NH International (Caribbean) Ltd (NH), a prominent local contractor, is taking a proactive stance against an escalating fraud threat targeting merchants during the high-volume Christmas season. The company has developed comprehensive fraud prevention guidelines and is collaborating with the TT Chamber of Industry and Commerce and regional chambers to disseminate these materials widely. This initiative follows NH’s identification of a sophisticated impersonation scheme where criminals forged NH documents and counterfeit cheques to defraud businesses. In October 2025 alone, a merchant lost TT$377,000 in one such incident. While NH itself has not suffered financial losses, the company views protecting the broader business community as a corporate responsibility, especially during the peak fraud period from October to December. Emile Elias, NH’s executive chairman, emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, ‘This isn’t about legal obligation—NH is the victim of identity theft. But when our name is being weaponized against fellow businesses, silence isn’t an option.’ The fraud scheme has evolved beyond counterfeit cheques, with criminals now depositing fraudulent instruments directly into merchant accounts, creating false confidence that payments have cleared. By the time banks detect the fraud—typically within three to five business days—goods have been collected, and perpetrators have vanished. NH’s security manager, Antonio Ventour, highlighted the critical timing of the initiative, noting that merchants handling peak holiday volumes face compressed decision windows, which fraudsters exploit. The company’s Fraud Alert Reference Sheet provides specific protocols for businesses to protect themselves without slowing legitimate operations. Key measures include contacting NH’s main line to verify transactions directly with the procurement manager and never releasing goods until payments fully clear—even for manager’s cheques, which can be counterfeit despite their authentic appearance. NH is also coordinating with law enforcement and urging businesses to report suspected fraud immediately to the Fraud Squad while preserving all documentation. The company’s Fraud Alert Guidelines are available through NH’s main office and will be distributed via chamber networks as partnerships are confirmed. ‘This affects our entire commercial ecosystem,’ Elias said. ‘We’re choosing transparency and collective protection. The Christmas season should be about legitimate commerce thriving, not merchants getting victimized.’
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St James kicks off massive clean-up operation following Hurricane Melissa
In the wake of Hurricane Melissa’s devastation, a comprehensive clean-up initiative has been launched in St James, Jamaica. Spearheaded by the St James Municipal Corporation and the National Solid Waste Management Authority (NSWMA), the operation commenced on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, with Catherine Hall and Westgreen being the first areas targeted. The effort involves a robust deployment of resources, including heavy equipment, tipper trucks, and a dedicated workforce comprising laborers and chainsaw operators. Audley Gordon, Executive Director of the NSWMA, emphasized the urgency of the task, describing the current living conditions in affected communities as ‘subhuman.’ He expressed hope for favorable weather to facilitate a thorough clean-up and restoration process. Montego Bay Mayor Richard Vernon outlined the phased approach, starting with Westgreen and Catherine Hall, followed by the city center, with the aim of restoring normalcy by the weekend. The operation also includes providing essential services such as potable water, food aid, and assistance in cleaning homes to support the residents in rebuilding their lives.
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Civil society groups demand climate justice in wake of Hurricane Melissa
KINGSTON, Jamaica — In the wake of the catastrophic impact of Hurricane Melissa, a coalition of 43 civil society organizations and prominent individuals in Jamaica has issued a unified call for immediate climate justice measures. The Category 5 hurricane, which struck Jamaica’s southwest coast last Tuesday, has claimed 32 lives and caused extensive destruction across western Jamaica before moving on to affect parts of Cuba, Haiti, and the Dominican Republic. With wind speeds surpassing 185 miles per hour and unprecedented rainfall, Hurricane Melissa is now regarded as one of the most powerful storms to ever hit the island.
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Antigua’s Gaston Browne reiterates call for Caribbean to be a zone of peace
In a compelling address at the launch of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Conference (CHOGM) in Antigua, Prime Minister Gaston Browne of Antigua and Barbuda called for the Caribbean to remain a zone of peace. He expressed deep concerns over the recent military build-up by the United States in the region, ostensibly targeting drug traffickers. Browne warned that such actions could lead to disproportionate suffering for small island states, particularly those within the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), due to their inherent vulnerability. He highlighted the region’s dependence on imports from North America, emphasizing that any disruption in shipping or airlift services could have severe consequences. Drawing parallels to the economic impact of the Russian war on Ukraine, Browne underscored the potential fallout from military actions within the hemisphere. He urged Caribbean nations to unite against any form of military intervention, stressing the importance of defending national interests and promoting peace. Browne also reminded the audience of the shared humanity that binds all people, regardless of race or nationality, and called for a global commitment to justice and equity. His remarks come amid recent US airstrikes on alleged drug trafficking vessels in international waters, which have drawn criticism from the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk.
