作者: admin

  • Lawyers’ Christian Fellowship express ‘grave concern’ about police killings

    Lawyers’ Christian Fellowship express ‘grave concern’ about police killings

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Jamaica’s Lawyers’ Christian Fellowship (LCF) has issued a strong condemnation against the nation’s security forces following reports of multiple fatal shootings occurring in early 2026, continuing what the organization characterizes as a deeply troubling pattern of excessive force that plagued the previous year.

    The faith-based legal association expressed profound moral concern regarding what it described as extra-judicial killings and unlawful applications of force by state agents. While acknowledging the reported decline in overall murder rates and major criminal activities throughout 2025, the LCF emphasized that these security gains are substantially compromised by the sharp increase in deadly encounters involving police and military personnel.

    Of particular concern to the organization are emerging reports from New Year’s Day operations where eyewitness testimonies appear to directly conflict with official accounts of events. The LCF specifically referenced incidents involving civilian casualties, including the death of a young child, under circumstances that raise fundamental questions about protocol adherence, professional conduct, and respect for human dignity during security operations.

    Grounding its position in biblical principles that affirm the sacredness of all human life, the Fellowship reiterated that unjustified taking of life—whether by criminal elements or state agents operating beyond legal boundaries—represents a severe moral violation. The organization emphasized that Jamaica’s Constitution explicitly guarantees the right to life and permits lethal force only under strictly necessary, proportionate, and lawful circumstances.

    The LCF warned that any deviation from these constitutional standards threatens the foundational principles of rule of law and progressively undermines public trust in Jamaica’s justice institutions. As corrective measures, the organization reiterated its firm support for mandatory body-worn cameras during all security operations, enhanced accountability mechanisms, comprehensive retraining programs, and strengthened oversight protocols.

    Finally, the Fellowship issued a call to action for religious communities and civil society organizations throughout Jamaica to actively pursue justice and peace through both prayer and concrete measures aimed at ending unlawful violence.

  • Jamaican-born Denise Grant named one of Florida’s most influential black women

    Jamaican-born Denise Grant named one of Florida’s most influential black women

    LAUDERHILL, United States — Mayor Denise Grant of Jamaican heritage has received distinguished recognition through her inclusion in Legacy Magazine’s prestigious 2025 compilation of Florida’s Most Influential & Prominent Black Women in Business and Industry. This acknowledgment celebrates her exceptional leadership and transformative contributions to public service in Lauderhill.

    Expressing profound gratitude for the honor, Mayor Grant extended appreciation to city residents for entrusting her with governance responsibilities. She emphasized that the recognition validates the tangible rewards of persistent hard work, meticulous diligence, and unwavering commitment to civic duty.

    ‘My deepest gratitude goes to God as the foundation of my being, and I specially dedicate this accomplishment to my mother, whose steadfast encouragement has been instrumental throughout my path,’ Grant stated. ‘I draw inspiration from the extraordinary Black women across South Florida featured on this year’s list—their leadership impact and enduring legacy are truly remarkable.’

    During her 2025 mayoral term, Grant has spearheaded multiple impactful initiatives including:

    — A Senior Utility Relief Program allocating approximately $1 million to assist elderly residents with water bill payments, enabling them to maintain dignified living conditions

    — A Food Security Advancement Project directing $100,000 to combat nutritional insecurity among the city’s most vulnerable demographic groups

    — Lauderhill University, an innovative educational program teaching high school students about municipal governance and civic participation

    — Tea Time with Seniors, promoting education, wellness, and social connectivity for older adults within the culturally diverse community

    — The Adopt a Park Initiative enhancing the aesthetic quality of public spaces while cultivating community pride

    — The Mayor’s Listening Tour facilitating policy-shaping dialogues with constituents

    — Comprehensive mentoring and wellness programs supporting youth and student-athletes

    Additionally, Mayor Grant has submitted a multimillion-dollar funding proposal to Florida’s state legislature aimed at modernizing Lauderhill’s infrastructure, including underground utilities, roadway improvements, and lighting systems.

