Prominent businessman Danny Guerra has been detained under a state of emergency order issued by Homeland Security Minister Roger Alexander on November 19. The detention, executed by the Special Investigations Unit on November 20, alleges Guerra’s involvement in leading an organized crime group engaged in arms trafficking, money laundering, and illegal quarrying. The order cites an imminent threat to public safety, including an alleged plot to assassinate a government minister. Guerra’s group is accused of possessing high-powered firearms and planning escalated attacks against rival gangs in public spaces. He was taken to the Eastern Correctional Rehabilitation Centre in Arouca, and his son was also detained under a preventive order. Guerra, manager of D Guerra Ltd and owner of several companies under the D Guerra Group of Companies, along with his son Garvin Guerra and 16 others, were previously charged on October 11 for unlawful processing of aggregate without a license. They were granted $50,000 bail each. The arrests followed a major police operation on October 9, which shut down an illegal quarry in Manuel Congo, Guanapo, and seized a multimillion-dollar processing plant and heavy machinery. Intelligence reports have linked Guerra’s group to a credible assassination plot against Defence Minister Wayne Sturge, who has faced multiple security threats since his appointment in May. The government has heightened security measures, including canceling the Independence Day parade in August due to security concerns. Assistant Commissioner of Police Richard Smith confirmed Guerra’s detention, stating he will likely remain in custody for the full 90 days permitted under the state of emergency. A source close to Guerra claims the detention lacks factual basis and is linked to previous quarry-related charges.
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No bail for alleged stabber
Kenneth Campbell, a man with a history of criminal offenses, has been remanded in custody following fresh allegations of stabbing a woman in St James, Jamaica. Charged with wounding with intent, Campbell appeared in the Parish Court on Thursday, where his plea for bail was denied. His attorney, Albert Morgan, was notably absent, preventing any renewed application for bail. The court’s decision was influenced by Campbell’s prior convictions, which cast a shadow over his case. Additionally, it was revealed that Campbell had previously been under investigation for murder and was granted pre-charge bail in that case. However, he was returned to custody after allegedly committing the recent stabbing. The incident reportedly occurred on June 15 on Barnett Lane Avenue, where the victim claimed Campbell grabbed her from behind, demanded sex, and stabbed her with a ratchet knife when she resisted. The attack left her hospitalized. Campbell is expected to remain in the Freeport lockup until his next hearing on December 3.
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Sygnus launches $60m ‘Relief & Rebuild’ initiative
In the wake of the catastrophic impact of Hurricane Melissa, Sygnus has unveiled its Hurricane Relief and Rebuild Initiative, pledging an initial $100,000 toward an ambitious target of $375,000 (J$60 million) to aid recovery in Jamaica’s hardest-hit regions. This comprehensive effort, spearheaded by Sygnus in collaboration with regional and international allies, focuses on revitalizing critical sectors including education, healthcare, and agriculture. The initiative is structured to balance immediate relief with long-term resilience, allocating 30% of funds to urgent needs such as food, clean water, solar lighting, hygiene kits, medical supplies, and agricultural inputs, while 70% will be invested in rebuilding and fortifying infrastructure in the targeted sectors. Berisford Grey, President and CEO of Sygnus Capital, emphasized the initiative’s dual focus on recovery and sustainability. ‘Hurricane Melissa has challenged our communities, but it has also underscored our collective capacity to rebuild stronger and smarter,’ Grey remarked. ‘This initiative is not just about restoring what was lost but about creating enduring systems—powering schools and hospitals with renewable energy, modernizing agriculture, and ensuring our communities not only recover but thrive.’ The Bahamas Striping Group of Companies has joined the effort as the first major partner, contributing $16 million and pledging 5,000 school bags worth $20,000 for hurricane-affected students. This donation reflects the company’s commitment to education and its dedication to supporting the Caribbean communities that have been integral to its success.
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Teen takes his love of music and Junkanoo to US college
The vibrant sounds of Junkanoo, a traditional Bahamian festival, recently echoed through Langston University, a historically Black university (HBCU) in Oklahoma, thanks to the efforts of 19-year-old Bahamian student Sharano Hanna. Hanna, a sophomore and member of the Saxons Superstars, composed a melody for the university’s marching band, introducing the distinctive rhythms of Junkanoo to his American peers. The performance, which took place during the university’s final football game on November 15th, captivated audiences and left Bahamians brimming with pride.
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‘Many persons have called me daddy’
Prime Minister Philip Davis of The Bahamas has firmly dismissed calls for the removal of Golden Isles Returning Officer Neil Campbell, despite allegations of a conflict of interest. Campbell recently referred to Davis as his ‘adopted father,’ a statement that the opposition Free National Movement (FNM) claims compromises the integrity of the upcoming by-election. Davis, however, argued that personal relationships in a small nation like The Bahamas do not equate to undue influence or bias. He emphasized the robust safeguards in place to ensure the transparency and fairness of the electoral process, including the presence of election agents and the ability to challenge results in court if necessary. Davis also addressed public concerns about his connection to Campbell, stating that familiarity does not translate into interference. ‘Many persons have called me daddy,’ he remarked, attributing the term to his personal character rather than any professional obligation. The FNM, led by Chairman Dr. Duane Sands, has insisted that Campbell’s removal is essential to maintain public trust in the election’s fairness. Meanwhile, the ruling Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) has accused the FNM of spreading fear and misinformation to undermine confidence in the electoral system. In preparation for the by-election, National Security Minister Wayne Munroe has announced that the Royal Bahamas Defence Force will assist police in maintaining order and ensuring a peaceful voting process.
