Carib Scope

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  • HEAD-TURNERS

    HEAD-TURNERS

    A poignant narrative of full-circle moments and transnational talent acquisition unfolded at the STETHS Sports Complex in Santa Cruz last weekend. Thirteen years after attending a football showcase as a hopeful player, Alex Smith returned to Jamaica as a recruiter for West Virginia’s Concord University, now seeking to identify the next generation of talent. He was joined by Kris Bertsch, head coach of NCAA Division 1 program Lindenwood University, among 25 American coaches scouting at the ISSA football showcase.

    The event featured strategically designed matches to maximize evaluation opportunities. Saturday’s proceedings included games between all-urban and all-rural selections, with one match dedicated to academically high-achieving players and another featuring top performers from the daCosta and Manning Cup competitions. At the request of the American delegation, matches were played in three 35-minute periods, concluding with a 20-minute scrimmage for coaches to reassess players who had caught their attention.

    For Smith, the recruitment mission carries profound personal significance. Having transitioned from Anchovy High to Cornwall College before pursuing his American college career, he understands the transformative power of these opportunities firsthand. “It not just changed my life, it changed the life of my family,” Smith told the Jamaica Observer. His recruitment strategy specifically targets wingers with the natural speed and aggression synonymous with Jamaican football, while emphasizing that academic performance remains equally crucial for successful matriculation into the US college system.

    Bertsch’s Lindenwood program boasts established connections with Jamaican talent, having previously developed standout players like Akeem Priestly and Brian White. He praised the local organization for effectively identifying appropriate candidates beforehand, noting that while his program represents the NCAA Division 1 level, talented players often progress through various divisional tiers before reaching peak competitive environments.

    Both coaches expressed considerable admiration for the talent displayed despite challenging conditions. Bertsch particularly noted players’ resilience during rain-affected matches on deteriorating surfaces, acknowledging the difficulty of performing alongside unfamiliar teammates in showcase environments. The event not only highlighted Jamaica’s continued production of exceptional football talent but also underscored the growing institutional pathways connecting Caribbean athletic promise with American educational opportunities.

  • Tesha Miller trial now set for February 2

    Tesha Miller trial now set for February 2

    In a decisive ruling on Monday, Supreme Court Justice Dale Palmer mandated that the high-profile trial of alleged Klansman faction leader Tesha Miller and his 24 co-defendants will commence on February 2, 2026. This conclusion follows a contentious adjournment application by the Crown prosecution, which had sought to postpone proceedings until June due to unresolved evidentiary materials.

    Justice Palmer, presiding in the Home Circuit Division, expressed firm opposition to extended delays, stating that such a move would not ‘aid in the just disposal of the matter.’ He emphasized that the case had already been before the court for nearly two years, with a trial date originally set in April of the previous year. The judge acknowledged prosecution arguments concerning outstanding DNA results, forensic reports from the Communications Forensics and Cybercrime Division (CFCD), crime scene materials, and transcripts, but determined that a two-week preparation window would suffice.

    The court’s decision incorporated considerations regarding prison access issues that have hampered defense attorneys’ ability to consult with their clients. Despite a April 2024 practice directive from Chief Justice Bryan Sykes authorizing electronic disclosure in criminal proceedings, defense counsel reported ongoing barriers in visiting incarcerated clients and sharing documentation. Justice Palmer noted these access issues were now being resolved, making the brief adjournment beneficial for defendant preparation.

    Prosecutors plan to call 99 witnesses, with the court approving subpoenas for 50 civilian witnesses and requiring police witnesses to be formally warned to appear. Meanwhile, bail was extended for accused medical doctor Paul Robinson, while other defendants attending via Zoom were remanded into custody.

    Miller, currently serving a 38-year sentence for orchestrating the 2008 murder of Jamaica Urban Transit Company Chairman Douglas Chambers, now faces additional charges under the Criminal Justice (Suppression of Criminal Organisations) Act, commonly known as the anti-gang legislation. The defendants are accused of participating in numerous criminal activities between August 2017 and August 2022 in St. Catherine, including murder, conspiracy to murder, attempted murder, aggravated robbery, and firearms offenses.

