Carib Scope

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  • US issues $1 million reward for capture of Haitian gang leader

    US issues $1 million reward for capture of Haitian gang leader

    U.S. law enforcement agencies have announced a significant restructuring of their most-wanted fugitives list concerning Haitian criminal leaders. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has removed Vitel’Homme Innocent, a gang leader previously carrying a $2 million bounty, from its prestigious ‘Ten Most Wanted Fugitives’ list. While Innocent remains at large in Haiti, authorities determined his continued listing wouldn’t generate new information crucial for his capture, despite extensive investigation and media exposure since 2023. The active investigation to apprehend him continues.

    Concurrently, the U.S. State Department has issued a new $1 million reward for information leading to the arrest of Johnson “Izo” André, a prominent figure in Haiti’s escalating gang violence. André, believed to be in his twenties, leads the heavily armed 5 Segond gang and is a key member of the Viv Ansanm coalition—officially designated a foreign terrorist organization by the United States.

    André is wanted for his alleged masterminding of the March 2023 kidnapping of a U.S. citizen in Port-au-Prince. According to official statements, the hostage was taken on André’s direct orders and held captive in Village de Dieu, a seaside slum serving as his operational base. The victim was released after nine days following a ransom payment that included the victim’s vehicle and firearms belonging to the victim’s father.

    Beyond kidnapping charges filed in the District of Columbia in December 2024, André and his criminal network are implicated in extensive cocaine trafficking operations. The State Department further attributes 1,035 documented cases of sexual violence to André and the 5 Segond gang, highlighting the brutal tactics employed by these criminal organizations.

  • England rout Sri Lanka for 95 to win Super Eights opener

    England rout Sri Lanka for 95 to win Super Eights opener

    KANDY, Sri Lanka—England delivered a commanding performance to launch their T20 World Cup Super Eights campaign, demolishing Sri Lanka for a paltry 95 runs to secure a decisive 51-run victory on Sunday. The win served as a perfect birthday gift for captain Harry Brook, who celebrated his 27th birthday amidst the triumph.

    After being put in to bat first, England posted a seemingly modest total of 146-9. However, their bowling attack, spearheaded by a ferocious power play performance, rendered the target insurmountable. Jofra Archer and Will Jacks orchestrated a top-order collapse, reducing Sri Lanka to a devastating 34-5 within the first six overs. The early blitz effectively decided the contest, leaving the hosts’ innings in ruins.

    Archer’s searing pace accounted for both openers, including the dismissal of the in-form Pathum Nissanka for just 9 runs. Jacks, later named Player of the Match for the third time this tournament, delivered a critical spell of 3-22, narrowly missing a hat-trick. Sri Lankan captain Dasun Shanaka mounted a lone resistance with a brisk 30 off 24 balls, but his dismissal to Adil Rashid extinguished any fleeting hope of recovery.

    The victory was set up by Phil Salt’s anchoring 62 at the top of England’s order. Despite the challenging, rain-affected pitch in Kandy, Salt’s 40-ball innings, featuring six fours and two sixes, provided the backbone of England’s total. Sri Lanka’s bowling, led by left-arm spinner Dunith Wellalage (3-26), managed to restrict the middle order, with Jacks’ 21 being the only other notable contribution.

    The comprehensive margin of victory provides England with a significant net run rate advantage in a group stage where weather interruptions, like the washed-out New Zealand-Pakistan match, could prove decisive. The result also extends England’s dominant streak to 12 consecutive wins against Sri Lanka.

  • ECCO RESPONDS TO SAINT KITTS AND NEVIS JUDGEMENT

    ECCO RESPONDS TO SAINT KITTS AND NEVIS JUDGEMENT

    The Eastern Caribbean Collective Organisation for Music Rights (ECCO) has formally acknowledged the February 19, 2026 ruling from the Saint Kitts and Nevis High Court of Justice concerning its judicial review application of the 2024 Copyright Regulations for Collective Management Organisations.

