Carib Scope

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  • Israel strikes south Beirut, says captured Hezbollah members

    Israel strikes south Beirut, says captured Hezbollah members

    BEIRUT — Israeli forces launched targeted airstrikes against Hezbollah’s stronghold in southern Beirut on Monday, marking the first assault on the capital’s suburbs in several days. Simultaneously, the Israeli military confirmed the capture of two Hezbollah operatives during ground operations in southern Lebanon.

    The escalation began with precision strikes hitting Hazmieh, an affluent predominantly Christian neighborhood near Beirut, where Israeli officials claimed to have targeted a high-value operative from the Iranian Revolutionary Guards’ Quds Force. Subsequent attacks focused on Beirut’s southern suburbs, a known Hezbollah bastion, with AFPTV broadcasts capturing plumes of smoke rising over the area.

    Israel’s military spokesperson issued advance warnings to residents of southern Beirut suburbs before conducting what they described as systematic strikes against Hezbollah’s military infrastructure. The conflict expansion into urban centers represents a significant intensification of cross-border hostilities.

    The current cycle of violence originated on March 2 when Hezbollah initiated rocket attacks against Israel, purportedly in retaliation for the assassination of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a joint Israeli-American operation. Since then, Israeli counterstrikes have resulted in at least 1,039 fatalities across Lebanon according to official sources.

    In a detailed operational account, the Israeli army stated its forces intercepted several armed members of Hezbollah’s elite Radwan Force preparing to launch anti-tank missiles in southern Lebanon. “After identification, the terrorists surrendered and were apprehended for thorough interrogation in Israeli territory,” the military confirmed to AFP.

    Hezbollah responded with over 50 attacks targeting Israeli positions in northern Israel and southern Lebanon, particularly concentrating on the border coastal town of Naqura. The UN Peacekeeping Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) reported its Naqura headquarters sustained damage from projectile fire, attributing the attack to “non-state actors.”

    The Hazmieh strike resulted in at least one casualty according to Lebanon’s Health Ministry. Mayor Jean Asmar revealed the attack targeted an apartment housing displaced families, prompting municipal authorities to reconsider refugee accommodation policies. The strike occurred near diplomatic missions and government offices in one of Beirut’s most secure districts.

    Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz, in coordination with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, has ordered comprehensive destruction of all bridges across Lebanon’s Litani River allegedly used for “terrorist activities.” This strategic move follows earlier strikes on critical infrastructure connecting southern Lebanon with the Bekaa Valley.

    Hezbollah parliamentarian Hussein al-Haj Hassan previously alleged Israel holds 20 Lebanese prisoners, claiming half were captured post-ceasefire. The conflict continues to escalate with Israeli Arabic-language spokesperson Ella Waweya declaring “the battle against Hezbollah has only just begun.”

  • WATCH: Man killed in Porus police operation, cronies on the run

    WATCH: Man killed in Porus police operation, cronies on the run

    MANCHESTER, Jamaica — A police operation in the Spring Grove community of Porus culminated in a fatal shooting on Monday afternoon, leaving one alleged gunman dead and two accomplices at large. The incident unfolded at approximately 2:00 pm during a targeted law enforcement initiative in the area.

    According to official preliminary reports, officers were engaged in their operation when they encountered three individuals believed to be armed. The situation escalated into a direct confrontation, resulting in an exchange of gunfire. Following the altercation, one man was discovered with severe gunshot injuries. Emergency services transported him to a nearby medical facility, where he was subsequently pronounced dead.

    The two other men involved in the incident reportedly evaded capture, fleeing the scene before law enforcement could apprehend them. Authorities confirmed the recovery of one firearm from the location but have not yet been able to formally identify the deceased individual. An active investigation is underway to determine the full circumstances of the confrontation and to locate the fugitives.

    The Jamaica Constabulary Force has reiterated its commitment to maintaining public safety and continues to pursue all leads related to this case. Community members have been urged to come forward with any relevant information that could assist the ongoing investigation.

  • Kingston Freeport Terminal extends operating hours due to fire-related incident

    Kingston Freeport Terminal extends operating hours due to fire-related incident

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Kingston Freeport Terminal Limited (KFTL) has announced extended operational hours to compensate for temporary disruptions caused by a fire incident involving terminal equipment on Monday. The company confirmed that a straddle carrier operating within the port facility experienced a fire-related mechanical failure, though no personnel were injured in the event.

