In a decisive move against drug trafficking networks, the United States has carried out three targeted strikes in the Eastern Pacific, resulting in the deaths of 14 individuals allegedly involved in narcotics operations. US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth announced the operation on X (formerly Twitter), emphasizing that the strikes were executed under the directives of President Donald Trump. The operation, conducted on October 27, targeted four vessels operated by Designated Terrorist Organisations (DTOs) known for trafficking narcotics. Hegseth detailed that the vessels were identified by US intelligence and were traversing established drug smuggling routes. The strikes, which occurred in international waters, resulted in no harm to US forces. Hegseth also noted that the US Southern Command initiated search-and-rescue protocols, with Mexican authorities taking over the coordination. He underscored the US commitment to combating narco-terrorism, stating that these groups have caused more American deaths than Al-Qaeda and will be treated with the same severity. ‘We will track them, network them, and then hunt and kill them,’ Hegseth declared.
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Maduro accuses Trinidad and Tobago, US of plotting Caribbean conflict
Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has leveled serious accusations against Trinidad and Tobago, alleging collaboration with the United States and the CIA to incite military tensions in the Caribbean. In a televised address on October 28, Maduro claimed that recent joint military exercises involving a US Navy destroyer were part of a broader strategy to destabilize Venezuela. He further announced the suspension of all gas and energy-related agreements with Trinidad and Tobago, citing strained relations with Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar and the country’s acceptance of US military presence in the region. Maduro also asserted that Venezuelan security forces had intercepted a group of CIA-funded mercenaries, uncovering plans for a high-level attack involving US naval units near Venezuelan waters. Although he provided no specific timeline for the capture, Maduro claimed to have shared ‘some clues’ with Trinidad and Tobago but refused to present evidence to the US, accusing them of collusion with the CIA. He referenced historical grievances, suggesting Trinidad and Tobago were once part of Venezuelan territory before British colonization. Drawing parallels to past US military incidents, Maduro likened the current tensions to the sinking of the USS Maine in 1898 and the Gulf of Tonkin incident in 1964, both of which he described as self-inflicted provocations. He accused Persad-Bissessar of supporting conflict and praised Venezuelans for protesting against what he termed ‘imperialist threats.’ Maduro also claimed Venezuela had thwarted three terrorist operations in recent months, including a plot to bomb Victory Square in Caracas, and vowed to defend the nation’s sovereignty and peace.
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#EyeOnMelissa: Front gate leading to Mandeville Hospital blocked
In a recent development, the Southern Regional Health Authority (SRHA) has issued a public advisory regarding severe flooding affecting access to the Mandeville Regional Hospital in Manchester, Jamaica. The primary roadway leading to the hospital’s front gate has been rendered impassable due to the rising waters. As an alternative, the SRHA has directed the public to use the entrance located at Hargreaves Avenue near Cecil Charlton Hall. Meanwhile, in St. Elizabeth, Superintendent Coleridge Minto, the divisional commander, has confirmed that the road leading to the Black River Hospital is also blocked. These disruptions highlight the challenges posed by adverse weather conditions in the region, potentially impacting emergency services and patient care. Authorities are urging residents to exercise caution and utilize the designated alternate routes to ensure access to essential medical facilities.
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#EyeOnMelissa: NCB branches to remain closed
KINGSTON, Jamaica — In response to the ongoing impact of Hurricane Melissa, the National Commercial Bank (NCB) has announced the temporary closure of all its branches on Wednesday, October 29, 2025. The decision, aimed at ensuring the safety of both customers and staff, was communicated in a public statement on Tuesday. The bank plans to conduct thorough assessments and aims to resume operations on Thursday, October 30, 2025, provided conditions are safe. During this period, NCB is encouraging its customers to utilize its online banking platform, mobile app, and Automated Banking Machines (ABMs) located at branch sites for their banking needs. Bruce Bowen, NCB’s Chief Executive Officer, expressed solidarity with the Jamaican people, stating, ‘NCB stands with the people of Jamaica during this difficult time. Our thoughts are with everyone affected by the hurricane, and we remain committed to supporting the nation’s recovery efforts in any way we can.’ The bank’s proactive measures highlight its dedication to maintaining service continuity while prioritizing safety amidst the natural disaster.
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#EyeOnMelissa: Some 35% of JPS customers without power
Jamaica is grappling with severe disruptions as Hurricane Melissa, a Category 5 storm, continues to wreak havoc across the island. The Jamaica Public Service (JPS) Company has reported a significant surge in power outages, affecting approximately 240,000 customers, or 35% of its total clientele. The hardest-hit parishes include St Elizabeth, Manchester, Hanover, and St James, where around 75% of residents are without electricity. In contrast, areas such as St Thomas, Kingston, St Andrew, St Catherine, and St Ann have experienced minimal impact, with fewer than 10% of customers affected as of 8:00 am Tuesday. Hugh Grant, President and CEO of JPS, emphasized the company’s commitment to restoring power safely and promptly, addressing the media at the National Emergency Operation Centre in New Kingston. Despite false social media claims suggesting a complete shutdown of the national grid, JPS has confirmed that no such action is planned. Energy Minister Daryl Vaz clarified that outages are solely due to the hurricane’s impact on the grid, which has damaged generating units, substations, and transmission lines. While most hospitals remain powered by JPS, facilities in Manchester and St Elizabeth, including Black River, Mandeville, and Percy Junior hospitals, are relying on standby generators. JPS crews are actively working to restore critical services and urges residents to prioritize safety during this crisis.
