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标签： Jamaica

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  • More than 40 gang members killed this year — Haitian police

    More than 40 gang members killed this year — Haitian police

    PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti – The Haitian National Police (PNH) has released operational results revealing substantial progress in its campaign against armed gangs during the first quarter of the year. According to official statistics, security forces eliminated 43 gang members across 32 separate operations conducted in three key departments of the crisis-stricken nation.

    The comprehensive police operations yielded significant weapons confiscations, including 46 rifles, 19 pistols, six surveillance drones, and over 10,659 rounds of ammunition. Law enforcement authorities also reported seizing five communication radios, multiple Molotov cocktails, and two armored vehicles previously used by criminal elements.

    This disclosure comes amid heightened international scrutiny of Haiti’s security situation. The United Nations Human Rights Council recently convened to address the escalating crisis, with gangs systematically employing starvation tactics and extortion against the civilian population. According to data from the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), gang-related violence has resulted in at least 5,500 fatalities and 2,600 injuries between March 2025 and January 2026.

    Disturbingly, UN reports indicate that 65% of these casualties occurred during security operations targeting gang members, with more than 20% of victims—including children—being struck by stray bullets in their homes or public spaces. Criminal organizations now control substantial portions of the capital city and are expanding their influence into suburban areas and northern regions including the Artibonite and Centre departments.

    In a separate operation codenamed ‘Goudougoudou,’ the Central Directorate of the Judicial Police (DCPJ) achieved additional breakthroughs. The operation resulted in 50 prosecutions—including 11 women—and the seizure of 76 kilograms of cocaine and marijuana alongside significant cash reserves and 10 vehicles. Authorities successfully freed one hostage unharmed and fatally wounded seven armed criminals during the mission, which dismantled the criminal network led by Rodolphe ‘Chalè’ Louissaint.

    In related developments, immigration authorities faced internal corruption allegations with the arrest of 10 officials from the General Directorate of Immigration and Emigration. These suspects were transferred to the Port-au-Prince Prosecutor’s Office for interrogation regarding their alleged participation in a counterfeit passport distribution network.

  • #Champs2026: William Knibb’s Seymore makes amends with boys Class 1 200m win

    #Champs2026: William Knibb’s Seymore makes amends with boys Class 1 200m win

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — In a stunning display of resilience, Sanjay Seymore of William Knibb Memorial High School clinched victory in the boys’ Class 1 200-meter final on Saturday, successfully defending his title at the ISSA/GraceKennedy Boys and Girls Athletics Championships. The event, held at the National Stadium, marked the climax of the prestigious national competition.

    Facing formidable headwinds measuring -4.2 meters per second, Seymore powered through to cross the finish line in 21.14 seconds. His triumph was narrowly secured against fierce competition from Jamaica College’s Makaelan Woods, who finished closely behind at 21.22 seconds, and Kingston College’s Kyle Bodden, who took bronze with 21.33 seconds.

    The championships witnessed several remarkable performances across different classes. Kingston College athletes dominated the Class 2 final, capturing both gold and silver medals. Similarly, Wolmer’s Boys School achieved a one-two finish in the Class 3 category, demonstrating exceptional team strength.

    Jason Pitter emerged as another standout performer, completing an impressive 200m/400m double victory. He claimed the Class 2 gold with a strategically run 21.03 seconds despite facing -1.8m/s headwinds, outpacing his teammate Emmile Higgins who finished in 21.52 seconds. Mario Ross of Wolmer’s secured third place with 21.56 seconds.

    Adding to the day’s highlights, Wolmer’s Boys’ Ajani Lumley achieved the sprint double by adding the 200m gold to his 100m victory. Lumley clocked 22.20 seconds against headwinds of -2.6m/s, outperforming teammate Joshua McWilliams who earned his second silver medal with 22.41 seconds. Jamaica College’s DeAndre Parker completed the podium with a time of 22.65 seconds.

