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  • Cashier fined for ganja seizure at Kingston casino

    Cashier fined for ganja seizure at Kingston casino

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — A Kingston-based casino cashier has been sentenced to a financial penalty following a narcotics seizure incident that occurred on February 15, 2026. Victoria Newman faced judicial proceedings after law enforcement officials discovered 6.96 ounces of cannabis, commonly known as ganja in Jamaica, distributed across multiple locations within the gaming establishment.

    During the operational raid, both Newman and a fellow bartender were present on the premises. Despite both individuals being initially detained, Newman voluntarily claimed sole responsibility for the illicit substance. The subsequent legal proceedings at the Kingston and St Andrew Parish Court this week saw Newman enter a guilty plea for simple possession charges.

    The prosecution initially brought two charges against Newman: possession of ganja and the more serious accusation of dealing in ganja. While admitting to the possession charge, Newman maintained her innocence regarding the distribution allegation. The Crown Prosecution subsequently exercised its discretion to withdraw the dealing charge entirely.

    In a parallel development, the bartender who was also charged with possession saw the court formally withdraw the accusation. The final judgment required Newman to pay a $4,000 fine or face alternative incarceration of 30 days, highlighting the judiciary’s approach to minor drug offenses within commercial environments.

  • Bahamians face ‘tremendous’ problems in Cuba fuel crisis

    Bahamians face ‘tremendous’ problems in Cuba fuel crisis

    A severe fuel crisis, triggered by the cessation of Venezuelan oil shipments, has plunged Cuba into widespread operational paralysis, significantly impacting daily life and essential services. According to Bahamian Ambassador Dr. Elliston Rahming, stationed in Havana since February 2022, the cutoff of diesel—the nation’s primary fuel—has created ‘tremendous’ problems, crippling electricity generation, transportation networks, and agricultural supply chains.

    The ambassador reported that prolonged power outages have become commonplace, rendering backup generators useless and leaving residents, including diplomatic staff, in darkness. While gasoline is available in limited quantities, the unavailability of diesel has had a catastrophic effect, given that an estimated 70% of Cuban vehicles, including vital produce transport trucks, rely on it. This has severely hampered the distribution of food from farms to markets.

    Despite the severity of the situation, Dr. Rahming described it as ‘not entirely unbearable,’ praising the remarkable resilience of the Cuban people. Schools remain open, and citizens find ways to get to work. A recent meeting with Bahamian medical students revealed their unwavering commitment to their studies, with none requesting repatriation despite challenges like storing perishable food during blackouts. The ambassador expressed hope that an expected fuel tanker arrival could soon alleviate the pressure.

    Firsthand accounts from frequent visitors corroborate the official reports but paint a starker picture of social tension. Diana Saint Fleur, who spent three weeks in Cuba, witnessed the direct impact on healthcare, as her father’s surgery was postponed due to hospital fuel shortages. She described daily blackouts lasting up to eight hours, unreliable internet, and a collapsed transportation system where taxi fares soared by over 60%. The crisis has created a visible two-tier system, with tourist districts like Vedado enjoying more stable power than residential areas, prompting some to seek refuge in expensive hotels for reliable electricity.

    Beyond practical hardships, the shortages have fostered a palpable atmosphere of stress and depression among residents. Bahamian entertainer Kirkland ‘KB’ Bodie, who maintains regular contact with locals, summarized the situation as ‘rough,’ noting that without fuel, garbage collection and public transportation have ground to a halt, bringing almost everything to a standstill except for emergency services.

  • $357m GBPA claim rejected by tribunal

    $357m GBPA claim rejected by tribunal

    In a pivotal legal development, an international arbitration tribunal has delivered a mixed verdict in the protracted dispute between the Bahamian government and the Grand Bahama Port Authority (GBPA), rejecting the state’s $357 million financial claim while simultaneously affirming its regulatory jurisdiction over Freeport until 2054.

    The three-member tribunal, chaired by former Cayman Islands Chief Justice Sir Anthony Smellie and including UK legal luminaries Lord Neuberger and Dame Elizabeth Gloster, issued a Partial Final Award that fundamentally reshapes the understanding of the Hawksbill Creek Agreement governing Freeport’s special economic zone.

    While dismissing the government’s immediate monetary claim for alleged administrative expenses between 2018-2022, the tribunal established crucial precedents regarding the ongoing financial relationship between the parties. The ruling confirmed the existence of an active payment mechanism requiring GBPA to contribute annually toward public services in the Port Area, with this obligation extending through the agreement’s 2054 expiration.

