An 81-year-old man is currently hospitalized following a violent encounter with law enforcement during a police raid on a residence off West Bay Street. Officers from the anti-gang taskforce were executing a search warrant for drugs and firearms at a two-story home. Upon arrival, they informed a female occupant of the warrant, but she denied them entry. Forced to breach the door, officers announced their presence and proceeded to clear the premises. On the third floor, they encountered a male occupant who refused to open a door in the northern room. When police forced entry, the man allegedly fired multiple shots at the officers. In response, fearing for their safety, the officers returned fire, striking the suspect in the elbow and buttocks. Police reported recovering the man’s firearm and subduing him before emergency medical services treated him and transported him to the hospital. During a subsequent search of the man’s room, officers discovered a second firearm and additional ammunition in the presence of a 66-year-old female caretaker, who was also taken into custody.
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Saxon and Colours Junkanoo group leaders honoured for their contributions by Cuba Libre
Cuba Libre’s annual ‘Warm the Shacks’ initiative, a celebrated tradition supporting Junkanoo groups, this year paid tribute to two iconic leaders: Percy ‘Vola’ Francis of Saxons Superstars and Chris Justilien of Colours Entertainment. The recognition ceremony, held at Poseidon Sports Bar on East Bay Street, marked the launch of the 2025 campaign, which includes a generous donation of beverages to Junkanoo groups. A-category groups will receive one pallet (120 cases) of Cuba Libre, while B-category groups will receive half a pallet. The event was attended by representatives from prominent Junkanoo groups such as the Valley Boys, Roots, Fancy Dancers, Genesis, and others. Gavin Christie, a director at Cuba Libre, likened Junkanoo to ‘the Superbowl of The Bahamas,’ emphasizing the immense dedication and effort participants invest in creating their spectacular Bay Street performances. He reiterated the brand’s long-standing support for the cultural phenomenon and expressed hope that the donation would ease the challenges of the season for participants. Founding director Gary Christie introduced a new tradition of honoring Junkanoo icons annually, with one leader from an A-category group and one from a B-category group being recognized. This year, Mr. Francis and Mr. Justilien were each awarded $1,000 for their contributions. Percy Francis, often regarded as a Junkanoo monarch, has led the Saxons for over five decades, shaping it into one of the largest and most beloved groups. He expressed gratitude for the donation and paid homage to late legends like Winston ‘Gus’ Cooper, who helped define Junkanoo’s art and heritage. Chris Justilien, an assistant professor of music at the University of The Bahamas, was celebrated for his extensive contributions to music education and community development. Last year, Cuba Libre reaffirmed its commitment to promoting responsible drinking and discouraging underage consumption, urging Junkanoo leaders to ensure the beverages are used appropriately.
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Six dead as Jamaica experiences outbreak of leptospirosis – Tufton
Jamaica is currently grappling with a leptospirosis outbreak, with nine confirmed cases and 28 suspected or probable cases reported as of October 30. Tragically, six deaths have been linked to the suspected cases. The outbreak was disclosed by Dr. Christopher Tufton, Minister of Health and Wellness, during a press briefing on Friday. He emphasized that the cases span across eight parishes, marking a significant surge compared to the two to 21 cases recorded over the previous 34 months. The outbreak is attributed to the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, which has heightened the risk of exposure to contaminated water and soil. Leptospirosis, caused by bacteria thriving in water tainted by the urine of infected animals—particularly rats, but also cats, dogs, and livestock—poses a severe public health risk following heavy rainfall or flooding. Dr. Tufton urged individuals, especially those involved in post-hurricane cleanup efforts, to exercise extreme caution by wearing appropriate protective gear to mitigate the risk of infection.
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Qahal Yahweh case pushed to 2026 after storm sidelines final prosecution witness
The high-profile trial involving 16 members of the Qahal Yahweh religious group faced an unexpected adjournment on Thursday in the St James Parish Court. Presided over by Judge Kaysha Grant-Pryce, the proceedings were halted as the prosecution’s final witness, the investigating officer, was unable to attend due to the aftermath of a recent hurricane. Consequently, the court extended bail for all 16 defendants.