    ‘This accolade transcends individual achievement—it reflects Lauderhill’s collective dedication to fostering innovation, promoting equity, and creating pathways for forthcoming generations,’ Grant affirmed. ‘Leading a community that champions these principles fills me with pride, and I anticipate further collaborative efforts to elevate Lauderhill’s future prospects.’

    The magazine feature includes a photographic portrait showing Mayor Grant alongside other honorees recognized for their professional excellence and community leadership.

  • Two Brothers Rice Milling Complex to expand to Jamaica

    Two Brothers Rice Milling Complex to expand to Jamaica

    In a significant development for Caribbean business integration, Guyanese agricultural leader Two Brothers Rice Milling Complex Inc has unveiled strategic plans to establish operations in Jamaica by 2026. The expansion will operate under the new entity name Two Ali Brothers Corporation Limited, marking a substantial step in regional economic cooperation.

    CEO Javed Ali emphasized the dual-purpose mission driving this expansion, noting it will simultaneously strengthen community engagement and stimulate economic growth through employment opportunities and local partnerships. This announcement comes alongside immediate humanitarian action, as the company has already deployed substantial support to hurricane-affected Jamaican communities.

    The corporation recently facilitated the distribution of over 20,000 kilograms of rice to areas devastated by Hurricane Melissa. This critical assistance reached vulnerable populations through coordinated efforts involving Taujul Imports, with groundwork managed by Jacqueline James and Zarie Ricketts. The initiative originated from Slingerz Entertainment—another enterprise under Ali’s leadership—demonstrating the interconnected nature of his business and philanthropic ventures.

    Ali expressed profound admiration for Jamaican resilience, stating: ‘We are deeply moved by the strength shown by the Jamaican people following Hurricane Melissa. It is our honour to contribute to relief efforts and stand in solidarity during rebuilding.’

    The relief operation saw collaboration with notable figures including dancehall artist Vybz Kartel through his Adidja Palmer Foundation, and musician Carlton ‘Spragga Benz’ Grant. Ali also acknowledged support from Jamaica’s Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries Floyd Green, PNP General Secretary Dr. Dayton Campbell, and various charitable organizations providing frontline assistance.

    This humanitarian response reflects the company’s broader commitment to corporate social responsibility and regional cooperation. Beyond agriculture, the organization maintains strong cultural connections through Slingerz Entertainment and Slingerz Records, which have promoted Jamaican artists within Guyana’s music scene for over twenty years.

    The Slingerz brand portfolio extends into sports with successful football and racing divisions, currently featuring three Jamaican athletes on Slingerz Football Club’s roster. Together, these interconnected enterprises continue to drive community development, regional unity, and sustainable impact across multiple sectors throughout the Caribbean.

  • Gregory Daley confirmed as JFF general secretary

    Gregory Daley confirmed as JFF general secretary

    KINGSTON, Jamaica—The Jamaica Football Federation (JFF) has officially announced the appointment of Gregory Daley as its new General Secretary, filling a crucial leadership vacancy that had persisted since May. The announcement came through an official statement released by the federation on Monday.

    Mr. Daley, who previously served as a JFF Vice-President and Chairman of its Competitions Committee, assumes the role formerly held by Dennis Chung, who resigned from the position eight months ago. During the interim period following Chung’s departure, Roy Simpson, the General Manager of the senior men’s national team, had been performing the duties of the general secretary on an acting basis.

    In a related organizational reshuffle, Omar McFarlane, who had been serving as the Acting General Manager for the latter part of 2025, has been formally appointed as the Federation’s Operations Manager. JFF President Michael Ricketts expressed strong confidence in both appointments, stating, ‘I would like to personally welcome Gregory into this capacity. He brings a wealth of knowledge and vast experience in football administration, and I’m very confident in his abilities.’ Regarding Mr. McFarlane, Ricketts added, ‘He has been a great addition to the federation, and we are looking forward to him continuing the great work he has been doing.’

