Carib Scope

标签： Jamaica

牙买加

  • No parking permitted on Palisadoes Road to view fireworks — police

    No parking permitted on Palisadoes Road to view fireworks — police

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Jamaican law enforcement officials have issued a stringent parking prohibition along the critical Palisadoes thoroughfare in Kingston during New Year’s Eve celebrations. The comprehensive ban, specifically targeting Wednesday, December 31st, expressly forbids all vehicular parking for fireworks viewing purposes along this strategic roadway.

    Police authorities have clarified that absolutely no vehicles will receive authorization to park on the main roadway under any circumstances. The regulatory measures extend further to prohibit parking on the right-hand side of the road leading toward Norman Manley International Airport during a designated timeframe from 5:00 PM on Wednesday through 12:30 AM on Thursday.

    Motorists who disregard these officially mandated restrictions will face immediate legal consequences, including criminal prosecution and compulsory vehicle towing. The Jamaica Constabulary Force emphasizes that these measures constitute essential public safety protocols rather than mere traffic suggestions, designed to ensure uninterrupted emergency access and prevent potentially dangerous congestion during high-density holiday celebrations.

  • Finance ministry extends Hurricane Melissa duty and GCT relief to January 15

    Finance ministry extends Hurricane Melissa duty and GCT relief to January 15

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — In a decisive move addressing logistical challenges during the holiday season, Jamaica’s Ministry of Finance and Public Service has granted a two-week extension for hurricane relief import duty exemptions. The new deadline of January 15, 2026, represents a firm cutoff for tax concessions on essential goods imported following Hurricane Melissa.

    Government authorities acknowledged that Christmas season operations significantly hampered shipping capabilities, affecting freight forwarders, brokers, and port authorities alike. Many charitable donations from international donors failed to meet the original December 31, 2025 deadline due to these systemic constraints.

    The ministry’s official statement emphasized the substantial financial impact of these tax relief measures, revealing a striking $12 billion reduction in customs revenue since the hurricane struck. This financial reality necessitates a carefully balanced approach to disaster recovery philanthropy.

    As Jamaica progresses from emergency relief to reconstruction phases, officials are encouraging overseas supporters to utilize standard shipping channels for sending items to family and friends. The government reaffirmed its appreciation for international solidarity while establishing clear parameters for the nation’s fiscal recovery strategy.

  • Billionaire Lee-Chin weighs sale of NCBFG stake to settle debt, shares down 23% YTD

    Billionaire Lee-Chin weighs sale of NCBFG stake to settle debt, shares down 23% YTD

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Prominent Jamaican-Canadian investor Michael Lee-Chin is evaluating the potential divestment of his controlling interest in National Commercial Bank Financial Group Limited (NCBFG) to address pressing debt obligations. This strategic consideration emerges as his Barbados-based company, AIC (Barbados) Limited, faces an immediate US$94 million bond payment, with total outstanding bond obligations amounting to US$297 million.

    In accordance with an agreement with noteholders, Lee-Chin has initiated a 45-day resolution period commencing December 31 to structure repayment of both principal and accrued interest. The process aims to facilitate orderly settlement arrangements for the due amount.

    “I’m conducting a comprehensive structural review of all available alternatives,” Lee-Chin stated during a telephone interview with Observer Online, while opting not to elaborate further. “All options remain under consideration, including full repayment, and I have allocated 45 days to reach a resolution.”

    An official release from his office outlined potential strategies, ranging from complete debt liquidation to addressing the current payment, with the partial or full disposal of his NCBFG shareholding identified as a viable pathway. Lee-Chin currently serves as chairman of the diversified financial services conglomerate.

    Any disposition would constitute a substantial block transaction. Recent NCBFG quarterly disclosures reveal AIC (Barbados) Limited maintained 46.24% ownership of the group’s issued shares as of September 30, 2025. Earlier regulatory filings dated March 31, 2025, indicated Lee-Chin and his affiliated entities collectively controlled 52.15% of NCBFG, with AIC (Barbados) specifically holding 46.74% at that time.