    In an official statement, KFTL praised its onsite teams for their rapid and professional response, highlighting that established safety protocols were effectively implemented during the emergency. The company also noted that the onboard fire suppression system of the affected equipment performed as intended, successfully containing the blaze until the arrival of emergency services.

    The Jamaica Fire Brigade (JFB) received special recognition from KFTL for its prompt intervention and effective support in fully controlling the situation. While the terminal operations experienced temporary interruption, the management emphasized its commitment to maintaining service reliability for its clients through adjusted working schedules.

    An investigation into the root cause of the incident is currently underway. KFTL assured stakeholders that a thorough and professional inquiry will identify necessary preventive measures to avoid future occurrences.

  • Miss Global International returns to Jamaica after 3 years

    Miss Global International returns to Jamaica after 3 years

    Jamaica is set to welcome back the Miss Global International beauty pageant this September, marking its return to the island nation after a three-year hiatus. The event, previously known as the Miss Commonwealth pageant, is being strategically positioned as an economic catalyst to rejuvenate the local tourism sector.

    Lachu Ramchandani, the franchise holder and prominent businessman, revealed that the decision to host the event in Jamaica was driven by a desire to support economic recovery following Hurricane Melissa’s devastating impact. “Despite initial reservations about bringing additional events to Jamaica, the severe challenges facing our hospitality industry compelled me to act,” Ramchandani stated. He noted that approximately 50% of five-star hotels remain closed due to hurricane damage, making tourism revival imperative.

    The Grand Palladium resort has joined as a primary sponsor, facilitating the arrival of international guests and media representatives. Organizers anticipate participation from 35-40 national delegates, with ten contestants already confirmed from countries including Jamaica, St. Kitts, Martinique, South Africa, Peru, Holland, Poland, Antigua and Barbuda, Hungary, and France.

    This year’s edition marks a homecoming for the pageant, which was consistently held in Jamaica from 2004 before moving to England in 2008. Subsequent host nations have included Trinidad and Tobago, Santo Domingo, Peru, and most recently, the Cayman Islands in 2024 and 2025.

    Under the theme “Uniting the World Through Beauty and Tourism,” the competition will seek a winner who embodies intelligence, poise, and beauty while capable of representing the global brand with dignity. Jamaica’s hopes rest on representative Sabrina Johnson as the nation prepares to showcase its cultural and hospitality assets to an international audience.

  • Gov’t identifies lands in Black River for post-hurricane relocation and reconstruction

    Gov’t identifies lands in Black River for post-hurricane relocation and reconstruction

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Jamaican Government has initiated a landmark resettlement strategy targeting communities severely impacted by Hurricane Melissa in the Black River region of St. Elizabeth. Prime Minister Andrew Holness has confirmed the identification of viable land parcels for a comprehensive reconstruction program designed to relocate both residential and commercial properties away from high-risk coastal zones.

    During his address to the House of Representatives on March 19 as part of the 2026/27 Budget Debate, Holness outlined that the Urban Development Corporation (UDC) will lead acquisition talks with affected landowners starting early next month. The government plans to conduct community consultations and awareness sessions to engage residents along the vulnerable corridor in Black River.

    The Prime Minister emphasized that geographic vulnerability necessitated the relocation, citing scientific risk assessments that indicate persistent threats from swamp proximity and rising sea levels. “The most viable solution, based on all risk maps, is relocation,” Holness stated. “We acknowledge the complexity of this process and commit to handling it with utmost sensitivity and transparency. Our objective is to ensure no resident suffers economic loss, and that all livelihoods are ultimately enhanced.”

    While recognizing the protracted nature of such large-scale relocations, Holness called for public patience, underscoring that the program’s ultimate goals are safeguarding citizens, reinforcing infrastructural resilience, and ensuring sustainable community development in climate-vulnerable regions.

  • Venezuelan says he acted alone in bombing that killed 6-y-o

    Venezuelan says he acted alone in bombing that killed 6-y-o

    In a dramatic courtroom development, Daniel Alexander Ramirez Poedemo, the primary suspect in a deadly 2025 terrorist bombing in Guyana, has confessed to acting alone and absolved his co-accused of any involvement. The 33-year-old Venezuelan national made his declaration during Paper Committal proceedings at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court, presided over by Acting Chief Magistrate Faith McGusty.

    The case stems from the October 26, 2025 explosion at the Mobil Fuel Station on Regent and King Streets in Georgetown, which claimed the life of six-year-old Soraya Bourne. Poedemo faces terrorism charges alongside three other defendants—Alexander Bettencourt (44), Jhonny Boodram (27), and Kystal LaCruz (33)—while three additional individuals face related charges in the Leonora Magistrates’ Court.