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Vaz expresses sorrow over death of 10-year-old student in JUTC incident
KINGSTON, Jamaica — The nation is in mourning following the tragic death of 10-year-old Shamaire Sharpe in an incident involving a Jamaica Urban Transit Company (JUTC) bus on Wednesday. Minister of Energy, Transport and Telecommunications, Daryl Vaz, expressed profound sorrow and extended heartfelt condolences to the child’s family, emphasizing that the entire country stands in solidarity with them during this devastating time.
In an official statement, Vaz confirmed that he has been in direct communication with the JUTC to ensure that all necessary support systems are activated for the affected family. He also announced that a thorough investigation is underway to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident. The minister reiterated the government’s unwavering commitment to road safety, particularly for children who depend on public transportation for school.
Vaz highlighted that JUTC buses and drivers are rigorously trained to meet stringent safety standards, and the company’s operational and mechanical protocols are designed to protect passengers at all times. However, he assured that these systems will be thoroughly reviewed as part of the ongoing investigation.
“I am truly heartbroken by this tragedy. No parent should ever have to endure such pain, and no school community should face the loss of a child in this manner,” Vaz stated, extending his sympathies to the student’s parents, relatives, teachers, and classmates.
The Ministry of Energy, Transport and Telecommunications reaffirmed its dedication to enhancing road safety policies, improving enforcement measures, and reducing traffic-related injuries and fatalities across Jamaica. Vaz urged the public to remain calm as police investigations continue, describing the incident as “deeply unfortunate” and reiterating his support for the grieving family and school community.
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Market Bag: Escallion buyers get slight reprieve as price falls to $800, but…
KINGSTON, Jamaica — Shoppers at Coronation Market are experiencing another week of unpredictable price fluctuations, with hot pepper prices soaring to as much as $1,500 per pound. Meanwhile, escallion has seen a modest decline, now priced at $800 per pound by most vendors. This ongoing volatility has left both vendors and consumers grappling with the economic impact of these shifts.
In a recent episode of ‘Market Bag,’ host Brittania Witter revisited the bustling downtown Kingston market to speak with ‘Mama,’ a seasoned vendor who has been a fixture at the market for decades. Her insights shed light on the challenges faced by vendors amid these turbulent times.
Vendors attribute the sharp rise in hot pepper prices, which had already surged in previous weeks, to a combination of adverse weather conditions and reduced supply from key farming regions. These disruptions have led to significant shortages, driving prices to unprecedented levels. Currently, hot pepper is being sold at $1,200 to $1,500 per pound, depending on quality and availability.
Many vendors are warning that unless there is a swift improvement in supply conditions, consumers should brace for continued price instability in the coming weeks. This could result in a particularly costly holiday season, with Christmas shopping likely to be affected by these rising costs.
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Cepep contractor suffers defeat as court upholds stay of ‘termination’ lawsuit
The Court of Appeal has affirmed a stay of proceedings in a legal challenge initiated by Eastman Enterprises Ltd, a former contractor of Cepep Company Ltd, regarding the termination of over 300 contracts shortly after the April 28 general election. However, the appellate court overturned the High Court’s directive to refer the matter to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP). In a written ruling delivered on November 21, Justices Peter Rajkumar, James Aboud, and Ricky Rahim emphasized that Eastman was obligated to adhere to the contract’s alternative dispute resolution (ADR) procedures before pursuing litigation. The court found that the ADR mechanisms were sufficiently detailed and enforceable, rendering the lawsuit premature. Justice Rajkumar, who authored the decision, noted that while the Arbitration Act allows for court intervention in urgent cases, such relief should be sought within the arbitration framework agreed upon by the parties. He criticized Eastman for bypassing the ADR process entirely, stating that the trial judge’s decision to stay the claim was justified. The court also deemed the referral to the DPP as ‘premature and plainly wrong,’ citing incomplete and untested evidence. Eastman, which supplied 29 laborers to Cepep, argued that the termination caused significant hardship to both the company and its workers. Cepep, however, maintained that the contracts were terminated under a clause permitting such action without cause. The case is one of two legal challenges filed against Cepep’s decision to cancel 336 extended contracts, with the other initiated by PNM MP Stuart Young, SC, seeking judicial review against the Cabinet and Cepep’s leadership.
