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  • Person of interest in Manchester killings surrenders, says ACP Phillips

    Person of interest in Manchester killings surrenders, says ACP Phillips

    MANCHESTER, Jamaica — Law enforcement authorities in Jamaica’s Area Three Command have announced significant developments in the investigation of a violent weekend that claimed four lives in Manchester. Assistant Commissioner of Police Christopher Phillips confirmed Thursday that one individual of interest has voluntarily surrendered to authorities.

    The breakthrough comes after a coordinated series of homicides occurred between Saturday night and Sunday morning across New Hall, Old England, and Ellen Street. The victims have been identified as Dejaune Hamilton, Raheem Ward (also known as Richie Rich, 22), Adrian Reid, and David Brown (33), all fatally shot by unidentified assailants.

    ACP Phillips disclosed that CJ Wilson, one of two primary persons of interest, has turned himself in to police. However, authorities continue seeking Orane Nelson, alternatively known as ‘Blacks’ or ‘Mad Dawg,’ from Marshalls Crescent in May Day, Manchester. Phillips indicated that criminal charges are imminent against the second suspect as investigations proceed.

    The newly appointed Area Three commander personally participated in community walkthroughs following the incidents, acknowledging the profound impact on local residents. ‘The community was shaken by what happened,’ Phillips stated. ‘This is not commonplace for their area, but we are making substantial investigative progress.’

    In a broader security initiative, Phillips identified multiple wanted individuals across Manchester, Clarendon, and St. Elizabeth parishes. Notable among them is Oral Cole (‘Pretty Rass’ or ‘Sparta’), an escapee from Black River police custody since June 2023, currently suspected to be in the Mile Gully area and wanted for murder and shooting charges.

    The list additionally includes Michael Chambers (‘Panky’) wanted for murders in Manchester, Andre Blackwood (‘Squit Squit’) sought for weapon offenses in St. Elizabeth, and Ashaune Wint (‘Not Nice’) identified as a person of interest in a recent Crawford murder case.

    Clarendon parish faces particular scrutiny with three wanted individuals: Shacoy Campbell (‘Tall Wayne’) sought for a December 2024 homicide, Andre Sewell (‘Jaydon’) wanted for a 2022 murder, and Troy Callaghan (‘Ashanti’ or ‘Shaun’) desired for a double homicide in March 2024.

    Phillips issued a direct appeal for peaceful surrender: ‘I encourage these individuals to turn themselves in voluntarily. We prefer peaceful resolutions that allow them their day in court.’ The commander emphasized his determination to combat criminal influence, noting nine homicides across Area Three already this year. ‘We will not permit criminals to dominate our communities. Our commitment to public safety remains unwavering.’

  • Bad Dawg marks 14 years as street-food brand expands vendor network and retail presence

    Bad Dawg marks 14 years as street-food brand expands vendor network and retail presence

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Celebrating its 14th anniversary, Jamaican street-food phenomenon Bad Dawg is executing a dual expansion strategy that simultaneously grows its mobile vendor network while establishing a formal retail presence across the island nation.

    The brand, originally launched as a job-creation initiative by CB Group, has evolved from its humble sausage cart beginnings into a multifaceted food enterprise. What began as a program to empower small entrepreneurs with low startup costs has matured into a hybrid business model featuring over 18 independent vendors operating islandwide, consistent presence at major public events, and supermarket distribution channels.

    Alicia Bogues, CB Group’s Head of Regional Development, explained the brand’s foundational philosophy: “Bad Dawg was intentionally designed as an entrepreneurial opportunity platform, enabling individuals to become their own bosses with minimal initial investment.” This approach has not only created employment but also cultivated a devoted customer base that associates the brand with Jamaica’s vibrant social gatherings and cultural events.

    The brand’s product innovation has kept pace with its operational expansion. While maintaining its signature sausage offerings, Bad Dawg has introduced streaky bacon to its portfolio, strategically broadening its culinary applications across different meal occasions.

    The vendor success story of Alicia Newman and her husband exemplifies the brand’s impact. Starting with one cart three years ago as supplementary income alongside their full-time jobs, the couple now operates two carts, employs six people, and plans to launch a third unit—demonstrating the scalability of the Bad Dawg model.

