “If you’re also
covered in blankets and sweating, it becomes a perfect environment for fungal or yeast infections.”
Wearing a bra to bed helps absorb moisture beneath your breasts and reduce friction. A camisole with a built-in shelf bra can also help.
Reduces nipple irritation
Friction is a common reason for nipple pain — ask any avid runner. You may not be running a marathon in your sleep, but your nipples can still get sore from rubbing against:
- Tight shirts, especially if they’re textured or have a graphic design that can be felt inside the shirt
- The fabric of your pajama top or sheets
- A sleep bra that’s too loose
Wearing a sleep bra can limit movement, easing nipple irritation.
Helps with recovery after surgery
It’s important to keep your breasts compressed after certain surgeries involving your chest. Restricting breast movement helps protect stitches and incisions. The added compression can also:
- Decrease fluid collection
- Minimize pain
- Hold gauze and drains in place
“Most cardiac and breast surgeons want you to wear a bra for some time after surgery, even while sleeping,” emphasizes Dr. Thompson. “Always follow their advice.”
Diminishes stretch marks
Stretch marks on breasts are common, especially if your breasts change size during pregnancy. Bras support your skin’s structure, which helps prevent stretch marks.
“There’s no proof that wearing a bra at any time of day will decrease breast sagginess,” Dr. Thompson clarifies. “But it may help decrease stretch marks.”
Cons: Why it’s bad to sleep with a bra on
Looking for a reason to sleep without strapping on a bra? Dr. Thompson points out a few potential disadvantages of sleeping in a bra.
Causes skin irritation and infection
A sleep bra can protect your skin from irritation and infection. But it can also cause those issues if it has an underwire or it’s:
- Dirty
- Too tight
- Too loose
Restricts circulation
“Bras that are too tight or contain underwires may cause you to wake up with some discomfort,” reiterates Dr. Thompson. “They can restrict your circulation while you sleep.”
Nobody wants to wake up to find that their bra left angry red indents in its wake. That’s why selection is key.
Tips for wearing a bra to bed
If you decide to sleep in a bra, choose one that’s comfortable and fits well — not too tight, not too loose. And be sure to replace your bras every six to 12 months, or whenever your breast size changes. Measure yourself or ask the fitter at your lingerie store or undergarments department for help finding the right size.
For the best experience with your sleep bra, Dr. Thompson recommends that you:
- Choose a gentle fabric. Avoid lace or scratchy fabrics that may be rough on your nipples. Choose a natural material like cotton or something silky and soft.
- Consider a shelf bra. Some camisoles and tank tops have a built-in shelf bra that may help you feel supported while sleeping.
- Skip the underwire. Underwire can restrict circulation and cause pain while you sleep.
- Wear a clean bra. Don’t wear a bra you’ve worn all day, and wash your sleep bras regularly — after every two or three wears.
Bottom line? If you choose to sleep in a bra, you want one that’s supportive and comfortable. If it interferes with your sleep, it’s not the right fit.
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
by Deandrea Hamilton | Editor
PROVIDENCIALES, TCI — In a country where government press conferences are virtually non-existent, ministers are often difficult for
journalists to access and regular broadcast television news has disappeared, TCI Innovation, Technology and Energy Minister E. Jay Saunders has challenged Caribbean media to become “impossible to ignore.”
Speaking at the Caribbean Broadcasting Union gathering, Saunders argued that the Caribbean does not have a relevance problem but a “discoverability and positioning problem.”
Discoverability is precisely the issue in Saunders’ home country. Even Government’s own attempts at video news broadcasting have struggled against the realities of consistently producing a daily, weekly or even monthly newscast.
The difficulties confronting TCI media extend well beyond algorithms: limited advertising revenue, underfunding, shortages of trained professionals and insufficient human capacity leave newsrooms struggling for both staff and stamina.
Then there is the reality of operating in one of the region’s smallest societies. Politicians, journalists, advertisers, businesses and the subjects of stories often exist within the same tight economic and social circles. A controversial report that might create a ripple elsewhere can produce a tsunami in TCI, intensifying concerns among journalists about commercial and professional victimisation.
Saunders believes AI can help.
He urged Caribbean media to use the technology to transform one original story into television, radio, web, podcast, social and translated content without multiplying newsroom workload.
He also wants regional journalism structured so AI systems can find, understand and trust Caribbean sources, moving media beyond traditional SEO into Answer Engine Optimisation.
His ultimate message was emphatic: “Use AI not to make Caribbean media more artificial — but to make Caribbean voices more visible.”
For Turks and Caicos media, however, becoming visible may require more than technology. It requires an environment in which journalism can survive.
That last sentence is where I think we land the plane. It acknowledges that EJ actually has some us