    Concurrently, the St James Football Association, which Mr. Daley previously presided over, has also undergone a leadership transition. A separate release confirmed that Gavin McNeil has been named the interim President of the St James FA. Furthermore, Marvin Peterkin has been appointed as the new Chairman of the competitions committee for the regional association, ensuring continuity in its administrative functions.

  • WATCH: Three alleged gunmen killed by police in Manchester

    WATCH: Three alleged gunmen killed by police in Manchester

    MANCHESTER, Jamaica—A high-stakes police operation culminated in a fatal armed confrontation near the Manchester/Clarendon border on Monday afternoon, resulting in the deaths of three alleged gunmen. The incident unfolded in the St Toolies area approximately at 12:20 p.m. following an intelligence-driven mission by law enforcement personnel. According to official reports, police units descended upon a specific residence in pursuit of targeted suspects when the situation escalated into an exchange of gunfire. During the ensuing operation, security forces reportedly engaged the armed individuals, leading to the fatal shooting of all three men. Authorities confirmed the subsequent recovery of two firearms from the scene. The precise circumstances surrounding the confrontation remain under investigation by relevant judicial bodies, though preliminary accounts indicate the operation was conducted under standard protocol for high-risk apprehensions. This event marks another significant development in Jamaica’s ongoing efforts to combat organized crime and firearm-related violence within parish border regions.

  • Bahamas government advises against Venezuela travel amid US operation

    Bahamas government advises against Venezuela travel amid US operation

    The Bahamian government has formally cautioned its citizens against all travel to Venezuela in the wake of a controversial U.S. military operation that resulted in the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife. This development has triggered significant international repercussions throughout the Caribbean region.

    In an official statement, The Bahamas Ministry of Foreign Affairs aligned itself with the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) position, emphasizing the critical importance of adhering to established international legal frameworks. The government specifically referenced security concerns as the primary motivation behind its travel advisory, urging Bahamian nationals to avoid Venezuela entirely during the current period of instability.

    The extraordinary operation saw U.S. forces detain President Maduro and First Lady Cilia Flores at their Caracas residence, subsequently transporting them to the United States to face federal charges. While President Donald Trump initially suggested the U.S. would administer Venezuela during a transitional period, Secretary of State Marco Rubio later clarified that American involvement would primarily focus on enforcing existing oil sanctions rather than direct governance.

    CARICOM’s unified statement, endorsed by The Bahamas, reaffirmed the region’s steadfast commitment to fundamental principles of international law, national sovereignty, and territorial integrity as enshrined in the UN Charter. The regional body emphasized diplomatic solutions, reiterating calls for peaceful dialogue to restore stability, democratic governance, and prosperity for the Venezuelan people.

    The geopolitical shockwaves have manifested practically across the Caribbean, with Barbados reporting flight disruptions attributable to the military intervention. However, Bahamian authorities confirmed that Lynden Pindling International Airport operations remained unaffected. Aviation and tourism executive Robert Sands noted that travel impacts appeared concentrated in southern Caribbean nations, with services largely returning to normalcy following initial disruptions.

  • Candlelight vigil honours life of drowned boat captain Jayden Pinder

    Candlelight vigil honours life of drowned boat captain Jayden Pinder

    NASSAU, BAHAMAS – The Junkanoo Beach shoreline glowed with a somber luminosity on Saturday evening as a community united in grief to honor Jayden Pinder, a 19-year-old boat captain whose life was tragically cut short in a drowning incident on December 26th.

    The vigil, organized by his close friends and former baseball teammates, drew hundreds of family members, colleagues, and loved ones who gathered to create a poignant maritime memorial. Participants launched illuminated paper lanterns that ascended into the nocturnal sky while floating candles drifted across the ocean’s surface—a dual tribute reflecting Pinder’s profound connection to the sea.

