标签: Jamaica

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  • Police Federation condemns slaying of cops

    Police Federation condemns slaying of cops

    The Jamaica Police Federation has voiced profound shock, grief, and anger following the brutal murder of two police officers on Waltham Park Road in St. Andrew last week. The victims, Constable Jemarey Gordon from CTOC and Constable Charles Stewart of the St. Catherine North Division, were fatally shot during a confrontation with several men just before 8 pm.

    In a statement released over the weekend, the federation described the incident as a devastating blow not only to the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) but also to the nation, highlighting the pervasive threat to public safety. The tragedy underscores the perilous conditions under which law enforcement officers operate daily.

    Acting Chairman Constable Koy Marriott urged all officers to remain vigilant both on and off duty, emphasizing the federation’s unwavering support for those forced to defend themselves against ruthless criminals. He stressed that the JCF, despite grappling with recovery efforts post-Hurricane Melissa, remains steadfast in its mission to protect the nation.

    The federation called on the Jamaican government and society at large to unite against criminality, which it warned poses a direct threat to national stability. Marriott also demanded swift investigative action to ensure the perpetrators are brought to justice.

    Additionally, the federation renewed its appeal for enhanced protective measures, increased resources, and stronger legislative support to safeguard police personnel who continue to confront increasingly audacious criminal networks. It extended heartfelt condolences to the families, colleagues, and loved ones of the fallen officers, vowing that their bravery and dedication to Jamaica would never be forgotten.

    In a significant development, Marcarius “Macky” Monroe, the primary suspect, surrendered to authorities at the Hunts Bay Police Station on Friday. However, the investigation remains active, with police urging two other individuals of interest—Junior Brown, alias “Squidly,” and a 17-year-old—to come forward immediately.

  • Discovery Bauxite supplying thousands with water during hurricane recovery

    Discovery Bauxite supplying thousands with water during hurricane recovery

    In the wake of a devastating hurricane, Discovery Bauxite has emerged as a vital lifeline for communities across St. Ann and neighboring parishes in Jamaica. With the National Water Commission (NWC) struggling to maintain supplies due to storm-related disruptions, the company’s water wells in Discovery Bay have become a crucial resource for residents, schools, agencies, and relief organizations. Water trucks, some traveling from as far as Montego Bay, have been loading at the facility to support relief efforts, including the World Central Kitchen team, which is preparing thousands of meals daily for distribution in the hardest-hit areas. The company’s open water standpipe near its public clinic in Jacks Lodge district has also seen heavy use, drawing residents from both its operating areas and beyond. Gratitude has poured in from individuals and organizations benefiting from the service. Pauline White, a small business operator from Farm Town, described the support as ‘a lifeline during a period when access to NWC supplies are down.’ Private truck operator Linburgh Gayle echoed this sentiment, noting the daily demand for water from schools, churches, families, and individuals in need. Discovery Bauxite has acknowledged the widespread hardship caused by the hurricane, pledging to continue its relief efforts as long as its pumps can handle the additional load. The company emphasized its commitment to assisting hundreds of people who travel from local communities and nearby parishes to access water, stating, ‘We are grateful for the opportunity to be of assistance in this time of national need.’

  • Joe Lick Shot, renowned ‘vibes man’ of the dancehall, dies at 70

    Joe Lick Shot, renowned ‘vibes man’ of the dancehall, dies at 70

    Joe Lick Shot, a pivotal figure in the vibrant dancehall scene of the 1980s, passed away on November 11 in Kingston at the age of 70. Born Harold Jackson, he was affectionately known as the ‘vibes man’ for his unique ability to energize crowds and introduce top-tier artists. His signature mimicry of gunfire became a hallmark at dances, earning him respect and admiration across the industry.

  • TOUGH TASK

    TOUGH TASK

    As schoolboy football resumes in Jamaica following the devastation of Hurricane Melissa, coaches Devon Anderson of Clarendon College and Jermaine Thomas of McGrath High are placing greater emphasis on the emotional and psychological recovery of their students rather than the sport itself. The ISSA daCosta Cup and Manning Cup competitions, paused since late October due to the Category 5 hurricane, are set to restart on November 29 for rural areas and a day earlier for urban zones. However, the return to the field has been overshadowed by the profound personal losses and trauma experienced by players and their families. Anderson, whose relative in western Jamaica suffered significant losses, has been supporting his team through grief and displacement. Similarly, Thomas, though grateful that McGrath High was relatively spared, acknowledges the challenges of motivating players who faced prolonged power outages and property damage. Both coaches have been working tirelessly to uplift their teams, with Anderson describing this period as one of the most difficult in his coaching career. ISSA’s efforts to ensure schools were adequately supported before resuming play have been praised, but the focus remains on helping students regain a sense of normalcy. While Clarendon College and McGrath High aim for success in the ongoing competitions, Anderson emphasizes that the current training sessions are more about enjoyment and emotional recovery than pressuring the players. The teams are taking it week by week, hoping to rebuild their rhythm and resilience in the wake of the hurricane’s impact.

