Carib Scope

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  • WATCH: Man feared dead after vehicle plunges into river off Lacovia Bridge

    WATCH: Man feared dead after vehicle plunges into river off Lacovia Bridge

    Emergency response teams in St. Elizabeth, Jamaica, are engaged in a critical search operation after a vehicle carrying two individuals plunged into the Black River from the Lacovia Bridge on Friday afternoon. The incident, which occurred around 1:00 pm, has left one man feared dead as rescue divers struggle to locate the submerged car.

    According to local Councillor Christopher Williams of the Jamaica Labour Party (Santa Cruz division), the vehicle was traveling on the Lacovia main road when the driver reportedly lost control upon reaching the bridge, causing it to veer off the road and into the river. The tragedy highlights long-standing safety concerns, as the bridge’s protective railings have been structurally compromised for several years. Councillor Williams confirmed that these existing weaknesses were further exacerbated by the passage of Hurricane Melissa on October 28.

    In a fortunate turn of events, the passenger, identified as the driver’s stepson, managed to escape the sinking vehicle. He sustained significant injuries to his eyes and ears during the ordeal. The young man recounted to authorities that he struggled to release his seatbelt before ultimately deciding to swim to the surface to save himself, leaving the driver behind in the submerged car.

    A multi-agency response is currently underway at the scene, with divers from the Jamaica Fire Brigade and officers from the Jamaica Constabulary Force leading the recovery efforts. The operation now faces the dual challenge of locating the vehicle and its missing occupant in the river’s currents, underscoring the urgent need for infrastructure reassessment in the region.

  • Bond for Arouca TikTok user who threatened PM

    Bond for Arouca TikTok user who threatened PM

    A Trinidadian court has placed a social media user on a three-year bond after she pleaded guilty to threatening Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar in a TikTok video. Alianna Samaroo, 30, from Arouca, received judicial leniency despite admitting to criminal charges under the Emergency Powers Regulations 2025.

    The Chaguanas Magistrates’ Court heard how Samaroo, operating under the username ‘alianna265’, directly addressed Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro in her October 30 post, urging him to execute Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar and members of her Cabinet. The video sparked immediate police investigation and led to her arrest at a Chaguanas apartment following seven days of detention.

    Magistrate Marissa Gomez imposed a $20,000 peace bond requiring Samaroo to maintain good behavior for thirty-six months. The court stipulated that no conviction would be recorded upon successful completion of the bond period, though any violation would result in immediate sentencing proceedings.

    During proceedings, the mother of two delivered a comprehensive apology to both the Prime Minister and the court. ‘I admit that what I said was wrong,’ Samaroo stated. ‘I did not think about how serious those words were before I spoke.’ She expressed shame for her actions and emphasized that she never intended to cause harm or incite violence.

    The case has highlighted increased police monitoring of online activity. Commissioner of Police Allister Guevarro issued a stark warning that social media users making threats would face prosecution regardless of free speech claims. ‘Freedom of expression is a right,’ Guevarro stated, ‘but that freedom ends where criminal conduct begins.’

    This incident represents one of several recent cases involving online threats against public officials. Opposition Senator Dr. Amery Browne recently reported similar threats via Facebook, resulting in multiple charges against the perpetrator. Additionally, authorities arrested a Diego Martin woman in November for allegedly inciting violence against the Prime Minister in separate social media content.

    Samaroo’s legal representation, attorneys Roshni Balkaran and Shiva Boodoo, secured her release on $50,000 bail prior to sentencing. Her mother, Elizabeth Vasquez-Rosales, publicly appealed for forgiveness while expressing hope that the experience would teach her daughter respect for national institutions.

  • Man claims he was held over MP’s missing firearm at bar

    Man claims he was held over MP’s missing firearm at bar

    A resident of Andros has come forward with alarming allegations of police misconduct after being detained for over 24 hours without charge in connection with a missing firearm belonging to a sitting Member of Parliament. Zakari Campbell detailed his ordeal in a widely circulated Facebook post that has sparked significant public concern regarding power dynamics and equal application of the law.

    The incident reportedly began during a Friday night gathering at Round Two bar, where the MP was present with several companions. According to Campbell, the establishment’s manager attempted to close around 2am, but the MP reportedly objected and signaled the DJ to continue playing music. The group remained for approximately another half-hour before departing.

    Campbell emphasized that nothing appeared amiss during the evening’s conclusion: ‘Before leaving the establishment, there was no indication that anything was missing. No one expressed concern. No one searched. No urgency was shown. The night ended without any suggestion that a firearm or any other item was unaccounted for.’

    The situation escalated dramatically on Monday when police officers arrived at Campbell’s workplace and took him into custody. He described the experience as particularly humiliating given his recent employment in a position involving substantial cash transactions. Police executed a search warrant at his residence in his mother’s presence but discovered nothing related to the case.

