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标签： Jamaica

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  • Valiant’s Valentine’s Day essentials

    Valiant’s Valentine’s Day essentials

    Jamaican dancehall sensation Valiant, the chart-topping artist behind viral hits like ‘Passenger Princess’ and ‘Girls Dem Bubble Gum,’ has expanded his portfolio by entering into a strategic partnership with premium liquor brand Campari. The newly appointed brand ambassador fronts the company’s ‘Red Passion’ campaign while simultaneously headlining his Passenger Princess Deluxe Tour across North America.

    In an exclusive interview, Valiant disclosed his meticulously crafted approach to creating the perfect Valentine’s Day experience. Contrary to conventional practices, the artist rejects the formalities of asking someone to be Valentine, considering it ‘cringe,’ and instead emphasizes consistent romantic effort throughout the relationship.

    The deejay’s comprehensive romantic blueprint begins with atmospheric preparation: scented candles and a luxurious robe to establish a sensual ambiance. This is followed by the strategic deployment of floral arrangements, with Valiant recommending the artistic scattering of petal showers throughout the room.

    Gift selection forms a crucial component of his strategy. Valiant advocates for high-value presents such as Van Cleef jewelry, complemented by practical yet intimate additions like GoPro cameras to digitally preserve special moments. The artist further enhances the experience through therapeutic massage techniques using cocoa butter lotion, specifically avoiding oils, to create mental tranquility for his partner.

    Musical accompaniment serves as the final layer in his romantic architecture. Valiant stresses the importance of curating playlists that match the partner’s intimate preferences, with a humorous admission about his preference for maintaining control during these carefully orchestrated moments.

    Regarding the challenges of romantic sustainability within his demanding career, Valiant emphasized the necessity of finding partners who comprehend the unique pressures of artistic professions. He rejected notions that romance is obsolete, asserting that its survival depends entirely on conscious effort and mutual understanding between partners.

  • Defence’s attempt to discredit cop witness collapses

    Defence’s attempt to discredit cop witness collapses

    A high-stakes legal confrontation unfolded Friday in the Supreme Court of Jamaica as defense attorneys for 25 alleged members of the Tesha Miller Klansman Gang faction unsuccessfully attempted to undermine the credibility of a key prosecution witness. The dramatic courtroom exchange centered on forensic evidence collected from a 2017 murder scene in Spanish Town, St. Catherine.

    Detective Corporal [Name], a forensic crime scene investigator, provided detailed testimony about processing the scene where George Richards was fatally shot in September 2017. The officer described discovering a vehicle with multiple bullet holes in the windshield, blood smears on the passenger door, spent shell casings nearby, and a substantial pool of blood near the vehicle’s front alongside discarded brown slippers.

    Following protocol, the investigator documented the chain of custody for all evidence before proceeding to Spanish Town Hospital where he photographed and processed the victim’s body—a male with Rastafarian hairstyle displaying apparent gunshot wounds to the upper chest. The body was properly tagged, sealed in a white body bag with initialed seals, and documented before transfer to morgue attendants.

    Defense attorneys Javed Grant and Tamika Harris launched an aggressive challenge, accusing the detective of recently fabricating evidence about a container collected from the crime scene. Grant pointedly questioned why this container wasn’t mentioned in the officer’s original 2017 statement, crime scene photographs, or schematic drawings.

    ‘The suggestion is that your reference to obtaining a container on September 16, 2017, is a recent fabrication,’ Grant asserted during cross-examination. ‘There is nothing in your documentation to support any presence of a container that day.’

    The prosecution effectively countered this challenge by recalling the evidence disc entered Thursday and displaying two separate photographs that clearly showed the disputed container at the crime scene. An acting deputy director of public prosecutions emphasized that the defense’s insistence on the container’s absence necessitated this photographic verification.

    This case represents the second major judicial proceeding against factions of the Klansman Gang, with all 25 defendants pleading not guilty to 16 separate offenses allegedly committed between August 2017 and November 2022. The trial continues Monday before Supreme Court Justice Dale Palmer, who is hearing evidence without a jury.

  • Money bouquets for Valentines Day

    Money bouquets for Valentines Day

    In an unprecedented coordinated move, the central banks of Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda have issued stern warnings against the increasingly popular practice of creating ‘money bouquets’ ahead of Valentine’s Day celebrations. This trend, which has gained significant traction across social media platforms in recent years, involves meticulously folding, gluing, and arranging banknotes into elaborate floral arrangements that are gifted during romantic occasions and other celebrations.

