作者: admin

  • Police shoot patient after stabbing incident at Kingston Public Hospital

    Police shoot patient after stabbing incident at Kingston Public Hospital

    A violent confrontation between law enforcement and a patient at Kingston Public Hospital (KPH) resulted in an officer-involved shooting on Monday morning, creating chaos within the medical facility. The incident unfolded approximately at 5:40 a.m. when hospital staff urgently summoned police to a ward following reports of a stabbing attack.

    According to official accounts, medical personnel alerted officers to a critical situation where a male patient had allegedly assaulted another patient with a weapon. As law enforcement personnel responded to the emergency call, the suspect reportedly turned aggressive toward the responding officers. The situation escalated dramatically when the individual allegedly charged at one of the officers with a weapon, prompting the law enforcement official to discharge their service firearm in response to the perceived threat.

    The wounded patient received immediate medical attention at the same hospital where the violent episode occurred. Hospital authorities have coordinated with law enforcement officials while maintaining normal operations despite the morning’s dramatic events. The Jamaica Constabulary Force has initiated standard protocol investigations into the officer’s use of force, while hospital administration reviews security procedures following the breach of safety within their facilities.

    This incident highlights the challenging environment healthcare workers and law enforcement face when managing violent situations within medical settings, where protocol demands balancing public safety with patient care responsibilities. The investigation continues as authorities work to determine the exact sequence of events that led to the shooting.

  • Rose Heights residents stage another protest over lack of water

    Rose Heights residents stage another protest over lack of water

    For the second time in less than a week, residents of Rose Heights in Montego Bay have taken dramatic action to protest severe water shortages plaguing their community. On Monday, frustrated citizens blocked Forty-One Boulevard—the main access route into the area—using assorted debris to demand immediate resolution to what they describe as an intolerable situation.

    Local accounts reveal the crisis has persisted for months, with some households reporting complete absence of running water for three to four consecutive months. The paradox of receiving water bills despite nonexistent service has further inflamed tensions. One resident displayed a National Water Commission (NWC) bill for $16,000, declaring, “We are going to use our bodies to block the road” until their demands are met.

    Councillor Arthur Lynch of the Montego Bay South East Division acknowledged the severity of the issue, confirming that water distribution remains inconsistent across different sections of Rose Heights. While some areas receive limited supply, others face complete deprivation. Lynch revealed he has engaged with NWC representatives, who expressed inability to address the infrastructure problems due to the ongoing civil unrest. Utility officials have indicated they await decreased tensions before deploying crews to assess and regularize water distribution.

    The councillor emphasized his ongoing efforts to mediate solutions, stating: “I want to say again to residents we understand your frustration, we understand the issues, and I am working assiduously to see how best we can come up with some amicable solutions.” Despite these assurances, residents remain determined to continue demonstrations until tangible improvements materialize, highlighting a critical breakdown in essential service provision that transcends mere inconvenience and threatens basic living conditions.

  • Mt Pleasant FA and Cavalier move up in JPL tables

    Mt Pleasant FA and Cavalier move up in JPL tables

    The Jamaica Premier League witnessed a significant shift in its competitive landscape this Sunday as perennial contenders Mount Pleasant FA and Cavalier SC secured crucial victories, narrowing the championship gap to just four points behind league leaders Racing United. Both clubs now stand at 22 points following their respective 1-0 triumphs, setting the stage for an intensified title pursuit in the coming weeks.

    At Jarrett Park, Mount Pleasant FA claimed their sixth seasonal victory against Montego Bay United through a decisive 47th-minute strike from Raheem Edwards. Head coach Theodore Whitmore characterized the win as “very important,” emphasizing that “three points today were necessary” given their position in the standings and games in hand. The match proved particularly challenging for Montego Bay United, marking their first consecutive defeats this season amid ongoing recovery efforts following Hurricane Melissa.

    Simultaneously, Cavalier SC broke their winless streak against Harbour View FC with Christopher Ainsworth’s 66th-minute goal, reversing their first-round stalemate. Harbour View’s struggles continued as they extended their winless run to four matches, dropping to 10th position in the league tables.

    In other Sunday fixtures, St Catherine Police FC continued their impressive form with a 1-0 victory over promoted side Treasure Beach FC. Jordan Elliston secured the win with his 51st-minute goal, replicating his match-winning performance against Waterhouse FC two rounds prior. The match concluded with Treasure Beach reduced to 10 players after Jahiem Harris received a red card in the 84th minute.