    Only during interrogation did Campbell learn the missing item was allegedly the MP’s firearm—the first time he claims to have been informed of what exactly was being investigated. He maintained to officers that he had never seen the weapon in question.

    Despite the absence of evidence, Campbell was detained in a cell without formal charges or explanation for over 24 hours. He was finally released at 4:50pm the following day after his mother intervened, reporting that he received no apology upon his release.

    The case has drawn scrutiny from former North Andros MP Carlton Bowleg, who is related to Campbell. Bowleg has raised critical questions about whether the MP’s firearm was properly licensed, why the weapon was allegedly present in the bar establishment, and whether the MP himself faced police questioning. ‘The whole community is concerned as to why he even had a gun inside the place,’ Bowleg stated.

    Law enforcement officials have remained silent on the matter, with Andros police referring inquiries to Chief Superintendent Sheria King, who declined comment. The MP allegedly involved in the incident has not responded to calls or requests for comment, leaving numerous questions unanswered as community concerns continue to mount.

  • Market Bag: Sorrel at $800 a pound, expected to rise above $1,000

    Market Bag: Sorrel at $800 a pound, expected to rise above $1,000

    KINGSTON, Jamaica – A severe supply crunch is driving unprecedented price surges for sorrel, Jamaica’s quintessential Christmas beverage ingredient, with market vendors forecasting costs exceeding $1,000 per pound as holiday demand intensifies.

    With Christmas festivities less than one week away, traditional sorrel drink preparations have created explosive demand while Hurricane Melissa’s agricultural disruption continues to constrain supplies. Coronation Market vendors reported current prices hovering around $800 per pound on Thursday, with further increases inevitable as available stocks diminish.

    Tyrone, a seasoned sorrel vendor, confirmed the market trajectory to Observer Online: ‘This week it’s $800 but prices will rise because supplies will get lesser and lesser.’ The product typically maintains a stable $500 per pound price point throughout most of the year, but some market analysts now project potential spikes to $1,500 per pound given current supply chain challenges.

    Amid the sorrel crisis, shoppers received welcome relief as several other produce items showed significant price reductions. Carrots dropped from $400 to $300 per pound, scallion prices were halved from $800 to $400, and tomatoes declined from $800 to $700 per pound compared to previous week’s levels.

    The market fluctuations underscore the complex interplay between seasonal traditions, climate-related agricultural disruptions, and holiday economic patterns in Jamaica’s vibrant produce markets.

  • Lean times lead to high demand for food hampers

    Lean times lead to high demand for food hampers

    Trinidad and Tobago is experiencing an unprecedented surge in demand for essential food assistance, overwhelming charitable organizations and community initiatives during the holiday season. Multiple aid providers report exhausting their supplies within hours of distribution, highlighting a deepening socioeconomic crisis affecting vulnerable populations across the nation.

    Archbishop Charles Jason Gordon emphasized the critical importance of tangible support during these challenging times, noting that while spiritual comfort matters, practical assistance carries profound significance for struggling families. His organization distributed 750 food hampers in Beetham and Sea Lots communities on December 18, with outreach extending to remote areas including Toco and La Horquetta. The Archbishop observed that this year’s economic difficulties have created particularly severe circumstances, making traditional Christmas giving initiatives more vital than ever.

    The Salvation Army faces similar challenges, with Divisional Commander Major Chris Matthias reporting a ‘very serious uptick’ in assistance requests. The organization distributed 600 hampers from its Port of Spain office alone, with additional distributions occurring nationwide. Matthias identified recent layoffs and economic pressures as primary drivers behind the increased demand, noting that ‘need knows no season’ despite the traditional focus on holiday charity.

    Corporate donation declines have exacerbated the situation, according to Salvation Army advisory board member Paula Stowe. She appealed for continued support from both corporations and individuals, emphasizing that reduced contributions directly translate to fewer households receiving essential assistance. The organization purchases basic supplies through donations from its Red Kettle initiative, corporate partners, and mail-in exercises.

    Meanwhile, comedian Rhea-Simone ‘Simmy De Trini’ Auguste has developed an innovative approach to assistance through social media crowdsourcing. She has observed increased requests throughout the year, particularly during August back-to-school periods and the current Christmas season. Her method utilizes grocery gift cards from Bel Air Stores, providing recipients with dignity of choice while addressing practical challenges of transportation and storage. This approach also reduces waste by accommodating specific family needs, including medical requirements and dietary restrictions.

    The widespread reports from official charities and grassroots organizers alike paint a concerning picture of economic distress affecting diverse demographics across Trinidad and Tobago, suggesting systemic challenges that extend beyond seasonal assistance needs.

