News
TCI Immigration Department Sets The Record Straight On Syrian who smuggled into TCI
#TurksandCaicos, April 12, 2021 – A local daily in the spotlight for publishing “misleading information” concerning an illegal immigrant seized by the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force- Marine Division while aboard a boat in TCI waters in the Northwest Point area of Providenciales on 8th January 2020.
According to the Minister, the true account of how events unfolded after the arrest of the controversial Syrian is contrary to the information and alleged “wild” claims that Turks and Caicos Islands is ” part of an organised international human smuggling network.”
“My fellow Turks and Caicos Islanders, I have read with interest an article in one of the local newspapers, speaking about a Syrian national being smuggled through these Turks and Caicos Islands,” said Hon Arlington Musgrove, the Minister of Immigration, Registration, Labour and Employment Services
“To set the record straight, here are the facts as I know them: On 8th January 2021 around 8:23 am, members of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force- Marine Division found a boat in Turk and Caicos Islands waters, in the Northwest Point area of Providenciales, with just one person on board, at the time,” Hon. Musgrove’s statement clarified.
“It would later be determined that the boat, which entered the TCI illegally, would have had a total of twenty-five (25) persons on board, including twenty-two (22) males, of which Mr Moin Alhashash, was one and three (3) Haitian females, ” he added.
According to the Minister of Immigration, Registration, Labor & Employment Services, Mr Moin Alhashash, a Syrian national, had spanned 14-months in Haiti, where he learned to speak Creole fluently. Of course, it was the same language he spoke during an interview through an interpreter.
The Minister further revealed that Mr Moin’s stay in TCI was inadvertent as he had paid the captain of the Haitian sloop four thousand (US$4,000.00) dollars for his journey to Miami Beach in Florida, USA. After his arrest by officers from the enforcement unit, he was charged with “Unlawful Entry” under the Immigration ordinance after pleading guilty to the offence.
Moin’s case was heard before the Chief Justice on 22nd March 2021 and sentenced to time served, suspending the recommendation for deportation for 6 months. Later, application for the issuance of a writ of habeas corpus regarding Mr Moin was heard before the Supreme Court on 30th March 2021 and relocated at 2.00 pm the same day.
The claim of many “unlawful detentions” by “The Sun” is not true, even though there could be a few errors in the entire process of handling the offender (Mr. Moin).
“I hasten to add that the contents of the story are somewhat misleading in a certain respect and paints a distorted picture of my Immigration Department and staff. The flagrant allegations of abuse of statutory power are regrettable,” read part of Hon Arlington Musgrove’s press release.
However, the Minister did not rule out the possibility of errors during the process as the immigration staff are not infallible.
“The Immigration authorities are not infallible and have made some mistakes, but endeavour as much as possible to keep their processes and operations within the four corners of the law and do not believe themselves to be a superior force entitled to operative above the law,” said the Minister for Immigration.
“It must be noted contrary to assertions made that the Immigration Authorities take seriously any matter of detention and fully understand the constitutional implications of prolonged or any detention,” the statement read.
While the article deemed the detention process illegal, the Standards used in the TCI immigration department have been compared to the world’s best standards and mirrors those of the UK.
Additionally, Hon. Musgrove stated that the Sri Lankan matter should not be used as a yardstick to measure the Immigration Department’s competence to adequately manage unlawful immigrants’ entry, their detention and eventual removal from the Turks and Caicos Islands.
The Sri Lankans situation was unique and complex and presented its peculiar challenges, which necessitated the assistance of specially trained investigators. Finally, Musgrove warned those staying in TCI illegally to leave or face the consequences.
PROVIDENCIALES,TCI MAY 2, 2024: World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day, observed annually on May 8, pays tribute to the unwavering dedication of volunteers and the lasting influence of humanitarian efforts worldwide. This significant day commemorates the birth of Henry Dunant, the visionary behind the Red Cross movement. Dunant’s groundbreaking idea involved establishing national relief societies comprised of volunteers who would receive training during peacetime. Their mission: to offer neutral and impartial aid in times of war and crisis.
The Turks and Caicos Islands Red Cross (TCIRC), a vital part of this global humanitarian network, continues to make a difference in the lives of those affected by crises. “Keeping Humanity Alive”: This year’s powerful theme serves as a poignant reminder of the unwavering dedication of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement. Their commitment extends to upholding human dignity, alleviating suffering, and providing crucial assistance to those facing dire circumstances, especially in remote and hard-to-reach regions. As we mark World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day, let’s recognize the commitment and service of our Turks and Caicos Islands’ 200 + volunteers to alleviating suffering and promoting community resilience throughout the Turks and Caicos Islands.
Red Cross Month Activities:
Community Outreach on All Islands: We’ll coordinate community outreach programs on each of the islands. Our volunteers will focus on raising awareness about health, disaster preparedness, and hygiene when engaging with the community.
First Aid Training Workshops: Wednesday 8th May 2024, 5pm to 7pm Community First Aid Workshop at Red Cross Building, Sunshine Plaza, 1005 Leeward Highway, Providenciales. Our first aid instructors will conduct first aid training sessions for community members. This workshop empowers people with life-saving skills, such as CPR, wound care, and handling emergencies.
Fundraising: Various fundraising events are organized to support our humanitarian work. Lady Grace Sunset Cruise (May 18th):
The Lady Grace Saxophone Sunset Cruise on May 18th will be a memorable event. We’ll set sail, enjoy the beautiful music and breathtaking views. Funds raised will go towards supporting our first aid program.