  • ‘We’re going to get it done’

    ‘We’re going to get it done’

    Jamaica’s National Solid Waste Management Authority (NSWMA) is intensifying its monumental effort to clear approximately 450,000 truckloads of debris remaining from Hurricane Melissa’s devastating passage in October 2025. Executive Director Audley Gordon has confirmed the removal of 27,000 loads since deploying ten additional tipper trucks three weeks ago, acknowledging the scale of the challenge while assuring citizens of accelerating progress.

    The agency has established a specialized Debris Management Unit comprising redirected managers and staff exclusively dedicated to hurricane cleanup operations. This temporary organizational structure aims to maintain efficiency in regular garbage collection while addressing the extraordinary post-disaster requirements. Gordon emphasized that the new trucks, though beneficial, represent only one component of a comprehensive strategy that includes contracting private heavy machinery operators with backhoes and front-end loaders.

    Financial backing for the cleanup has been substantial, with the government allocating approximately $1.5 billion specifically for debris management since the Category 5 storm struck. Additional resources include a forthcoming commitment of ten more tipper trucks to bolster operational capacity.

    Gordon has appealed for public patience, recognizing that visible progress may vary across communities. He pledged continuous day-and-night operations and committed to quarterly briefings to maintain transparency regarding cleanup timelines and achievements. The NSWMA emphasizes that partnership with private contractors remains essential to completing the task within a reasonable timeframe, as relying solely on agency resources would extend cleanup operations for years.

  • Jolyan Silvera murder trial remains private

    Jolyan Silvera murder trial remains private

    The high-profile murder trial of former Jamaican opposition party parliamentarian Jolyan Silvera will commence on February 2nd under strict privacy provisions that will exclude both media and public from proceedings. Silvera faces charges for the 2023 firearm-related murder of his wife, Melissa Silvera, with the case falling under specialized Gun Court jurisdiction that mandates in-camera hearings.

    Chief Justice Bryan Sykes, presiding over the case, clarified that while he personally doesn’t object to journalistic presence, the final decision rests with legal representatives from both sides. “If the lawyers agree, then we can come to some accommodation,” Justice Sykes stated during Monday’s proceedings, “but for the time being it is what it is.”

    The privacy measures derive from Sections 13(1) and 13(2) of Jamaica’s Gun Court Act of 1974, which permits exclusion of the public and restricts trial reporting in interests of public safety and order. These provisions have governed firearm-related cases for five decades, allowing only court personnel, legal representatives, and specifically authorized individuals to attend proceedings.

    The case involves grim details surrounding the November 2023 death of Melissa Silvera, initially reported as natural causes until autopsy revealed three bullet fragments inside the body of the 42-year-old chemical engineering graduate and petroleum company CEO. The mother of four boys—one deceased before her—was found dead in the couple’s Stony Hill residence.

    Silvera, appearing noticeably slimmer and well-groomed in tailored clothing during Monday’s hearing, has been in custody since his January 2024 arrest. The former People’s National Party representative is defended by attorneys Peter Champagnie King’s Counsel and Patrice Riley, while prosecutors Dwayne Green and Latoya Bernard represent the state.

    Jamaica’s Gun Court operates through three specialized divisions: the High Court Division for most firearm offenses (judge-only trials), Circuit Court Division for serious crimes like murder with firearms (jury trials), and Resident Magistrate’s Division for preliminary inquiries—all typically conducted privately.

  • Trapped remake

    Trapped remake

    Reggae artist Richie Stephens has transformed his poignant live tribute into a permanent studio recording, releasing an official cover of Jimmy Cliff’s iconic anthem “Trapped.” The recording, which dropped January 9, 2026, through Stephens’ independent label Pot Of Gold Production, serves as both a personal homage and a professional milestone for the vocalist.

    Stephens revealed that the song held profound personal significance throughout his career, frequently serving as a cornerstone of his early performances and a continuous source of creative motivation. His decision to produce a studio version was a natural progression following his widely praised live rendition at the official state funeral for the late reggae legend.

    The new recording showcases Stephens’ powerful vocal delivery, masterfully encapsulating the song’s core themes of resilience and entrapment while faithfully honoring the emotional depth of Cliff’s original composition. Critics note the studio version retains the raw intensity that made his funeral performance at the National Indoor Sport Centre a memorable event, while achieving a new level of polished artistry.

