KINGSTON, Jamaica — Prominent Jamaican dancehall artist Rygin King, legally named Matthew Smith, has been officially confirmed as being in the custody of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). According to verified records accessible through ICE’s online detainee tracking system, the musician was apprehended this past Monday. While the specific charges or circumstances leading to his detention remain undisclosed by authorities, his status is now formally documented within the federal immigration enforcement database. The development has sent shockwaves through the Caribbean music industry where Rygin King maintains significant celebrity status. Industry observers and fans alike are awaiting further clarification regarding the legal basis for his detainment and potential implications for his career. U.S. immigration officials have not yet released an official statement detailing the case specifics.
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At-risk students see major GPA gains as school violence drops
The Bahamas is witnessing an educational transformation as hundreds of academically at-risk students have made extraordinary progress, with many elevating their GPAs from below 1.0 to achieving a 3.0 average. Education Minister Glenys Hanna Martin announced these significant improvements during parliamentary debates on legislation aimed at modernizing the nation’s education system.
The data reveals a 7.3 percent increase in at-risk students achieving at least a 2.0 GPA in 2025 compared to the previous year. Particularly impressive is that 1,812 students—representing 16.3 percent of previously struggling learners—have dramatically improved their performance from approximately 1.0 to 3.0 GPAs. This marks a substantial increase from the 14.1 percent achievement rate recorded in 2024.
Minister Hanna-Martin credited these academic breakthroughs to targeted interventions and the dedicated work of academic coaches. The success extends across the archipelago, with nine of the nation’s ten education districts demonstrating GPA gains in December 2025 compared to the same period in 2024.
Academic improvements are evident across multiple subjects. Bahamian Junior Certificate results showed measurable gains in art, literature, craft, social studies, and family and consumer science. Notably, English language, chemistry, French, history, physics, religious studies, and graphical communications achieved exceptional cumulative achievement rates of 80 to 89 percent.
The ministry acknowledges ongoing challenges in mathematics but has conducted comprehensive research and is implementing specialized strategies to address this area. Further evidence of progress comes from Grade Level Assessment Test Examinations for grades three and six, which recorded gains in reading and listening comprehension. Grade six students achieved their highest GPA in ten years, and the national graduation rate reached a historic high of 59 percent.
Parallel to academic improvements, school violence has decreased dramatically by 46 percent since fall 2022, dropping from 142 incidents to 77 in fall 2025. This reduction includes a 74 percent decline in fights, complete elimination of stabbings (100 percent decrease), and a 41 percent reduction in unlawful carrying of weapons. Geographic analysis shows violence decreased 30 percent in New Providence, 73 percent in Grand Bahama, and 81 percent in the Family Islands.
Looking toward the future, the ministry has reached a landmark phase in developing an artificial intelligence policy for education. The draft policy outlines student-focused goals emphasizing both empowerment and responsibility. It envisions students not merely as AI users but as active contributors to innovation through hands-on projects, coding clubs, and national competitions. The ultimate objective is to prepare every learner, regardless of geographic location or socioeconomic status, to navigate and shape an AI-augmented future with confidence, creativity, and integrity.
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Guyana still in discussions with US bulk fuel supplier despite court battle
GEORGETOWN, Guyana — The Guyanese government has confirmed that negotiations remain ongoing with US-based energy infrastructure firm Curlew Midstream regarding a proposed bulk fuel storage facility, a project that has already missed its initial deadline for completion by the end of 2025.
President Irfaan Ali addressed reporters, stating, “We are in discussion with the legal team. They’re handling those negotiations. I’m not going to comment on where those negotiations are but they have a proposal in and we’re looking at that.” This confirmation comes amid emerging legal challenges and apparent last-minute changes to the previously agreed terms.
Court documents from a separate litigation filed in February 2026 reveal that Curlew Midstream’s board had met with high-level Guyanese officials to finalize remaining commercial points, providing due diligence materials and financial documents with expectations that execution of the Fuel Exchange Agreement was imminent. According to filings, President Ali himself met with company representatives on January 10, 2026, confirming that Natural Resources Minister Vickram Bharrat would execute the agreement within two days.
However, the arrangement encountered significant obstacles when the Guyanese government subsequently presented a “signable agreement” that unexpectedly incorporated terms from a new consultant not previously involved in negotiations. These eleventh-hour modifications introduced substantial changes to key commercial points that were inconsistent with terms previously agreed upon in October 2025, when both parties had reached consensus on crude pricing, refined product pricing, terminal construction in Georgetown and Lethem, and prepayment arrangements.
