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标签： Jamaica

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  • Don’t rest on gains

    Don’t rest on gains

    Jamaica’s Police Commissioner Dr. Kevin Blake has issued a compelling call for enhanced community engagement within the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF), emphasizing that historic crime reductions must be reinforced through strengthened public trust. Speaking at Monday’s Commissioner’s Annual Devotion ceremony, Blake cautioned against complacency despite the force achieving the nation’s lowest homicide rate since 1993.

    The event, themed ‘Strengthening Our People, Strengthening Our Bonds, Strengthening Jamaica,’ served as both reflection and roadmap as Blake outlined strategic priorities for 2026. While acknowledging the JCF’s record-breaking performance—673 murders recorded in 2025 representing a dramatic decline from previous years—the commissioner insisted statistical success alone cannot define meaningful progress.

    Blake articulated that national security fundamentally originates from human connections rather than institutional resources. ‘Trust is not built by force, but through relationships,’ he stated, emphasizing that every police-citizen interaction contributes to the broader social fabric. The commissioner attributed recent crime reductions to improved operational effectiveness, internal reforms, and community collaboration, but warned these gains remain fragile without sustained relational investment.

    Looking ahead, Blake established three core objectives: enhanced officer well-being and professional development, strengthened internal and external partnerships, and expanded recognition of policing’s role in national development. He highlighted the extraordinary physical, emotional, and psychological demands of police work, asserting that officer wellness directly correlates to service quality.

    The commissioner specifically cautioned against uneven reform implementation, urging consistent trust-building measures across all communities rather than selected divisions. He framed the coming year as an opportunity to transition ‘beyond momentum and into maturity,’ where institutional strength becomes sustainable through deepened relationships and elevated service standards.

    Blake concluded with a call for unified purpose: ‘Let us draw inspiration from progress already made but not become complacent. With God as our refuge and strength, and with one another as partners, we can continue building a safer, more peaceful, and more confident Jamaica.’

  • UK urges Musk’s X to act over ‘appalling’ sexual deepfakes

    UK urges Musk’s X to act over ‘appalling’ sexual deepfakes

    The UK government has issued a stern directive to Elon Musk’s social media platform X, demanding immediate intervention regarding its artificial intelligence system Grok. Authorities have raised alarms about the AI tool’s capability to generate fabricated sexually explicit imagery depicting minors through its controversial ‘spicy mode’ feature.

    Technology Secretary Liz Kendall characterized the situation as “absolutely appalling and unacceptable in decent society” during an official statement. She emphasized the urgency for X to address these critical concerns promptly.

    This development occurs amidst growing international scrutiny of Grok’s functionality. The European Commission confirmed on Monday that it is conducting a serious review of complaints against the AI system. Simultaneously, UK media regulator Ofcom has initiated investigations into both X and its subsidiary xAI, the creator of Grok.

    Secretary Kendall explicitly endorsed Ofcom’s authority to pursue any necessary enforcement actions against the companies. This stance is reinforced by Britain’s recently implemented Online Safety Act, which became effective in July. The legislation mandates that digital platforms hosting potentially harmful content implement rigorous age verification protocols, including facial recognition technology and credit card authentication.

    The Act explicitly prohibits the creation or distribution of non-consensual intimate imagery and child sexual abuse material, extending to AI-generated sexual deepfakes. Non-compliant organizations face substantial penalties of either 10% of their global revenue or £18 million (approximately $24 million), whichever amount proves greater.

    In a related move, the UK government has announced forthcoming prohibitions on ‘nudification’ tools that digitally remove clothing from photographs of individuals. XAI acknowledged last Friday that it had identified deficiencies in Grok’s protective measures, describing them as “lapses in safeguards,” and committed to addressing these issues urgently.

  • TAJ driver’s licence validation system temporarily offline, several services affected

    TAJ driver’s licence validation system temporarily offline, several services affected

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Tax Administration Jamaica (TAJ) has encountered significant technical difficulties with its driver’s license validation infrastructure, prompting a widespread suspension of multiple essential services across digital and physical channels. The agency confirmed that its core verification mechanism is currently inoperative, creating substantial disruptions for citizens attempting to complete various transportation-related transactions.