    The government’s claim, predicated on a PwC report quantifying expenses for customs, immigration, and regulatory services, was invalidated because the tribunal determined the parties had replaced the original reimbursement framework with a negotiated fixed-payment system during 1990s tax concession extensions. This revised arrangement mandated periodic reviews to establish appropriate payment levels—a process never implemented following its initial phase.

    Concurrently, the tribunal overwhelmingly rejected GBPA’s counterclaims seeking over $1 billion in damages for alleged governmental interference. The ruling affirmed the state’s constitutional authority to legislate and regulate in Freeport across domains including immigration, customs, environmental policy, and development approvals—powers historically exercised alongside GBPA’s administrative functions.

    The Port Authority secured a single limited victory regarding environmental bye-laws initially proposed in 2006, with the tribunal declaring the government failed its obligation to provide timely consideration. However, no damages were awarded pending further submissions establishing actual losses.

    Outstanding issues including potential historical payments, environmental breach compensation, and arbitration cost allocation remain for subsequent proceedings, with both parties claiming victory while preparing for the next phase of this landmark governance dispute.

  • Chester Creek housing development launched in Portmore

    Chester Creek housing development launched in Portmore

    PORTMORE, Jamaica — West Indies Home Contractors Limited (WIHCON) has inaugurated its latest residential project, Chester Creek, reinforcing its six-decade dedication to community development across Jamaica. The official ceremony took place Tuesday at Westchester Drive, attended by government officials, private sector collaborators, and potential homeowners.

    Prime Minister Andrew Holness delivered the keynote address, emphasizing the critical role of housing initiatives and public-private collaborations in making homeownership more accessible to Jamaican citizens. The development represents a strategic expansion within Portmore, one of Jamaica’s most rapidly growing urban areas.

    Chester Creek will comprise 326 units constructed in multiple phases, each featuring two bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms. The designs prioritize modern amenities, flexible living spaces, and long-term property value, catering particularly to first-time buyers and real estate investors.

    Marvin Campbell, CEO of WIHCON, stated: ‘Chester Creek embodies our ongoing mission to create communities where Jamaican families can thrive. Every detail—from architectural planning to neighborhood layout—has been optimized for resident comfort, quality, and sustainable value.’

    Peter Melhado, Chairman of WIHCON, highlighted the project’s significance within the company’s history, acknowledging collaborations with suppliers, architects, financial institutions, and municipal authorities. ‘This development continues a tradition of enabling homeownership through thoughtfully designed and well-integrated communities,’ he noted.

    Joe Matalon, Chairman of ICD Group Holdings, also reflected on the deep-rooted ties between the developers and Portmore, tracing back to the establishment of Independence City in the 1960s. ‘Chester Creek is a continuation of a legacy committed to supporting national growth through high-quality residential projects,’ Matalon affirmed.

  • Children among 5 injured in multi-vehicle crash in Portmore

    Children among 5 injured in multi-vehicle crash in Portmore

    A severe six-vehicle pileup on the Bridgeport main road in Portmore, St Catherine, resulted in five individuals, including three children, being transported to medical facilities with serious injuries on Wednesday morning. The incident occurred during the morning commute at approximately 7:00 am. Preliminary reports from the scene suggest the chain-reaction collision was initiated when a Toyota Townace, traveling eastbound, attempted an overtaking maneuver. In the process, it collided with the front-right section of a BMW sedan that was also proceeding east and had begun to execute a right-hand turn. The force of the initial impact caused the Toyota Townace, which was carrying the juvenile passengers, to overturn completely. Emergency services responded promptly, providing critical aid and transporting the injured for urgent medical treatment. Authorities have cordoned off the area for a thorough investigation to determine the exact sequence of events and contributing factors. Further details on the condition of the victims and the ongoing investigation are anticipated as officials continue their work at the scene.

  • Dayton Campbell launches post-hurricane housing initiative in Bethel Town

    Dayton Campbell launches post-hurricane housing initiative in Bethel Town

    WESTMORELAND, Jamaica — In response to the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa, Eastern Westmoreland Member of Parliament Dr. Dayton Campbell has initiated a comprehensive housing recovery program. The initiative commenced Tuesday with the official handover of a newly built residence in Bethel Town, marking the first completed project under this ambitious scheme.

    The recovery program targets construction of five to ten housing units across each of the constituency’s four divisions: Bethel Town, Leamington, Darliston, and Whitehouse. Dr. Campbell emphasized that the project emerged from crisis conditions, stating: ‘When Hurricane Melissa devastated homes across Westmoreland Eastern, we made a commitment that our people would not be left behind. Today, we begin delivering on that promise.’

