In the wake of Hurricane Melissa, the Jamaica Customs Agency (JCA) has issued a call to action for individuals planning to donate substantial quantities of relief supplies. The agency emphasizes the importance of collaborating with registered local charities to ensure a streamlined and effective distribution process. Chief Information Officer André Williams clarified that while individuals are allowed to import a ‘reasonable quantity’ of approved relief items, larger shipments, such as 100 pairs of shoes, will be categorized as commercial quantities and require proper coordination with charitable organizations. Williams highlighted that these donations are intended for direct distribution to those in need, not for resale. He pointed out that registered charities, such as Food For the Poor, are exempt from import duties and General Consumption Tax (GCT), making them ideal partners for large-scale donations. The government has extended the duty- and tax-free period for relief supplies until December 31, ensuring that all shipments arriving before this date will benefit from the exemptions. Williams also advised donors of school supplies to work with the National Education Trust (NET), a government agency dedicated to improving Jamaica’s education sector. For healthcare-related donations, he recommended coordinating with the National Healthcare Enhancement Foundation. Williams reassured donors that despite potential logistical challenges during the busy holiday season, all eligible shipments will qualify for the tax relief if they arrive by the extended deadline.
分类： society
-
Rifle among two illegal firearms seized in St James
In a significant operation on Tuesday evening, law enforcement officers in St James, Jamaica, successfully confiscated two illegal firearms in the Wales Pond community. Acting on credible intelligence, the police conducted a targeted search in the area, leading to the discovery of the weapons. The seized items included a high-powered M4 Carbine rifle, accompanied by a magazine loaded with 33 rounds of 5.56 cartridges, and a Para 9mm pistol with a magazine containing 20 rounds of 9mm ammunition. The firearms were found concealed in a red and white bag within an abandoned building. Despite the recovery of these dangerous weapons, no arrests were made during the operation, which took place around 9:00 pm. This seizure underscores the ongoing efforts by the St James police to combat illegal arms proliferation and enhance community safety.
-
Phillipine family beaten, robbed by gunmen
In a harrowing incident that unfolded in the early hours of November 4, a family of seven in south Trinidad was violently awakened by a group of masked gunmen posing as police officers. The ordeal took place around 3 am along the SS Erin Road in Phillipine, a community that is also home to Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar SC. The family, which included five children, was jolted awake by shouts of “Police! Police!” outside their residence. Six armed intruders forcefully kicked open the front door and stormed the house. The attackers demanded money from Vijay Ragoonanan, the homeowner and a gardener by profession. When Ragoonanan informed them he had no money, the assailants struck him multiple times in the face with their firearms. At the time of the attack, Ragoonanan was in a bedroom with his wife and two of their children, including a seven-year-old. The gunmen proceeded to tie the hands of all family members with tie straps and bound their feet with duct tape. They then ransacked the house, making off with an undisclosed amount of cash, cellphones, and other valuables before fleeing the scene. Police from the Southern Division swiftly responded to the incident but were unable to locate the suspects. Investigations into the brazen home invasion are currently ongoing.
-
Embassy of Mexico celebrates life on the Day of the Dead
The Embassy of Mexico in Trinidad and Tobago transformed into a lively hub of culture and tradition on November 1, 2025, as it hosted the annual Day of the Dead celebration at its Hayes Street headquarters in St Clair. The event, rich in symbolism and heritage, featured marigold flowers, candles, and skulls, turning the memory of the departed into a joyous celebration of life and culture. Participants dressed as traditional Catrinas and Catrins added to the festive atmosphere, while dancer Nalini Akal, director of the N9 Dance Company, captivated the audience with a performance inspired by the spiritual essence of the occasion. The Day of the Dead, rooted in pre-Hispanic civilizations like the Mexica, Maya, and Purépecha, merged with Catholic traditions during the Spanish colonization, evolving into a unique cultural expression celebrated on November 1 and 2. Ambassador Víctor Hugo Morales emphasized the event’s significance as a symbol of identity, memory, and hope, dedicating the main altar to flood victims in Mexico and extending solidarity to neighboring Caribbean nations affected by natural disasters. The altar also honored cultural icons like poet Guadalupe ‘Pita’ Amor and wrestler Blue Demon. The celebration included a Calaveritas literary competition, a Mexican wrestling exhibition, and traditional dishes such as tacos de canasta and pan de muerto. Special guests included Senator Darrell Allahar and ambassadors from various countries, making the event a testament to the enduring vibrancy of Mexican culture, even far from home.
-
Prison officer killed, three others injured in brawl outside nightclub
A violent altercation outside a nightclub on Baillou Hill Road has resulted in the death of a prison officer and injuries to three other men, sparking widespread grief and concern in the community. The incident, which occurred in the early hours of Wednesday morning, has left the small community of Lower Bogue, Eleuthera, in mourning. The deceased has been identified as Ashantino Johnson, a correctional officer from the area. According to police reports, the altercation began inside Blu Ice Reloaded, a popular nightclub and restaurant, where a dispute escalated into violence. Three men, aged 21, 23, and 28, were stabbed during the confrontation. As the chaos spilled outside the establishment, a male suspect reportedly engaged in a physical struggle with an off-duty police officer. During the scuffle, the officer’s service weapon was discharged, grazing the suspect in the head. All four men, including the three stabbing victims and the man who was shot, were rushed to the hospital for treatment. Tragically, Johnson, the 23-year-old victim, succumbed to his injuries. Member of Parliament for North Eleuthera, Sylvanus Petty, expressed deep sorrow over the incident, describing it as a tragedy that has profoundly affected the community. Police have confirmed that investigations into the matter are ongoing, as they work to piece together the events that led to this fatal encounter.