    The billionaire is collaborating with financial advisors and key stakeholders to determine “the most appropriate and sustainable course of action,” according to the statement. Lee-Chin expressed confidence that the undertaken measures would yield favorable outcomes while reaffirming his commitment to fulfilling all financial obligations.

    Market analysts anticipate a decision regarding the preferred approach within the forthcoming fortnight, substantially preceding the 45-day deadline. A transaction involving Lee-Chin’s substantial shareholding would represent a significant event for NCBFG’s market structure.

    The company’s shares have experienced downward pressure, concluding at J$39.05 on the Jamaica Stock Exchange with 3.35 million shares traded recently. At this valuation, Lee-Chin’s 52.15% stake—based on 2.58 billion issued shares—approximates J$52.6 billion (US$335 million), substantially exceeding the total bond debt. This current price reflects a considerable decline from historic peaks when shares reached an intraday high of J$249 and closed at J$219 in July 2019. Year-to-date, the stock has depreciated 23.16%.

    Lee-Chin established his fortune primarily through Portland Holdings Inc., his investment holding vehicle. His stewardship of NCBFG, which encompasses banking, insurance, and wealth management services across the Caribbean region, has constituted a foundational element of his business legacy.

    Additional developments will be communicated as appropriate.

  • Galiday Bounce postponed amid dispute with show’s headliner Kraff

    Galiday Bounce postponed amid dispute with show’s headliner Kraff

    The highly anticipated Galiday Bounce New Year’s Eve concert, scheduled to take place at New York’s Amazura Concert Hall with headliner dancehall artist Kraff, has been unexpectedly postponed following a public contractual dispute between the artist and event promoter.

    Event promoter Galdiez Mendez ignited tensions through social media broadcasts on Wednesday, accusing Kraff of failing to fulfill promotional obligations despite receiving substantial advance payments. Mendez claimed he expended approximately $59,000 on event preparations, including booking two suites at the Double Tree Hotel in Queens, New York, where supporting performers were already accommodated.

    In emotional video statements, Mendez alleged that Kraff refused to participate in essential promotional activities, stating: “The artist claims he doesn’t do advertisements. How will audiences know he’s performing? I had to contact his associates in Jamaica to secure minimal promotional content.” Mendez demanded the return of $21,786 allegedly paid to Kraff for his performance.

    Contrasting sharply with these allegations, Kraff’s management team issued an official statement explaining their decision to withdraw from the event. They asserted that the promoter repeatedly failed to honor contractual obligations and unexpectedly characterized the event as a “benefit concert” without prior discussion or approval.

    The statement emphasized: “Kraff, his management, and representatives provided the promoter with extensive opportunities to resolve outstanding issues. The artist maintains professional standards and cannot compromise on safety, logistics, or production quality. Financial and operational responsibility rested entirely with the promoter.”

    Ticket holders have been advised to contact the promoter or their point of purchase regarding refund procedures. The postponed event was slated to feature additional performances by Tatik, Kkrytical, Sita, Foota Hype, Joe Young, FyaaMan, and Kayson Full Charge. Kraff’s team expressed hope for future performances in New York under appropriately professional circumstances.

  • JDF says alleged actions of soldier contrary to core values

    JDF says alleged actions of soldier contrary to core values

    A member of the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) is facing serious criminal charges following an incident involving the unauthorized discharge of a firearm in a public area on Christmas morning. Private Rushane Brown, a 30-year-old soldier from Comfort Hall, Manchester, was apprehended after allegedly firing shots into the air approximately at 5:15 am in St. Elizabeth.

    The incident came to light when an off-duty police officer witnessed the alleged firearm discharge and confronted the soldier. Following an investigation, Brown has been formally charged with multiple offenses including possession of a prohibited weapon, unauthorized possession of ammunition, and unlawful discharge of a firearm in a public space.