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UK actress Prunella Scales, TV’s Sybil Fawlty, dies at 93
LONDON, United Kingdom — Prunella Scales, the celebrated British actress renowned for her iconic role as Sybil in the classic TV comedy “Fawlty Towers,” has passed away at the age of 93. Her family confirmed her peaceful passing at her London home on Monday. Scales, who was diagnosed with vascular dementia in 2013, remained active in her career for several years, often collaborating with her husband, the esteemed actor Timothy West, who predeceased her in November 2024. The couple, married for 61 years, shared a profound bond, with West becoming her caregiver in later years. Together, they also filmed multiple series of the Channel 4 program “Great Canal Journeys.” Scales’ portrayal of Sybil, the sharp-witted wife of the bumbling hotelier Basil Fawlty, played by John Cleese, cemented her status as a beloved figure in British television. “Fawlty Towers,” created by Cleese and his then-wife Connie Booth, aired only 12 episodes between 1975 and 1979 but left an indelible mark on British culture. In 2019, the show was hailed as the greatest British sitcom of all time by “Radio Times.” Scales’ illustrious career spanned nearly seven decades, including her portrayal of Queen Elizabeth II in the film “A Question of Attribution” and her one-woman show “An Evening With Queen Victoria.” She is survived by her two sons, a stepdaughter, seven grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren.
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Central FC Reboot make winning start to TTPFL season
MIC Central FC Reboot began their 2025-2026 Trinidad and Tobago Premier Football League (TTPFL) premier division campaign on a high note, clinching a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Point Fortin Civic in their opening match at the Arima Velodrome on October 26. Daniel David opened the scoring for Central FC in the 28th minute, giving his team a slim lead at halftime. The second half saw a flurry of action, with Junior Asson of Central FC and Nathaniel Garcia of Point Fortin both finding the net in the 55th minute, ensuring Central FC maintained their one-goal advantage until the final whistle. In other matches, Club Sando narrowly defeated FC Eagles 1-0, thanks to a 47th-minute goal by Marc Wharfe. Meanwhile, Prison Service FC overcame a late scare to secure a 3-2 win against Caledonia AIA, with Jeremiah Vidale scoring the decisive goal in the 79th minute. Defending champions Defence Force were held to a goalless draw by Athletic Club Port of Spain, while Miscellaneous Police FC dominated San Juan Jabloteh with a 4-0 victory. The match between Terminix La Horquetta Rangers and FC Phoenix was postponed due to logistical issues. The league action continues on October 31 with Police C facing Central FC and AC PoS taking on Jabloteh.
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Man found dead in alleged suicide
Authorities have initiated an investigation into a suspected suicide following the discovery of a man’s lifeless body at a residence in Garden Hills early Tuesday morning. The incident unfolded at a home on Chenille Street, near Soldier Road, where distraught family members and friends gathered in an emotionally charged scene. According to Inspector Gerard Culmer, law enforcement was alerted by a family member who found the victim in a state consistent with hanging around 6:30 a.m. Emergency medical personnel reportedly made efforts to resuscitate the man but were unable to save him. The coroner subsequently pronounced the man dead. The circumstances surrounding the incident remain under investigation as the community grapples with the tragic loss.
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Gerry Murray, former KC and Real Mona footballer, laid to rest
The life and contributions of Gerry Murray, a revered figure in Jamaican football and the Mona community, were commemorated during a heartfelt thanksgiving service on October 18 at the Church of the Ascension. Murray, who passed away at the age of 75 on September 15 at his Red Hills residence in St. Andrew, was remembered for his unwavering dedication to his family, community, and the sport he loved. The service, attended by his wife Carmen, children Omari and Melissa, and brothers Richard and Michael, brought together former teammates, friends, and football legends to honor his legacy. Lennox Robinson, a former St. George’s College and Real Mona player, fondly recalled Murray’s caring nature and leadership, describing him as a ‘man for all seasons.’ Stewart Stephenson, a former teammate at Kingston College (KC) and Real Mona, praised Murray’s tenacity on the field and humble personality, noting his role in a golden era of Jamaican football. Peter Moses, another former teammate, highlighted how Murray’s spirit united the gathering, erasing the passage of time. Murray’s football journey began at Jamaica College before he transferred to KC, where he played a pivotal role in the 1967 Manning Cup victory. His talent earned him a scholarship to Michigan State University, where he majored in mechanical engineering and continued to excel on the field. The service not only celebrated Murray’s achievements but also underscored the profound impact he had on those around him.
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Bowleg all quiet after Valley court ruling – despite previous comments
In a dramatic turn of events, the Court of Appeal has overturned a previous Supreme Court ruling that had influenced Youth, Sports, and Culture Minister Mario Bowleg’s decision to cut funding to one faction of the Valley Boys. Minister Bowleg, who had previously cited the Supreme Court’s March ruling favoring the “Way Forward” faction led by Trevor Davis, has now declined to comment on the appellate decision, stating he would “let the Court deal with it.” The Court of Appeal criticized the Registrar General’s Office for its handling of the registration of Mr. Davis’ group, calling the actions “beyond belief” and granting the rival “World Famous” Valley Boys faction, led by Brian Adderley, leave to appeal, citing “excellent prospects of success.” The World Famous Valley Boys expressed optimism about receiving overdue seed funding, totaling $70,000 for the past two years, while the Way Forward faction described the appellate court’s comments as “unfortunate” but vowed to continue their legal battle. The dispute, which began in 2023, stems from internal divisions over leadership and compliance with the Non-Profit Organisations Act, with both factions pledging to uphold the legacy of the Valley Boys in upcoming parades.