    Moiya Chin-Lyn, Channel Manager for Retail Experience at CB Foods, highlighted the strategic thinking behind the retail expansion: “Our move into formal retail channels allows consumers to enjoy our distinctive flavors at home while preserving the authentic street culture that established our brand identity.”

    This fourteen-year journey reflects the ongoing commercialization of Jamaica’s informal food sector, with Bad Dawg successfully bridging the gap between traditional street vending and modern retail distribution without compromising its original community-oriented values.

  • Counting every vote

    Counting every vote

    Jamaica’s parliamentary Human Resource and Social Development Committee has initiated a significant examination of the nation’s electoral framework, scheduling a pivotal session with the Electoral Office of Jamaica (EOJ) on April 2nd. This procedural review responds to growing concerns about potentially disenfranchising voting regulations that may affect election outcomes.

    Committee Chairman Duane Smith revealed that the probe was triggered by a private member’s motion from St Catherine South Western MP Everald Warmington, addressing fundamental aspects of electoral integrity. The motion proposes substantial modifications to the Representation of the People Act, including reconsidering ballot marking requirements beyond the traditional ‘X’, adjusting polling hours, and addressing procedural inconsistencies that contribute to rejected ballots.

    Smith shared compelling evidence from the previous general election, noting “over 600 rejected ballots” in his constituency alone—an unprecedented number that reflects systemic issues. He described instances where technically valid ballots were invalidated for minor procedural errors, such as improper tearing along perforated lines, effectively disenfranchising legitimate voters.

    The proposed reforms include extending polling closure from 5:00 pm to 6:00 pm and permitting diverse marking instruments beyond standard pencils. However, St Thomas Eastern MP Yvonne Rose-Marie Shaw expressed reservations about abandoning established pencil protocols and extending voting hours, citing potential security concerns in remote communities.

    Additional concerns emerged regarding operational efficiency during elections. St Ann North Western MP Krystal Lee reported that voting duration had “increased by double the amount of time,” creating extensive queues and voter frustration. Manchester Central MP Rhoda Moy Crawford highlighted workplace voting access issues, noting widespread non-compliance with laws requiring employers to grant voting leave.

    Senior Legislative Counsel Tiffany Stewart provided critical legal context, warning that seemingly minor amendments could have extensive legislative implications. She noted the Act’s numerous recent revisions (2016, 2020, 2024) and recommended involving the Attorney General’s Chambers and Legal Reform Department in subsequent consultations.

    Chairman Smith outlined a phased approach: initial consultation with the EOJ, followed by engagement with legal and policy entities. The committee will also conduct comparative research on international voting standards and solicit public submissions, recognizing the profound implications electoral reforms hold for democratic participation and election legitimacy.

  • Liberty Caribbean: ‘Translate connectivity into prosperity’

    Liberty Caribbean: ‘Translate connectivity into prosperity’

    At the CANTO Connect 2026 conference, Liberty Caribbean CEO Inge Smidts delivered a powerful address challenging Caribbean leaders to harness the region’s digital infrastructure for measurable economic advancement. Speaking as head of the telecommunications giant operating Flow, Liberty Business and BTC services, Smidts presented a strategic framework for converting connectivity into concrete opportunities.

    With the conference theme ‘Elevate the Caribbean — From Connectivity to Global Competitiveness’ as backdrop, Smidts outlined three critical priorities: embedding technology within Caribbean cultural identity, constructing people-centered intelligent networks, and accelerating telecom companies’ evolution into technology platforms that generate local opportunities.

    “Our foundation of connectivity is established,” Smidts declared. “The pressing question now is what we will build upon it. Combining Caribbean creativity with reliable connectivity and intelligent policy unlocks jobs, services, and businesses capable of competing internationally.”

    The CEO emphasized Liberty Caribbean’s commitment to leading this transformation through investments in human capital, strategic partnerships, and technological platforms. She called for enhanced public-private collaboration models extending beyond financing to include co-regulation, regulatory sandboxes, and shared governance structures.

    “Public-private partnership serves as the engine for progress acceleration,” Smidts explained. “Governments provide vision and legitimacy, industry contributes scale and technical capability, while universities and civil society offer scrutiny and social purpose. Aligned incentives produce tangible impact.”