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Tancoo calls on banks to absorb asset levy
Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo has reassured the public that the newly introduced 0.25% asset levy on commercial banks and insurance companies, effective January 1, 2026, will not adversely affect customers. Speaking at the ICATT conference held at the Hyatt Regency in Port of Spain, Tancoo emphasized the importance of the Central Bank’s role in ensuring that financial institutions absorb the levy without passing additional costs onto consumers. He highlighted that the combined asset base of commercial banks and insurance companies exceeds $230 billion, and the levy is expected to generate approximately $5 billion annually from banks and $75 million from insurance companies. Tancoo also addressed concerns raised by critics regarding the lack of safeguards to prevent cost transfer to customers, stating that the Central Bank would maintain strict oversight. Additionally, he outlined the government’s strategy to reduce the budget deficit by enhancing the efficiency of the Board of Inland Revenue (BIR) and Customs and Excise, aiming to curb tax evasion and improve revenue streams.
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Pan, powder and mas in San Fernando on November 22
San Fernando, Trinidad and Tobago, is currently immersed in a month-long celebration of its rich cultural heritage, culminating in the highly anticipated Steelpan and Powder Parade. This vibrant event, now in its second year, is a collaboration between Pan Trinbago and the San Fernando City Corporation, marking the city’s 37th anniversary since gaining city status in 1988. The festivities kicked off with the Heritage Skiffle Steel Orchestra’s performance on November 16, 2024, setting the tone for a series of events that celebrate the national instrument—the steelpan. The J’Ouvert parade, scheduled for November 22, 2025, will begin at 2 am, winding through the city’s streets and culminating in a grand street party. Mayor Robert Parris emphasized the city’s commitment to responsible entertainment, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all attendees. The Steelpan and Powder Parade, a highlight of the celebrations, will feature performances by renowned steelbands such as Heritage Petroleum Skiffle, NLCB Fonclaire, and Trinidad All Stars, among others. Pan Trinbago President Beverly Ramsey-Moore described the event as a landmark cultural showcase, blending the infectious rhythms of steelpan with the vibrant tradition of powder festivities. The parade, which begins at 6 pm on Coffee Street and concludes at Skinner Park, promises an evening of color, rhythm, and unity. This celebration not only honors Trinidad and Tobago’s musical traditions but also aims to boost tourism and diversify the economy through the orange economy. Mayor Parris invited locals and tourists alike to experience the unique southern blend of steelbands and southern hospitality, making this event a must-attend for steelpan enthusiasts and cultural aficionados.
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Gov’t denies report about appointment of new Consul-General to New York
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade of Jamaica has refuted recent media claims regarding the appointment of a new consul-general to New York, following the passing of Alsion Marie Wilson. In an official statement released on Friday morning, the ministry addressed the reports, emphasizing the steps taken to ensure the seamless operation of the Consulate-General of Jamaica in New York. The ministry clarified that Mrs. Ariel Bowen, the acting Under-Secretary for Diaspora, Consular and Protocol and Consular Affairs, has been temporarily assigned as the Officer-in-Charge at the consulate. This interim measure aims to maintain operational continuity while the government prepares to initiate the formal process of appointing a permanent replacement for the late consul-general. Wilson, who had served diligently, passed away earlier this month after a prolonged battle with breast cancer at the age of 64. The ministry assured the public that the established procedures for such appointments would be followed at the appropriate time.