In a remarkable display of solidarity, several of the world’s foremost cruise companies have collectively pledged over US$3 million to support Jamaica’s recovery efforts in the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa. Carnival Corporation, Royal Caribbean Group, and Disney Cruise Line have each committed US$1 million, while Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings (NCLH) has contributed up to US$100,000, with additional matched donations from employees and passengers.
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Haiti appeals to international community to help restore security
Haiti has issued a heartfelt appeal to the international community for assistance in restoring security and stability in the nation, which is currently grappling with rampant gang violence. Criminal gangs have seized control of nearly the entire capital, Port-au-Prince, and its surrounding areas, plunging the country into chaos. Laurent Saint-Cyr, President of the Transitional President Council (TPC), made the plea during his address at the second World Summit for Social Development in Doha, Qatar. He specifically called on nations to contribute effectively to the Gang Suppression Force (GSF), a United Nations Security Council-approved initiative established on September 30th. Saint-Cyr emphasized that operationalizing the GSF swiftly, while drawing lessons from the Multinational Security Support Mission, is a critical step toward international solidarity. He underscored that peace, stability, and security are essential for the social development that Haitians and people worldwide deserve. The GSF, authorized to deploy up to 5,550 personnel, aims to neutralize, isolate, and deter criminal gangs, secure critical infrastructure, and facilitate humanitarian access through intelligence-led operations. Saint-Cyr highlighted the TPC’s commitment, formed in April 2024, to restore security with international support and prepare for free and credible elections to fulfill the aspirations of the Haitian people. He also addressed the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, which claimed 43 lives, left 21 injured, and 13 missing, exacerbating Haiti’s vulnerabilities. Rescue teams are working tirelessly to reach devastated communities in the southwest, where landslides and flooding have ravaged over 30 towns and villages. The Haitian government is prioritizing security, elections, humanitarian response, and economic recovery, including reintegrating former child soldiers through vocational training and relocating displaced individuals with dignity. Saint-Cyr stressed the urgent need for international support to transition from short-term aid to sustainable investment, ensuring long-term stability and development.
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Bounty Killer teams with DJ Khaled in Hurricane Melissa relief effort
In a powerful display of solidarity, Jamaican dancehall legend Bounty Killer has teamed up with international music producer DJ Khaled to support victims of Hurricane Melissa. The collaboration, announced on social media on Wednesday, will see DJ Khaled’s We The Best Foundation join forces with Bounty Killer’s non-profit organization to provide financial aid to hospitals and schools affected by the disaster.
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Caribbean transitions into the dry and cool seasons in December
The Caribbean Climate Outlook Forum (CariCOF), headquartered in Barbados, has released its latest seasonal forecast, predicting a decline in tropical cyclone activity and excessively hot, humid days as the region transitions into the cooler, drier months of December. The report, covering the period from November 2023 to January 2024, highlights the influence of La Niña conditions, marked by cooler-than-average sea surface temperatures in the central and eastern equatorial Pacific Ocean, driven by stronger trade winds. This, combined with unusual warmth in the Subtropical North Atlantic, has introduced significant uncertainty into the seasonal climate predictions. Despite this, CariCOF anticipates a steady reduction in tropical cyclone activity and extreme heat in November. However, the ABC Islands, Belize, and the Lesser Antilles are expected to experience high rainfall intensity and frequent showers, raising the risk of flooding, flash floods, and related hazards. The forecast also warns of increasing dry spells in The Bahamas and the Greater Antilles, with drought conditions likely to emerge by late January in areas already experiencing water shortages. As of late October, severe short-term drought has been reported across the Windward Islands, Aruba, parts of the Dominican Republic, and Guadeloupe, while long-term drought is expected in southwest Dominica, northern Jamaica, northern Guyana, St. Croix, and St. Vincent.
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Brandon Hill inaccessible after landslide — police
Residents and commuters in St Andrew, Jamaica, are being alerted to avoid Brandon Hill following a significant landslide that has rendered the area completely inaccessible. Local authorities have issued a public advisory urging motorists to seek alternative routes to ensure safety and prevent further complications. The landslide, which occurred unexpectedly, has disrupted normal traffic flow and poses potential risks to those attempting to navigate the area. Police officials have assured the public that updates regarding the situation will be provided as more information becomes available. In the meantime, they emphasize the importance of adhering to safety guidelines and avoiding the affected zone until further notice.
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Female Barataria student beaten, mother demands transfer
A violent altercation involving students from Barataria North Secondary School has prompted a mother to withdraw her daughter from the institution, citing fears for her safety. The incident, which occurred on November 4 near the school premises, was captured on video and quickly spread across social media platforms. The footage depicted a chaotic scene with numerous students engaged in physical confrontations, including male students assaulting female peers. Witnesses, including a woman wielding a shovel, attempted to intervene, shouting at the students to leave the area. Law enforcement officers present at the scene appeared visibly overwhelmed by the scale of the disturbance. The concerned mother, speaking to Newsday on November 5, expressed her apprehension about potential future attacks on her daughter and has formally requested a school transfer, urging the Education Ministry to expedite the process. Police investigations into the incident are currently underway.