    In an official statement released Wednesday, the Jamaica Defence Force expressed strong disapproval of the alleged actions, emphasizing that such behavior contradicts the organization’s core values and professional standards expected of all personnel. The military institution explicitly stated that it does not tolerate unlawful, reckless, or irresponsible conduct by any members, regardless of whether they are on or off duty.

    The JDF has committed to full cooperation with the Jamaica Constabulary Force to ensure a thorough and transparent investigation process. Military officials reaffirmed their dedication to maintaining the highest standards of discipline and accountability, while assuring the public that incidents of this nature receive the most serious attention and appropriate disciplinary measures.

  • Ex-boxing champ Joshua discharged from hospital after fatal car crash

    Ex-boxing champ Joshua discharged from hospital after fatal car crash

    Nigerian authorities confirmed Wednesday evening that former world heavyweight boxing titleholder Anthony Joshua has been released from medical care following a devastating road accident that claimed the lives of two close companions. The incident occurred along the heavily traveled Lagos-Ibadan expressway in southwestern Nigeria, where the sports icon’s sports utility vehicle collided with a stationary truck under circumstances now under official investigation. Preliminary findings from the Ogun State Traffic Compliance and Enforcement Agency (TRACE) indicate a tire rupture may have precipitated the catastrophic impact. Joint statements from Lagos state spokesman Gbenga Omotoso and Ogun state representative Kayode Akinmade clarified that while Joshua remains emotionally devastated by the loss of his friends, medical professionals determined his physical condition permitted recovery outside clinical supervision. Both state governments coordinated the athlete’s treatment following Monday’s tragedy. Before returning home, Joshua paid respects at the mortuary where deceased companions Sina Ghami and Latif Ayodele were being prepared for transportation to their final resting places.

  • Supreme Ventures announces intended strategic divestment of Evolve Loan Co

    Supreme Ventures announces intended strategic divestment of Evolve Loan Co

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — A significant strategic realignment is underway in Jamaica’s financial sector as Supreme Ventures Limited has entered preliminary negotiations with Dolla Financial Services Limited concerning the divestiture of Evolve Loan Co’s loan portfolio and select digital assets.

    The proposed transaction, announced Wednesday, forms part of a deliberate capital optimization strategy designed to enhance balance sheet efficiency for Supreme Ventures. The move aims to reduce credit risk concentration while improving risk-adjusted returns, all while maintaining strategic exposure to the portfolio’s future performance.

    This divestiture will catalyze a fundamental operational transformation for Evolve Loan Co, shifting it toward an asset-light business model. The restructured entity will concentrate strategically on loan origination services, digital platform enablement, and developing fee-based revenue streams—a transition expected to boost capital returns while mitigating balance sheet vulnerabilities.

    For acquiring entity Dolla Financial Services, this acquisition represents a strategic expansion that significantly scales operations and fortifies its lending infrastructure. Company CEO Kenroy Kerr emphasized that the transaction “meaningfully expands our microcredit footprint and reinforces our commitment to inclusive financing,” anticipating substantial positive impact on the company’s loan book balance and growth trajectory.

    Supreme Ventures will maintain financial exposure to future value creation through retained 15% equity ownership in Dolla Financial Services Limited. Executive Chairman Gary Peart characterized the move as reflecting “disciplined capital allocation and a clear focus on shareholder value,” strengthening immediate financial positioning while preserving long-term upside potential through a more scalable operational structure.

    Final transaction details remain under negotiation pending regulatory approval from the Bank of Jamaica.

  • Three dead in US strikes on alleged drug boats—US military

    Three dead in US strikes on alleged drug boats—US military

    WASHINGTON (AFP)—The United States military has confirmed the deaths of three individuals during maritime operations targeting suspected narcotics trafficking vessels. According to a statement released Wednesday by US Southern Command (SOUTHCOM), the incident occurred on Tuesday when forces engaged three vessels traveling as a convoy in international waters.

    The operation, which targeted what the military described as ‘narco-trafficking vessels’ operated by ‘Designated Terrorist Organizations,’ resulted in the fatalities occurring aboard a single boat. Accompanying footage released by SOUTHCOM on social media platform X showed three boats being struck by successive explosions while moving together at sea.