    Molynes United further distanced themselves from relegation concerns with a 2-0 win over Waterhouse FC, avenging their first-round loss. Nickache Murray opened the scoring in the 43rd minute before substitute Wisdom Ubani sealed the victory in the 71st minute. In a surprising development, Portmore United missed their opportunity to reclaim the top spot after being held to a goalless draw by Dunbeholden FC.

  • NEL recovers from loss with $15.3m profit

    NEL recovers from loss with $15.3m profit

    NATIONAL Enterprises Ltd (NEL) has demonstrated exceptional financial resilience by posting a $15.3 million profit after tax, marking a dramatic 104% recovery from previous unrealized fair value losses. The company’s strategic maneuvers have yielded impressive operational efficiencies, reducing expenses by 9% while simultaneously boosting dividend income by 14% to $129 million from $113 million.

    The energy investment firm reported robust cash reserves of $172 million in cash and equivalents, underscoring its strengthened financial position. This turnaround was significantly propelled by the resurgent performance of NGC and TTLNG—formerly components of Atlantic LNG train one—now integrated into the restructured unified ALNG operation encompassing trains two through four.

    Executive Director David Robinson emphasized the company’s steadfast commitment to shareholder value despite persistent global market volatility, geopolitical tensions, and irregular gas supply patterns. “Our sustained resilience against multifaceted challenges validates both the durability of our core assets and our capacity to capitalize on emerging value-creation opportunities,” Robinson stated. He further expressed confidence that this performance breakthrough establishes a foundation for delivering consistent shareholder returns across both immediate and extended timeframes.

    Beyond financial metrics, NEL reinforced its community engagement through comprehensive corporate social responsibility initiatives targeting education, youth development, social welfare, and cultural programs. The company’s strategic investments included financial literacy campaigns, educational fundraising support, and entrepreneurship incubators, reflecting its dedication to empowering future generations and enriching community ecosystems.

    The 2024 dividend distribution reached $156 million, equivalent to $0.26 per share, with a trailing dividend yield of 7.3%—ranking among the most competitive returns on the local exchange and outperforming comparable market benchmarks.

  • Council commends clean THA election campaign so far

    Council commends clean THA election campaign so far

    The Council for Responsible Political Behaviour has issued commendations to political parties participating in Tobago’s January 12 elections for their commitment to maintaining campaign integrity. In a December 28 media release following its first weekly monitoring session, the Council acknowledged the parties’ declared intentions to conduct a clean electoral process.

    Despite the positive assessment, the Council revealed that only two of the four invited political parties attended the live televised signing ceremony of the Code of Ethical Political Conduct held in Tobago on December 23. The organization has maintained an open invitation for all parties to endorse the code regardless of their initial participation.

    The Council identified emerging concerns regarding social media conduct that potentially violates ethical standards. While acknowledging its limited capacity to monitor digital platforms, the watchdog has encouraged public vigilance and reporting of potential code violations through designated channels including WhatsApp (793-4505) and email (info@politicalethicstt.org).

    The established code mandates that parties and supporters adhere to fundamental ethical principles including: prohibition of discrimination based on race, ethnicity, sex, gender, class, or religion; avoidance of false or defamatory allegations against parties or candidates; refraining from character assassination attempts; and respecting the private lives of candidates and their families unrelated to public activities. Comprehensive information regarding the code and potential violations is accessible through the Council’s official website at www.politicalethicstt.org.

  • Santa Cruz councillor commends Likkle Miss Foundation for container home donation

    Santa Cruz councillor commends Likkle Miss Foundation for container home donation

    In the wake of Hurricane Melissa’s devastation, substantial humanitarian aid has reached vulnerable residents in Burnt Savannah, St Elizabeth. The Likkle Miss Foundation, under the leadership of Miss Alexander, has executed a comprehensive relief initiative targeting senior citizens whose homes suffered catastrophic damage during the Category 5 storm.

    Local Councillor Christopher Williams publicly commended the foundation’s efforts through his official Facebook channel. The philanthropic organization delivered a fully equipped container home to Hopie Luton, an elderly resident whose property was completely destroyed by the hurricane’s impact. In a parallel assistance measure, another senior citizen identified as Miss Brown received complete building materials for constructing a new concrete residence including bathroom facilities.