  • Ravaged Westmoreland communities receive help from Patricia Smith Foundation, Revival Council of Churches and Resort Areas Police

    Ravaged Westmoreland communities receive help from Patricia Smith Foundation, Revival Council of Churches and Resort Areas Police

    Under a drizzling, dusky sky, a woman stood with her hands on her head, gazing at the remnants of what might have been her home on Cooke Street in Savanna-la-Mar, Westmoreland’s capital. The scene was hauntingly quiet, with roofless houses, shattered windows, and clothes hanging precariously on makeshift wires. Residents sat or stood in their yards, their faces etched with bewilderment, as the community grappled with the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa. This devastation was part of a broader crisis in Westmoreland, where approximately 80% of homes were destroyed, leaving thousands without shelter or hope for a swift recovery. The hurricane’s impact was exacerbated by the region’s crumbling infrastructure, including poor roads and limited modern facilities. Amid this despair, Dr. Patricia Smith, a Jamaican-American philanthropist, spearheaded a relief mission to deliver essential supplies such as rice, canned food, chicken, and drinking water. Supported by the Sweet P Home Care, the Dr. Patricia V Smith Foundation, the Acts of Miracles Foundation, and the Secret Hearts Spiritual Church of Jesus Christ International, Dr. Smith’s efforts focused on the most vulnerable. She emphasized the urgent need for aid in outlying communities like Water Works, Georges Plain, and Little London, which had received less attention from donors. Inspector Hartley of the Jamaica Constabulary Force’s Resort Areas Division confirmed the scale of destruction, while Chief Apostle Dr. Ray Anthony Foster praised Dr. Smith’s leadership in initiating a long-term rebuilding effort. The relief groups also provided cooked meals at central locations, with Dr. Smith feeding over 100 people in Savanna-la-Mar. She called on organizations like the World Central Kitchen to prioritize Westmoreland. Preliminary estimates place the hurricane’s damage between US$6 billion and US$7 billion, equivalent to 28-32% of Jamaica’s GDP for fiscal year 2024/2025. Despite the overwhelming challenges, the community’s resilience and the collective efforts of local and international organizations offer a glimmer of hope for recovery.

  • What to buy when everything feels ‘expensive’

    What to buy when everything feels ‘expensive’

    In today’s economic climate, the perception of high prices pervades various sectors, from stocks and bonds to everyday essentials. This sentiment is particularly prevalent among investors. However, the notion of ‘expensive’ is inherently relative. Grasping its true meaning and adopting strategies to navigate this environment of elevated prices and cautious optimism can significantly impact long-term financial health.

  • Carl Brown believes Boyz will give Jamaica ‘something to smile about’

    Carl Brown believes Boyz will give Jamaica ‘something to smile about’

    Former Jamaica football coach Carl Brown has expressed unwavering confidence in the Reggae Boyz’s ability to triumph over Curacao in their upcoming World Cup qualifier. The crucial Group B Concacaf match is scheduled to take place at the National Stadium on Tuesday. Brown, who resides in South Florida, emphasized the importance of a victory for the nation, particularly in the wake of the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa. He believes the team will deliver their best performance and secure a much-needed win. Curacao currently leads the group with 11 points, just one ahead of Jamaica. A draw would suffice for Curacao to become the smallest country to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, which will be hosted across Canada, Mexico, and the United States. Their previous encounter on October 10 saw Curacao defeat Jamaica 2-0 at home. Jamaica’s head coach, Steve McClaren, has faced criticism for his team selection during the November 11 match against Trinidad and Tobago, which ended in a 1-1 draw. However, Brown asserts that the players must rise to the occasion and deliver a victory that will bring joy to a nation still recovering from the hurricane’s aftermath. Brown, a former defender for Jamaica and Boys’ Town in the Major League, served as head coach when Jamaica won the Caribbean Cup in 1991. He later transitioned to technical director under Rene Simoes when the team qualified for the 1998 World Cup in France. Curacao, coached by the seasoned Dick Advocaat, boasts a roster of professional players based in Europe. Hurricane Melissa, a Category 5 storm, struck Jamaica on October 28, causing significant damage across several parishes and resulting in 45 fatalities, according to the Jamaican government.