    The technological failure has particularly impacted digital services, rendering impossible the completion of driver’s license fee settlements, traffic violation fine payments, and private vehicle registration processing through online platforms. Concurrently, physical office operations have been similarly constrained, with TAJ locations unable to process driver’s license applications or accept traffic penalty payments due to the system-wide outage.

    Notably, standard motor vehicle registration services continue to operate without interruption at TAJ facilities, providing citizens with at least one unaffected channel for transportation documentation needs. The authority has extended formal apologies for the operational inconvenience and emphasized its collaborative efforts with technical partners to achieve rapid system restoration.

    TAJ has established dedicated communication channels for public inquiries, directing citizens to contact their Customer Care Center at 888-TAX-HELP (829-4357). Additionally, the administration encourages monitoring its verified social media accounts on Instagram, Facebook, Threads, and X for real-time updates regarding service resumption timelines.

  • Consistent Tapit Good secures 4th career win

    Consistent Tapit Good secures 4th career win

    In a display of racing excellence, the seven-year-old chestnut gelding Tapit Good captured his fourth career victory on Thursday, January 1, 2026, demonstrating that perseverance yields rewards. Competing in the sixth race at the track, the David Powell-conditioned horse ended a streak of three consecutive runner-up finishes with a commanding performance.

    Tapit Good dominated Division II of the three-year-old and upward Optional Claiming event ($500,000-$400,000), specifically for six-year-olds and upward non-winners of four races and native-bred five-year-olds non-winners of three. Under jockey Shaheem Gordon, the veteran competitor covered the five-furlong straight course with authority, ultimately crossing the finish line four lengths clear of his nearest rival.

    The race began with an evenly matched break, seeing Tapit Good initially contend with challengers including Golden Syrup (ridden by Richie Shakes), Princess Ifiyah (Shavon Townsend), Radam (Tyrese Anderson), Jaguar (Christopher Mamdeen), and Magical Mood (Emelio McLean). However, as the field passed the dummy rails, Tapit Good asserted his superiority, seizing control of the pace and steadily increasing his lead. The gelding maintained his advantage effortlessly, cruising to a comfortable victory without pressure in the final stages.

    Papa Gray, piloted by Phillip Parchment, secured second position, while First Offense, with Dane Dawkins aboard, completed the top three. This win marks a significant milestone for Tapit Good, who now boasts four wins from 45 lifetime starts, highlighting his consistency and competitive spirit in high-level claiming events.

  • Mexican president urges US to give Maduro ‘fair trial’

    Mexican president urges US to give Maduro ‘fair trial’

    MEXICO CITY — Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has formally appealed to United States authorities to ensure judicial fairness for Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro, who faces serious criminal charges in New York. The diplomatic intervention came during a press briefing in Mexico’s capital on Tuesday, shortly after Maduro’s courtroom appearance.

    The detained Venezuelan president pleaded not guilty to multiple charges including narcotrafficking allegations on Monday, following his dramatic capture by U.S. forces in Caracas over the weekend. The operation marked a significant escalation in Washington’s longstanding pressure campaign against Maduro’s administration.

    President Sheinbaum, representing Mexico’s traditionally neutral stance in international disputes, emphasized the importance of due process regardless of the allegations. ‘Now that President Maduro is in detention, what we request is a fair trial,’ she stated, reflecting Mexico’s commitment to judicial integrity in politically sensitive cases.

    The case has drawn international attention to the complex relationship between North and South American nations, particularly regarding sovereignty and legal jurisdiction. Maduro’s detention represents one of the most high-profile apprehensions of a sitting head of state by foreign authorities in recent decades.

    Legal experts suggest the trial could set important precedents for international law regarding heads of state immunity and cross-border law enforcement operations. The Mexican government’s statement adds to growing international calls for transparent judicial proceedings amid concerns about the political implications of the case.