    The financial authorities have emphasized that this practice constitutes a direct violation of national laws prohibiting currency defacement and mutilation. By physically altering banknotes through folding, pinning, or adhesive application, these decorative arrangements compromise the structural integrity of the currency and significantly shorten its usable lifespan. The coordinated regulatory action comes as central banks seek to reduce the substantial costs associated with replacing damaged currency, particularly ahead of expected spikes in such practices during peak gifting seasons.

    AFP documentation from Lagos, Nigeria, illustrates the commercial scale of this phenomenon, with businesses like Surprise World NG specializing in crafting these monetary arrangements. Photographs show employees meticulously constructing bouquets using 500 Naira notes, while supervisors proudly display their intricate creations. Similar scenes have emerged from Kampala, Uganda, where stalls prominently feature these monetary displays in commercial districts.

    While these visually striking gifts represent a blend of traditional gift-giving and contemporary creativity, financial institutions maintain that the practice ultimately undermines national economic interests by accelerating currency deterioration and increasing replacement expenditures.

  • Courtni Jackson thrills at Back 2 Bass-es

    Courtni Jackson thrills at Back 2 Bass-es

    A poignant musical convergence unfolded at the Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts on February 6th. The Back 2 Bass-es event, orchestrated by the Jamaica Reggae Industry Association (JaRIA), became the backdrop for a special father-daughter performance. Courtni Jackson, a vibrant emerging vocalist, took the stage alongside her father, the revered bass guitarist Jackie Jackson, a foundational figure in reggae history.

    The performance was deeply symbolic, held at the very institution from which Courtni graduated in 2024. She delivered renditions of iconic tracks intimately connected to her father’s legacy, including The Wailers’ ‘Hypocrites’ and Desmond Dekker and The Aces’ ‘Israelites’. Jackie Jackson was one of six legendary bassists honored that evening, sharing the tribute with peers Boris Gardiner, Lloyd Parks, Flabba Holt, Daniel ‘Axeman’ Thompson, and Donald ‘Danny Bassie’ Dennis.

    Reflecting on the experience, Courtni described it as an ‘immaculate feeling,’ citing her father as a lifelong inspiration. The event also served as an emotional tribute to her late mother, singer Karen Smith, who passed away in 2021. Courtni acknowledged that her deep appreciation for classic reggae, particularly the works of pioneers like Toots Hibbert and Jimmy Cliff, was cultivated by her mother’s influence.

    Now six years into her own recording career, Courtni Jackson is focused on carving her own path while honoring her rich musical heritage. She expressed a determined vision to continue releasing music, stating her goal is to clearly communicate her artistic identity and purpose to the world.

  • Russia cracks down on WhatsApp as it pushes state-backed rival

    Russia cracks down on WhatsApp as it pushes state-backed rival

    MOSCOW — In a significant escalation of its digital sovereignty campaign, Russian authorities have officially blocked the WhatsApp messaging platform for its refusal to comply with national data legislation. The move, confirmed by Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov on Thursday, affects approximately 100 million users who are now being directed toward Max, a state-promoted domestic alternative.

    The blocking measure follows months of governmental pressure on foreign tech platforms to adhere to local laws requiring data storage within Russian territory and providing access to security services. Unlike WhatsApp’s end-to-end encryption model, Max operates without robust encryption safeguards, leading digital rights advocates to characterize it as a potential surveillance instrument.

    Meta, WhatsApp’s parent company, stated Wednesday that it believed Russia was implementing a full service blockade to compel user migration. ‘We continue to do everything we can to keep users connected,’ a company representative said.

    Since September, the Russian government has mandated that all new mobile devices sold domestically come pre-loaded with the Max application. Developed by Russian social media conglomerate VK, Max has been marketed as a multifunctional ‘super app’ capable of handling tasks ranging from government service access to commercial transactions. Official figures claim the platform reached 75 million users by December.

    Critics argue the transition undermines privacy and international communication. ‘These restrictions represent a transparent attempt to enhance state control over digital discourse,’ noted one activist. Many schools and employers have already compelled students and staff to adopt Max, creating practical challenges for households and professionals.

    While some users report maintaining WhatsApp access through virtual private networks (VPNs), others describe fractured communication channels, particularly with older demographics less adaptable to new technologies. Parallel restrictions are also being imposed on Telegram, another messaging service facing regulatory pressure.

    Public reaction remains mixed. Some citizens, like Moscow engineer Vilgelm, acknowledge geopolitical realities but question the aggressive promotion of Max. Others, including Natalia Nikolaeva, a 23-year-old painter, lament the social cost of digital fragmentation. Despite concerns, many users continue exploring alternative platforms, reflecting a broader adaptation to Russia’s evolving internet landscape.

