Former Point Fortin Mayor Abdon Mason has issued a compelling call for all 41 Members of Parliament (MPs) in Trinidad and Tobago to set aside partisan differences and collaborate on the proposed stand-your-ground legislation. Speaking at a public consultation held at the Point Fortin Borough Corporation on October 7, Mason emphasized the importance of prioritizing national interests over political affiliations. While he expressed gratitude to Point Fortin MP Ernesto Kesar for organizing the session, Mason refrained from outright endorsing the bill, stating, ‘I would support any legislation which aims to protect the citizens of Trinidad and Tobago.’ Mason highlighted the nation’s growing divide between ‘the fearless and the fearful,’ placing himself in the latter category as a father concerned for his children’s safety. He also lamented the polarization between political factions and ethnic groups, urging unity and mutual respect. Recalling a dramatic demonstration by Minister of National Security Roger Alexander, Mason underscored the urgency of addressing home invasion fears. He appealed to MPs to transcend political noise and focus on the legislation’s potential benefits for the population, emphasizing the need for progress beyond electoral disappointments. Mason concluded, ‘Let us leave the pettiness aside and look at the true value of the legislation and its benefit to the population.’
作者: admin
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Melania Trump says Putin talks secured return of Ukraine war kids
In a significant diplomatic breakthrough, U.S. First Lady Melania Trump announced on Friday that she had successfully secured the release of Ukrainian children abducted by Russia. This achievement followed weeks of discreet negotiations with Russian President Vladimir Putin, initiated after a summit between Putin and her husband, former U.S. President Donald Trump, in Alaska. Melania revealed that eight children displaced by Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine had been reunited with their families within the past 24 hours.
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FID and Casino Gaming Commission sign MOU for information sharing and compliance
KINGSTON, Jamaica – In a significant move to bolster the fight against financial crimes linked to casino operations, the Financial Investigations Division (FID) and the Casino Gaming Commission (CGC) have formalized their collaboration through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). The agreement, announced on Friday, aims to enhance the prevention, detection, investigation, and enforcement of illicit financial activities within the casino sector.
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One reported dead, 16 rescued by Coast Guard from burning vessel
In a dramatic maritime rescue operation earlier today, the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) Coast Guard successfully saved 16 fishermen from a burning vessel off the coast of Portland Point. The incident, which occurred approximately 14 nautical miles south of the location, saw the HMJS Norman Manley swiftly transformed into a fire-fighting vessel to combat the blaze. Simultaneously, the crew launched a small boat to search for survivors, discovering the fishermen adrift in three small canoes. The rescued individuals were brought aboard the patrol vessel, where they received immediate hydration and were transported to the mainland for further medical evaluation. Tragically, it is believed that one crew member drowned during the ordeal. The group, comprising nine Dominicans and eight Jamaicans, had set sail from Harbour View en route to Pedro Banks. The JDF has urged the public and mariners along the south coast to remain vigilant for any signs of the missing individual and to report any sightings promptly to the Jamaica Rescue Coordination Centre (JRCC). The JRCC Kingston, a 24-hour maritime and aeronautical search and rescue hub, can be reached at (876) 976-8193 or (876) 836-1216.
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Police warn public against hiding missing children amid Jayden Smith disappearance
MANCHESTER, Jamaica — Authorities in Manchester have issued a stern warning to the public, emphasizing that concealing or hiding missing children is a criminal offense. This announcement comes as the search intensifies for 12-year-old Jayden Smith, who remains missing. Deputy Superintendent Dennis Simpson, the crime officer for Manchester, addressed the media during a search operation at Jayden’s family home and surrounding areas in Wales, Newport, on Friday morning. Simpson stressed that anyone found harboring the child would face legal consequences. Jayden’s guardians, Ann-Marie Thompson and Omar Thompson, expressed distress over the persistent rumors and threats they have faced since his disappearance. The search efforts involve multiple units, including the Jamaica Constabulary Force’s Specialised Operations, canine unit, and the missing person’s desk, alongside Newport police. Despite extensive efforts, Jayden has not yet been located. The police have expanded their search, urging the public to come forward with any information that could aid in finding the missing boy.
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Students in distress encouraged to seek help
In a concerted effort to address the growing concerns of youth distress and suicidal tendencies, Jamaica has ramped up its suicide prevention initiatives. Kayda Lee McLean, a student at Charlemont High School in St. Catherine and a National Tourism Champion, has been vocal about the importance of seeking help. She emphasized that guidance counselors and form teachers are readily available to assist students who may be struggling emotionally. ‘When young people reach their limit, they can turn to these trusted adults,’ McLean stated during a school event on October 7. The Jamaican government has expanded its suicide prevention programs through strategic partnerships and community training, equipping 531 school personnel with the skills to identify and intervene when students face emotional challenges. Additionally, the Jamaica Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Helpline (888-639-5433) offers immediate support. The recent observance of Jamaica’s first Anti-Bullying Day on October 7 further underscores the nation’s commitment to fostering a culture of kindness, respect, and safety. McLean highlighted the detrimental effects of bullying and the misuse of social media, urging peers to use these platforms to spread positivity rather than negativity. She also pointed out the educational resources available on platforms like YouTube, which can aid in personal and academic growth. Reflecting on her recent victory in the national tourism debate, McLean described the experience as ‘invigorating,’ showcasing the potential of youth to lead and inspire.