    In an official statement, ECCO expressed profound appreciation for the court’s deliberation process and specifically recognized Honourable Justice Tamara Gill’s consideration of the complex legal matter. The organization reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to judicial independence and the rule of law throughout the Eastern Caribbean region, acknowledging the judiciary’s critical function in establishing transparent forums for resolving intricate legal disputes.

    Although the initial ruling did not align with ECCO’s anticipated outcome, the organization emphasized its entitlement to pursue all available legal avenues. The court has indicated that a comprehensive written judgment containing detailed legal reasoning will be published imminently.

    ECCO confirmed that upon receipt of the full judgment, its legal representatives will conduct an exhaustive analysis of the court’s findings. The organization stressed the necessity of thoroughly examining the legal rationale before determining the optimal course of action for its membership base. ECCO reminded stakeholders that the Eastern Caribbean judicial framework provides multiple recourse mechanisms, including potential appeal to the Eastern Caribbean Court of Appeal. The organization will make final determinations regarding subsequent legal steps following completion of its internal assessment process.

  • Iconic Reggae Weekend features Johnny Clarke honours

    Iconic Reggae Weekend features Johnny Clarke honours

    Jamaican music icon Johnny Clarke, whose energetic performances defined the roots-reggae era of the 1970s, is being celebrated during the Iconic Reggae Weekend from February 20-22. The celebration marks a special tribute to Clarke’s influential career and his seminal partnership with legendary producer Bunny Lee.

    The commemorative events, organized by Bunny Lee’s family, honor a musical partnership that produced an extraordinary catalog of hit singles fifty years ago. On February 20th, Clarke became the inaugural recipient of the Bunny Lee Lifetime Achievement Award during a ceremony at the Bunny Lee Museum in Duhaney Park, St. Andrew.

    Bunny Lee Jr. emphasized the appropriateness of Clarke being the first honoree of an award named for his father, who passed away in October 2020 at age 79. ‘Johnny Clarke stood among the pivotal artists who collaborated with Bunny Lee to elevate reggae into a globally powerful musical force,’ Lee Jr. told the Jamaica Observer. ‘Their 1970s partnership yielded some of Jamaican music’s most enduring compositions, including the classics None Shall Escape The Judgement and Rock With Me Baby, which garnered international acclaim.’

    Clarke’s remarkable journey saw him transition from working at Grace Kennedy in 1974 to reggae stardom with his breakthrough interpretation of Earl Sixteen’s None Shall Escape The Judgement. The unassuming artist, who was also Lee’s brother-in-law, further solidified his legacy with definitive tracks like Move Outa Babylon and African Roots under Lee’s Striker label.

    The weekend celebration extended beyond the award ceremony with significant events including the relaunch of Augustus Pablo’s historic Rockers International record store on Orange Street and an gathering at Randy’s Museum in downtown Kingston, the former home of Randy’s Records and studio.

    The Bunny Lee Museum, which opened officially one year ago in Lee’s former recording studio, houses an extensive collection of memorabilia including the producer’s flamboyant stage outfits, portraits of iconic producers Clement Dodd, Prince Buster, and Duke Reid, and instruments used by the pioneering musicians who developed the distinctive Greenwich Farm sound.

  • Human milk bank pilot possible in Jamaica

    Human milk bank pilot possible in Jamaica

    Jamaica’s Ministry of Health and Wellness has initiated a formal feasibility study for establishing the country’s first human milk bank facility. Health Minister Dr. Christopher Tufton confirmed to the Jamaica Observer that the Family Health Unit will examine the potential implementation of a donor milk program, possibly beginning with a pilot project in select communities.

    The proposal gained momentum following advocacy from youth attorney Benyamin Cooke, who emphasized the critical health benefits of breast milk for infants whose mothers cannot breastfeed due to medical conditions including cancer treatments, premature births, or lactation difficulties. Cooke highlighted that while formula provides basic nutrition, it lacks the disease-fighting antibodies present in human milk.