    Liberty Caribbean demonstrated its commitment through concrete offers to connect investors with developers, align government programs with cloud infrastructure, and expand apprenticeship pipelines to empower Caribbean entrepreneurs and technologists.

    Smidts highlighted the company’s practical initiatives including the JUMP inclusion program, which provides subsidized access, devices, training, and entrepreneurial support to households and microentrepreneurs. She stressed that intelligent connectivity must address authentic local needs while engineered for resilience in a disaster-prone region.

    “In hurricane zones, active fault lines, and volcanic regions, connectivity becomes lifesaving rather than optional,” Smidts noted. “Our emergency response work proves that industry collaboration with satellite providers and governments can restore critical communications within hours instead of days.”

    The address specifically acknowledged Trinidad and Tobago’s progress driven by policy initiatives including the Blueprint Revitalisation Plan, successful investor engagement, and a $1 billion bond roadshow. National digital projects such as the ANANSI digital assistant, UNESCO/UNDP AI assessment collaboration, OpenAI partnerships for education transformation, and the Developers’ Hub for SME-government co-creation received particular emphasis as examples of the nation’s ambitious digital transformation.

  • Passengers turn nine-hour British Airways flight into church service

    Passengers turn nine-hour British Airways flight into church service

    An extraordinary event unfolded aboard a British Airways transatlantic flight from London to Jamaica when passengers spontaneously initiated a large-scale worship session at cruising altitude. Captured in viral footage, the incident shows travelers enthusiastically engaging in collective prayer, hymn singing, and evangelical preaching approximately one hour into the nine-hour journey.

    The unconventional mid-air gathering, which extended for approximately two and a half hours, has generated significant controversy across social media platforms. While some viewers celebrated the display of faith, others criticized the participants for perceived inconsiderate behavior toward fellow passengers.

    Maxine Munroe, a 56-year-old passenger aboard the 2020 flight, recently shared footage of the occurrence on TikTok, prompting widespread discussion. Munroe expressed mixed feelings about the experience, noting that while she identifies as spiritual, the intensity and duration of the worship session created an environment unconducive to rest during the long-haul flight.

    The video clips showcase passengers clapping, singing gospel music, and offering spontaneous testimonials, effectively transforming the aircraft cabin into an impromptu place of worship. This incident has sparked broader conversations about appropriate conduct during air travel, particularly regarding the balance between religious expression and consideration for others in confined spaces.

    Social media reactions remain sharply divided, with comments ranging from supportive affirmations of faith to criticisms labeling the behavior as disruptive and inconsiderate to non-participating travelers seeking quiet during their journey.

  • Clicks over cradles

    Clicks over cradles

    Jamaica’s Health and Wellness Minister Dr. Christopher Tufton has identified social media culture as a significant factor in the country’s dramatically declining birth rates. Speaking at Percy Junor Hospital’s baby-friendly accreditation ceremony in Spalding on Thursday, Minister Tufton presented a detailed analysis of how digital platforms are reshaping reproductive decisions across Jamaican society.

    The Minister characterized social media as a “double-edged sword” that creates unrealistic lifestyle expectations through curated content and digital manipulation. “Between Photoshop and misinformation,” Tufton noted, “social media will discourage anybody from taking any chance on anything that they think may involve responsible behavior, but requires some commitment and some discipline.”

    Tufton revealed startling statistics showing Percy Junor Hospital experienced a 64% reduction in births between 2024 (201 births) and 2025 (71 births). This decline reflects a broader national trend that aligns with global patterns. Recent United Nations data confirms Jamaica has one of the world’s lowest fertility rates, with women averaging just 1.3 children—well below the 2.1 replacement rate needed for population stability.

    The Minister emphasized that modernization brings positive developments but also creates societal pressures that delay family formation. “Many of us feel that unless we reach a particular height and achievement and wealth we can’t have children,” Tufton observed, highlighting how economic perceptions influence reproductive choices.

    To counter these trends, Minister Tufton announced an innovative community-based approach involving healthcare workers directly engaging households. He challenged public health nurses and community health aides to expand their roles beyond traditional medical services to include counseling on family planning and responsible parenting.

