In a significant crackdown on illegal drug trafficking, officers from the Special Investigations Unit (SIU) of the North Eastern Division successfully arrested one suspect and confiscated a substantial quantity of marijuana valued at over $4.4 million. The operation, conducted between 6 am and 11 am on Wednesday, was led by Senior Superintendent Edwards, Superintendent Etienne, and Assistant Superintendent Lynch, with crucial support from the Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF). During the mission, law enforcement intercepted a vehicle traveling west along the Churchill Roosevelt Highway, near the Ibis Building opposite Courts. A thorough search of the vehicle revealed 40 packages of compressed Colombian ‘creepy’ marijuana, weighing a total of 20.74 kilograms. Inspector Ammon coordinated the ground operations, leading to the arrest of a male suspect. Investigations into the case are ongoing as authorities aim to dismantle the broader drug network involved.
分类： society
-
I Love Jamaica Telethon raises $65m for Hurricane Melissa relief
KINGSTON, Jamaica — Jamaica’s national recovery initiative for Hurricane Melissa devastation has received an extraordinary financial infusion, with the recently concluded “I Love Jamaica” Telethon generating over $65 million in donations and pledges. The monumental fundraising achievement was confirmed by Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, Olivia “Babsy” Grange.
The virtual benefit concert, broadcast worldwide on Sunday through both traditional media and digital platforms, featured performances by approximately 30 of Jamaica’s most celebrated musical talents spanning reggae, dancehall, and gospel genres. This cross-genre collaboration created a powerful demonstration of cultural solidarity.
Minister Grange disclosed that $45.76 million has already been secured in the official Support Jamaica account, with an additional $19.97 million in committed pledges scheduled for collection in the coming days. The minister expressed profound appreciation for the widespread support from both local and international contributors.
“Our heartfelt gratitude extends to every individual donor across the island and diaspora, corporate Jamaica, and global supporters standing with our communities most severely affected by this catastrophic hurricane,” Minister Grange stated during her address.
The production represented a collaborative endeavor between Jamaica’s entertainment industry and government ministries. Minister Grange specifically acknowledged the extraordinary contributions from performing artists, sports personalities, media broadcasters, and corporate sponsors including Red Stripe and Digicel.
Corporate partners emphasized the telethon’s significance in showcasing national resilience. Sean Wallace, Red Stripe’s Head of Commerce, noted the event highlighted the unwavering strength of Jamaican unity, reaffirming his company’s commitment to long-term community recovery efforts.
Nicholette McFarlane, Digicel’s Head of Marketing, characterized participation as both an honor and privilege, emphasizing the powerful display of global Jamaican solidarity.
The national relief program continues to accept public contributions through official portals at supportjamaica.gov.jm and japromise.org. Additionally, mobile donations are being processed via text messaging system: Text “GIVE” to 876-444-5501 ($150 donation), 876-444-5502 ($1,000 donation), or 876-444-5503 ($5,000 donation).
This telethon marks the initial phase of the broader “I Love Jamaica” fundraising campaign, with planned physical benefit concerts scheduled in international cities with significant Jamaican populations including London, New York, and Miami.
-
WATCH: Clean-up at Santa Cruz Infirmary underway
A comprehensive recovery initiative is currently in progress at the Santa Cruz Infirmary in St. Elizabeth, addressing severe structural damage inflicted by Hurricane Melissa approximately one month ago. The catastrophic weather event resulted in extensive flooding and roof destruction at the facility that provides care for vulnerable residents.
Under the leadership of Local Government Minister Desmond McKenzie, a multi-agency task force convened on Thursday to execute critical clean-up and repair operations. The coordinated effort brought together expertise from the Social Development Commission (SDC), the National Solid Waste Management Authority (NSWMA), and the Jamaica Fire Brigade (JFB).
The infirmary, which typically houses around 50 residents, has implemented temporary co-educational arrangements following substantial devastation to the female ward. This emergency measure has allowed continued operation despite the significant infrastructure challenges.
Matron Bianca Michelle Smith expressed profound gratitude for the governmental response, characterizing the support as emotionally uplifting for both staff and residents. “I am quite elated and happy for the response shown by the minister…especially Minister McKenzie to come and pull together this team to come and fix the infirmary,” Smith stated.
Recounting the traumatic experience during the hurricane, Smith revealed that floodwaters reached waist-level within the facility, creating life-threatening conditions. She credited a collapsed perimeter wall with preventing even greater catastrophe by allowing water to partially drain from the building.
The psychological impact on residents has been substantial, with many experiencing disorientation and distress following the disaster. Smith noted that patients struggled to recognize their transformed living environment and lost personal belongings to flood damage. Nursing staff have provided essential emotional support and counseling alongside physical care, helping residents gradually adapt to their changed circumstances amid ongoing recovery efforts.
-
Priest roused from sleep and robbed in T&T
In the wake of a recent robbery at St. Benedict’s Roman Catholic Church in La Romaine, Trinidad, a local priest has pointed to the erosion of familial values as a key driver behind the island’s escalating crime rates. The incident, which occurred in the early hours of November 24, saw five masked intruders target 69-year-old Father Derek Anton and a 22-year-old security guard. The assailants ransacked the church’s administration building, restrained Fr. Anton, and stole his cellphone, wallet, and a portion of the previous day’s collections before fleeing the scene. Law enforcement later discovered a breach in the property’s wire fence and recovered an envelope containing cash.