  • Siblings target javelin glory

    Siblings target javelin glory

    A compelling narrative of familial inspiration and athletic rivalry is set to unfold at the National Stadium as 16-year-old Devaune Freemantle of Vere Technical prepares for the boys’ javelin open final at the prestigious ISSA/GraceKennedy Boys’ and Girls’ Athletics Championships. The young athlete draws immediate motivation from his sister, Ramona Freemantle, who secured a silver medal in the girls’ javelin event just yesterday.

    The sibling athletes from Ocho Rios, St. Ann, maintain a healthy competitive dynamic while consistently supporting each other’s athletic endeavors. Devaune openly acknowledges following his sister’s path into track and field, recently achieving a personal breakthrough by surpassing the 40-meter mark. His aspiration to medal in today’s competition mirrors his sister’s accomplishment.

    Ramona’s journey to javelin success demonstrates remarkable adaptability. Initially pursuing sprinting where she demonstrated considerable speed, she transitioned to throwing events following an injury setback upon recommendation from a former coach at Vere Technical. This strategic shift has yielded significant results—besides her javelin silver medal, she placed fourth in the Class 1 girls’ discus throw with a distance of 45.79 meters.

    Thursday’s javelin final presented a dramatic contest where Ramona led for extended periods before being narrowly defeated by Immaculate Conception’s Zoelle Jamel on countback after both athletes recorded identical throws of 45.09 meters. This silver medal represents Ramona’s second Champs podium appearance, improving upon her bronze medal performance from the previous year.

    As the athletic spotlight turns to her younger brother, Ramona will be among the spectators, wearing her newly won silver medal and cheering for Devaune to achieve podium success while contributing valuable points to Vere Technical’s overall championship tally.

  • Anti-Trump protests launch on ‘No Kings’ day in US

    Anti-Trump protests launch on ‘No Kings’ day in US

    MINNEAPOLIS (AFP) — Millions of demonstrators mobilized across the United States and international cities on Saturday in the third major wave of “No Kings” protests, expressing profound opposition to President Donald Trump’s governance style and recent foreign policy decisions. The movement, which has evolved into the most visible resistance force since Trump’s second term began in January 2025, now directs its outrage toward the administration’s joint military campaign with Israel against Iran, characterized by ambiguous objectives and fluctuating timelines.

    The protests transcended U.S. borders with coordinated demonstrations in European capitals including Amsterdam, Madrid, and Rome. Domestic rallies manifested from Atlanta to Washington, where participants braved sub-freezing temperatures in Michigan and marched across Potomac River bridges bearing signs declaring “Trump Must Go Now!” and “Fight Fascism.” One Atlanta protester’s placard captured the movement’s central anxiety: “We Are Losing Our Democracy.”

    Organizers reported planning over 3,000 events nationwide, including in remote locations like Kotzebue, Alaska, above the Arctic Circle. Minnesota emerged as a symbolic epicenter months after becoming the focal point of national debates surrounding Trump’s immigration policies. The state witnessed legendary musician Bruce Springsteen performing his protest ballad “Streets of Minneapolis” in St. Paul, commemorating two citizens killed during January immigration protests.

    The movement has demonstrated substantial growth since its inception on Trump’s 79th birthday in June 2025, when several million Americans protested during the president’s military parade. October’s demonstrations drew approximately seven million participants according to organizers, who aimed to exceed those numbers amid Trump’s sub-40% approval ratings and impending midterm elections.

    Naveed Shah of Common Defense, a veterans association aligned with the movement, articulated the protesters’ concerns: “This administration has dragged us deeper into war while citizens face militarized forces domestically. Families are torn apart and immigrant communities targeted—all in service of one man ruling like a king.” Critics cite Trump’s governance through executive decrees, weaponization of the Justice Department, climate change denial, dismantling of diversity initiatives, and abandonment of non-interventionist foreign policy as key grievances.