    The release also recontextualizes the track’s storied history. Originally penned and recorded by Jimmy Cliff, “Trapped” achieved global recognition through Bruce Springsteen’s renowned 1985 cover, which introduced the song to international rock audiences. Stephens’ interpretation now adds a new chapter to this legacy, bridging reggae’s roots with contemporary execution.

    The tribute single is now available for streaming and purchase across all major digital platforms, including iTunes, Spotify, Amazon Music, and Tidal.

  • Trinidad and Tobago Newsday – Tuesday January 13th 2026

    Trinidad and Tobago Newsday – Tuesday January 13th 2026

    The global dietary supplement industry, valued at over $150 billion, presents consumers with a complex landscape of health promises and scientific uncertainty. A recent surge in public scrutiny is challenging long-held beliefs about the efficacy of these widely available products, prompting a critical examination of their role in modern wellness practices.

    Healthcare professionals are increasingly voicing concerns about the regulatory gap that allows supplements to reach the market without undergoing the rigorous clinical testing required for pharmaceutical drugs. This regulatory environment, primarily governed by the 1994 Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act (DSHEA) in the United States, places the burden of safety proof on the Food and Drug Administration after products are already available to consumers.

    Scientific research continues to reveal contradictory evidence regarding supplement benefits. While certain supplements like folic acid for pregnant women and vitamin D for deficient populations show clear benefits, many popular products lack conclusive evidence supporting their advertised health claims. Emerging studies suggest that some supplements may even pose health risks when taken in excessive quantities or in combination with prescription medications.

    Consumer advocacy groups are calling for enhanced transparency in labeling requirements and manufacturing standards. The current patchwork of international regulations creates significant variations in quality control, with some independent studies finding discrepancies between labeled ingredients and actual supplement contents.

    Medical experts emphasize that supplements should complement, not replace, a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle. They recommend consulting healthcare providers before beginning any supplement regimen, particularly for individuals with pre-existing conditions or those taking prescription medications. The scientific community continues to advocate for more comprehensive long-term studies to better understand the true benefits and risks associated with dietary supplementation.

  • UN demands independent probe into woman’s killing by US immigration officer

    UN demands independent probe into woman’s killing by US immigration officer

    GENEVA—The United Nations human rights office has called for an immediate and transparent investigation into the fatal shooting of a protester by a federal immigration officer in Minneapolis, expressing profound concern over the incident that occurred last Wednesday. UN spokesperson Jeremy Laurence emphasized during a Geneva briefing that international human rights standards permit the intentional use of lethal force solely as a last resort when an individual poses an imminent threat to life. The remarks followed the death of 37-year-old Renee Nicole Good, who was shot by an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent while in her vehicle. While acknowledging the ongoing FBI-led investigation, Laurence stressed the necessity for independence and promptness in the procedural review. He further urged authorities to implement measures aimed at deescalating rising tensions and avoiding rhetoric that could incite violence. The shooting has ignited national outrage and protests, with critics condemning the Trump administration’s characterization of Good as a ‘domestic terrorist’ and challenging the official narrative of self-defense. Local officials contend that video evidence contradicts claims that Good posed a threat, showing her vehicle turning away from the agent. The case has also drawn political criticism, particularly from Democratic officials, over the exclusion of local authorities from the investigation process.

  • Reputed gang leader ‘Bloodstain’ nabbed by St Catherine police

    Reputed gang leader ‘Bloodstain’ nabbed by St Catherine police

    Jamaican law enforcement authorities have apprehended a high-profile criminal suspect during a targeted operation in St. Catherine on Monday. Courtney Ashley, widely known by his alias “Bloodstain,” was taken into custody by the St. Catherine South police division in the gated community of Phoenix Park, Portmore.

    Ashley, identified as the alleged leader of the Bottom Marverly Gang, had been the subject of an extensive manhunt for multiple violent crimes. The suspect also maintains reported affiliations with the Yacca Avenue and 440 Drive criminal networks, according to police intelligence.

    The capture concludes a prolonged search for Ashley, who had been prominently featured in the Jamaica Constabulary Force’s “Wanted Wednesdays” public awareness campaign. Law enforcement officials had sought Ashley in connection with the 2017 homicide of Andrew Foster and the non-fatal shooting of another individual on Fenbrook Avenue in St. Andrew.

