The St. Catherine Parish Court in Jamaica has returned to normal operations after a brief closure on Wednesday prompted by a bomb threat. The Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) swiftly responded to the situation, conducting a thorough search of the premises. Following a meticulous inspection, authorities confirmed that no explosive devices or threats were found, allowing the court to resume its afternoon sessions without further delay. The Court Administration Division (CAD) expressed gratitude to the court staff, users, and the general public for their understanding and cooperation during the temporary disruption. This incident highlights the importance of vigilance and preparedness in ensuring public safety, particularly in high-traffic institutions like courts. While the threat proved unfounded, the swift response by law enforcement underscores the effectiveness of Jamaica’s emergency protocols in handling potential security risks.
分类： society
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Jamaican Olympian Danusia Francis welcomes baby boy
KINGSTON, Jamaica — Celebrations are in order for Jamaican Olympic gymnast Danusia Francis and her husband, Elliot Reid, as they joyfully announced the arrival of their first child, a baby boy. The couple shared their exciting news on Wednesday through Francis’ Instagram stories, where she posted a heartwarming photo of their newborn accompanied by the caption, “23/09/2025 Our baby boy was born.” In a subsequent post, Francis unveiled a tender maternity photo alongside her husband, proudly introducing their son with the words, “Welcome baby boy Reid to the world.”
Danusia Francis, who represented Jamaica at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, tied the knot with Elliot Reid in 2022 in the United Kingdom. The birth of their son marks a new chapter in their lives, blending their personal joy with the pride of their growing family. Fans and well-wishers from around the globe have flooded social media with congratulatory messages, celebrating this milestone with the couple.
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Former Miss Jamaica Universe contestant found dead at home
KINGSTON, Jamaica—A tragic incident has shaken the nation as Tyra Spaulding, a former contestant in the Miss Universe Jamaica 2023 pageant, was discovered deceased at her residence on Tuesday evening. The 26-year-old was found hanging from her bed frame with a pink curtain around her neck, according to reports. The Jamaica Constabulary Force’s Corporate Communications Network (CCN) confirmed the incident occurred around 6:55 pm, and authorities are currently investigating the case as a suspected suicide. Spaulding, who was known for her advocacy in mental health and suicide prevention, leaves behind a legacy of raising awareness on critical issues. Her untimely death has sparked conversations about the importance of mental health support and the challenges faced by individuals in the public eye.
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Family Life Commission urges parishioners to recognize clergy on World Priest Day
As World Priest Day approaches on Sunday, September 28, the Family Life Commission of the Diocese of Roseau is urging parishioners and the broader community to honor and celebrate the contributions of priests and deacons. This annual event, observed globally on the last Sunday of September for the past 24 years, is being celebrated for the first time within the Diocese of Roseau, according to a press release from the commission. The occasion holds special significance this year as the diocese marks 175 years of evangelization, providing a poignant backdrop for the jubilee celebrations. The Family Life Commission encourages the community to express heartfelt appreciation for the clergy in meaningful and personal ways, highlighting their indispensable role in fostering faith and community life. The release emphasized the profound connection between families and priests, stating that without families, there would be no priests, and without priests, the celebration of Mass and the sustenance of faith would not be possible. The commission extended its gratitude to all priests and deacons, both current and former, for their dedication and service, urging the community to affirm and appreciate their clergy like never before.
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Free course on ‘Designing policy frameworks for agricultural carbon markets’ now open for registration
A groundbreaking initiative titled ‘Designing Policy Frameworks for Agricultural Carbon Markets’ has been launched to promote sustainable agricultural practices across Latin America and the Caribbean. This innovative program, developed by the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA), represents the first of its kind in the region, focusing on the critical intersection of agriculture and climate policy. The course is designed as a flexible, self-paced online program, available free of charge in both Spanish and English. It aims to strengthen the institutional capacities of government officials, advisors, and regulatory bodies by equipping them with in-depth knowledge of agricultural carbon markets and their role in achieving national climate goals. Participants will learn to develop robust regulatory frameworks that ensure integrity and credibility, fostering private investment without imposing financial strain on governments. The curriculum also highlights the importance of social safeguards and inclusivity, ensuring that small and medium-sized farmers can actively participate in and benefit from these emerging markets. Registration for the course is now open, with links provided for both English and Spanish speakers.