    Remarkably, the inaugural home was completed within a three-week timeframe, demonstrating the project’s operational efficiency. The MP acknowledged both local and international donors whose contributions enabled the initiative, while specifically highlighting the strategic decision to employ local contractors, skilled workers, and suppliers. This approach ensures economic benefits circulate within the affected communities while supporting livelihood restoration.

    The construction methodology incorporates durable, sustainable materials including foam concrete—a cost-effective and resilient building solution particularly suited for disaster-prone regions. Dr. Campbell stressed that these are permanent dwellings rather than temporary shelters, engineered to withstand future environmental challenges.

    With the next house already scheduled for construction in Leamington Division and expected within another three-week period, the project team has overcome initial logistical challenges. Dr. Campbell concluded: ‘Our systems are now optimized for even faster completion times. While speed matters, our ultimate priorities remain quality construction and sustainable community development.’

  • JDF Coast Guard seizes $45 million worth of ganja in Manchester

    JDF Coast Guard seizes $45 million worth of ganja in Manchester

    Jamaican defense authorities have executed a significant narcotics interception, capturing a substantial cannabis shipment with an estimated street value of $45 million. The operation, spearheaded by the Jamaica Defence Force’s (JDF) Maritime Air and Cyber Command, culminated on Tuesday following the detection and pursuit of a suspect vessel off the southern coast.

    According to an official statement from the JDF, the seizure occurred southwest of Long Bay Beach in Manchester. The incident began when units from the First and Second District Jamaica Defence Force Coast Guard identified suspicious maritime activity during routine surveillance patrols along the coastline. The initial detection was made near the Farquhares Beach area in Clarendon, prompting immediate tactical response.

    A coordinated pursuit operation was initiated, resulting in the successful interception of the target vessel. Upon conducting a comprehensive search of the intercepted craft, military personnel discovered 38 meticulously knitted bags containing compressed marijuana, with a total weight exceeding 2,286 pounds. The vessel was also found to be carrying multiple 200-gallon drums of fuel, suggesting preparations for an extended maritime journey.

    Four individuals aboard the vessel were taken into military custody during the operation. The suspects, along with the confiscated narcotics and evidence, were subsequently transferred to the Jamaica Constabulary Force’s specialized Firearms and Narcotics Investigation Division for formal processing and further criminal investigation.

    This seizure represents one of the substantial maritime drug interdictions recorded in Jamaican waters this year, highlighting ongoing challenges with narcotics trafficking in the Caribbean region. The successful operation demonstrates enhanced coordination between Jamaican military and law enforcement agencies in combating illicit drug trade activities.

  • Second suspect in murder of 3-y-o and father in custody

    Second suspect in murder of 3-y-o and father in custody

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Jamaican authorities have taken two individuals into custody in connection with a brutal firearm assault that claimed the lives of a young father and his three-year-old son in Denham Town last month.

    The Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) confirmed the detentions but has maintained confidentiality regarding the suspects’ identities as investigative procedures continue. The development marks a significant breakthrough in the case that has shocked the local community.

    According to official reports, the tragedy unfolded in the early hours of February 21st when armed assailants forcibly entered the Pinnock family residence on Nelson Street and initiated indiscriminate gunfire. Thirty-one-year-old Kerrio Pinnock attempted to evade the attack but sustained multiple critical gunshot wounds during the assault.

    Following the violent incident, emergency responders discovered Kerrio, his three-year-old son Jayce Pinnock, and an additional child all suffering from serious ballistic injuries. Medical personnel transported the victims to a nearby healthcare facility where young Jayce was tragically pronounced deceased upon arrival.

    Despite undergoing intensive medical treatment, Kerrio Pinnock succumbed to his extensive injuries two days later on February 23rd. The surviving child remains hospitalized where they continue to receive medical attention under police protection.

    The JCF has emphasized that their investigation remains active and ongoing, with forensic teams and detectives pursuing multiple lines of inquiry to establish complete accountability for this devastating crime.

  • MELISSA COST CLIMBS TO $1.95T, EQUIVALENT TO 56.7 PER CENT OF GDP

    MELISSA COST CLIMBS TO $1.95T, EQUIVALENT TO 56.7 PER CENT OF GDP

    Post-disaster evaluations have definitively established Hurricane Melissa as the most catastrophic natural disaster in Jamaica’s history, both in terms of intensity and economic devastation. The Planning Institute of Jamaica (PIOJ) has released revised figures indicating total damage, losses, and associated costs have reached approximately $2 trillion Jamaican dollars (US$12.232 billion), significantly exceeding earlier projections.