-
Omni Industries increasing production of critical construction materials
KINGSTON, Jamaica — In the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, Omni Industries Limited has intensified its production and distribution of critical construction materials, including zinc and PVC pipes, to aid Jamaica’s recovery efforts. Despite the hurricane’s widespread devastation, the company’s facilities at Twickenham Park, St Catherine, experienced only minor disruptions, allowing operations to continue without significant delays.
-
The new Chief Justice: A practitioner’s perspective
In a reflective commentary, Imran S Khan, a seasoned attorney with over 27 years of litigation experience in Trinidad and Tobago, offers a profound analysis of the qualities essential for an effective judicial officer. Khan, who has witnessed the evolution of the legal system amidst societal changes, emphasizes that a judge must embody the highest standards of integrity, humility, and practical legal expertise. He argues that a judge is not merely a role but a sacred duty to uphold justice without bias, impacting lives profoundly with every decision. Khan highlights the necessity for judges to possess real-life legal experience and a deep understanding of societal complexities. He commends Chief Justice Ronnie Boodoosingh for exemplifying these traits, noting his dignified and efficient approach to advancing justice. Khan extends his heartfelt congratulations to Boodoosingh on his appointment, expressing hope that his leadership will benefit the nation. The commentary concludes with the Latin maxim ‘Fiat justitia ruat caelum,’ underscoring the paramount importance of justice.
-
Treasure Bay Estates thrives despite Hurricane Melissa
Bernard St Aubyn Henry, executive chairman of Great Bay Joint Venture Company, has highlighted the proactive measures that safeguarded Treasure Bay Estates in St Elizabeth during Hurricane Melissa. The estate, designed with coastal risks in mind, features elevated lots, reinforced infrastructure, and advanced drainage systems to mitigate storm impacts. Henry emphasized that while no coastal property is entirely risk-free, Treasure Bay Estates combines resilience with lifestyle and investment potential, particularly on Jamaica’s less-developed south coast.
Treasure Bay Estates was conceived to address the demand for high-quality, sustainable coastal living on Jamaica’s south coast. With 130 residential lots averaging a quarter acre each, prices start at approximately US$90,000. If all lots sell at an average of US$100,000, the total land sales value would reach around US$13 million. The estate offers hurricane-resistant architectural plans, 24/7 security, and a range of amenities including a clubhouse, swimming pool, gym, tennis courts, and easy beach access.
Henry also reflected on the community’s resilience during the hurricane, noting how residents of Great Bay and surrounding areas came together to support one another. This spirit of unity reinforced the estate’s commitment to creating value not only in infrastructure but also in fostering a strong community ethos. Treasure Bay Estates stands as a testament to thoughtful planning and the enduring promise of coastal living.
-
FHC Credit Union announces 3-month loan moratorium for members affected by hurricane
KINGSTON, Jamaica — In a significant move to support its members affected by Hurricane Melissa, First Heritage Co-operative Credit Union Limited (FHC) has introduced a three-month moratorium on loan payments. This initiative underscores the credit union’s dedication to its foundational principle of ‘People Helping People.’
Xavier Allen, CEO of FHC, emphasized the organization’s commitment to its members during challenging times. ‘Our members are our priority. This moratorium offers much-needed relief, enabling them to focus on rebuilding their lives and livelihoods,’ he stated.
Eligible members can defer their loan payments for up to three months by contacting their branch representative, completing a moratorium request form, and providing a brief description of the hurricane’s impact, along with any supporting documentation.
In addition to the moratorium, FHC, in collaboration with its subsidiary, FHC Investments, has launched a donation drive. The initiative encourages staff, members, and the public to contribute non-perishable food items and essential supplies to aid national relief efforts. Drop boxes have been strategically placed across FHC branches to facilitate donations.
FHC is also contributing to the Credit Unions of Jamaica’s relief efforts, providing both financial and material support. On November 8 and 9, FHC team members will deliver care packages to severely affected communities in St Elizabeth, Westmoreland, Trelawny, Hanover, and St James.
Michelle Tracey, Assistant General Manager of Marketing Communications and Member Experience, highlighted the initiative’s alignment with the credit union’s ethos. ‘This effort embodies our core belief in community support and reaffirms our role as a reliable financial partner in all circumstances,’ she said.
-
Woman charged in $161,000 drug bust at port Castries
A significant drug interception at Port Castries on October 29, 2025, has led to the arrest of Kermisha Florent, a woman from La Croix, for possessing 5.38 kg of suspected cannabis. The illicit shipment, with an estimated street value of EC$161,000, was discovered during a routine inspection by law enforcement officers. Florent was apprehended on-site and later granted bail of $14,000 when she appeared before the First District Court on November 3, 2025. Her next court appearance is scheduled for December 9. According to police reports, Florent had arrived at the port to clear a shipment when officers inspected a box in her presence, uncovering six concealed packages of suspected cannabis. Inspector Shervon Mathieu, Head of the Gangs, Narcotics, and Firearms Unit, emphasized the critical role of such operations in combating the influx of drugs and weapons into Saint Lucia. ‘The Royal Saint Lucia Police Force remains steadfast in its commitment to public safety,’ he stated. ‘These targeted efforts are essential in reducing illegal firearms, intercepting narcotics, and holding suspects accountable in court.’ This bust is part of a broader initiative by law enforcement to disrupt organized crime and enhance border security through intelligence-led operations at the island’s ports.