    Police authorities have additionally named Ashley as a person of interest in several ongoing investigations, including a recent double homicide case within the St. Andrew South Division. The operation represents a significant achievement for Jamaican law enforcement in their ongoing efforts to combat organized crime and gang-related violence in the region.

  • At least 100 children killed in Gaza since ceasefire—UN

    At least 100 children killed in Gaza since ceasefire—UN

    GENEVA—United Nations officials revealed on Tuesday that a minimum of 100 children have perished in Gaza during what has been described as a tenuous ceasefire period over the past three months. According to UNICEF spokesperson James Elder, who addressed reporters from Gaza City, the casualties include approximately 60 boys and 40 girls killed by various military actions including airstrikes, drone attacks, tank shelling, and live ammunition.

    The figures, while alarming, are believed to be conservative estimates. Gaza’s health ministry officials have reported an even higher toll of 165 children among 442 total fatalities during the same period. Additionally, seven children have died from exposure to cold weather conditions since the beginning of the year, according to Zaher Al-Wahidi, Director of the Computer Department at the Ministry of Health.

    Elder emphasized that these deaths occurred against a backdrop of more than two years of conflict that has created unimaginable hardships for Gaza’s youth. ‘They still live in fear,’ he stated. ‘The psychological damage remains untreated, and it’s becoming deeper and harder to heal the longer this goes on.’

    The situation has been further exacerbated by Israel’s recent suspension of 37 international aid agencies from accessing Gaza—a move previously described by the UN as ‘outrageous.’ Elder stressed that blocking humanitarian organizations effectively means blocking life-saving assistance for vulnerable populations.

    Despite UNICEF’s efforts to increase aid delivery to the densely populated territory since October, the spokesperson noted that current levels remain insufficient to meet overwhelming needs. The destruction of nearly 80 percent of Gaza’s buildings, as recorded by UN data, has created a humanitarian crisis of staggering proportions.

    Elder raised concerns about the restrictions on international NGOs and foreign journalists, questioning whether these measures aim to limit scrutiny of the suffering endured by Gaza’s children.

  • JPS rebuilding 10 miles of power lines to restore water to 50,000 Westmoreland residents

    JPS rebuilding 10 miles of power lines to restore water to 50,000 Westmoreland residents

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Jamaica Public Service (JPS) has initiated a comprehensive reconstruction project to reactivate electricity transmission to the National Water Commission’s (NWC) Roaring River Pump, a critical facility providing water to approximately 50,000 residents in Westmoreland. The initiative, described as part of the ‘last mile’ restoration phase, also aims to reinstate power to over 1,700 local customers.

    JPS President and CEO Hugh Grant emphasized the project’s prioritization of essential services despite the disproportionate effort required. ‘We recognize the significant inconvenience and health implications caused by water shortages. Although this extensive work will restore power to a relatively small number of JPS customers, the primary benefit is restoring water supply to tens of thousands. This aligns with our strategy to prioritize critical infrastructure including water systems, hospitals, and telecommunications,’ Grant stated in a Tuesday media release.

    The reconstruction effort involves rebuilding over 10 miles of electrical infrastructure from the JPS Paradise Substation to the Roaring River pump. Hurricane Melissa’s Category 5 impact caused catastrophic damage, washing away roadways and flooding entire areas. The utility company has had to redesign routes, relocate infrastructure, and reconstruct entire line sections to establish a more resilient network.

    Canadian contracting firm Holland Power Services, assisted by digger derricks and specialized equipment, is replanting more than 300 uprooted electricity poles along the corridor. Over 100 line workers comprising international contractors and local JPS teams have been deployed to complete the challenging terrain work.

    JPS Operations Area Manager Kenyatta Campbell detailed the extraordinary challenges: ‘This represents some of the most difficult work our teams have faced during restoration. We’re relocating poles from swamp-created areas to stable ground, encountering rocky soil conditions that require specialized rock-digging equipment in newly identified locations.’

    Upon completion, the project will restore electricity to Petersfield, Shrewsbury, Carawina, Waterworks, Dean’s Valley, Petersfield High School, and surrounding communities while reactivating the crucial water pump. Similar ‘last mile’ restoration efforts continue in St. Elizabeth, Hanover, St. James, and Trelawny.

    JPS advises affected customers to employ licensed electricians for premises inspection to ensure internal wiring systems are safe before power restoration.