    Dr. Wayne Henry, Director General of PIOJ, revealed during a review of economic performance for the October-December 2025 quarter that the Category Five hurricane inflicted damages four times greater than those caused by Hurricane Gilbert in 1988, previously considered the nation’s costliest storm. The updated assessment places the total impact at 56.7% of Jamaica’s 2024 GDP, representing unprecedented economic devastation.

    The comprehensive Damage and Loss Assessment (DaLA) was conducted through collaboration between the United Nations Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean and the Jamaican government. The analysis examined three primary sectors: social services, productive industries, and infrastructure.

    Social sectors including housing, education, healthcare, and cultural infrastructure suffered the most severe impacts, with final costs reaching $822 billion Jamaican dollars (23.9% of GDP). The productive sector encompassing agriculture, fisheries, tourism, and commerce sustained approximately $792.5 billion in damages (23% of GDP), while infrastructure and environmental damages accounted for nearly 10% of GDP.

    PIOJ Deputy Director General Claire Bernard clarified that the revised assessment incorporates elements missing from initial rapid evaluations, including economic losses and repair costs undertaken by residents for temporary recovery. The DaLA report now includes cross-cutting environmental impacts and broader macroeconomic effects, showing total damages of $1.2 trillion, losses exceeding $620.8 billion, and additional costs of $116.8 billion.

    The economic consequences have been immediate and severe. Preliminary estimates indicate Jamaica’s economy contracted by 7.5% during the October-December 2025 quarter—the steepest decline since the COVID-19 pandemic’s peak in mid-2020. The goods-producing sector declined by 9.3% while services contracted by 6.9%.

    Despite the dramatic downturn, Henry noted the quarterly performance exceeded earlier forecasts of 11-13% decline, reflecting faster-than-expected recovery in some industries and remarkable resilience among businesses and individuals. The economy is projected to contract by 4-6% in the January-March quarter and 1-2% for fiscal year 2025/26, with emerging geopolitical uncertainties posing additional risks to recovery efforts.

  • Government could review tax measures as manufacturers press for change

    Government could review tax measures as manufacturers press for change

    Jamaican manufacturing leaders are engaging in critical consultations with finance ministry officials this week, potentially prompting revisions to the government’s recently proposed $29.4-billion tax package. Industry representatives are advocating for modifications to certain measures they argue could exacerbate existing external economic pressures and undermine export competitiveness.

    Richard Pandohie, CEO of Seprod Group, confirmed that major industry associations including the Jamaica Manufacturers and Exporters Association (JMEA) and the Private Sector Organisation of Jamaica (PSOJ) are actively participating in discussions with the Ministry of Finance. “We’re hopeful that when the consultation is done, there are aspects of [the tax package] that the Government will realise could perhaps be looked at again,” Pandohie stated, specifically highlighting concerns about levies that disadvantage exporters.

    Among the most contentious elements is the planned increase of the Environmental Protection Levy from 0.5% to 0.8%, coupled with an expansion of its domestic application. This measure alone is projected to generate approximately $3.6 billion in additional revenue during the upcoming fiscal year. The levy’s structure has become a focal point in negotiations as officials attempt to balance revenue requirements with maintaining export viability.

    The comprehensive tax proposal also introduces new and heightened Special Consumption Taxes, most notably a sweetened beverage tax expected to yield roughly $10.1 billion. Additional increases on alcohol and tobacco products, along with the application of General Consumption Tax to certain overseas digital services, complete the revenue-raising framework.

    While government officials have positioned the sweetened beverage tax as both a fiscal and public health initiative, manufacturers caution that consumption-based taxes can produce ripple effects throughout distribution networks, pricing models, and consumer demand—particularly concerning given current constraints on disposable income.

    Pandohie emphasized that manufacturers support revenue mobilization efforts but seek carefully calibrated measures that avoid detrimental impacts on exporters already confronting elevated input costs and recent US tariff increases to 15%. He characterized ongoing discussions as constructive, noting the government’s openness to stakeholder input.

    The manufacturing executive acknowledged the government’s fiscal challenges following Hurricane Melissa and recognized that Jamaica has experienced several years without direct tax increases. However, he maintained that revenue objectives could be achieved without compromising the competitive position of local manufacturers and consumers.

    With budget debates scheduled to commence next Tuesday, industry representatives remain optimistic that aspects of the tax package will be reconsidered following the conclusion of current consultations.