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81-year-old man shot by police after opening fire
An 81-year-old man is currently hospitalized following a violent encounter with law enforcement during a police raid on a residence off West Bay Street. Officers from the anti-gang taskforce were executing a search warrant for drugs and firearms at a two-story home. Upon arrival, they informed a female occupant of the warrant, but she denied them entry. Forced to breach the door, officers announced their presence and proceeded to clear the premises. On the third floor, they encountered a male occupant who refused to open a door in the northern room. When police forced entry, the man allegedly fired multiple shots at the officers. In response, fearing for their safety, the officers returned fire, striking the suspect in the elbow and buttocks. Police reported recovering the man’s firearm and subduing him before emergency medical services treated him and transported him to the hospital. During a subsequent search of the man’s room, officers discovered a second firearm and additional ammunition in the presence of a 66-year-old female caretaker, who was also taken into custody.
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Saxon and Colours Junkanoo group leaders honoured for their contributions by Cuba Libre
Cuba Libre’s annual ‘Warm the Shacks’ initiative, a celebrated tradition supporting Junkanoo groups, this year paid tribute to two iconic leaders: Percy ‘Vola’ Francis of Saxons Superstars and Chris Justilien of Colours Entertainment. The recognition ceremony, held at Poseidon Sports Bar on East Bay Street, marked the launch of the 2025 campaign, which includes a generous donation of beverages to Junkanoo groups. A-category groups will receive one pallet (120 cases) of Cuba Libre, while B-category groups will receive half a pallet. The event was attended by representatives from prominent Junkanoo groups such as the Valley Boys, Roots, Fancy Dancers, Genesis, and others. Gavin Christie, a director at Cuba Libre, likened Junkanoo to ‘the Superbowl of The Bahamas,’ emphasizing the immense dedication and effort participants invest in creating their spectacular Bay Street performances. He reiterated the brand’s long-standing support for the cultural phenomenon and expressed hope that the donation would ease the challenges of the season for participants. Founding director Gary Christie introduced a new tradition of honoring Junkanoo icons annually, with one leader from an A-category group and one from a B-category group being recognized. This year, Mr. Francis and Mr. Justilien were each awarded $1,000 for their contributions. Percy Francis, often regarded as a Junkanoo monarch, has led the Saxons for over five decades, shaping it into one of the largest and most beloved groups. He expressed gratitude for the donation and paid homage to late legends like Winston ‘Gus’ Cooper, who helped define Junkanoo’s art and heritage. Chris Justilien, an assistant professor of music at the University of The Bahamas, was celebrated for his extensive contributions to music education and community development. Last year, Cuba Libre reaffirmed its commitment to promoting responsible drinking and discouraging underage consumption, urging Junkanoo leaders to ensure the beverages are used appropriately.
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Six dead as Jamaica experiences outbreak of leptospirosis – Tufton
Jamaica is currently grappling with a leptospirosis outbreak, with nine confirmed cases and 28 suspected or probable cases reported as of October 30. Tragically, six deaths have been linked to the suspected cases. The outbreak was disclosed by Dr. Christopher Tufton, Minister of Health and Wellness, during a press briefing on Friday. He emphasized that the cases span across eight parishes, marking a significant surge compared to the two to 21 cases recorded over the previous 34 months. The outbreak is attributed to the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, which has heightened the risk of exposure to contaminated water and soil. Leptospirosis, caused by bacteria thriving in water tainted by the urine of infected animals—particularly rats, but also cats, dogs, and livestock—poses a severe public health risk following heavy rainfall or flooding. Dr. Tufton urged individuals, especially those involved in post-hurricane cleanup efforts, to exercise extreme caution by wearing appropriate protective gear to mitigate the risk of infection.
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Qahal Yahweh case pushed to 2026 after storm sidelines final prosecution witness
The high-profile trial involving 16 members of the Qahal Yahweh religious group faced an unexpected adjournment on Thursday in the St James Parish Court. Presided over by Judge Kaysha Grant-Pryce, the proceedings were halted as the prosecution’s final witness, the investigating officer, was unable to attend due to the aftermath of a recent hurricane. Consequently, the court extended bail for all 16 defendants.
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Vaz expresses sorrow over death of 10-year-old student in JUTC incident
KINGSTON, Jamaica — The nation is in mourning following the tragic death of 10-year-old Shamaire Sharpe in an incident involving a Jamaica Urban Transit Company (JUTC) bus on Wednesday. Minister of Energy, Transport and Telecommunications, Daryl Vaz, expressed profound sorrow and extended heartfelt condolences to the child’s family, emphasizing that the entire country stands in solidarity with them during this devastating time.
In an official statement, Vaz confirmed that he has been in direct communication with the JUTC to ensure that all necessary support systems are activated for the affected family. He also announced that a thorough investigation is underway to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident. The minister reiterated the government’s unwavering commitment to road safety, particularly for children who depend on public transportation for school.
Vaz highlighted that JUTC buses and drivers are rigorously trained to meet stringent safety standards, and the company’s operational and mechanical protocols are designed to protect passengers at all times. However, he assured that these systems will be thoroughly reviewed as part of the ongoing investigation.
“I am truly heartbroken by this tragedy. No parent should ever have to endure such pain, and no school community should face the loss of a child in this manner,” Vaz stated, extending his sympathies to the student’s parents, relatives, teachers, and classmates.
The Ministry of Energy, Transport and Telecommunications reaffirmed its dedication to enhancing road safety policies, improving enforcement measures, and reducing traffic-related injuries and fatalities across Jamaica. Vaz urged the public to remain calm as police investigations continue, describing the incident as “deeply unfortunate” and reiterating his support for the grieving family and school community.