  • ‘I don’t know if I’m going make it’

    ‘I don’t know if I’m going make it’

    A Nassau mother is confronting what she anticipates will be the most agonizing holiday season of her life following the brutal murder of her teenage son just weeks before Christmas. Shanique Griffiths, mother of 17-year-old Javaughn Deveaux, expressed her profound grief in an emotional interview with The Tribune, stating she doubts her ability to endure the coming days.

    The devastating tragedy unfolded on December 8 when Deveaux’s body was discovered on a dirt road off Gladstone Road with severe injuries to his head and upper torso. The incident marked the nation’s 80th homicide for the year according to official records, with authorities subsequently charging a 15-year-old male in connection with the killing.

    Griffiths recounted how she and her son had been actively planning Christmas portrait sessions mere weeks before his death—joyful preparations that have now become painful reminders of his absence. The grieving mother revealed that Deveaux had secretly planned to surprise her by introducing his girlfriend, a revelation she only learned after his tragic passing.

    As the holiday approaches, Griffiths has abandoned all traditional celebrations. The mother of three, who also has daughters aged four and ten, described having no motivation for holiday preparations including hair appointments, nail treatments, or purchasing new clothing. She has requested solitude during the holidays, allowing relatives to take her daughters while she processes her immeasurable loss.

    The bond between mother and son was exceptionally close, with Deveaux described as a gentle and supportive presence who consistently comforted his mother during stressful moments. The CI Gibson High School student was scheduled to graduate next year and aspired to pursue a career in law enforcement.

    Griffiths poignantly recalled her son’s habit of reassuring her during difficult times, including recent words of comfort while she was hospitalized. The memory now serves as both comfort and anguish following his sudden death. The grieving mother noted that despite previous family losses, including a sister and grandfather, the pain of losing her child transcends all previous experiences.

    The depth of her grief manifests in heartbreaking details throughout her home—particularly the uneaten food still waiting in the refrigerator that she prepared for her son’s return. Unable to discard these final remnants of his presence, Griffiths navigates what she describes as ‘the worst feeling ever’ while seeking justice for her murdered son.

  • CAD reassures public that court records remain fully intact after Hurricane Melissa

    CAD reassures public that court records remain fully intact after Hurricane Melissa

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Jamaica’s judicial administration has confirmed the complete preservation of all court records following the devastating impact of Hurricane Melissa, leveraging robust digital and physical protection systems to prevent any loss of critical legal documents.

    Kadiesh Jarrett-Fletcher, Director of Client Services, Communications and Information at the Court Administration Division (CAD), provided explicit assurances to concerned citizens regarding the integrity of judicial materials. “We recognize public apprehension about case files, particularly for ongoing legal proceedings,” Jarrett-Fletcher stated in an interview with JIS News. “Our integrated approach combining electronic archiving with physical safeguards has successfully protected all court records despite the hurricane’s severity.”

    The administration is concurrently addressing technological challenges arising from storm-related disruptions. Judicial facilities maintained operational continuity through backup power systems, with officials ensuring continuous generator refueling to sustain electricity-dependent operations. “Our preparedness included emergency power provisions at most court locations, enabling maintained functionality during grid outages,” Jarrett-Fletcher explained.

    Progress in restoring regular services continues as power returns to western parish towns where numerous courts operate, gradually reducing dependence on temporary power solutions. The strategic deployment of Starlink satellite internet systems has further enhanced connectivity restoration efforts across affected jurisdictions.

    While acknowledging persistent connectivity challenges, Jarrett-Fletcher expressed measured optimism about recovery progress: “We’re effectively managing remaining technological limitations through satellite solutions and restoring conventional service providers. The judiciary is steadily progressing toward full operational normalcy.”

    The CAD maintains ongoing surveillance of all judicial facilities nationwide to guarantee uninterrupted public access to justice services while continuing post-hurricane recovery operations.

  • On the right PATH

    On the right PATH

    In a significant response to Hurricane Melissa’s devastation, the Jamaican Government has reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining uninterrupted social welfare payments while deploying enhanced financial support for the nation’s most vulnerable populations. The Programme of Advancement Through Health and Education (PATH), Jamaica’s flagship social protection initiative, continues its December disbursements without disruption despite widespread infrastructure damage from the October 28 storm.

    The Ministry of Labour and Social Security, in partnership with UNICEF, is deploying an additional J$187.2 million in targeted assistance ahead of the Christmas season. This emergency allocation includes J$151 million dedicated to 40,000 children enrolled in PATH and substantial support for 1,500 children with disabilities—providing critical relief to families grappling with the hurricane’s aftermath.

    Portfolio Minister Pearnel Charles Jr., addressing the Jamaica Observer Press Club on Thursday, emphasized the deliberate measures implemented to ensure continuity of payments. “Melissa did not determine its path based on your vulnerability. Everybody gets hit,” Charles Jr. noted, explaining that the ministry recognized how the disaster amplified existing challenges for PATH beneficiaries.