    Notably, organizers indicate that approximately two-thirds of Saturday’s protesters reside outside major urban centers—a significant increase from previous demonstrations suggesting the movement’s expanding geographical diversity.

  • BGA calls for collective action to safeguard women and girls across Jamaica

    BGA calls for collective action to safeguard women and girls across Jamaica

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Jamaica’s Bureau of Gender Affairs (BGA) is accelerating its nationwide initiative to combat gender-based violence and advance gender equality through comprehensive community engagement, legislative reform, and policy education. Under the Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, the agency is strengthening protective measures for women and girls while expanding critical support services.

    Principal Director Sharon Coburn Robinson emphasized the Bureau’s unwavering commitment to creating environments where women and girls feel both secure and heard. The BGA’s multifaceted approach includes operating dedicated helplines for gender-based violence victims, deploying community liaison teams, and conducting targeted sensitization programs across parishes.

    “Our helpline serves as a vital lifeline for those in need,” stated Coburn-Robinson. “Through our Community Liaison Unit and social workers, we maintain direct presence within communities, providing support and education when it matters most.”

    The Bureau’s community outreach extends to raising awareness about significant observances such as the International Day for Rural Women, while simultaneously promoting understanding of national legislation year-round. Coburn-Robinson highlighted that community participation remains fundamental to their strategy, aligning with the National Policy for Gender Equality’s principle of inclusive engagement.

    Significant legislative advancements are currently underway, including the comprehensive review of the Domestic Violence Act. The Bureau is also intensifying implementation efforts for the Sexual Harassment Protection and Prevention Act, ensuring the newly established Sexual Harassment Tribunal delivers accessible and equitable justice for complainants.

    Coburn-Robinson pointed to successful community protection models like the Clarendon Inter-Parish Network as exemplary frameworks for other parishes to emulate. She encouraged nationwide adoption of similar community-led safety initiatives that emphasize networking, dialogue, and collective vigilance.

    Addressing all Jamaican citizens, the Principal Director issued a powerful call to action: “We all share responsibility as our brothers’ and sisters’ keepers. Report any suspicious activities, foster strong community partnerships, and collaborate closely with law enforcement agencies.”

    She envisioned building a society free from discrimination, harm, and exploitation where future generations can safely exercise their rights. The GBV Helpline Unit, established in 2023, continues to provide essential support to victims, survivors, and witnesses of gender-based violence through dedicated telephone services: 876-553-0372 and 876-236-1713 for women, and 876-553-0387 for men.

  • ZIMI Seh Beach takes over Puerto Seco on Sunday

    ZIMI Seh Beach takes over Puerto Seco on Sunday

    In a strategic expansion beyond its established Best Weekend Ever series, ZIMI Entertainment is launching a standalone beach extravaganza at Puerto Seco Beach Club this Sunday. This marks the brand’s first independent beach event since 2022, produced in collaboration with logistics powerhouse Main Event Entertainment Limited.

    Nicholas Mahfood, Director of ZIMI Entertainment, revealed the event will feature innovative aquatic staging with performance platforms and cabanas situated directly in the water. The food-inclusive experience promises to deliver the same high-energy atmosphere and quality execution that has become synonymous with the ZIMI brand.

    The partnership with Main Event represents a calculated growth strategy for the entertainment brand. Mahfood emphasized this expansion mirrors the successful evolution of their other properties: ZIMI Seh Road (2016), ZIMI Seh Riva (2017), and ZIMI Seh Brunch (2018). This aquatic event follows their groundbreaking brunch event at Caymanas Park last January.

    Patrick Scott, Production Manager at Main Event Entertainment, highlighted the technical complexities of producing such events, noting that building stages in open water requires highly trained crews and rigorous safety protocols. The company’s twenty-year logistics expertise provides the foundation for delivering world-class experiences.