    Through a court-appointed interpreter, Poedemo delivered his unexpected confession, stating: “He wants to admit to everything. He was the person. A Guyanese-Venezuelan or Venezuelan-Guyanese gave him the stuff and he did what he had to do. He placed the stuff where he had to place it.” The defendant emphatically maintained that his co-accused were completely uninvolved and expressed his desire for their exoneration.

    Poedemo’s legal representative, attorney Shellon Boyce, initially disclosed her client’s intentions to the court, prompting Acting Chief Magistrate McGusty to seek direct confirmation from the accused regarding his willingness to cooperate fully. Prosecutor Mandel Moore subsequently requested a formal proposal from the defense to present to the Director of Public Prosecutions’ office.

    The judicial process has been adjourned until April 20, 2026, pending submissions from both the defense and prosecution teams. Poedemo was originally apprehended days after the bombing when surveillance footage captured an individual—allegedly the defendant—planting the explosive device before fleeing the scene. The precise motivation behind the attack remains undetermined by authorities.

    The tragic incident occurred when young Soraya Bourne was traveling in a vehicle with family members at the time of the detonation. The case has drawn significant attention due to its cross-border implications and the severity of the charges involved.

  • UPDATE: Colombia military aircraft crashes with 125 aboard, many feared dead

    UPDATE: Colombia military aircraft crashes with 125 aboard, many feared dead

    A Colombian Air Force Hercules C-130 transport plane carrying 125 military personnel crashed during takeoff from Puerto Leguizamo on Monday, resulting in significant casualties near the nation’s southern border with Ecuador. The aircraft, designated FAC 1016, went down shortly after departure, scattering burning wreckage across the jungle terrain below.

    Defense Minister Pedro Sanchez confirmed the tragedy, expressing ‘deep sorrow’ over the incident while noting that military response units had immediately deployed to the crash site. Initial reports indicated approximately 48 survivors had been located, though a military source suggested the death toll might reach 80 individuals. The exact number of casualties and the cause of the accident remain under investigation.

    The ill-fated flight was transporting 114 troops and 11 crew members between military outposts in the Amazon region, an area that has witnessed intensified military operations against drug trafficking organizations and armed militias in recent weeks. Visual evidence from the scene depicted civilians navigating through debris near the aircraft’s severed tail section as smoke continued to rise above the canopy.

    This incident marks the second catastrophic crash involving a C-130 Hercules aircraft in South America within a month, following a Bolivian military cargo plane accident on February 27th that resulted in 24 fatalities. The Lockheed Martin-built turboprop aircraft is renowned for its versatility in operating from rudimentary airstrips and remains a workhorse for military transport operations globally.

  • Island Car Rentals donates $1m to Titchfield High

    Island Car Rentals donates $1m to Titchfield High

    PORTLAND, Jamaica — In a significant boost for educational development, Titchfield High School has received a substantial JMD $1 million donation from Island Car Rentals, a prominent member of the ICR Holdings Group. The contribution is strategically allocated to enhance both the Sports Department and the Schools’ Challenge Quiz program, creating expanded avenues for student advancement in athletic pursuits and academic excellence.

    The formal presentation occurred on March 6th by Ryan Parkes, Group CEO of ICR Holdings Limited, during a National Environment Week workshop hosted by the National Environment and Planning Agency (NEPA) on the school campus. Mr. Parkes, a distinguished alumnus of Titchfield High, articulated a profound personal connection to the institution, crediting it as a foundational pillar in his subsequent business achievements.

    Emphasizing the donation’s deeper significance, Parkes stated, ‘This contribution from Island Car Rentals transcends mere corporate social responsibility. It represents a conscious investment in preserving and empowering an institution that has been instrumental in shaping the trajectories of myself and countless other ambitious Jamaicans over many years.’

    The NEPA-led workshop, which provided the backdrop for the ceremony, assembled roughly 80 participants, including students, educators, and environmental club coordinators from various schools across Portland and St. Thomas. The event focused on promoting environmental stewardship, active youth involvement, and sustainability projects within the Jamaican educational system.

    The occasion was graced by several dignitaries, notably Matthew Samuda, Minister of Water, Environment and Climate Change; Leonard Francis, CEO of NEPA; Richard A. Thompson, Principal of Titchfield High; alongside senior ICR executives Opal Brown-Parkes, Group Chief of People and Culture, and Nichole Brackett Walters, Group Chief of Marketing and Sales.