    The foundation’s relief operations extended beyond primary housing solutions. Additional senior households received critical roofing materials to repair storm-damaged homes, alongside practical support including mattress provisions, food supplies, drinking water, and solar-powered lighting systems. Councillor Williams acknowledged the coordinated efforts of multiple donor organizations that have mobilized recovery resources throughout the affected region, highlighting the community’s collaborative spirit in post-disaster rehabilitation.

    This intervention represents a significant step in addressing the long-term housing challenges exacerbated by extreme weather events, particularly for Jamaica’s most vulnerable demographic groups. The strategic allocation of both temporary and permanent housing solutions demonstrates a nuanced approach to disaster recovery that balances immediate needs with sustainable rebuilding efforts.

  • Haiti’s PM reiterates no negotiations with criminal gangs

    Haiti’s PM reiterates no negotiations with criminal gangs

    PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti – Haitian Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé has issued a firm declaration that the provisional government will not engage in negotiations with criminal gangs attempting to overthrow the state. The uncompromising stance came during his Sunday visit to the Haitian National Police (PNH) headquarters in Clercine, a metropolitan area near the airport known for significant gang activity.

    Accompanied by Justice Minister Patrick Pélissier, Secretary of State for Public Security Mario Andrésol, and senior police officials, Fils-Aimé emphasized that “the Government’s fight is against gangs. The Government’s fight is to secure the country. The state will not compromise. The state will not negotiate with criminals.”

    The visit formed part of a broader mobilization of state security forces, including the PNH, Haitian Armed Forces (FAd’H), and the specialized Gang Suppression Force (FRG), all engaged in a coordinated offensive against armed criminal groups threatening national security.

    During the inspection, Fils-Aimé expressed official gratitude to the U.S. State Department’s Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) for donating 25 armored personnel carriers. This strategic equipment is expected to enhance operational capabilities, protect deployed units, and strengthen law enforcement intervention power against criminal elements.

    The Prime Minister asserted that this reinforcement would enable security forces to gradually reclaim territories occupied by armed groups and ensure long-term population security. He emphasized that restoring security constitutes a prerequisite for returning to constitutional order, with 2026 targeted for organizing general elections and renewing political institutions.

    Haiti continues to grapple with a multidimensional crisis characterized by rampant gang violence, political instability, and humanitarian disaster. Criminal groups have utilized sexual violence as a terror tactic, disrupted food supplies causing widespread hunger, displaced over 362,000 people, and overwhelmed international aid efforts.

    United Nations officials maintain that while security measures are necessary, they alone cannot resolve Haiti’s crisis. They emphasize that political solutions, credible elections, and sustained economic support remain crucial for achieving lasting stability.

    Outgoing CARICOM Chairman and Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness noted in his year-end message that the 15-member regional bloc has sustained advocacy for increased international support for Haiti. These efforts have kept the crisis on the global agenda and contributed to the UN Security Council resolution establishing the Gang Suppression Force, partially funded by United Nations resources.

    “CARICOM is now a key partner in the tripartite coordination of the Organisation of American States’ Roadmap toward Stability and Peace in Haiti, and we look forward with optimism to the preparations for free and fair elections in 2026,” Holness stated.

  • Mechanical issues halt TT Spirit sailings

    Mechanical issues halt TT Spirit sailings

    Trinidad and Tobago’s inter-island ferry service is facing significant operational disruptions following the abrupt withdrawal of the TT Spirit vessel from service. The Trinidad and Tobago Inter-Island Transportation Company Ltd (TTIT) announced on December 29 that all scheduled sailings aboard the TT Spirit have been canceled indefinitely due to pressing mechanical complications requiring urgent repairs.

    The transportation company confirmed that this development compounds existing service challenges, as the APT James vessel remains concurrently out of operation. To mitigate the impact on inter-island connectivity, TTIT has implemented contingency measures utilizing its remaining operational vessels.

    The Buccoo Reef and Galleons Passage ferries will maintain transportation services between Trinidad and Tobago with revised sailing schedules effective December 29 and 30. These adjustments aim to sustain essential passenger and vehicular movement amid the reduced fleet capacity.