    The collaboration emerged after Main Event’s successful venture into production with last May’s Jamaica Auto Show. Mahfood indicated Sunday’s event might feature surprise celebrity appearances, reminiscent of Skippa and Skillibeng’s cameos at last December’s ZIMI Seh Riva event.

    This production sets the stage for ZIMI’s traditional August 9th beach event within the Independence celebration series, demonstrating the brand’s continued innovation in Jamaica’s entertainment landscape.

  • Frazsiers Whip and Arnett Gardens seek fourth straight in JWPL

    Frazsiers Whip and Arnett Gardens seek fourth straight in JWPL

    The Jamaica Women’s Premier League (JWPL) is set for a thrilling Saturday of football, headlined by a doubleheader at the JWN Anthony Spaulding Complex. The spotlight falls on the league’s two dominant, undefeated forces: three-time defending champions Frazsiers Whip FC and the formidable Arnett Gardens. Both squads, boasting perfect records from their first three outings, aim to secure a fourth consecutive victory.

    Frazsiers Whip enters its match against Mile Gully FC as the clear favorite. Despite Mile Gully breaking their scoring drought with a recent win over Real MoBay AFC, they face a monumental challenge. They must penetrate a staunch Frazsiers defense that has conceded a mere one goal this season. Conversely, containing Frazsiers’ explosive offense, spearheaded by the dynamic duo of Christine Salmon and Shanel Spence—who have collectively netted seven of the team’s ten goals—poses an even greater task for Mile Gully.

    The second marquee matchup pits Arnett Gardens against Cavalier SC in a clash of last season’s semi-finalist and finalist. While current form favors the home team, Arnett Gardens, historical context adds intrigue; the two sides drew both of their encounters last season. Arnett arrives with the league’s most potent attack, having scored a remarkable 12 goals, largely thanks to standout Shikira Douglas. Cavalier, in a transitional phase after losing several key players, has struggled for consistency, securing only one win and scoring three goals in their three games.

    Elsewhere, Springers United seeks to rebound from a halted winning streak as they host Federal United at Irwin High in St. James. Under the guidance of Paul ‘Tegat’ Davis, the more organized St. James outfit aims to capitalize on Federal’s two-game losing skid and improve upon last season’s results against them (a draw and a loss).

    Additional Saturday fixtures feature Los Perfectos, another former semi-finalist, traveling to face winless Real MoBay AFC at Jarrett Park in a battle for positioning in Zone B. Meanwhile, Real Mona FC, fresh off a resounding 5-0 mid-week victory, journeys to Carder Park to challenge WiFi United in pursuit of back-to-back wins. The day’s action concludes with a bottom-of-the-table encounter at the UWI Bowl, where both UWI Women and Proven Girls will be desperately hunting for their first victory of the campaign.

    **Full Saturday Schedule:**
    * UWI Women vs Proven Girls – UWI Bowl
    * Arnett Gardens FC vs Cavalier SC – Anthony Spaulding Complex
    * WiFi United vs Real Mona FC – Carder Park
    * Real MoBay AFC vs Los Perfectos – Jarrett Park
    * Springers United FC vs Federal United – Irwin High
    * Frazsiers Whip FC vs Mile Gully FC – Anthony Spaulding Complex

  • Increased rainfall expected this weekend

    Increased rainfall expected this weekend

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Meteorological authorities in Jamaica have issued a comprehensive weather advisory warning residents of intensified rainfall patterns extending through the weekend. A persistent trough system hovering over the western Caribbean is projected to maintain its influence until early next week, creating unstable atmospheric conditions across the island nation.

    The national Meteorological Service forecasts predominantly overcast skies with intermittent showers and thunderstorms, some potentially reaching severe intensity. Meteorological models indicate these conditions will predominantly impact southern and northeastern parishes, with peak activity anticipated during afternoon hours. The distributed nature of the weather system means most regions could experience varying degrees of precipitation.