    Minister Tufton acknowledged the proposal requires careful consideration of Jamaica’s cultural landscape, noting that successful implementation would demand significant public education to address deeply ingrained biases. “There are predisposed biases against breast milk banks in our context,” Tufton stated, “but the concept of community involvement in child-rearing aligns with our historical traditions.”

    Medical professionals expressed divided perspectives on the initiative. Jheanell Condappa, an 18-year veteran midwife supervisor, strongly endorsed the concept, noting that many mothers struggle with insufficient milk production and currently resort to formula. She referenced historical “wet nursing” practices as evidence of cultural precedent for milk sharing.

    However, an anonymous midwife with equivalent experience questioned the necessity, estimating less than 2% of mothers encounter insurmountable breastfeeding challenges. She expressed skepticism about public acceptance, stating: “Some people are not going to opt for their baby to be taking someone else’s milk.”

    The ministry’s Family Health Unit outlined rigorous safety protocols that would govern the potential program, including donor screening for HIV and Hepatitis, pasteurization to eliminate pathogens, and strict hygienic storage conditions. International data indicates that with proper education, most mothers become willing to donate or use donor milk.

    Mothers interviewed revealed mixed perspectives. While some welcomed the alternative to formula, others expressed discomfort with the concept of using another woman’s milk. The global context shows over 700 milk banks operating across 60 countries, though no universal standards currently govern their operations.

    The World Health Organization and UNICEF have endorsed donor milk as the preferred alternative when mother’s own milk is unavailable, particularly for vulnerable premature infants. The Jamaican health ministry’s exploration signals a growing recognition of both the medical benefits and cultural considerations surrounding human milk banking.

  • ‘Touter’ — more than 50 years of talent

    ‘Touter’ — more than 50 years of talent

    In 1976, at just 21 years old, keyboard virtuoso Bernard “Touter” Harvey cemented his legacy by contributing to three landmark albums that would define reggae’s golden era. The young session musician from Whitfield Town, Kingston, left his indelible mark on Bob Marley and The Wailers’ ‘Rastaman Vibration,’ Bunny Wailer’s ‘Blackheart Man,’ and Burning Spear’s ‘Man In The Hills.’

    Harvey’s collaboration with these icons began even earlier, having played on Marley’s seminal ‘Natty Dread’ in 1974 and performed with The Black Disciples band on Burning Spear’s majestic ‘Marcus Garvey’ the previous year.

    In an exclusive retrospective with the Jamaica Observer, Harvey revealed the distinct creative approaches behind each project five decades later. “We operated within an incredibly creative period, though artistic boundaries were often set by the performers or producers,” Harvey recalled. “Bob Marley personally discouraged synthesizer use, yet producer Lee Perry introduced his Elka piano/string machine that became integral to ‘Rastaman Vibration.’”

    Contrasting these experiences, Harvey noted: “Jack Ruby, producing Burning Spear, granted us complete creative freedom. Conversely, Bunny Wailer arrived meticulously prepared with demo cassettes but remained open to collaborative compromise.”

    All three albums were distributed by Chris Blackwell’s Island Records, the London-based label founded in Kingston years earlier. Among them, Marley’s ‘Rastaman Vibration’ achieved greatest commercial success with radio-friendly anthems like ‘Roots, Rock, Reggae’ and ‘Who The Cap Fit.’

    Since 1974, Harvey has been integral to Grammy-winning group Inner Circle, contributing to global hits like ‘Bad Boys’ and ‘Sweat.’ Reflecting on his early accomplishments, the musician expressed pride: “Occasionally revisiting these recordings, I’m surprised by my performances. While I’ve grown musically, why alter what fans have cherished? Hearing musicians replicate my work brings profound accomplishment.”

  • Mighty Mic has the Formula

    Mighty Mic has the Formula

    Emerging gospel dancehall artist Mighty Mic, at 23 years old, is speaking out about the significant challenges confronting young Christians in contemporary society. In a recent Friday interview with the Jamaica Observer, the musician identified profound emotional wounds and intense societal pressures as primary issues affecting his generation’s faithful.