    TTIT officials have urged the traveling public to monitor official channels for schedule updates, arrive at terminals ahead of intended departure times, and adhere strictly to instructions from port and vessel staff. The company has extended apologies for inconveniences caused and expressed gratitude for passengers’ continued patience and cooperation during this service interruption.

    Travelers seeking additional information may contact customer service at Port of Spain: 467-5072 or Scarborough: 467-5330/467-5117 for assistance.

  • Dr Ronald Henry’s Moses Revealed: When science meets scripture

    Dr Ronald Henry’s Moses Revealed: When science meets scripture

    Dr. Ronald Henry, a 71-year-old distinguished cardiologist and Chaconia Medal (Silver) recipient, has unveiled his interdisciplinary work ‘Moses Revealed’ that synthesizes biblical narratives with archaeological evidence and historical research. The book launch event at Hilton on October 29 featured Education Minister Dr. Michael Dowlath as keynote speaker, celebrating this unique contribution to religious scholarship.

    Henry’s publication offers a comprehensive re-examination of Moses’ life journey—from his royal Egyptian upbringing to his pivotal role in Abrahamic traditions. Unlike conventional religious interpretations, the 89-page volume employs Egyptological research and hieroglyphic translations to contextualize the biblical account within ancient Egyptian culture and belief systems.

    The cardiologist’s two-decade intellectual journey began during a visit to Egypt where he observed striking parallels between ancient Egyptian concepts of resurrection and Christian doctrines. This realization prompted extensive research into German Egyptologist Jan Assmann’s works, particularly ‘The Search for God in Ancient Egypt,’ which fundamentally reshaped Henry’s understanding of religious evolution.

    A critical COVID-19 infection in December 2023 provided unexpected impetus for completion. During hospitalization, Henry discovered his manuscript’s resonance when a male nurse responded enthusiastically to aloud readings. This experience convinced him to reframe the narrative through Moses’ perspective as ‘an icon of modern man’s dilemma between faith and knowledge.’

    Education Minister Dowlath praised the work as exemplifying lifelong learning, noting its diagnostic precision and human-centered storytelling. Henry characterizes his Moses as ‘more Spiderman than Superman’—a complex figure navigating between Egyptian scientific education and divine calling, mirroring contemporary professionals balancing reason with spiritual seeking.

    The book is available at Paper Based Bookshop (St. Clair), Unique Book Stores nationwide, and Amazon. Henry has already committed to two subsequent publications, maintaining that ‘education should humble us to recognize how much we don’t know.’

  • British boxer Anthony Joshua injured in Nigeria car crash — reports

    British boxer Anthony Joshua injured in Nigeria car crash — reports

    LAGOS, Nigeria — Boxing superstar Anthony Joshua narrowly escaped tragedy Monday when his vehicle was involved in a catastrophic highway collision that claimed two lives on the busy Lagos-Ibadan expressway.

    According to multiple sources including the boxer’s promoter and Nigerian police officials, the former heavyweight world champion was traveling in a two-vehicle convoy when his car collided with a truck. The impact resulted in the immediate fatalities of two individuals seated near Joshua, though the British-Nigerian athlete emerged without life-threatening injuries.

    Eddie Hearn, Joshua’s promoter, confirmed to Daily Mail Sport that the boxer had been on a family vacation in Nigeria at the time of the incident. “We awoke to the news of this incident and are currently attempting to establish direct contact with Anthony,” Hearn stated. “While we refrain from speculation regarding his condition, visual evidence suggests he has emerged relatively unscathed from this terrible accident.”

    Circulating social media images depicted a shirtless Joshua surrounded by shattered window glass within the vehicle’s interior, though the athlete appeared conscious and alert following the collision. Witness Adeniyi Orojo informed Punch newspaper that Joshua had been seated behind his driver when the crash occurred.

    The timing of this incident comes during a period of career resurgence for the 2012 Olympic champion. Earlier this month, Joshua delivered a spectacular knockout victory against YouTube personality turned boxer Jake Paul during a Netflix-broadcast event in Miami. The British heavyweight is scheduled to face compatriot Tyson Fury in a highly anticipated match next year, following his September 2023 loss to Daniel Dubois.

    Nigerian authorities have launched a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding the fatal accident, though no official statements regarding potential causes have been released.