Dress in Red Day (May 31st): On May 31st, we’ll encourage everyone to participate in “Dress in Red Day.” Islanders, businesses, schools, and organizations can wear red attire to show solidarity with the humanitarian cause. Let’s flood the streets, workplaces, and schools with the vibrant color of compassion and support.
The 3rd Annual Red Hot Challenge You are invited to participate or attend this fun and vibrant sporting event scheduled for June 1, 2024, at the National Stadium in Providenciales. This event brings together individuals, businesses, and the community to support the Red Cross and its humanitarian efforts. Here are the key details:
- Date and Time: Saturday, June 1st, from 8:00 am to 3:00 pm
- Location: National Stadium, Providenciales
- Competitions: A total of 20 competitions, including 10 non-athletic games and 10 athletic contests
- Activities: Participants can enjoy a range of activities such as spoon relay races, egg tosses, water balloon tosses, sprints, tug-of-war, arm wrestling, soccer kicks, and more
- Team Participation: Both individuals and corporate teams are welcome. Teams can enter for $1,000 each, with a maximum of 10 participants permitted
- General Admission: Attendees can join in for a $5 general admission fee, while children aged 12 and under enjoy free entry (accompanied by an adult)
As we celebrate Red Cross month this May we urge you to participate in our activities and consider registering as a volunteer and/or making a donation.
To volunteer visit our Facebook page, https://www.facebook.com/turksandcaicosislandsredcross?mibextid=ZbWKwL or website: https://www.redcross.org.tc Donations can be directed to our account at FCIB (account number: 10305747) on Islehelp or on our website. Let’s support and salute our Red Cross volunteers who are actively ‘Keeping Humanity Alive’.
#TurksandCaicos, May 2, 2024 – The Department of Gender Affairs is proud to announce the commemoration of International Girls in ICT Day 2024, under the theme “Empowering Girls in ICT: Breaking Barriers, Building Bridges”. International Girls in ICT Day is celebrated annually on the fourth Thursday of April.
It aims to encourage and empower girls and young women to consider careers in the Information, Communication and Technology (ICT) fields. The day highlights the importance of bridging the gender digital divide and
promoting gender equality in the tech industry.
As part of the celebrations, a dynamic Panel Discussion titled ‘Tech Talks’ has been organized. This discussion will feature prominent women leaders and professionals from the ICT sector in the Turks and Caicos Islands, who will share their experiences, challenges, and successes in the field. This event is designed to inspire and encourage young women to pursue careers in Information Communication and Technology (ICT) by providing them with insights, guidance, and mentorship from accomplished women in the industry.
A special invitation has been extended to girls across all high schools in the Turks and Caicos Islands. Through this initiative, the Department continues its drive to foster interest and enthusiasm for ICT among the next generation of female leaders and innovators.
Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with the panelists, ask questions, and gain valuable insights into the world of ICT.
The event will be held at the Paradise Baptist Church, in Five Cays, Providenciales, commencing at 10:30 AM.
The Department of Gender Affairs is committed to promoting gender equality and empowering women in the field of ICT. Through initiatives like International Girls in ICT Day, we strive to create a more inclusive and equitable future for all.
May 2, 2024 – Bēchë, the premier swimwear of the Turks and Caicos, known for its innovative designs, commitment to quality, philanthropy and cultural storytelling, is thrilled to announce its official partnership with the prestigious return of Miss Universe Turks and Caicos Pageant. This collaboration marks a significant step in promoting fashion and beauty, with the event scheduled to take place in Providenciales on July 26th and 27th 2024.
As the exclusive swimwear partner for this esteemed pageant, bēchë will be outfitting all contestants with its latest collection curated specifically for each lady. This collection is designed to empower women and celebrate their individuality. This partnership aligns with bēchë’s mission to inspire confidence and elegance through exceptional swimwear that caters to all body types, while telling a story about our nation.
Event Highlights and Swimwear Showcase
Bēchë’s “Miss Universe Turks” designs will be featured during the promotional photoshoots leading up to the event, during the bikini
competition and official photoshoots of the reigning queen. Attendees will witness firsthand the fusion of fashion and poise as the contestants grace the stage in bēchë’s standout pieces, each crafted to highlight the beauty and culture of the Turks and Caicos and our women.
Exclusive Offers and Engagement
In celebration of this partnership, bēchë will offer exclusive promotions and giveaways leading up to and during the event. Pageant attendees and fans worldwide will have the opportunity to engage with both brands through interactive social media campaigns and live-streamed segments of the pageant. The curated collection will be available to the general public for pre-order on the night of the pageant.
A Commitment to Community and Fashion
“Partnering with the Miss Universe Turks and Caicos Pageant is an honor and a testament to our dedication to high-quality, accessible fashion,” said Cyprianna Jackson, Designer and Founder of bēchë. “This event not only highlights the talent and beauty of its participants but also shines a spotlight on the global appeal of inclusive fashion. We are excited to bring our designs to such a dynamic stage and look forward to an ongoing relationship with the pageant.”
The Miss Universe Turks and Caicos organization shares bēchë’s enthusiasm, with National Director Gabriela Clesca stating, “We are truly honored and thrilled to announce the return of the Miss Universe competition to Turks and Caicos after 10 years, alongside our esteemed swimwear partner, bēchë. Together, we’re positioning ourselves to showcase the extraordinary talent and beauty of this island, offering a global stage to showcase the captivating essence of TCI.”
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