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Junkanoo prep continues amid parade management chaos
As the highly anticipated Boxing Day and New Year’s Day Junkanoo parades approach, participants remain steadfast in their preparations despite escalating tensions between the Junkanoo Corporation of New Providence (JCNP) and the government over event management. The conflict centers on the JCNP’s refusal to recognize The Way Forward Valley Boys, a splinter group led by Trevor Davis, reportedly the brother of Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis. In response, the government has proposed transferring parade oversight to the National Junkanoo Committee (NJC), a move supported by 19 of 21 Junkanoo groups in a recent poll. However, many artisans and participants express loyalty to the JCNP, emphasizing its decades-long role in organizing the parades. A Saxons member highlighted the unity among major groups, stating, “We support the JCNP because they represent the people who actually make Junkanoo happen.” He criticized the government’s intervention, suggesting it undermines established structures. Meanwhile, artisans from groups like the World Famous Valley Boys and One Family report that production remains on schedule, with costumes and preparations adhering to JCNP guidelines. Leslie Johnson, former JCNP chairman and a One Family artisan, argued that changing management this late in the year is impractical, given that preparations began in February. He called for a formalized partnership between the government and JCNP, proposing that any changes be implemented next year. Johnson also suggested a compromise allowing both Valley Boys factions to compete this year while maintaining JCNP’s leadership. Despite the uncertainty, participants remain committed to the parades, driven by their passion for Junkanoo and the cultural significance of the event.
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Panama police probe SAC student’s death
Panamanian authorities are actively investigating the tragic death of 16-year-old Bahamian student Madeline Thompson, who fell from the 27th floor of the Megapolis Hotel in Panama City on Friday. Police have yet to determine whether foul play was involved, with detectives currently reviewing surveillance footage, interviewing witnesses, and gathering evidence. A police spokesperson stated that it remains unclear whether Thompson fell or was pushed, and declined to comment on whether others were present in the room at the time of the incident. The Megapolis Hotel, a 66-story luxury property overlooking Panama’s oceanfront, reported the discovery of Thompson’s body around 6:05 a.m. in the hotel’s social area near the pool. Thompson was in Panama to participate in the FIRST Global Robotics Challenge, an international competition for secondary school students, and was reportedly sharing a room with two classmates. Bahamian Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis and his wife, Ann, expressed their condolences, describing Thompson as a bright, compassionate young woman who embodied faith and service. Davis emphasized that her kindness and volunteerism reflected “the best of our Bahamian youth,” and her passing has deeply affected the nation. Jerusa Ali, Director General of the Bahamas Ministry of Foreign Affairs, confirmed that the government is coordinating with Panamanian officials and event organizers to assist Thompson’s family through its honorary consulate in Panama. Ali assured that consular officers are in close communication with all parties to prioritize the family’s needs and ensure a smooth process. Thompson, who recently celebrated her 16th birthday on September 26, was a dedicated volunteer at St. Joseph’s Parish’s soup kitchen and a cherished member of the church community. St. Augustine’s College, her school, expressed profound grief over her loss, stating that its delegation in Panama, including a parent, chaperone, principal, and faculty members, remains in contact with Panamanian authorities.
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Shein vows to cooperate with France in probe over childlike sex dolls
PARIS, France (AFP)—Shein, the Asian e-commerce powerhouse, has vowed to fully cooperate with French judicial authorities following a scandal involving the sale of childlike sex dolls on its platform. The company has also committed to disclosing the identities of individuals who purchased these controversial items. This controversy emerges just as Shein is poised to open its first physical store globally, located in the prestigious BHV department store in central Paris on Wednesday. Quentin Ruffat, Shein’s spokesperson in France, emphasized the company’s transparency and readiness to assist authorities, stating, “We will cooperate fully with the judicial authorities and ensure this does not happen again.” The Paris prosecutor’s office has initiated investigations against Shein and other online retailers, including AliExpress, Temu, and Wish, for distributing inappropriate content accessible to minors. The probe was triggered after France’s anti-fraud unit reported the sale of these dolls on Shein’s platform. A photo of one such doll, measuring approximately 80 centimeters and holding a teddy bear, accompanied by an explicit caption, was published by French media. Ruffat condemned the incident as “serious, unacceptable, intolerable,” attributing it to a lapse in the company’s processes. In response, Shein has implemented a total ban on sex-doll-type products and removed all related listings. The controversy has sparked broader debates about Shein’s impact on traditional retail and its ethical practices. Critics have expressed concerns about unfair competition, environmental issues, and poor working conditions associated with the brand. Frederic Merlin, director of SGM, which operates BHV, faced criticism for partnering with Shein but defended the decision, citing the company’s cooperation with authorities and its significant customer base in France. Merlin expressed optimism that Shein’s presence would boost foot traffic at the department store.
