WILLEMSTAD, CURACAO:---  The long-running Ennia financial scandal has re-emerged in the legal spotlight. Following the recent passing of Hushang Ansary, the central figure in the controversy, the Central Bank of Curaçao and Sint Maarten (CBCS) is intensifying efforts to ensure responsible parties face criminal prosecution.

According to reports from the Antilliaans Dagblad, the CBCS has initiated an Article 15 criminal procedure. This legal mechanism is designed to compel the Public Prosecutor's Office (OM) to proceed with prosecution through an order from the Court of Justice.

Both the CBCS and the Prosecutor General's office have confirmed this development. While a hearing date for the complaint has not yet been set, it is expected to be scheduled soon.

A Timeline of Delays

The push for action comes nearly eight years after the initial criminal complaints were filed. The first report of criminal offenses regarding Ennia was lodged in June 2018, with a supplementary report filed in August 2019. Despite the passage of time, no criminal charges have materialized from the investigation thus far.

In a statement responding to press inquiries, a corporate communications officer for the Central Bank clarified the timeline of their recent legal maneuvering.

"On July 9, 2025, the CBCS submitted a complaint under Article 15 of the Code of Criminal Procedure regarding the failure to prosecute criminal offenses concerning Ennia," the officer stated. "Through this complaint, the CBCS has objected to the fact that the criminal investigation instituted by the Public Prosecutor's Office has not yet led to the criminal prosecution of the persons responsible for the relevant criminal offenses."

The Central Bank has requested the Common Court of Justice to order that prosecution be instituted. The complaint is currently pending, with a ruling from the Court awaited.

Impact of Ansary's Death

The legal landscape shifted in early January with the death of the 98-year-old Iranian-American businessman Hushang Ansary. While prosecution is no longer applicable to him personally, the Article 15 procedure signals the Central Bank’s determination to hold other involved parties accountable for the alleged mismanagement and financial irregularities that plagued the insurance giant.

The upcoming court decision on the CBCS complaint will be a pivotal moment in determining whether the criminal aspect of the Ennia debacle will finally move forward after years of stagnation.

PHILIPSBURG:--- JCI Dutch Caribbean National President Anjeanee Mathew has successfully concluded her participation in the JCI National Presidents’ Meeting held in Mexico City from January 29–31, joining fellow JCI leaders from across the Americas for strategic dialogue, collaboration, and leadership development.
The high-level meeting provided a dynamic platform to exchange insights, share best practices, and gain fresh perspectives on advancing JCI’s mission at both the national and local levels. A key highlight was the opportunity to align this year’s priorities with the vision of Alejandra Castillo, the 2026 JCI World President, ensuring cohesive direction and regional synergy going forward.
Armed with renewed knowledge and motivation, National President Mathew will lead efforts to share these insights with the National Board and Local Presidents. This knowledge-sharing initiative aims to build strong momentum from the first quarter and drive an impactful year focused on measurable results, leadership development, and community impact.
As the organization looks ahead, JCI Dutch Caribbean remains committed to unity and collaboration under the banner of One Dutch Caribbean, One America, One JCI, while continuing to Ignite Our Lights and empower young leaders throughout the region.

Washington, USA:--- President Donald Trump has issued a series of warnings to multiple countries following a U.S. military operation that captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. The operation, which took place over the weekend, involved a coordinated strike in Caracas and resulted in Maduro's extradition to the United States to face charges of narco-conspiracy.

Regional Implications

During a press briefing, Trump suggested that the U.S. might not stop with Venezuela, issuing pointed remarks toward Cuba, Colombia, and Mexico. He accused Colombian President Gustavo Petro of facilitating drug trafficking and warned that the U.S. might take further action. Trump also criticized Mexico for its handling of drug cartels, offering U.S. military assistance to combat the issue.

Cuba was another target of Trump's comments, with the president predicting the economic collapse of the communist nation due to its reliance on Venezuelan oil. He stated, "Cuba is ready to fall," citing the country's financial struggles following the disruption of oil supplies from Venezuela.

Military Operation Details

The operation to capture Maduro, named "Absolute Resolve," was described as one of the most complex and high-profile U.S. military actions in recent history. It involved disabling Venezuela's air defense systems and deploying over 150 aircraft. The mission was executed with precision, lasting less than 30 minutes, and resulted in Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, being taken into U.S. custody.