  • Ken Boothe for Jamaica Music Museum Hall of Fame

    Ken Boothe for Jamaica Music Museum Hall of Fame

    Jamaica’s vibrant music scene is set to celebrate its living legends as the Ministry of Culture and Entertainment unveils its 2026 honorees. Veteran reggae icon Ken Boothe, renowned for timeless classics including ‘Everything I Own’ and ‘Crying Over You,’ has been selected for induction into the Jamaica Music Museum Hall of Fame. The 77-year-old Denham Town native, whose career spans six decades across international stages, will receive this prestigious recognition during Reggae Month festivities next year.

    Culture Minister Olivia ‘Babsy’ Grange made the formal announcement on Friday, revealing a comprehensive list of award recipients that underscores reggae’s enduring global influence. ‘I am proud to announce the 2026 awardees who represent the depth, diversity and enduring strength of reggae music,’ Minister Grange stated. ‘Through their talent and dedication, they have strengthened Jamaica’s cultural identity and contributed to the global reach of our music.’

    The induction ceremony, scheduled for February 27, 2026, at the National Arena, will feature spectacular musical tributes led by Reggae Month Ambassador Etana. She will be joined by Richie Stephens, the sensational group LUST (featuring Lukie D, Singing Melody, Thriller U and Tony Curtis), and emerging star Chris Malachi in honoring Boothe’s monumental legacy.

    Simultaneously, the government will present bassist Frankie Campbell, founding member of the iconic Fab 5 band, with the Lifetime Achievement Award for his substantial contributions to Jamaican music. Boothe himself had previously received national recognition in 2003 when he was awarded the Order of Distinction.

    Fifteen additional artists will receive Reggae Gold awards, established in 2019 to commemorate reggae’s 50th anniversary and preserve the genre’s essence. This year’s distinguished recipients include guitarist Steve Golding, songwriter/producer Mikie Bennett, singer Desmond Young, music engineer Delroy ‘Fatta’ Pottinger, and vocalist Noel Phillips ‘Echo Minott.’ The list continues with Tristan Palmer (singer/producer), Colin ‘Bulby’ York (producer), The Wailing Souls (represented by George Bancroft ‘Buddy’ Haye), and deejays John McMorris ‘Little John,’ Anthony Alphanso Waldron ‘Lone Ranger,’ Delroy Thompson ‘Pinchers,’ Lester Randall Bullock ‘Dillinger,’ and Hugh James ‘Redman.’ Broadcast journalists Elaine Wint and Winston Barnes round out the honorees.

    The celebration will also feature a special performance by ‘Reggae’s Messenger’ Luciano accompanied by the Reggae Symphony Orchestra under conductor Peter Ashbourne, with the Megaband ensemble led by Michael ‘Megabass’ Fletcher. Demonstrating reggae’s international reach, Chinese reggae band KAWA will perform, highlighting the genre’s universal appeal. ‘Though born in Jamaica, reggae belongs to the world and the world continues to embrace it,’ Minister Grange noted, emphasizing the music’s powerful messages of resilience, faith, and social consciousness.

  • Canadian High Commission mourns mass shooting victims

    Canadian High Commission mourns mass shooting victims

    Canadian diplomatic missions worldwide, including the High Commission in Kingston, Jamaica, have lowered their flags to half-mast in a solemn tribute to the victims of the devastating school shooting in Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia. The visual symbol of mourning at the Kingston office located at 3 West Kings House Road and 10 Waterloo Road reflects a nationwide directive from the Canadian government.

    The federal mandate, enacted on February 11, 2026, orders flags to remain at half-mast until sunset on February 17, commemorating one of Canada’s most severe mass shooting incidents in recent history. The February 10 tragedy resulted in eight fatalities, including the perpetrator, and left 27 individuals wounded.

    Prime Minister Mark Carney released an official statement expressing profound devastation over the violent event and extending heartfelt condolences to affected families and communities. He publicly acknowledged the bravery of first responders while confirming coordinated efforts between federal and provincial authorities to provide comprehensive support to the traumatized community.

    The half-mast observance encompasses all federal buildings across Canada, notably the Peace Tower on Parliament Hill in Ottawa, alongside every Canadian diplomatic post internationally. This global gesture demonstrates unified solidarity as Canadian citizens both domestically and abroad collectively grieve the profound loss of life.

  • 8 heavyweight sound systems set for ‘Juggling’ Sunday at Mas Camp

    8 heavyweight sound systems set for ‘Juggling’ Sunday at Mas Camp

    Jamaica’s cultural landscape is poised for an unprecedented celebration of its musical heritage this Sunday as Mas Camp hosts a groundbreaking juggling event during Reggae Month. In a historic first, eight premier sound systems will unite in a single venue, shifting focus to the foundational elements that forged reggae music from its grassroots origins.