President Ali, without specifically referencing Curlew Midstream, emphasized the strategic importance of such storage infrastructure amid rising global oil prices fueled by Middle East conflicts. “Just imagine if we had a massive storage facility in Guyana under these challenges—the role Guyana could have played,” he stated, adding that several Middle Eastern nations were evaluating countries for investment opportunities to guarantee long-term energy security.
The proposed $300 million facility would store 750,000 barrels of various fuel products and was expected to refine at least 30,000 barrels of crude daily for domestic consumption. Curlew Midstream had projected that its terminal would enable price-advantaged trading, dramatically reducing wholesale and retail fuel prices while potentially positioning Guyana as an exporter of high-quality fuels to Caribbean Community (CARICOM) nations.
When questioned about two US court cases concerning alleged intellectual property theft and their potential impact on the approval process, President Ali stated he was unaware of such litigation, noting that involved parties would need to resolve those matters separately.
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Byles to headline Caribbean CFO Summit
KINGSTON, Jamaica — The inaugural Caribbean Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Summit commences virtually on Tuesday, featuring Bank of Jamaica (BOJ) Governor Richard Byles as the opening keynote speaker. The two-day conference, organized by Signature Creed & Associates, aims to address the evolving role of financial leadership across the region.
Governor Byles is set to deliver critical macroeconomic analysis focusing on monetary stability, contemporary financial leadership, and policy modernization within the Caribbean context. He will be joined by World Bank Group Vice President Dr. Samuel Munzele Maimbo as a fellow keynote presenter, highlighting the event’s significant caliber.
The summit emerges against the backdrop of recent financial disruptions caused by Hurricane Melissa in Jamaica, which has prompted a regional reassessment of economic resilience and disaster risk mitigation strategies. Denzil Whyte, partner at Signature Creed & Associates, noted that the hurricane symbolizes broader organizational and national challenges, emphasizing the necessity for robust risk assessment and strategic planning.
While specifically targeting CFOs, the conference agenda encompasses a comprehensive spectrum of finance sectors, with expert speakers from insurance, investment banking, microfinance, law, and economics. Kevon McIntosh, co-founder of the event, stated that the modern finance executive’s role has expanded beyond traditional reporting and compliance to include strategic influence, technological integration, and enterprise value preservation.
The event will be hosted by Kalilah Reynolds, with moderation handled by McIntosh, Gavin N Bennett, and Renate McDonald. Participating professionals have the opportunity to earn up to 13 Continuing Professional Development (CPD) hours. Further details regarding registration and the full agenda are available at the official summit website: https://caribbeancfosummit.com/.
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US calls for justice without delay
The United States Embassy has formally called upon Bahamian authorities to deliver justice “without delay” following the fatal shooting of American citizen Cody Castillo by an off-duty police officer. The incident, which occurred last Saturday, has triggered international concern and raised serious questions about police conduct in The Bahamas.
New evidence suggests that Mr. Castillo, a 31-year-old employee of Pike Corporation from Huntsville, Texas, was entirely uninvolved in any altercation. According to a close friend, he had merely arrived at Da Plantation Bar & Grill to provide transportation for his younger brother and cousin, who had been inside the establishment. He was seated behind the wheel of his vehicle when the shooting occurred, a fact that potential dash camera footage from the Pike truck is expected to corroborate.
The off-duty officer, reported to hold the rank of superintendent, allegedly fired a single shot through the side window of the vehicle. This account directly challenges the initial police statement that suggested Mr. Castillo drove in a threatening manner. The U.S. Embassy spokesperson highlighted profound concern over reports that the officer pursued the unarmed victim to his car before firing the fatal shot.
In a tragic compounding of the event, a second fatal shooting involving an off-duty officer occurred merely 31 hours later near Montagu Beach, marking the third such incident this year.
The human toll of the tragedy is profound. Mr. Castillo leaves behind his wife, Makayla, who is four months pregnant with their first child, a son due in August. The couple had been married for only a year. A GoFundMe campaign established to support the grieving widow has already surpassed $34,000, underscoring the widespread sympathy for her unimaginable loss—grieving her husband while preparing for motherhood alone.
Bahamian National Security Minister Wayne Munroe has indicated that the investigation will review any available footage from the restaurant’s security cameras. The case will be forwarded to the Coroner if criminal charges are not immediately warranted.
The victim’s family, now faced with the circulation of graphic video from the scene on social media, is devastated. Mr. Castillo is remembered by friends as a quiet, reserved, and deeply respectful man who was immensely excited to become a father, making his sudden death all the more senseless.
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STETHS on top vs Holmwood in Headley Cup semi-final
STETHS Sports Complex, Santa Cruz – Defending champions St Elizabeth Technical High School (STETHS) established a formidable advantage on the opening day of the ISSA/Grace Headley Cup cricket semi-final against Holmwood Technical this Monday. After posting a total of 198 all out while batting first, STETHS’s formidable pace attack decimated Holmwood’s top order, leaving them reeling at a precarious 39 for 5 when play was halted due to bad light.