    Isadora Blyden, the young man’s grand-aunt, characterized the gathering as a profoundly appropriate farewell. ‘This was fitting for us as a family, to be here together with people whose lives he touched,’ she expressed. ‘We know him to be someone who always wore a smile, who was always helpful, respectful, and polite.’

    The tragic sequence unfolded on Boxing Day when Pinder and another individual were riding a jet ski off West Bay Street. According to eyewitness accounts, a substantial wave displaced both riders into the water approximately at 6 PM. While bystanders successfully assisted both individuals to shore, Pinder had become unresponsive.

    Immediate cardiopulmonary resuscitation was administered until Emergency Medical Services personnel arrived on scene. He was rapidly transported to a nearby medical facility but was subsequently pronounced dead, sending shockwaves through his family and the broader community.

    The loss has been particularly devastating for his mother, Janeile, who dedicated her life to nurturing her only child’s ambitions. ‘She’s been able to laugh, but she’s had a lot of tears,’ Ms. Blyden disclosed. ‘Every interest that he had, Janeile has supported 110 percent, and so as a family, we feel her pain.’

    Pinder, who served as captain aboard The Allegra, nurtured ambitious maritime aspirations. Relatives confirmed he dreamed of establishing his own charter company to share his passion for oceanic exploration. ‘He wanted people to be able to explore and enjoy the waters as much as he loved to,’ a family member noted.

    Devera Pinder, the young captain’s aunt, described processing the loss as among life’s most challenging experiences. She recalled her nephew as a ‘kind, loving and gentle giant’ who stood over six feet tall and consistently served as protector and leader among his cousins. ‘Although we can’t understand in this moment,’ she reflected, ‘we’re still grateful we had him in our lives.’

  • Drivers complain of $600 late licensing renewal fee

    Drivers complain of $600 late licensing renewal fee

    Dozens of motorists in Port of Spain expressed frustration this week as Trinidad and Tobago’s Licensing Department implemented substantial new late fees for driver’s license renewals without adequate prior notification. The situation came to a head on January 5th at the Wrightson Road licensing office, where numerous drivers discovered they would need to pay an additional $600 penalty atop the standard $500 renewal charge.

    The controversy stems from a January 2nd memo from Transport Commissioner Clive Clarke that circulated online just days before implementation. The new fee structure establishes graduated penalties based on expiration duration: $600 late fee for permits expired six months or less, rising to $1,000 for those expired six months to three years, and reaching $3,500 for licenses expired three to five years. Those with permits expired beyond five years must completely retake their driving test.

    Several drivers highlighted particular grievances regarding the timing of implementation. Multiple individuals noted their licenses expired on January 4th—which fell on a Sunday when offices were closed—effectively denying them any opportunity to renew punctually. One professional, who works in sensitive police evidence collection, stated he had no choice but to pay the penalty despite the financial burden, as his livelihood depends on valid driving credentials.

    Beyond the fee structure, visitors criticized the office’s operational management. Complaints included chaotic customer handling procedures and apparent malfunctions in the computerized record system. Newsday briefly engaged Transport Minister Eli Zakour during lunchtime, who committed to a callback that had not occurred by publication time.

    The implementation has raised questions about equitable public notification processes and government service delivery standards, particularly for essential documentation affecting citizens’ mobility and employment.

  • The Home Store closes in Chaguanas; MovieTowne Tobago shuts down

    The Home Store closes in Chaguanas; MovieTowne Tobago shuts down

    Trinidad’s retail landscape continues to deteriorate as The Home Store announced the closure of its Chaguanas location on January 5th, marking the latest casualty in a series of economic challenges facing the Caribbean nation. This development follows closely on the heels of MovieTowne’s shutdown of its Tobago operations, creating a pattern of retail contraction across the region.