  • Zulu Warrior spints home with URTAJ Trophy feature

    Zulu Warrior spints home with URTAJ Trophy feature

    Zulu Warrior showcased exceptional versatility and skill, securing a decisive victory in the $1.25-million StarGas United Racehorse Trainers Association of Jamaica (URTAJ) Trophy at Caymanas Park on Saturday. The four-year-old chestnut colt, owned by O&S Racers and trained by Adrian Prince, was expertly ridden by apprentice Tyrese Anderson. Competing in the Restricted Overnight Allowance event for native-bred three-year-olds and upward over six furlongs (1,200m), Zulu Warrior triumphed by an impressive 2 ½ lengths. The race began with Zulu Warrior taking an early lead, but he strategically allowed Comehometome (ridden by Abigail Able) to take charge near the half-mile mark. However, as the race turned for home, Zulu Warrior unleashed a powerful surge, propelling him to victory ahead of Oil Machine (Tajay Suckoo) and Provident (Tevin Foster). The winning time was recorded at 1:14.3. This victory marked the second win of the day for O&S Racers and Prince, who had earlier claimed the previous race with Shooting Star, ridden by Raddesh Roman. Trainer Ryan Darby also celebrated two victories on the day, with Don Almighty (Paul Francis) winning the opening event and Green Gold Rush (Tevin Foster) securing the sixth race. Racing enthusiasts now eagerly await the highly anticipated Jamaica Cup race day, continuing today.

  • Apprentice jockey charged after armed robbery of teen in Portmore

    Apprentice jockey charged after armed robbery of teen in Portmore

    ST CATHERINE, Jamaica — Delroy ‘Jockey’ Walker, a 21-year-old apprentice jockey from Carol Crescent in Newlands, Portmore, has been charged with several serious offences following an armed robbery incident last month. The charges against Walker include robbery with aggravation, possession of a prohibited weapon, using a prohibited weapon to commit a scheduled offence, and assault at common law. The incident took place early in the morning on October 15, when a teenage girl was waiting at a bus stop along Bridgeport Road. Walker allegedly approached her, displayed a firearm, and demanded her belongings, including her cell phone and $32,000, before fleeing on foot. The victim reported the robbery to the Portmore Police, leading to an investigation. Walker was later identified in an identification parade and taken into custody. Authorities are currently arranging a court date for the case.

  • Push for financial relief grows after Melissa

    Push for financial relief grows after Melissa

    The aftermath of Hurricane Melissa has left many individuals and small business owners in eastern Jamaica grappling with financial challenges, casting a shadow over the upcoming Christmas season. Despite being spared significant physical damage, residents have faced substantial economic strain due to their involvement in relief efforts in the western regions, which bore the brunt of the storm. The Small Business Association of Jamaica (SBAJ) and the Young Entrepreneurs Association (YEA) have called on the government to provide tax breaks and targeted financial support to alleviate the burden on small businesses. Meanwhile, individuals are seeking loan moratoria and leniency from financial institutions to manage their mounting expenses. Nickeba Dunkley, a resident who spent nearly $400,000 on relief efforts, exemplifies the personal sacrifices made by many. ‘Helping others felt like the right thing to do,’ she said, though she now worries about her monthly expenses. Small business owners like Carolyn Rose and Nicolette Richardson have maxed out credit cards to support their communities, while others, such as Nastassia Brown of Kingston’s Catch, have had to halt operations, further straining their cash flow. Prime Minister Andrew Holness has announced fiscal measures to aid recovery, including cash flow assistance and emergency social programs, but details remain scarce. Financial institutions like the National Housing Trust and Scotiabank Jamaica have introduced moratoriums on loan payments, but interest continues to accrue. As the Christmas season approaches, many are bracing for a subdued celebration, with a focus on gratitude and community rather than material gifts. ‘Christmas is going to be gloomy for sure,’ said Shudene Ramsay, CEO of Ramsay’s Professional Services Limited, reflecting the widespread sentiment of uncertainty and survival mode among affected communities.