The day’s narrative was one of two distinct halves. Initially, STETHS found themselves in significant trouble after being put into bat under overcast conditions. Holmwood’s penetrative pace attack, led by Wildel Bailey (3-30) and Bryan McInnis (3-34), struck early blows, reducing the champions to 99 for 7 by the 28th over. However, a resilient and polished counter-attack ensued. Captain Tyriek Bryan provided stability with a fluent 53, but it was all-rounder Adrian Silvera who delivered the innings-defining performance. Better known for his left-arm pace, Silvera showcased his batting prowess with an unbeaten 66, skillfully marshaling the tailenders to guide his team to a competitive total.
The final session belonged unequivocally to the STETHS bowlers. Exploiting the gathering gloom and favorable bowling conditions, the pace trio of Eckoney Robinson (3-8), Delante Scott (1-11), and the aforementioned Silvera (1-12) unleashed a devastating spell of swing and pace. They ripped through Holmwood’s top-order batting lineup, which had no answer to the relentless attack. With Bryan McInnis (10*) and Romareo Salmon (8*) set to resume at the crease on Tuesday’s final day, Holmwood faces a monumental task to overcome the deficit and avert a defeat, while STETHS requires just five wickets to secure a place in the final.
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‘I drew my first fish pot at eight years old’
In a powerful demonstration of gender inclusion in traditional industries, 30-year-old Shashay Shaw has finally achieved recognition as a professional fisherwoman through Jamaica’s fisheries production incentive program. The third-generation angler, who began drawing fish pots at just eight years old, received a 26-foot single-engine boat during a formal ceremony at Pagee Beach in St. Mary on March 18.
Shaw’s journey to legitimacy represents both personal and symbolic victory for women in male-dominated fishing communities. Despite her early start in the family tradition, she struggled for years to gain external validation as a serious practitioner. Her breakthrough moment arrived through state-sponsored recognition that provides tangible tools for expanded fishing operations.
“This endorsement means I can significantly expand my fishing capabilities,” an elated Shaw told journalists. “This achievement solidifies my status as an established professional in the field.”
The Portland resident previously demonstrated her capabilities during the 2020 Portland Marlin Tournament amid pandemic restrictions. Working alongside her father, uncle, and mother, Shaw landed a monumental 110-pound marlin that earned her team third place—an achievement that provided early validation of her skills.
Despite obtaining an associate degree in psychology during the COVID-19 lockdowns, Shaw found herself drawn back to her maritime calling when terrestrial employment opportunities proved scarce. Rather than succumbing to discouragement, she embraced fishing as both vocation and therapy.
As an active member of the Lower Brian Fisherfolk group, Shaw has consistently participated in professional development sessions offered by the National Fisheries Authority. These trainings have proven invaluable during challenging situations at sea, including a terrifying encounter with a shark that destroyed nets and threatened her vessel.
The incentive program distributed additional boats, engines, and certifications to fishers from multiple communities including Oracabessa, Annotto Bay, Bryan’s Bay, and Hope Bay, representing significant investment in Jamaica’s coastal economy and traditional livelihoods.
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Champs roars to life
Jamaica’s premier high school athletics event, the Inter-Secondary Schools Sports Association (ISSA)/GraceKennedy Boys’ and Girls’ Athletics Championships, commences today amidst intense anticipation and fierce competition. Defending champions Kingston College and Hydel High Girls face formidable challenges in their quest to retain titles, setting the stage for what many anticipate to be the most closely contested championship in recent history.
Kingston College pursues an extraordinary fifth consecutive victory and a record-extending 37th claim on the prestigious Mortimer Geddes trophy. However, Jamaica College emerges as a serious threat to disrupt their dominance. Similarly, Hydel High Girls’ aspiration for a third consecutive title faces determined opposition from Edwin Allen High.
Months of rigorous preparation through developmental meets have culminated in this ultimate test of athletic excellence. Kingston College, under the guidance of new Head Coach Richard Smith, exhibits unwavering confidence despite recognizing the formidable competition. Last year’s remarkable performance saw them accumulate 293 points, significantly ahead of second-place Calabar High (229.25 points) and third-place Jamaica College (207 points).
Coach Smith emphasized: “Our preparation has been focused, disciplined, and purposeful. While confidence remains high, we maintain respect for the competition. Championships are earned through execution on track and field, not theoretical calculations.”
Jamaica College’s campaign, led by Head Coach Duane Johnson, aims to overcome last year’s 86-point deficit and secure their first title since 2021. Despite recent setbacks against Kingston College at the ISSA Corporate Area Championships, Johnson expresses quiet confidence in his team’s preparedness.
