PARAMARIBO, Suriname, CMC – Suriname has expelled five fugitives suspected of being involved in a series of armed robberies in neighbouring French Guiana, including robbing and holding hostage, the deputy mayor of French Guiana, Bernard Sellier. The Public Prosecution Service here said that the criminals had committed several armed robberies, the last of which occurred on Sunday, October 13.  It said following that robbery, the criminal, which it did not identify by gender or name, crossed the border river and fled into Suriname. The authorities here said in collaboration with the French law enforcement authorities, they were able to arrest the suspects on Tuesday evening. The Public Prosecution Service said that the French nationals were immediately deported with Suriname emphasizing beyond doubt that it does not provide shelter to criminals. Last week, seven Brazilian fugitives, who were part of an international criminal organization, were also deported to their country after hiding out in Suriname for several months.

The newly installed High Commissioner of Canada to Barbados Brenda Wills intends to work to build on existing ties between the island and her country. She says there’s always room to do more to boost two-way trade. She recently presented her credentials to the President the Most Honourable Dame Sandra Mason and has already met with Prime Minister, Mia Amor Mottley. The High Commissioner was a guest on CBC TV8’s Mornin’ Barbados.

Small business owners stand to benefit from this weekend’s 85th Annual Conference of the Barbados Labour Party. Chief Executive Officer, Senator Patricia Parris says the small businesses, part of the Trust Fund Limited will be allowed a space to sell their items at the conference at the Foundation School. Outside of the numerous awards to be presented by the BLP, four will be for outstanding sportspersons; two for culture, one for environmental award and one for outstanding young Barbadian will be recognised. Senator Parris says Sunday will see rigorous debate on resolutions submitted by the party branches.