    Military officials stated that after the initial engagement eliminated the three individuals on the first vessel, remaining occupants abandoned the other two boats before subsequent actions sank both vessels. The exact location of the confrontation remains unspecified, though previous similar operations have typically occurred in Caribbean or eastern Pacific waters.

    SOUTHCOM indicated that the Coast Guard was notified to activate search and rescue protocols, though no further details were provided regarding the fate of those who abandoned the vessels.

    This incident brings the total death toll in Washington’s counter-narcotics campaign to at least 110 since September, with over 30 similar strikes conducted against alleged drug smuggling operations. The military has not presented concrete evidence publicly demonstrating the targeted vessels’ involvement in trafficking activities.

    International legal experts and human rights organizations have raised concerns that these operations may constitute extrajudicial killings, arguing they apparently target civilians who pose no immediate threat to US security.

    The maritime operations occur against the backdrop of heightened tensions between the US and Venezuela. President Donald Trump has intensified pressure on Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro, accusing him of operating a drug cartel—an allegation Maduro vehemently denies while accusing Washington of pursuing regime change to access Venezuela’s substantial oil reserves.

  • Traffic changes announced for Black River fireworks festival

    Traffic changes announced for Black River fireworks festival

    Authorities in St Elizabeth Parish, Jamaica, have announced comprehensive traffic management measures to ensure public safety during the annual Black River fireworks festival scheduled for December 31st. The Jamaica Constabulary Force has confirmed the implementation of strategic road closures and alternative routing systems effective from 8:00 AM on Wednesday.

    The intersection of High Street and Exchange Drive, along with the High Street and School Street junction, will be completely restricted to vehicular traffic. These critical access points will be exclusively reserved for pedestrian movement and authorized personnel throughout the event duration.

    Traffic diversion protocols have been meticulously planned to maintain smooth vehicular flow. Motorists traveling through Exchange Drive will be redirected northward onto Lovers Lane, subsequently connecting to Central Road. Similarly, vehicles approaching via School Street will be channeled northward along School Street Drive before merging onto Central Road and Lovers Lane.

    The St Elizabeth Police Division has emphasized the importance of public cooperation with traffic management personnel. These temporary measures aim to balance public safety requirements with minimal disruption to local transportation networks during the festive celebrations. Authorities encourage attendees to plan their routes accordingly and allow additional travel time to accommodate the implemented diversions.

  • Murders fall below 700 for first time in over 31 years — Chang

    Murders fall below 700 for first time in over 31 years — Chang

    Jamaica has reached a monumental milestone in public safety as the nation records its lowest homicide rate in over three decades. National Security Minister Dr. Horace Chang announced that murder cases have fallen below 700 for the first time since 1994, representing a dramatic 40% year-over-year reduction compared to 2024 figures.

    This achievement becomes even more significant when viewed against historical data. The current numbers show an astonishing 60% decline from Jamaica’s peak violence period in 2009, when the nation recorded 1,683 murders. This transformation translates to approximately 1,000 lives saved compared to that benchmark year.

    The remarkable turnaround stems from a comprehensive security strategy implemented through the Ministry of National Security and Peace. The Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) spearheaded this transformation through several key initiatives: substantial personnel expansion, infrastructure modernization, improved compensation packages, technology integration, and merit-based promotion systems that have advanced over 2,100 officers since 2024.

    Operational effectiveness received a significant boost from flagship programs including Project ROCK and the deployment of advanced surveillance, communications, and intelligence systems. Complementing these enforcement measures, prevention-focused efforts like the Live Good Anti-Violence Campaign have targeted the underlying social causes of criminal behavior.

    Minister Chang extended gratitude to all security personnel including the Jamaica Defence Force, the Major Organised Crime and Anti-Corruption Agency, correctional officers, and border security teams. He emphasized that this achievement represents a national effort that has fundamentally altered Jamaica’s security trajectory, positioning the nation for sustainable crime reduction in the coming years.