    During the ceremony, Tufton celebrated Percy Junor Hospital’s achievement of baby-friendly accreditation, noting that Jamaica has dramatically increased its number of certified facilities from just one in 2016 to twelve currently. He issued a challenge for the remaining eleven public hospitals to obtain similar accreditation within three to five years.

    The Minister clarified that his advocacy focuses on “responsible parenting, not just to have children for children’s sake,” while acknowledging that child-rearing “doesn’t necessarily have to cost too much either, depending on where you put your priorities.”

  • White House removes racist Trump post, claims staff error

    White House removes racist Trump post, claims staff error

    WASHINGTON — The White House issued a formal statement on Friday acknowledging that a racially inflammatory video shared on President Donald Trump’s official social media account originated from an internal error. The controversial content depicted former President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama using dehumanizing imagery.

    A senior administration official confirmed to AFP that a staff member was responsible for the erroneous post, which has since been deleted from the platform. The video, which circulated briefly before removal, employed simian imagery to portray the Obamas, widely condemned as overtly racist symbolism.

    The incident triggered immediate backlash across political circles and civil rights organizations. Despite the swift removal, critics questioned the administration’s content review protocols and cultural sensitivity standards. Meanwhile, the President’s press secretary dismissed the subsequent criticism as ‘manufactured outrage,’ asserting that the post didn’t reflect the President’s views.

    This event occurs amid ongoing discussions about racial discourse in political communications and raises questions about social media governance within governmental institutions. The White House has not disclosed whether disciplinary measures will be taken against the staff member involved.

  • 76-y-o Christian camp leader jailed for drugging, sexually abusing boys

    76-y-o Christian camp leader jailed for drugging, sexually abusing boys

    A 76-year-old former veterinarian has been sentenced to over 31 years imprisonment for a series of predatory crimes against children at a Christian summer camp in central England. Jon Ruben received one of the longest sentences for child sexual abuse in recent British judicial history after admitting to multiple offenses including administering sedatives to young boys and sexually assaulting them while they were unconscious.

    The disturbing case unfolded in July at a Leicestershire camp where Ruben served as leader. According to prosecution documents released after Friday’s sentencing hearing, Ruben devised a manipulative scheme where he laced sweets with sedatives and encouraged children to consume them as part of a game. When the drugs left the victims—boys aged 8 to 11—heavily sedated, Ruben entered their dormitory to carry out sexual assaults.

    The crimes were discovered when camp volunteers noticed children exhibiting severe nausea, drowsiness, and disorientation the following morning. Eight victims required hospital treatment, prompting Ruben’s immediate arrest. Subsequent searches of the camp premises revealed syringes and various sedative substances, while examination of Ruben’s electronic devices uncovered indecent images of children and evidence of his attempts to join online pedophile networks.

    In a shocking additional admission, Ruben confessed to drugging his own wife, who volunteered at the camp, to prevent her from discovering his activities. The Leicester Crown Court applied special dangerous offender provisions in imposing the 31-year, 10-month sentence.

    Leicestershire Police have indicated their investigation remains active, with officers now contacting schools and youth organizations across central England where Ruben had involvement over the past two decades. Authorities are urging any additional victims or witnesses to come forward as they continue to assess the full scope of Ruben’s activities.

  • 2026 MINI Countryman JCW ALL4 — the S in SUV

    2026 MINI Countryman JCW ALL4 — the S in SUV

    The automotive landscape witnesses a paradigm shift as the MINI Countryman John Cooper Works (JCW) ALL4 definitively dismantles two pervasive industry myths. Contrary to popular belief, sport utility vehicles can indeed deliver exhilarating performance, and modern MINI models retain their iconic driving DNA despite increased dimensions. This high-performance variant emerges as a compelling synthesis of practicality and pulse-quickening dynamism.

    EXTERIOR DESIGN: A Bold Evolution

    Evolution in size has not precipitated a dilution of character for the MINI Countryman. The JCW treatment amplifies its presence with an assertive aesthetic. A substantial grille establishes a snub-nosed, British bulldog stance atop the vehicle’s squared-off profile, complemented by subtle JCW aerodynamic components and high-gloss accents. Upholding the brand’s legacy of personalization, it remains one of the few SUVs offering duo-tone color schemes. Exclusive shades like Legend Grey and Nanuq White are available with either the signature Chili Red contrast roof or as full-body paint. Further customization extends to programmable front and rear lighting via the infotainment system, while the standard 19-inch JCW wheels are engineered to confidently handle diverse terrain.