  • Zelensky hails ‘substantive’ declaration on Ukraine security guarantees

    Zelensky hails ‘substantive’ declaration on Ukraine security guarantees

    PARIS — In a significant diplomatic development, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has formally endorsed a multinational security agreement designed to provide substantial military support to Ukraine following a potential ceasefire with Russian forces. The landmark declaration, signed during a high-profile ceremony in the French capital, establishes a framework for European military deployment and financial backing for Ukraine’s defense infrastructure.

    President Zelensky characterized the agreement as a substantive commitment rather than mere rhetorical support, emphasizing its detailed operational provisions. “The coalition has produced substantive documents with concrete content,” Zelensky stated alongside French President Emmanuel Macron and newly elected British Prime Minister Keir Starmer. “We have defined management structures, command hierarchies, and monitoring procedures for international forces.”

    The trilateral agreement between Ukraine, France, and Britain—supplemented by a broader multinational declaration—outlines mechanisms for troop deployment, military financing, and ongoing support for Ukraine’s armed forces. According to the framework, European nations would station military personnel in Ukraine post-ceasefire to bolster security arrangements.

    Despite the advanced planning, Zelensky identified unresolved territorial disputes as the most pressing diplomatic challenge. The reference to ongoing negotiations surrounding the status of Ukraine’s eastern Donbas region highlights the complex geopolitical dimensions still requiring resolution among stakeholders.

    The Ukrainian leader simultaneously emphasized immediate defense needs, noting that continued Russian aerial assaults necessitate enhanced air defense capabilities. Zelensky stressed the urgency of protecting urban centers and critical infrastructure from bombardment regardless of diplomatic developments.

  • Speed of Amorim’s exit from Man Utd stuns Neville

    Speed of Amorim’s exit from Man Utd stuns Neville

    LONDON, England — Manchester United has terminated the contract of manager Ruben Amorim in a sudden Monday dismissal that has sent shockwaves through English football. The Portuguese coach’s departure comes after a mere 14 months at the helm, with the club languishing in sixth position in the Premier League standings.

    The decisive action followed a series of disappointing results, including a recent draw against Leeds United and a particularly damning 1-1 stalemate with last-place Wolverhampton Wanderers at Old Trafford. Statistical analysis reveals Amorim exits with the poorest win record (31.9%) among all seven managers who have attempted to fill the void since legendary Sir Alex Ferguson’s departure in 2013.

    The dismissal culminates escalating tensions between Amorim and club management, particularly Director of Football Jason Wilcox. The situation reached a boiling point during a remarkable post-match press conference after the Leeds game, where Amorim pointedly differentiated himself as “the manager” rather than “just the coach,” and publicly challenged the scouting department and Wilcox to “do their job.”

    Prominent football pundit and former United defender Gary Neville expressed astonishment at the timing of the decision, stating: “I am surprised it’s happened this morning. I didn’t realise it would happen so quickly. The Wolves game seems to me to be the killer game—it was a bad one.” Neville characterized managerial dismissals as “a poor reflection on everybody” that ultimately leaves all parties worse off.

    Echoing this sentiment, former England striker Gary Lineker described Manchester United as a “basket case” organization on his podcast, suggesting Amorim was fundamentally mismatched to the role. “It didn’t seem to be the right fit and he was a bit stubborn about the way he wanted to play,” Lineker analyzed, adding that club leadership failed to provide adequate support in player recruitment.

    Despite the contentious departure, United defender Harry Maguire struck a conciliatory tone on Instagram, posting a photograph with the former manager alongside the message: “Thank you for everything boss. I wish you all the best in the future.”

  • 55 Cuban, Venezuelan troops killed during US capture of Maduro: official tolls

    55 Cuban, Venezuelan troops killed during US capture of Maduro: official tolls

    CARACAS, Venezuela — A military operation conducted by United States forces on January 3rd resulted in the deaths of 55 military personnel from Cuba and Venezuela, according to official statements released Tuesday by both nations. The raid, which targeted the capture of Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro, represents a significant escalation in hemispheric tensions.

    Venezuelan Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino López characterized the operation as a brutal assault, stating that Maduro’s presidential guard was largely eliminated ‘in cold blood’ by US troops who initiated bombardment in the capital before extracting the leader from his residence. The incident underscores the volatile security situation that has persisted throughout Maduro’s 12-year administration.