Fr. Jayson Grell, a resident priest in San Fernando, spoke to Trinidad and Tobago Newsday, linking the attack to broader societal issues. He emphasized the breakdown of family structures as a root cause of rising violence, including home invasions and kidnappings, not only in Trinidad and Tobago but across the Caribbean and globally. Grell called for a return to gospel principles and urged parents to take a more active role in raising their children. He also questioned the impact of technology on family life and critical thinking, advocating for collective societal introspection to rebuild moral values.
The Archdiocese of Port of Spain confirmed the incident and stated that an investigation is underway, led by PC Mahadeo of the San Fernando Police Station. No arrests have been made yet. This robbery is the latest in a series of crimes targeting clergy members in Trinidad and Tobago, underscoring the urgent need for societal reform.
-
PHARCS brings third Dementia-Friendly Gathering to community this week
In a continued effort to cultivate a more inclusive and supportive environment for individuals impacted by dementia, PHARCS, in partnership with community advocate Tina Alexander, is organizing its third Dementia-Friendly Gathering. Scheduled for Thursday, November 28, 2025, at the PHARCS Morne Daniel center, the event aims to provide a safe and engaging space for senior citizens, including those living with dementia. The gathering will feature a variety of activities designed to foster social interaction, physical engagement, and emotional well-being. Highlights include gentle physical exercises, craft projects, singing, familiar prayers, domino games, dancing, and a guest speaker. Attendees will also have the option to purchase a hot meal, with transportation available for an additional fee. Marie-Therese Junkerre, founder and CEO of PHARCS, emphasized the positive reception of previous events, stating, ‘These gatherings showcase the transformative power of creating spaces where seniors feel included, respected, and loved.’ PHARCS remains committed to advocating for a national dementia strategy and strengthening community partnerships to enhance the quality of life for Dominica’s elderly population. Community members, caregivers, and families of older individuals are encouraged to register early to secure their participation.
-
OPINION: Can Technology Really Help The Caribbean Recover Faster After Disasters?
In the Caribbean, where natural disasters are becoming increasingly severe and frequent, the gap between swift recovery and prolonged suffering often hinges on one critical factor: access to timely and accurate information. Who is affected? How extensive are the damages? Who requires immediate assistance? These questions underscore the urgent need for innovative solutions to transform chaos into coordinated action. The Caribbean Policy Development Centre (CPDC) highlights the potential of technology to address these challenges, but also emphasizes the importance of ensuring equitable access and integration with traditional support systems. Currently, only 21% of community organizations in the region maintain vulnerability data on their members, leaving many at-risk individuals—such as elderly farmers, young fishers, and market vendors—without targeted assistance during crises. Digital tools like shared databases, mobile apps, and SMS-based platforms can help local organizations identify risks and track needs in real time. For instance, cooperatives could use apps to pinpoint members most exposed to flooding, while credit unions could quickly verify eligibility for emergency payouts. However, the digital divide remains a significant barrier. Many women, rural families, and the elderly lack access to smart devices or stable internet, and post-disaster power outages can render digital tools temporarily useless. To bridge this gap, CPDC advocates for a ‘Smart Caribbean’ approach that blends digital tools with traditional methods, ensuring no one is left behind. Technology also plays a crucial role in strengthening Climate and Disaster Risk Finance and Insurance (CDRFI) at the meso level. Parametric insurance, for example, uses weather data triggers to automate payouts, while mobile money transfers and digital surveys enable informal workers to access financial support. Ultimately, recovery must begin before disaster strikes. By combining technology with trusted institutions, the Caribbean can shorten recovery times, target assistance more effectively, and build resilience for the future. CPDC’s research offers a roadmap for integrating technology and CDRFI to protect livelihoods and ensure faster, more equitable recovery.
-
Nederlandse premier bezoekt SAO en prijst vakmanschap bij erfgoedproject
On Srefidensidag, the Stichting Arbeidsmobilisatie en Ontwikkeling (SAO) welcomed a distinguished guest: Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof. His visit was a gesture of appreciation for the craftsmanship of SAO trainees, who have constructed a miniature replica of a traditional Surinamese folk house. This project not only enhances the trainees’ employability in the field of built heritage but also contributes significantly to the preservation of historic wooden buildings in Paramaribo. Prime Minister Schoof was particularly impressed by the trainees’ specialized skills, which make them valuable assistants in restoration projects—a critical need given the many buildings requiring urgent attention. The centerpiece of the visit was ‘Oso Tori Oso,’ a wooden miniature house inspired by a traditional folk dwelling on Mahonylaan. Created by trainees from the Construction, Woodworking, GaWaSa, and Welding departments, the project is part of a broader collaboration involving the Dutch foundation Under the Blue Surface (UBS), SAO, NAKS, and other partners. It intersects heritage, art, theater, and architecture, highlighting Suriname’s unique building styles and the stories behind its iconic wooden houses, which are becoming increasingly rare in Paramaribo. Funded through the Dutch International Cultural Policy, the miniature house initially toured as a traveling exhibition, drawing significant public interest, and now has a permanent home on the SAO grounds. It serves as a tangible reminder of Paramaribo’s 19th and 20th-century streetscapes. Dr. Raj Jadnanansing, Deputy Minister of Health, Welfare, and Labor, who welcomed Prime Minister Schoof, emphasized the importance of sustainable collaboration between Suriname and the Netherlands. He advocated for continued joint projects and exchange programs between SAO and Dutch vocational institutions to enhance the knowledge and skills of students and interns on both sides. SAO Director Joyce Lapar highlighted previous successful collaborations and expressed her ambition to expand the miniature project, including a replica of the former home of Anton de Kom. She hopes for support from the Dutch Embassy and renewed twinning initiatives between the two countries. Prime Minister Schoof assured that SAO remains a key focus in the bilateral cooperation between the Netherlands and Suriname.