    INTERIOR: A Retro-Futuristic Sanctuary

    Diverging from conventional SUV cabin design, the Countryman’s interior is a masterclass in futuristic reinterpretation. Passing the keyless entry and illuminated puddle lamps, occupants encounter a space wholly unique to MINI. The design pays homage to the brand’s heritage while projecting it into the future. A central 240mm diameter high-resolution OLED touchscreen echoes the classic MINI’s center-mounted speedometer. This centerpiece is surrounded by a bold, open-layout design featuring vertical air vents, fabric inlays, stitched leather, and JCW-branded colored accents. The expansive panoramic sunroof enhances the airy ambiance, creating a sensation more akin to a luxurious room than a vehicle. Technology permeates the experience, from the whimsical voice assistant ‘Spike’ to an advanced ambient lighting system. Highlights include satellite navigation with augmented reality functionality and a premium harmon/kardon audio system, all delivered through an intuitively logical and responsive infotainment interface.

    PERFORMANCE: The Heart of a Pitbull

    Beneath its practical family-friendly exterior lies the soul of a performance machine. The turbocharged 2.0-liter engine generates a formidable 300 horsepower, channeled through a rapid seven-speed dual-clutch transmission to an all-wheel-drive system for maximum traction. The suspension is firm yet compliant, ensuring control without compromising occupant comfort. Engaging the throttle or selecting the ‘Go-Kart’ mode unleashes this potential, accompanied by an enthusiastic auditory cue from the infotainment system. The chassis excels in maintaining composure through corners, with sophisticated driving aids and precise steering encouraging spirited driving. The technology actively manages lateral loads, allowing the vehicle to hold its line with astonishing stability at high speeds, faithfully upholding the John Cooper Works racing ethos.

    VERDICT: Redefining the Performance SUV

    To categorize the Countryman JCW as merely another SUV is a profound misjudgment. It successfully integrates the blistering performance, razor-sharp handling, and visceral excitement synonymous with the JCW badge into a practical, technologically advanced, and luxurious package. It demonstrates a unique ability to transform mundane highways into thrilling circuits and twisty B-roads into arenas of driving joy. The ALL4 all-wheel-drive system further broadens its capabilities, providing greater command over its potent power delivery. The MINI Countryman JCW ALL4 stands as a testament to the fact that uncompromising performance and everyday usability are not mutually exclusive concepts in the modern automotive world.

  • Drip Rick Vi to treat ladies for Valentine’s Day

    Drip Rick Vi to treat ladies for Valentine’s Day

    British dancehall sensation Drip Rick Vi is preparing a special musical offering for Valentine’s Day, targeting his female fanbase with what he describes as one of his most exceptional recordings to date. The UK-based singjay announced his upcoming release ‘Pretty Like You’ as a romantic tribute designed to celebrate women’s value in relationships.

    In an exclusive press statement, the artist revealed his confidence in the track’s potential, noting: “‘Pretty Like You’ represents my gift to female listeners worldwide. This composition serves as a reminder of their appreciation by male partners. Early listeners have responded with extraordinary enthusiasm, reinforcing my belief that this could become a breakthrough hit. The recording process itself generated an exceptional creative energy that suggests unlimited potential for this release.”

    The Valentine’s Day single arrives amid growing momentum for the artist, who has been generating significant buzz both in domestic and international markets. His recent collaborative works with prominent artists like Byron Messia and Intense have contributed to his rising profile within the music industry. Drip Rick Vi has expressed optimism about his potential ascent to music’s upper echelons.

    His management team at Paper Powered Muzik characterizes him as an undiscovered gem within the industry. Jerome Graham, representing the management company, elaborated: “Drip Rick Vi possesses authentic star quality complemented by an extraordinary work ethic. His studio efficiency is remarkable, particularly his natural affinity for melody creation. Every collaborating artist and producer who has worked with him acknowledges his exceptional talent.”

    Concurrently, the artist is promoting his newly released EP titled ‘Vi,’ which shows promising indicators of chart performance across both local and international music rankings.