  • Researcher urges action to cut emissions in Jamaica

    Researcher urges action to cut emissions in Jamaica

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Alarming new research reveals that Jamaica’s major urban centers are experiencing dangerously high levels of air pollution that consistently exceed World Health Organization safety standards. The findings have prompted urgent calls for comprehensive intervention strategies to address this growing public health crisis.

    Dr. Adrienne Williams, a leading researcher from the University of the West Indies Mona Campus, presented these concerning results following an extensive analysis of Jamaica’s air quality from 2010 to 2023. Her groundbreaking study, which earned the Best Overall Poster award at the 16th National Health Research Conference in February, demonstrates that particulate pollution in several Jamaican cities has reached levels known to exacerbate respiratory and cardiovascular conditions.

    The comprehensive research, conducted in collaboration with Dr. Warren Mullings, an endoscopic sinus surgeon at Kingston Public Hospital, analyzed data collected by the National Environment and Planning Agency (NEPA) from monitoring stations across the island. The investigation focused primarily on urban centers including Spanish Town, Kingston, St. Andrew, Portmore, Montego Bay, Mandeville, and May Pen.

    Researchers employed two key indicators of particulate pollution that measure concentrations of fine particles capable of penetrating deep into human lungs. The results showed disturbing trends, with Spanish Town recording the highest eight-year average concentration at 22.3 micrograms per cubic meter—more than double the WHO’s recommended threshold. Montego Bay followed at 13.5 micrograms, while Kingston and St. Andrew measured 10.34 micrograms at the Constant Spring monitoring site.

    Dr. Williams identified multiple contributing factors to Jamaica’s air quality challenges, including seasonal Saharan dust events during summer months, vehicle emissions, traffic congestion, open burning of rubbish, and fires. She particularly emphasized that urban centers struggle with pollution because they “were not originally designed to accommodate today’s volume of vehicles and traffic, leading to visible smoke and smog in densely populated zones.”

    The researcher stressed that establishing reliable baseline data is essential for guiding public policy and shaping future environmental interventions. “This research provides critical baseline data for Jamaica,” Williams explained during a recent Jamaica Information Service ‘Think Tank’ session. “It helps us understand the current state of air quality and offers evidence that can inform public policy, future research, and environmental management strategies.”

    The study serves as a precursor to further investigation into how prolonged exposure to polluted air may influence long-term respiratory conditions such as asthma and chronic sinus disease. Without immediate targeted interventions backed by continuous monitoring and expanded studies in collaboration with NEPA and the Ministry of Health and Wellness, experts warn that air pollution levels risk remaining persistently above recommended standards, potentially creating a public health emergency.

  • iPrint donates $7m to support Melissa recovery at Park Mountain Primary

    iPrint donates $7m to support Melissa recovery at Park Mountain Primary

    In a significant development for educational recovery, Park Mountain Primary and Infant School in St. Elizabeth has received a substantial $7 million donation from the iPrint Group of Companies. This contribution, facilitated through the National Education Trust (NET), represents a major step forward in restoring the institution’s hurricane-damaged infrastructure and learning environments.

    The philanthropic initiative comes as a direct response to the widespread devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa, which severely disrupted educational activities across Jamaica. The funding will specifically target the rehabilitation of critical facilities, ensuring the school can reestablish safe and effective teaching conditions for both students and staff.

    Stephen Steele, Chairman of iPrint Group, articulated the company’s philosophical approach to corporate social responsibility during the presentation ceremony. “Recognizing the hurricane’s disruptive impact on education, we determined that supporting recovery efforts represented both an ethical imperative and strategic investment in national development,” Steele stated. He further praised Principal Carlene Williams-Heath’s resilient leadership throughout the crisis period.

    The iPrint executive additionally issued a compelling call to action for broader private sector involvement, emphasizing that contributions could extend beyond financial support to include expertise, resources, or volunteer time.

    Official remarks from NET’s Director of Donor and Partnership Management, delivered by Projects Coordinator Danielle Drummond, contextualized the donation within Jamaica’s larger educational landscape. The statement highlighted the “significant damage” sustained by multiple institutions and stressed the necessity of collaborative recovery approaches involving government, private entities, and diaspora communities.

    Principal Williams-Heath characterized the donation as both timely and transformative for the institution’s restoration timeline. “This support arrives at our most critical juncture and will substantially accelerate our rebuilding initiatives,” she noted. The educational leader emphasized the direct correlation between physical infrastructure and learning outcomes, confirming the funds would help maintain environments where students can continue their academic development without disruption.