While the U.S. has not released an official casualty count, reports suggest that at least 40 people were killed during the strikes. The operation has drawn criticism from international leaders, including Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, who called it a violation of the United Nations Charter.

International Reactions

The operation has sparked widespread condemnation across Latin America. Colombian President Petro mobilized troops along the border with Venezuela, citing concerns over a potential refugee crisis. Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva criticized the U.S. action as reminiscent of historical interference in the region.

In contrast, some U.S. lawmakers and communities in South Florida have expressed support for the operation, viewing it as a step toward promoting democracy in the region.

Greenland Controversy

In a separate development, Trump reiterated his interest in annexing Greenland, citing national security concerns. Greenlandic Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen condemned the remarks, calling them "unacceptable" and urging the U.S. to respect international law. Denmark's Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen also dismissed the idea, emphasizing Greenland's autonomy.

Future Outlook

Trump has indicated that the U.S. will oversee Venezuela's transition to a new government, stating, "We’re going to make sure that country is run properly." However, the administration faces challenges in stabilizing the region and addressing the broader geopolitical implications of its actions.

The situation remains fluid, with international observers closely monitoring the U.S.'s next moves in Latin America and beyond.

NEW YORK:--- Ousted Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro appeared in a New York federal court today to face charges of drug trafficking and weapons conspiracy. His appearance follows a dramatic US military operation in Caracas over the weekend that resulted in his capture and has sent shockwaves through the international community.

Maduro, along with his wife Cilia Flores, was transported under heavy guard by Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) agents from the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn to the Manhattan courthouse. He was seen in handcuffs, wearing a tan-colored uniform.

During the court proceedings, both Nicolás Maduro and Cilia Flores pleaded not guilty to all charges. Maduro asserted to the court that he remains the President of Venezuela, while his wife, Cilia Flores, maintained her position as the First Lady of the Republic of Venezuela. Flores also informed the judge that she sustained injuries during their capture and requested medical treatment. Maduro's next court date has been scheduled for March 17. He did not request bail, but the judge informed him that he could still submit a bail application at a later date. Maduro was also seen taking notes during the proceedings, which he asked the judge to keep.

The court proceedings mark a significant escalation in US foreign policy under President Donald Trump, who declared that the United States is now "in charge" of Venezuela. The administration is reportedly working to establish an interim government, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio stating the focus is on policy-setting and maintaining "leverage" over the nation's future. Acting President Delcy Rodríguez has signaled a shift in tone, calling for "cooperation" with the US.

The operation has sparked varied reactions globally. Key Latin American leaders have condemned. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum rejected the intervention, stating, "Intervention has never brought democracy." Colombian President Gustavo Petro warned he would "take up arms again" if the US were to target him or his country, following remarks from President Trump critical of Colombia's anti-drug efforts.

China and several European allies of the US have also condemned the action. A Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson called the seizure a violation of international law and demanded Maduro's immediate release. European nations, including Germany, France, and the UK, voiced their opposition to changing borders by force and expressed support for Denmark after President Trump renewed his calls for the US to acquire Greenland for strategic purposes. In contrast, Switzerland has moved to freeze any assets held by Maduro and his associates within its borders.

The developments have also impacted financial markets. Shares in Chevron, the last major US oil company operating in Venezuela, saw a significant jump in premarket trading. The rise followed President Trump's statements about making American investment in Venezuela's vast oil reserves a key objective. However, broader market reactions have been muted, with analysts pointing to ample global oil supply and significant uncertainties surrounding the situation.

The case against Maduro is being overseen by 92-year-old federal judge Alvin K. Hellerstein. Legal experts draw parallels to the 1990s case of Panamanian dictator Manuel Noriega, who was also tried in the US on drug charges. Maduro's defense is expected to raise arguments of head-of-state immunity, a defense that was ultimately unsuccessful for Noriega.

As Venezuelans face an uncertain future, the streets of Caracas have remained largely quiet. Meanwhile, top Trump administration officials, including Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Attorney General Pam Bondi, are scheduled to brief a bipartisan group of US lawmakers on the Venezuela operation later today.