    This meticulously curated event, operating from noon until midnight without admission fees, deliberately diverges from traditional competitive clashes. Instead, it positions itself as both cultural exhibition and educational experience, tracing the evolution of Jamaican music through its most authentic medium. Organizers emphasize the event’s purpose is to honor the juggling culture that predated modern broadcasting technologies and served as the primary vehicle for musical dissemination throughout the island.

    Veteran selector Ricky Trooper characterizes the gathering as dual-purpose: both celebration and historical lesson. Attendees will experience an auditory journey spanning ska, rocksteady, mento, straight reggae, and dancehall—showcasing the complete spectrum of genres comprising Jamaica’s monumental musical contribution. Each participating sound system brings distinctive sonic characteristics and stylistic approaches to their performances, yet all share the common objective of paying homage to the juggling tradition that established modern sound system culture.

    The event strategically addresses narratives suggesting sound system culture’s decline. Trooper asserts Sunday’s showcase will demonstrate the culture’s continued vitality and relevance through its evolutionary adaptations. The programming will progress chronologically, with early arrivals experiencing foundation genres like mento and ska before selectors transition through reggae’s various eras into dancehall as the day progresses.

    Adding international resonance to the proceedings, guest selectors from France will participate, highlighting the global permeation of Jamaica’s sound system culture and its enduring influence on international music scenes.

  • WATCH: Thompson-Herah happy to be back, admits to ‘butterflies’

    WATCH: Thompson-Herah happy to be back, admits to ‘butterflies’

    In a highly anticipated return to competitive athletics, two-time Olympic double sprint champion Elaine Thompson-Herah made her track comeback at Saturday’s Camperdown Classics held at Kingston’s Ashenheim Stadium. The Jamaican superstar, who had been sidelined for nearly two years with a debilitating Achilles tendon injury, secured third position in the women’s 60-meter event with a time of 7.24 seconds against a challenging headwind of -1.7 meters per second.

    The race victory was claimed by compatriot Levanya Williams, who achieved a personal best of 7.17 seconds, while Trinidad and Tobago’s Shanique Bascombe captured second place with a time of 7.23 seconds. Thompson-Herah’s return marked only her second competitive appearance since the 2022 season, having participated in just one previous event earlier in 2024.

    In post-race reflections, the five-time Olympic gold medalist confessed to experiencing pre-race anxiety as she approached the starting blocks. “There were a little bit of butterflies when I got to the blocks,” Thompson-Herah revealed to attending journalists. “I was okay during the warm-ups but once it was time to get into the blocks, there was a little bit of butterflies but I know how to control that.”

    The athletic champion reported a significant positive outcome from her comeback performance—completing the race without experiencing pain from her previously injured Achilles tendon. Thompson-Herah characterized the event as part of her process to eliminate “months and years of rust” accumulated during her extended recovery period.

    In corresponding men’s competition, World Championships 200-meter medalist Bryan Levell triumphed in the men’s 60-meter dash, clocking 6.56 seconds against a -1.0 m/s headwind. Levell outperformed Bouwahjgie Nkrumie, who achieved a personal best of 6.62 seconds, matching the identical time recorded by third-place finisher Rasheed Foster.

  • Cops make AK-47 find in east Kingston

    Cops make AK-47 find in east Kingston

    Kingston Eastern Police Division executed a targeted operation in the Rockfort area of east Kingston on Friday evening, resulting in the significant seizure of an illegal high-powered weapon and extensive ammunition. The strategic raid, conducted between 5:00 pm and 6:00 pm, was initiated based on specific intelligence regarding weapons storage and distribution.

    Law enforcement officials uncovered an AK-47 assault rifle, a weapon notorious for its military-grade capabilities, concealed within a bag and hidden inside a white plastic pipe at the rear of a property. The location was described as heavily obscured by dense vegetation, indicating deliberate attempts at concealment.

    Subsequent search operations revealed additional contraband including 248 rounds of 9mm ammunition and 50 cartridges of 5.56mm caliber—ammunition types compatible with various assault weapons. These were discovered separately, wrapped in black-market packaging at another section of the premises.

    Police intelligence reports directly linked the confiscated arsenal to the Top Temple gang, a known criminal organization operating in the region. According to official statements, the location served dual purposes as both a storage facility and an active point of sale for illegal firearms and ammunition.

    Despite the substantial seizure valued at considerable street worth, no arrests were made during the operation. The investigation remains ongoing as authorities pursue leads regarding the ownership and trafficking operations connected to the discovered weapons cache.