-
Credit union’s LIFT Foundation makes first payout, signs inaugural MOU
The LIFT Foundation, an initiative of the City of Bridgetown Credit Union, celebrated two significant achievements on Tuesday during a ceremony held at the C.O.B. Credit Union Boardroom on Lower Broad Street. The event featured the foundation’s first formal cheque presentation and the signing of its inaugural Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with external organizations.
-
Help sought for Brittons Hill resident after heavy rains
An elderly resident of Mission Gap, Brittons Hill, is urgently seeking assistance after her home suffered severe damage during the heavy rains on November 16. Joyce Forde, who has lived in her home her entire life, first noticed cracks in her back wall earlier this year. Concerned about the potential danger, she reached out to Member of Parliament Kirk Humphrey, who visited her home and promised to help. However, months passed without action, and the situation worsened when the back wall collapsed during the recent downpour, leaving Forde and her family exposed to the elements.
Forde recounted the moment of the collapse, stating, ‘I was in the bedroom sitting down, and I just heard a crumble. I thought it was the buffet keys, but when I looked around, it was the wall that caved in.’ Her children quickly arrived and covered the damaged area with a tarpaulin to protect against further leaks.
The following day, Forde contacted Humphrey’s office again. She was informed that a representative from the Urban Development Commission (UDC) would visit to assess the damage. After the inspection, she was advised to find temporary accommodation, with the office offering to cover up to $1,000 in rent. However, Forde expressed concerns about relocating far from her great-grandson’s school and the limited availability of suitable family housing.
Nathaniel Boyce, a Democratic Labour Party candidate for St Michael South, accompanied Forde during a recent visit and highlighted the broader issue of vulnerable residents in the area. ‘There are many elderly individuals in similar situations who rely on government assistance, but it’s not forthcoming,’ he said. Boyce suggested that the government should provide temporary housing solutions while repairs are carried out.
MP Kirk Humphrey acknowledged Forde’s case and confirmed that the UDC had been in contact with her. He stated that the repairs required are substantial and cannot be done while she remains in the house. Humphrey also noted that his office is willing to cover up to $2,000 in rent for temporary accommodation, exceeding the initial offer. He urged Barbadians to assist family members in need, especially the elderly, while criticizing Boyce for politicizing Forde’s situation.
Forde’s plight underscores the challenges faced by vulnerable residents in the aftermath of natural disasters and the need for timely government intervention.
-
Tourism Week 2025 Charity Day Initiative Brings Hope and Support Across Key Care Institutions
The Ministry of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Transportation and Investment, in collaboration with key corporate partners, successfully organized the Tourism Week 2025 Charity Day. This year’s event, themed ‘Our People, Our Culture, Our Environment in Full Thrive,’ emphasized the Ministry’s dedication to comprehensive national development. The initiative highlighted tourism’s dual role as both an economic driver and a force for social progress in Antigua and Barbuda. Minister of Tourism, the Honourable Charles Fernandez, led the outreach efforts, visiting The Adele School, Clarevue Psychiatric Hospital, The Fiennes Institute, and The Care Project. Essential items were donated to support these institutions, which cater to some of the nation’s most vulnerable populations. The success of the Charity Day was bolstered by the contributions of corporate partners such as Mega Distributors, Epicurean Fine Foods, Christo’s, Frank B. Armstrong, Hutchinson Antigua Ltd., A.S. Brydens, Cool & Smooth, and Anjo Wholesale. The Ministry expressed deep gratitude to these partners, whose generosity exemplifies the spirit of corporate citizenship and strengthens community bonds. Minister Fernandez commended the collaborative effort, stating that Tourism Week is not merely an industry celebration but a reflection of the nation’s commitment to uplifting its people and fostering community resilience. ‘Today’s Charity Day underlines the importance of investing in one another to build a stronger, more compassionate Antigua and Barbuda,’ he remarked. Tourism Week 2025 continues with the Tourism Week Health Fair at the House of Culture lawn, offering free health screenings, and the Sweat Tourism Week Edition at the YMCA, featuring fitness sessions with Dancer Boy Shan and Fit with Ceejay, promoting wellness and community spirit.