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Suspect in Rio Claro businessman’s murder at large
The investigation into the fatal shooting of 58-year-old businessman Sylvan ‘Lawah’ Boodan in Rio Claro remains ongoing, with the perpetrator still at large. Boodan, owner of Gloria’s Bar located at Jeffers Crossing on Tabaquite Road, was tragically gunned down on the morning of November 3. The incident occurred around 8:30 am on the premises of R. Baldeosingh Services Ltd (RBSL), a construction company in Poole Village, Rio Claro, where Boodan worked as a straightener and painter. Witnesses reported that an unidentified masked man approached Boodan near his car, called him by name, and after a brief exchange, fired a single shot. The assailant fled the scene, leaving Boodan to collapse and die in front of his vehicle. A relative suggested the murder might be connected to a dispute involving unpaid services to a spiritual advisor, or ‘obeah man,’ earlier this year. However, police have yet to confirm the motive. An autopsy is scheduled to be conducted this week at the Forensic Science Centre in St. James. The Homicide Bureau of Investigations, Region Three, is leading the case.
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Prison officer killed, three others injured in brawl outside nightclub
A violent altercation outside a nightclub on Baillou Hill Road has resulted in the death of a prison officer and injuries to three other men, sparking widespread grief and concern in the community. The incident, which occurred in the early hours of Wednesday morning, has left the small community of Lower Bogue, Eleuthera, in mourning. The deceased has been identified as Ashantino Johnson, a correctional officer from the area. According to police reports, the altercation began inside Blu Ice Reloaded, a popular nightclub and restaurant, where a dispute escalated into violence. Three men, aged 21, 23, and 28, were stabbed during the confrontation. As the chaos spilled outside the establishment, a male suspect reportedly engaged in a physical struggle with an off-duty police officer. During the scuffle, the officer’s service weapon was discharged, grazing the suspect in the head. All four men, including the three stabbing victims and the man who was shot, were rushed to the hospital for treatment. Tragically, Johnson, the 23-year-old victim, succumbed to his injuries. Member of Parliament for North Eleuthera, Sylvanus Petty, expressed deep sorrow over the incident, describing it as a tragedy that has profoundly affected the community. Police have confirmed that investigations into the matter are ongoing, as they work to piece together the events that led to this fatal encounter.
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Rifle among two illegal firearms seized in St James
In a significant operation on Tuesday evening, law enforcement officers in St James, Jamaica, successfully confiscated two illegal firearms in the Wales Pond community. Acting on credible intelligence, the police conducted a targeted search in the area, leading to the discovery of the weapons. The seized items included a high-powered M4 Carbine rifle, accompanied by a magazine loaded with 33 rounds of 5.56 cartridges, and a Para 9mm pistol with a magazine containing 20 rounds of 9mm ammunition. The firearms were found concealed in a red and white bag within an abandoned building. Despite the recovery of these dangerous weapons, no arrests were made during the operation, which took place around 9:00 pm. This seizure underscores the ongoing efforts by the St James police to combat illegal arms proliferation and enhance community safety.
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UK government deploys Royal Navy to support disaster relief efforts in Jamaica
In a significant move to bolster disaster relief efforts in Jamaica, the British Offshore Patrol Vessel, HMS Trent, arrived in Falmouth, Trelawny, on November 4, equipped with specialized personnel and resources to assist communities devastated by Hurricane Melissa. The vessel, manned by a 75-member crew including expert engineers, is set to play a pivotal role in infrastructure assessments and emergency repairs, working in close collaboration with Jamaican authorities.
UK Defence Secretary John Healey emphasized the critical role of the British Armed Forces in disaster relief missions, stating, ‘Our Royal Navy and British Army personnel bring invaluable engineering expertise to support local recovery efforts. This deployment reflects Britain’s commitment to standing with those in need during times of crisis.’
Chris Elmore, Minister for the Caribbean, highlighted the UK government’s relentless efforts to deliver relief supplies to the hardest-hit areas. ‘The arrival of HMS Trent marks a crucial step in restoring vital infrastructure and supporting communities most affected by the hurricane,’ he said.
The deployment is part of a broader UK support package for Jamaica, which includes over 3,000 shelter kits, 1,500 solar-powered lanterns, and a Rapid Deployment Team from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) to provide consular assistance to affected British nationals. Additionally, the UK has pledged £7.5 million in emergency funding to address immediate humanitarian needs in the region.
British High Commissioner to Jamaica, Alicia Herbert, reaffirmed the UK’s commitment to Jamaica’s recovery. ‘The arrival of HMS Trent symbolizes our enduring partnership and dedication to helping Jamaica rebuild stronger and more resilient communities in the wake of Hurricane Melissa,’ she stated. The funding is facilitating the delivery of essential relief items and the deployment of UK humanitarian and technical experts to coordinate aid efforts effectively.