“We recognize the quality of competition and understand that victory must be earned through performance,” Johnson stated. “Our athletes are physically prepared, mentally composed, and fully aware of their responsibilities within the team framework.”
The championship represents not merely athletic competition but a cultural phenomenon in Jamaican sports, showcasing emerging talent and school pride at the highest level of junior athletics.
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#SAVETHEDATE
Selecting a wedding date represents one of the most consequential early decisions for engaged couples, establishing the foundation for all subsequent planning elements. This choice extends beyond mere calendar selection, influencing venue availability, guest participation, travel logistics, and the celebration’s fundamental atmosphere. A strategically chosen date can streamline the entire planning process while imbuing the occasion with personal significance.
Seasonal considerations form the primary layer of date selection, with each period offering distinct aesthetic and practical implications. Spring ceremonies typically feature blooming florals and pastel color schemes to create romantic freshness, while summer weddings favor vibrant outdoor celebrations. Autumn events leverage rich color palettes and cozy atmospheres, whereas winter nuptials often incorporate dramatic candlelight, deeper tones, and formal elegance. Destination weddings require additional climate assessment, including hurricane seasons and tourist patterns.
Beyond seasonal factors, many couples prioritize dates with personal resonance—anniversaries of first meetings, significant milestones, or simply memorable numerical patterns. Internationally, dates with symmetrical properties (10/10, 11/11) or palindrome structures (2/2/22) have gained popularity for their perceived romantic symbolism. Late spring and early autumn Saturdays remain perennial favorites for their optimal weather conditions, though these premium dates often require venue bookings 12-18 months in advance.
While Saturday traditionally dominates wedding scheduling, Sunday celebrations are gaining traction particularly for destination events. These alternative dates frequently offer vendor availability, reduced rates, and more relaxed atmospheres conducive to brunch receptions or garden ceremonies. However, couples should consider guest travel constraints when selecting Sunday dates.
Holiday weekends present both advantages and challenges: while guests may have pre-arranged time off, travel costs and accommodation rates often peak during these periods. Early save-the-date notices become crucial for holiday weekend weddings.
Ultimately, couples must balance practical considerations with personal meaning. The selected date should accommodate guest needs while authentically representing the couple’s relationship narrative. Whether choosing a traditional Saturday, relaxed Sunday, or numerically significant date, the selection should reflect the couple’s unique partnership journey.
Professional wedding planners emphasize securing venue reservations before finalizing other arrangements, as venue availability frequently determines the ultimate date selection. This strategically significant calendar marker transforms into an annual celebration of commitment—a perpetual reminder of partnership promises.
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Breathing room
MONTEGO BAY, St James — The St James Municipal Corporation (SJMC) has temporarily suspended regulatory oversight of the historic Old Shoe Market facility due to unresolved funding constraints for its planned redevelopment. Despite observing irregular construction activities at the site, municipal authorities are exercising unprecedented leniency toward vendors operating in the area.
Mayor Richard Vernon, who chairs the SJMC, confirmed the interim policy shift in statements to local media. “We recognize the commercial imperatives driving these vendors and acknowledge our delayed timeline in delivering the committed upgraded facilities,” Vernon stated. “Consequently, we’re adopting a measured permissiveness while maintaining vigilant monitoring of developments.”
The market, spanning South, Harbour, and St James streets, represents decades of informal vending culture characterized by makeshift wooden stalls, improvised electrical connections, and tarpaulin shelters. Municipal plans envision transforming the area through installation of retrofitted metal container shops, modern utility infrastructure, and enhanced amenities aimed at addressing historical challenges including periodic criminal activity.
Funding complications have stalled the modernization initiative, with projected financing dependent on proceeds from the ongoing sale of Bogue Lands commercial properties. Informal occupants there face an August 2026 deadline to formalize their commercial arrangements.
In this interim period, the SJMC has permitted vendors to conduct repairs and reconstructions following multiple disasters including an October 2023 fire that destroyed approximately 40 shops, a subsequent 2024 blaze, and damage from Category 5 Hurricane Melissa.
“While construction permits remain technically mandatory, we’ve suspended enforcement protocols temporarily,” Vernon clarified. “Our intervention will only occur if developments substantially violate safety or planning parameters.”
The current arrangement operates outside normal municipal frameworks, with vendors exempt from fees and lacking formal security or waste management services. Despite these limitations, Vernon expressed confidence about imminent progress, noting that shop designs are currently underway for the future regulated facility.
The modernization initiative aims to transition street vendors into formalized small business operators through structured commercial spaces, ultimately regularizing the historically informal trading zone.