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Victor Conte, mastermind of BALCO doping scandal, dead at 75
Victor Conte, the central figure behind the infamous BALCO doping scandal that sent shockwaves through the worlds of athletics and baseball in the early 2000s, passed away on Monday at the age of 75. His death was confirmed by a statement from his sports nutrition company, SNAC, which described him as a ‘fearless leader’ whose memory would ‘forever live in our hearts.’
Conte’s Bay Area Laboratory Co-operative (BALCO), founded in 1984, became a notorious hub for the development and distribution of performance-enhancing drugs. The scandal implicated high-profile athletes, including Olympic track and field star Marion Jones and baseball legends Barry Bonds and Jason Giambi. Conte served a four-month prison sentence in 2005 for his role in the scandal.
The BALCO case unfolded when investigators from the United States Anti-Doping Agency (USADA) received a syringe containing traces of an unknown substance in 2003. This discovery led to a widespread investigation that exposed a sophisticated doping regime designed to evade detection. Marion Jones, after years of denial, admitted to using performance-enhancing drugs and was stripped of her three gold medals from the 2000 Sydney Olympics. She later served six months in prison for lying to investigators.
The scandal also tarnished Major League Baseball, with several players testifying that they had used steroids provided by Greg Anderson, the personal trainer of Barry Bonds. Bonds claimed he had unknowingly taken steroids, believing them to be flaxseed oil and a rubbing balm.
In later years, Conte sought to reshape his legacy by positioning himself as an anti-doping advocate, collaborating with the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) to combat drug use in sports. Despite his efforts, the BALCO scandal remains a dark chapter in the history of athletics and baseball.
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Football star David Beckham hails knighthood as ‘proudest moment’
LONDON, United Kingdom — In a momentous ceremony at Windsor Castle, former England football captain David Beckham was knighted by King Charles III on Tuesday, marking what he described as his “proudest moment.” The 50-year-old football legend, who earned 115 caps for England and played for iconic clubs such as Manchester United and Real Madrid, was honored for his exceptional contributions to sport and charity. Beckham, visibly moved, reflected on the significance of the occasion, stating, “It’s quite a moment for a boy from the east end of London to be here at Windsor Castle, being honored by His Majesty the King – the most important and respected institution in the world.” Accompanied by his wife Victoria, a former Spice Girls member turned fashion designer, and his parents Ted and Sandra, Beckham donned a bespoke grey suit crafted by Victoria. During the ceremony, Beckham shared that King Charles had complimented his attire, noting, “He’s kind of the most elegantly dressed man that I know, so he inspired quite a few of my looks over the years.” Beckham’s knighthood is the culmination of a career that transcended football, transforming him into a global icon at the intersection of sport, fashion, and business. While he was previously considered for the honor after aiding London’s successful bid for the 2012 Olympics, his nomination faced delays due to allegations of tax avoidance, which were later cleared. Beckham expressed his deep admiration for the monarchy, stating, “To receive an honor like this, of a knight, is beyond anything I ever thought I would receive.”
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WPM to use leased land for tree cuttings
In response to the widespread damage caused by Hurricane Melissa, Western Parks and Markets (WPM), the regional division of the National Solid Waste Management Authority (NSWMA), has unveiled a comprehensive strategy to address the issue of downed trees in western Jamaica. Edward Muir, Regional Operations Manager for WPM, detailed the plan in an interview with Observer Online, emphasizing the urgency of the situation.
Muir explained that WPM has leased a property near Retirement in Montego Bay, initially intended for constructing a garage for their fleet. However, given the current crisis, the site will temporarily serve as a storage location for tree cuttings. This decision aims to ensure that household waste can still be processed at the landfill without obstruction. The Retirement Disposal site, adjacent to the leased property, is currently overwhelmed and unable to accommodate additional waste, particularly tree debris.
‘At present, the disposal site is saturated, and we cannot allow tree cuttings to impede our operations,’ Muir stated. He assured that once the cleanup process is complete, the stored tree cuttings will be relocated to the disposal site for proper management.
The initiative coincides with a large-scale cleanup operation in Catherine Hall and Westgreen, areas of Montego Bay severely affected by flooding and mud accumulation. WPM remains committed to restoring normalcy as swiftly as possible, contingent on the progress of ongoing efforts.