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Three women charged in RAM Supermarket larceny case
In a significant development in St. Kitts, three women have been formally charged in connection with a larceny incident at the renowned RAM’s Supermarket in Frigate Bay. The alleged thefts occurred on September 13 and 14, 2025, though specific details of the stolen items remain undisclosed by authorities. The arrests unfolded over several days, beginning with Althea France of Bird Rock, who was apprehended on September 17 and charged with two counts of larceny at the Basseterre Police Station. Marsha Graham of Shadwell was arrested on September 18 and later charged for her involvement in the September 14 incident. Shermain Paul of Spooners, Cayon, was arrested on September 19 and faced four charges—two for larceny and two for receiving stolen goods. Police investigations are ongoing, with further updates expected as the case progresses.
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NIA Department of Gender Affairs Calls for 2025 Men’s Month Award Nominations
The Department of Gender Affairs under the Nevis Island Administration (NIA) has officially launched the nomination process for the 2025 International Men’s Month Awards. Scheduled to take place under the theme “Power • Purpose • Perspective – Shaping a Positive Future for Caribbean Men,” the event aims to celebrate men who have made significant contributions to the development of Nevis and the broader Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis. The awards will honor individuals across various fields, including Education, Climate-Friendly Small Business, Community Activism, Creative Economy, Human Services, Law and Security, and Culinary Arts. Nominations are open to the public and can be submitted via an online form or by scanning a QR code on the official flyer. The deadline for submissions is October 29, 2025. The Department of Gender Affairs is calling for widespread participation to recognize the achievements of men who are shaping a brighter future for the Caribbean region.
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Dominican beaches overwhelmed by sargassum, citizens demand action
The Dominican Republic is grappling with a severe sargassum crisis, as vast quantities of the invasive seaweed have inundated its beaches, prompting widespread concern among citizens and environmental groups. Over the weekend, social media was flooded with images of popular coastal areas like Boca Chica, where once-clear waters have turned murky brown under layers of algae. This environmental disaster threatens not only the nation’s tourism industry but also local fishing communities and marine biodiversity.
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Update: Police provide update on two recent shooting incidents
In a recent development, the Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force (RSCNPF) has provided an update on two separate shooting incidents that occurred on September 18, 2025, leaving two men injured. The victims have been identified as Keszron Duporte of Halfway Tree and Leon “Copper” Didder of Nisbett Settlement, Newcastle.
The first incident took place in Halfway Tree, St. Kitts, between 10:00 and 10:30 a.m. According to preliminary investigations, Duporte was driving towards Basseterre when a black jeep pulled alongside his vehicle and the driver opened fire. Duporte sustained a gunshot wound to his right forearm and was treated at the Joseph N. France General Hospital before being discharged.
The second shooting occurred earlier that same morning on Nevis, between 8:00 and 8:30 a.m. Didder was reportedly confronted by two masked and armed men as he approached his vehicle in Newcastle. The suspects fired multiple shots, hitting him in the left upper arm and forearm. Despite his injuries, Didder managed to escape and was transported by private vehicle to the Alexandra Hospital, where he received treatment and was later discharged.
The RSCNPF has confirmed that investigations into both incidents are still ongoing. Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward to assist in the investigations.
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Offerings from the Homeland for a son fallen in the line of duty
In a solemn ceremony held in Taguasco, Sancti Spíritus, Cuba paid tribute to Captain Leonel Mesa Rodríguez of the National Revolutionary Police (PNR), who tragically lost his life in the line of duty. The farewell was marked by the presence of high-ranking officials, including Army General Raúl Castro Ruz and President Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez, who sent floral wreaths to honor the fallen officer. The event was also attended by Political Bureau member and Interior Minister Lázaro Alberto Álvarez Casas, along with local Party leaders, family members, and colleagues.
First Colonel Eddy Sierra Arias, head of the PNR, delivered a heartfelt eulogy, praising Captain Mesa Rodríguez for his unwavering commitment, dedication to public safety, and tireless fight against crime. Throughout his distinguished career, Captain Mesa Rodríguez earned numerous accolades, including medals for his service in Ethiopia and for his long-standing contributions to the PNR. His legacy is further cemented by the profound respect and affection of the people of Caibarién, where he served with distinction.
In a swift response to the crime, combined forces from the Ministry of the Interior apprehended the suspect responsible for Captain Mesa Rodríguez’s death in Remedios. The arrest led to the recovery of the officer’s service weapon and the knife used in the attack. The detainee will face stringent criminal proceedings, in line with Cuba’s revolutionary justice system, ensuring that the severity of the crime is met with appropriate consequences.
This tragic event underscores the risks faced by law enforcement officers and the collective resolve of the Cuban people to uphold justice and honor their fallen heroes.