    The Home Store’s parent company, LJ Williams, attributed the decision to ‘the continued decline in the economy,’ reflecting broader systemic issues affecting consumer markets. This represents the fourth location closure for the home goods retailer in recent times, following previous shutdowns at East Gates Mall, C3 Centre, and The Falls at Westmall branches throughout 2025.

    Financial disclosures reveal LJ Williams recorded a comprehensive loss of $875,000 for the six-month period ending September 30th, showing slight improvement from the $974,000 loss documented during the same timeframe in 2024. Company turnover similarly declined, dropping to $71.35 million from the previous year’s $73.30 million.

    Chairman Lawford Dupres acknowledged the marginally improved loss margin but highlighted persistent challenges including weakened consumer spending and constrained access to foreign markets. These factors have significantly impacted the distribution aspect of their operations, prompting strategic shifts toward consolidating resources in higher-performing locations while reducing overall overhead costs.

    The company’s condensed financial statements, published November 6th, indicated $71.355 million in sales with an operating profit of $2.14 million—a figure ultimately negated by finance costs totaling $2.63 million. Management identified foreign exchange availability as a continuing critical factor, with future strategy emphasizing rigorous cost control and investment in outlets demonstrating ‘greater promise.’

    Meanwhile, MovieTowne’s simultaneous Tobago closure, though without explicit stated reason, follows widely publicized legal disputes with Port Authority landlords. In August 2024, the company’s lease holder, Trinidad Commercial Development Company Ltd, complied with a court order to pay $3 million to the authority. Questions regarding the Tobago branch’s economic viability have circulated since the COVID-19 pandemic, with closure rumors persisting throughout the recovery period.

    Amid these closures, MovieTowne continues operations in Port of Spain and San Fernando while implementing a buy-one-get-one promotional campaign throughout January in Trinidad locations, alongside discounted park ride offerings on weekends.

  • Another El Pecos blast lawsuit closer to trial

    Another El Pecos blast lawsuit closer to trial

    A significant legal milestone has been reached in the protracted litigation surrounding the catastrophic 2015 El Pecos Restaurant gas explosion in Maraval, with one of the numerous related lawsuits now progressing toward trial. At a January 5 case management hearing, Justice Nadia Kangaloo solidified procedural timelines and scheduled a crucial pre-trial review for April 17, when trial dates will be formally established and evidential objections addressed.

    The judicial developments follow a pivotal December ruling by the Court of Appeal that upheld substantial negligence findings against North Plant LPG Co-Operative Society Ltd. In a unanimous decision, Justices Mark Mohammed and Peter Rajkumar affirmed Justice James Aboud’s judgment dismissing North Plant’s appeal against a $160,000 general damages award to Gregory Maicoo, an employee who sustained severe burns during the liquefied petroleum gas delivery incident.

    Justice Aboud’s comprehensive analysis validated trial judge Justice Ricky Rahim’s 2022 determination that North Plant breached its duty of care, emphasizing that Rahim’s conclusions were grounded in “a judicious evaluation of the evidence” without “material error that undermines his factual conclusions.” The appellate court notably rejected North Plant’s safety protocol defenses, finding the company’s arguments without merit.

    The legal proceedings encompass multiple dimensions of the tragedy, including compensation claims from seriously injured victims and insurance subrogation claims from neighboring businesses affected by the blast. Among the pending cases is a separate action filed by the brother of restaurant accountant John Soo Ping Chow, who succumbed to burn injuries four months after the explosion at a Miami hospital.

    Justice Kangaloo has advised legal representatives to monitor the upcoming February hearing in the Chow case for potential implications on their respective matters. The complex litigation landscape involves numerous represented parties, including Restaurant Holdings Ltd, National Petroleum Company Ltd, and El Pecos itself, all navigating a web of interconnected negligence and liability claims.

    Justice Aboud highlighted the inefficiency of addressing these claims individually, noting the missed opportunity for using a “test case or representative action” to establish negligence parameters, which risks “wasting valuable court time relitigating issues of fact that have already been determined.”