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![[UPDATED] Husband, wife, son killed in Friendship Village](https://wp.caribscopeonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/0b1f88bcedf11d0db275f83f0defccff-1.jpeg)
[UPDATED] Husband, wife, son killed in Friendship Village
A horrific shooting incident in Friendship Village, San Fernando, has left a family nearly decimated. In the early hours of October 10, armed assailants stormed a two-story residence on Peterloo Street Extension, resulting in the deaths of three family members and leaving another critically injured. The victims include 48-year-old Gracelyn Ramberan and her 25-year-old son, Randy Rampersad, a gardener, both of whom died at the scene. Gracelyn’s husband, Vijai Rampersad, a construction worker and PH taxi driver, succumbed to his injuries hours later at San Fernando General Hospital. Randy’s wife, Kimberly Rampersad, remains in critical condition. Police reports indicate that the attackers entered through the front door, with Gracelyn’s body found at the entrance and Randy’s on the road outside. The assailants are believed to have fled through nearby bushes leading to Cipero Street. Authorities from the Southern Division and the Homicide Bureau of Investigations, Region Three, are actively investigating the case. This tragedy follows the recent murder of 13-year-old Mariah Seenath in the same community, raising concerns about escalating violence in the area.
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FirstRock completes third KFC project in Costa Rica
KINGSTON, Jamaica — FirstRock Real Estate Investments (FirstRock) has successfully concluded its third development initiative for KFC Costa Rica, executed through its subsidiary, First Rock LATAM S.A. This ambitious project, initiated in April, encompasses a state-of-the-art restaurant and a cutting-edge distribution center. The restaurant phase reached completion in June, followed by the delivery of the distribution facility in August. Located in Coyol, a prominent industrial zone in Costa Rica, the distribution center is poised to enhance KFC’s logistical efficiency across the region. FirstRock extended gratitude to its collaborators, including Constarq, KFC’s development team, ITFCR, and BAC Credomatic, for their pivotal roles in the project’s success. This milestone underscores FirstRock’s growing influence in Latin America and the Caribbean, reaffirming its dedication to creating long-term value through strategic real estate investments.
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Caricom expresses ‘cautious optimism’ on Gaza peace deal
GEORGETOWN, Guyana (CMC) – The Caribbean Community (Caricom), a 15-member regional bloc, expressed cautious optimism on Friday regarding the initial phase of a peace plan for Gaza. In an official statement, Caricom described the agreement as a pivotal step toward mitigating the suffering of Palestinians and ensuring the safe return of Israeli hostages. The ceasefire, declared by Israel, took effect at noon (0900 GMT) on Friday, with Israeli troops beginning their withdrawal from Gaza. Concurrently, thousands of displaced Palestinians started returning to their devastated homes. The United States Pentagon confirmed that Israel had completed the first phase of its military pullback, as outlined in President Donald Trump’s peace plan. Under the agreement, Hamas is set to release 47 hostages, both living and deceased, who were abducted two years ago. Additionally, the remains of another hostage held since 2014 are expected to be returned. Caricom emphasized the importance of the stipulated terms, including a sustained pause in hostilities, the withdrawal of military forces, the reciprocal release of hostages and prisoners, and the guarantee of immediate and safe humanitarian access. The regional body urged all signatories to fully honor their commitments, stressing that this initial phase should lay the groundwork for a permanent and unconditional ceasefire. Caricom reiterated its stance that a just and lasting peace, in line with international law, can only be achieved through a negotiated Two-State Solution, which addresses the legitimate security and dignity aspirations of both nations.
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Spain hailed as strategic partner in Jamaica’s economic development
KINGSTON, Jamaica — Senator Kamina Johnson Smith, Jamaica’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, has highlighted Spain’s significant role in supporting Jamaica’s economic development. Speaking at Spain’s National Day reception held at the Spanish Ambassador’s residence in St Andrew, Senator Johnson Smith underscored Jamaica’s emergence as a model of sound economic management over the past decade, fostering a business-friendly environment. She emphasized the importance of recognizing bilateral partners like Spain and Spanish companies for their contributions to Jamaica’s economic and national development goals. Investments in the tourism sector were cited as a prime example of this fruitful partnership. In January, both nations formalized a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for International Cooperation on Tourism, aimed at enhancing collaboration in gastronomy, human capital development, and resilience, reflecting their shared commitment to sustainable growth. Senator Johnson Smith expressed gratitude for Spain’s continued partnership, noting that Spanish investment in Jamaica’s tourism sector has exceeded US$2.5 billion. Spanish companies are among Jamaica’s largest investors, with major projects underway, including the Grand Palladium Hotel in Hanover, which will add 950 new rooms and dedicated housing for 550 staff members. The minister highlighted the project’s green planning and design, which will boost energy efficiency and sustainability while creating thousands of jobs. Spain’s Ambassador to Jamaica, José María Fernández López de Turiso, reiterated Spain’s commitment to trade and investment, noting that Spain is the fastest-growing economy in the Eurozone and a leading investor in Jamaica’s tourism industry. He also emphasized Spain’s diversified investments in renewable energy, construction, healthcare, and logistics, showcasing confidence in Jamaica’s economic strength.