    Cuba’s government published the identities of 32 deceased military members, including three high-ranking officers from the interior ministry, who perished during the nighttime assault in Caracas. Simultaneously, Venezuelan authorities released an online memorial honoring 23 fallen personnel from their armed forces, a list that notably included five admirals.

    This tragic event occurs amid ongoing pressure from Washington against the leftist governments in Havana and Caracas, who maintain robust military cooperation alongside collaborations in health and education sectors. The longstanding practice of employing specialized Cuban soldiers for presidential protection—initiated by Maduro’s predecessor Hugo Chávez—has now culminated in one of the most severe bilateral military casualties in recent Latin American history.

  • Venezuela interim leader says no foreign power running country

    Venezuela interim leader says no foreign power running country

    CARACAS, Venezuela — In a firm televised national address on Tuesday, Venezuela’s interim President Delcy Rodríguez delivered a sharp rebuttal to recent U.S. statements, asserting her nation’s complete sovereignty and denying any foreign influence over its governance. The declaration came as a direct response to comments from U.S. President Donald Trump suggesting Washington would oversee Venezuelan affairs during its political transition following the ousting of former leader Nicolás Maduro.

    Rodríguez, addressing the nation from the presidential palace, emphasized that ‘The legitimate government of Venezuela exercises sole authority within our sovereign territory. No external actor holds governance power here.’ Her speech represented the most forceful diplomatic counter yet from Caracas amid escalating tensions with Western powers.

    This exchange marks the latest development in the ongoing political crisis that has divided international alliances, with numerous nations recognizing opposition leader Juan Guaidó as Venezuela’s legitimate president while Maduro’s administration maintains control with support from key military and international partners. The situation continues to evolve as diplomatic maneuvers intensify between global powers supporting opposing factions in the protracted leadership struggle.

  • Partygoers toast new year at Sunrise

    Partygoers toast new year at Sunrise

    Jamaica’s premier New Year’s Day celebration, Sunnation’s Sunrise breakfast party, successfully launched 2026 with an extraordinary fusion of luxury entertainment and authentic Caribbean atmosphere at its new Campion College venue. The exclusive all-inclusive event delivered premium experiences as revelers raised champagne glasses skyward in celebratory toasts to the promising year ahead.

    New York transplant Ronique Goodhall revealed to media that the Sunrise event has become her essential annual tradition since 2019. ‘The plane ticket is always worth it because there’s no party like a party at home,’ Goodhall expressed, highlighting the event’s exceptional value through gourmet dining experiences and performances by A-list DJs. ‘Sunrise always provides the perfect backdrop for spectacular photos and a food village that satisfies every craving.’

    Local attendee Antoine Livingston described the gathering as their designated annual reunion space, emphasizing how the January 1st timing creates ideal conditions for celebrating friendships, new beginnings, and previous accomplishments. ‘We consistently depart with the most incredible euphoria after sharing laughter, dance, and memory-making moments,’ Livingston noted.

    The musical atmosphere reached peak intensity through masterful sets by renowned selectors including Bloodline Franco, DJ Tyler, DJ Mac, Ricky Platinum, and DJ Quan. Their curated playlists generated such energetic response that female attendees strategically exchanged heels for comfortable sandals, preparing for extended morning dancing sessions.

    Dancehall anthems from icons Vybz Kartel, Lady Saw, and special guest Aidonia prompted spontaneous partner dancing throughout the venue. Particularly, Popcaan’s ‘Pretty Crew’ ignited enthusiastic reactions as women captured celebratory selfie videos celebrating friendship and beauty.

    Between musical engagements, patrons explored the extensive food court featuring succulent ribs, creamy pasta selections, and signature desserts from Devon House Ice Cream. Service staff remained consistently engaged throughout the afternoon as attendees fully utilized the unlimited dining offerings.

    The 2026 edition ultimately established Sunnation’s Sunrise Breakfast Party as Jamaica’s definitive New Year’s Day experience, combining gourmet catering, elite musical programming, and authentic cultural celebration in one prestigious package.