    The Spanish Town-based performer, baptized just five years ago, proposed that faith-based youth initiatives, targeted outreach programs, and strategic mentorship partnerships between elders and young believers could serve as vital solutions. Mighty Mic described his personal spiritual journey as both challenging and exhilarating, noting that connecting with supportive individuals has significantly enriched his Christian experience.

    His musical career ignited following his religious commitment in 2020, though he had long possessed artistic capabilities. His latest single, ‘Formula,’ released on February 16th through a collaborative production between Daleybeatz and Crosslinks Production, emerged from a period of personal doubt about his place as a believer. The track aims to reignite recognition of spiritual strength in Christ while encouraging listeners toward faith through its intentional lyrical architecture.

    Mighty Mic promises to bring authenticity, energetic versatility, and a unique flow to gospel dancehall music. The Tarrant Baptist Church worshipper also announced plans to release his debut EP, ‘The God Life,’ within the coming months, indicating 2024 will bring substantial new content from the rising artist.

  • History echoes in St Elizabeth nine years after Haile Clacken

    History echoes in St Elizabeth nine years after Haile Clacken

    A nearly identical tragedy has struck Jamaica’s St. Elizabeth parish as Alanzo Brooks, a 42-year-old entertainer and businessman diagnosed with bipolar disorder, was fatally shot by police during a mental health intervention on February 12. The incident bears haunting similarities to the 2017 killing of educator Haile Clacken, who was also bipolar and died under comparable circumstances.

    The confrontation began when a mobile mental health team from Jamaica’s Ministry of Health and Wellness visited Brooks’ Nain residence to administer medication. According to official reports from the Jamaica Constabulary Force, Brooks allegedly confronted officers while armed with a hammer and machete after refusing treatment. Police claim they opened fire when he advanced toward them despite repeated warnings.

    However, eyewitness accounts contradict the official narrative. An anonymous source stated Brooks had locked himself inside his home, a known coping mechanism during episodes when he feared causing harm. The witness reported that mental health workers initially left but returned with police officers who eventually forced open Brooks’ door. Brooks emerged armed but was ‘walking, not running’ toward police when he was shot twice and collapsed on his veranda.

    The killing has sparked outrage and protests in Nain, with residents blocking roads to demand justice and improved handling of mental health crises. The incident has particularly devastated mental health advocates who remember Clacken’s similar death nine years earlier.

    Lilieth Clacken, founder of the Haile Clacken Bipolar Foundation and mother of the late educator, described Brooks’ death as ‘painful and devastating.’ She questioned the use of force, noting that mentally ill individuals retain the right to refuse medication and should receive second chances rather than confrontation. ‘Force is being used in our society too much,’ she told the Jamaica Observer. ‘You don’t need to be forceful. Sometimes you can appease the person.’

    Brooks’ friends and colleagues remember him as a non-violent, contributing member of society. Music producer Dudley Eulitts revealed that just days before the incident, Brooks had contacted him seeking a private doctor to avoid the mobile mental health team, whom he felt treated him ‘like an animal.’ Howard Hendriks, president of the St. Elizabeth Chamber of Commerce, emphasized that Brooks was a homeowner, businessman, and father of three who managed his condition effectively.

    The Independent Commission of Investigations (INDECOM) has launched a probe into the shooting. Meanwhile, the Haile Clacken Bipolar Foundation has renewed calls for improved training for authorities handling mental health crises, highlighting that little has changed since Clacken’s death despite years of advocacy.

    Section 15 of Jamaica’s Mental Health Act permits police to transport individuals appearing mentally disordered to psychiatric facilities without warrant. However, advocates argue that implementation often lacks the sensitivity and de-escalation techniques needed to prevent tragedies.

    The dual tragedies of Clacken and Brooks highlight systemic failures in Jamaica’s approach to mental health emergencies and raise urgent questions about police protocols when engaging with vulnerable populations.

  • Grange reaffirms commitment to Bustamante celebrations

    Grange reaffirms commitment to Bustamante celebrations

    The Jamaican government has announced comprehensive plans to commemorate the 142nd anniversary of National Hero Sir Alexander Bustamante’s birth, scheduling simultaneous ceremonies at both his Blenheim birthplace in Hanover and National Heroes’ Park in Kingston on February 24, 2026.

    Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport Olivia Grange has confirmed the government’s commitment to fully fund the celebrations through the Jamaica Cultural Development Commission (JCDC), addressing previous concerns about potential funding limitations. The commemorative events will commence with a floral tribute ceremony at National Heroes Park at 9:00 AM, followed by an 11:00 AM birthday tribute ceremony in Blenheim.

    Concurrently, Minister of Labour and Social Security Pearnel Charles, Jnr will lead additional commemorative activities in Clarendon South Eastern constituency, where Sir Alexander served as Member of Parliament for nearly two decades, recognizing his enduring political legacy.

    Minister Grange acknowledged current fiscal constraints resulting from Hurricane Melissa recovery efforts but emphasized the critical importance of maintaining heritage commemorations. “These celebrations offer a sense of continuity, pride and inspiration at a time when our people, especially our youth, need it most,” Grange stated, highlighting the psychological value of historical remembrance during challenging times.

    The government explicitly addressed concerns about potential disruptions to Hanover celebrations, noting that similar funding concerns in February 2025 were resolved through direct ministry intervention. Grange emphasized that honoring Bustamante’s advocacy for workers’ rights and national development remains essential for national identity formation, particularly for younger generations processing recent natural disaster impacts.

    All sectors of Jamaican society, including educational institutions, youth groups, and cultural organizations, are encouraged to participate in both locations. The JCDC has made itself available for additional information and participation coordination, ensuring broad accessibility to the commemorative events.

  • Science over ceremony

    Science over ceremony

    A profound cultural shift is underway in Jamaica, where a growing number of citizens are choosing to donate their bodies to medical science, a practice once met with widespread resistance. The University of the West Indies (UWI) Mona campus reports a dramatic increase in formal applications, with 62 individuals now registered for its body donor program.

    This surge marks a significant departure from historical trends. Prior to 2019, the university received a mere two to four applications annually. Since implementing a dedicated advocacy program, that number has jumped to an average of 10 per year. Consequently, UWI now receives between 12 and 15 suitable bodies annually, a stark contrast to the single donation recorded in 2014.

    Professor of Anatomy Jean-Pierre Louboutin identifies soaring funeral costs as a primary catalyst for this change. A basic funeral package in Jamaica now ranges from J$300,000 to J$600,000, with premium services exceeding J$1 million. This represents a steep climb from 2013, when the most affordable option cost approximately J$128,000. Burial vaults and cremation services have seen similarly dramatic price escalations, making body donation—which is free—a financially viable alternative for many families.

    However, economics is only part of the narrative. Death doula Patrice Dwyer emphasizes that for many, the decision is rooted in a deeper contemplation of legacy and a desire to contribute to medical advancement. Medical professionals are among the most eager donors, often viewing it as a final act of service to the field they dedicated their lives to.

    The impact of these donations is immense. They are fundamental for surgical training, anatomical research, and the development of new medical treatments. Professor Louboutin highlights a unique benefit for Jamaica: the ability to conduct population-specific research on Jamaican anatomy, which can lead to tailored surgical techniques and a better understanding of health threats prevalent locally.

    Furthermore, Jamaica’s program has become a regional resource. Other UWI campuses in Trinidad and Barbados, which lack donor programs due to cultural preferences like cremation, often send surgical residents to Jamaica for essential anatomical training.

    The process is governed by the Anatomy Act of Jamaica, requiring formal permission from relatives. Not all bodies are eligible; those involved in criminal investigations, autopsies, suicides, or with certain infectious diseases cannot be accepted. Donated bodies are embalmed and can be used for education and research for up to 20 years.

    As Dwyer notes, with Jamaica being an island nation, space for traditional burials is finite. This reality, coupled with growing environmental awareness, is pushing Jamaicans to consider sustainable alternatives like body donation, aquamation, and recomposition, framing a final gift to science as a powerful and lasting legacy.