    The government has implemented innovative solutions to overcome access barriers created by damaged infrastructure. Where traditional payment collection points became inaccessible, alternative locations were established through post offices and remittance agencies. The ministry simultaneously commenced December payments while reissuing uncollected cheques from October and November.

    Audrey Deer-Williams, Chief Technical Director for the Social Security Division, confirmed temporary waivers of program compliance requirements. Beneficiaries unable to meet school attendance or other conditions due to hurricane-related disruptions will still receive full entitlements—a compassionate adjustment acknowledging extraordinary circumstances.

    Beyond financial assistance, the ministry’s comprehensive response includes material support and psychosocial care. Social workers have distributed emergency packages, mattresses, and other essentials to pensioners, persons with disabilities, and PATH beneficiaries who suffered property or livelihood losses. Minister Charles Jr. highlighted the psychological dimension of recovery, explaining that assessments intentionally accommodate trauma processing: “People need us not just to provide them with a package, but as a sort of conduit for them to release and ventilate a lot of the trauma.”

    The multilayered approach demonstrates Jamaica’s commitment to both immediate relief and sustainable recovery, ensuring that social protection systems remain resilient during natural disasters while addressing both physical and emotional needs of affected communities.

  • Prisoner dies in police custody

    Prisoner dies in police custody

    Authorities in the Bahamas have initiated a comprehensive investigation following the death of a 35-year-old detainee during a physical confrontation with police officers at Fox Hill Police Station. The incident occurred yesterday morning as officers attempted to transport the man from his cell to a scheduled court appearance.

    The individual, who had been held for two days on burglary charges, reportedly resisted officers’ efforts to remove him from his cell around 10am. According to Assistant Commissioner of Police Anton Rahming, who addressed media outside the station, the situation escalated when the detainee became aggressive and refused to comply with instructions to proceed to court.

    Initial attempts by two officers to restrain the man proved insufficient, prompting calls for additional assistance. During the subsequent struggle to subdue and handcuff the detainee, officers noted he suddenly became unresponsive. Emergency Medical Services were immediately summoned to the facility, but personnel pronounced the man deceased at the scene.

    ACP Rahming emphasized that the force applied was consistent with standard procedures for managing resistant individuals, noting the detainee had demonstrated aggressive behavior earlier that morning. Preliminary observations revealed no visible injuries or signs of vomiting prior to the man becoming unresponsive. Police records indicated no known medical conditions, though this will form part of the ongoing investigation.

    The coroner has been notified and a postmortem examination will be conducted to establish the exact cause of death. Authorities are also attempting to contact the deceased’s relatives while reviewing the circumstances surrounding the incident. ACP Rahming confirmed that no medical personnel are routinely stationed at the Fox Hill facility.

  • Legal light at last!

    Legal light at last!

    In a landmark development for urban infrastructure, the Riverton Meadows community in St Andrew Western witnessed a transformative conclusion to its electricity regularization project on Thursday. The Jamaica Public Service Company (JPS), in collaboration with the Jamaica Social Investment Fund (JSIF), successfully integrated over 200 households into the formal power grid through the Riverton Meadows Electricity Access Project.

    The $150-million initiative targeted rampant electricity theft that had plagued the community for decades, causing significant revenue losses and safety hazards. JPS reported experiencing approximately 90% revenue loss in the area prior to intervention, according to Marilyn McDonald, manager of JPS’s Community Renewal Department.

    Resident Rushelle Dubidad expressed profound relief, describing how illegal connections previously destroyed appliances and created financial burdens. “We lost televisions, fridges, you name it. As soon as somebody boosted the power, everything in your house would chip out,” she recounted, noting residents previously paid approximately $30,000 for unauthorized repairs.

    The comprehensive project involved substantial infrastructure upgrades including pole installations, transformer enhancements, and service line improvements totaling $58 million. An additional $37 million was allocated for social intervention programs, while the JPS Foundation contributed $55 million, bringing total investment to $153 million.

    Beyond technical improvements, the initiative included community education on electricity safety, energy conservation, and payment practices. Through partnership with JSIF and the Government of Jamaica, new prepaid customers received over $4,000 monthly electricity credits for six months, totaling $4.8 million in support.

    Anthony Hylton, Member of Parliament for St Andrew Western, acknowledged the extensive lobbying required to demonstrate the community’s need. Pia Baker, JPS senior vice-president of customer and commercial services, emphasized that electricity access represents “opportunity” – enabling children to study safely, preserving food and medicines, and supporting legitimate small businesses.

    The closing ceremony at Riverton Meadows Baptist Church, which included a Christmas treat for children, marked a new chapter of legal connectivity and economic integration for the community.