    Maritime safety alerts have been simultaneously activated, particularly for fishing communities and marine operators along the southern coastline. Officials emphasize that sea conditions are expected to deteriorate rapidly during thunderstorm activity, posing navigational hazards for both inshore and offshore vessels. The meteorological agency has committed to continuous monitoring of the evolving weather system, promising timely public updates as conditions develop.

    This extended rainfall event comes as Jamaica remains within the Atlantic hurricane season, though current patterns do not indicate tropical cyclone formation. Residents in flood-prone areas have been advised to implement precautionary measures against potential flash flooding and related disruptions.

  • Athletes’ Village a big hit at Champs

    Athletes’ Village a big hit at Champs

    GRACE Foods has significantly elevated the participant experience at the 2026 ISSA/GraceKennedy Boys’ and Girls’ Athletic Championships through its innovative Athletes’ Village initiative. As the prestigious sporting event concludes at Jamaica’s National Stadium, the GraceKennedy subsidiary has reinforced its decades-long dedication to nurturing youth athletic talent and fostering national pride.

    Operating under its ‘Good Move’ development agenda, the company established a comprehensive sanctuary for competitors from all participating schools. This dedicated facility provided essential services for physical recovery, nutritional support, and mental relaxation throughout the five-day championship period.

    Brand Manager Ingrid Medwinter emphasized the company’s enduring commitment: “Grace has consistently supported athlete development in Jamaica, with our nearly twenty-year sponsorship of Champs reflecting this ongoing dedication. This championship has served as the foundation for many Jamaican athletic legends, and we take pride in strengthening that legacy.”

    The village addressed a critical need for sustained athlete performance during the extended competition. With events spanning multiple days, the requirement for balanced recovery environments became essential for maintaining peak competitive condition. The facility enabled athletes to physically recuperate, mentally reset, and nutritionally refuel between events.

    Promotions and Events Coordinator Shannon Grant reported overwhelming positive response: “We’ve witnessed firsthand how both athletes and coaches have benefited from this dedicated space. It has provided crucial comfort and support during an exceptionally demanding week, adding genuine value to their championship experience.”

    The comprehensive facility featured multiple specialized zones including hydration stations, Grace Kitchen’s Café, a Mighty Malt nutrition booth, tea station, and gaming lounge areas. Athletes received protein-rich meals featuring Grace sardines, corned beef, and tuna to sustain energy levels and facilitate muscle recovery. Professional physiotherapists provided massage therapy and kinesiologic taping services throughout the event.

    Adding inspirational elements, Grace athlete ambassadors Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce and Hansle Parchment engaged directly with student athletes, offering encouragement and sharing expertise. Olympic champion Parchment highlighted the village’s significance during his Wednesday visit: “At multi-day competitions like Champs, recovery becomes equally important as performance. Having proper facilities for refueling, resting, and mental resetting creates crucial competitive advantages. Grace’s Athletes’ Village establishes this essential balance, providing the support athletes need to maintain focus and perform optimally.”

    The initiative represents Grace Foods’ holistic approach to athletic development, recognizing that championship success requires both on-track excellence and strategic between-event recovery support.

  • Two derbies headline JFF Championships this weekend

    Two derbies headline JFF Championships this weekend

    The Jamaica Football Championships resume this weekend with a compelling slate of return-round fixtures, highlighted by two intense parish derbies that promise to deliver thrilling football action across the island.

    In Zone A, league leaders Sakka Club BrownsTown (19 points from 8 matches) face a critical test against third-place Lime Hall Academy (14 points with a game in hand) at Drax Hall. The matchup carries added significance as BrownsTown seeks redemption for their opening-day defeat against their local rivals.

    Meanwhile, the Westmoreland derby at Llandilo Sports Complex features Roaring River and Reno FC separated by just one point in the standings. Following their 1-1 draw in the first round, Reno FC (16 points) and Roaring River (15 points, both from 8 games) will battle for crucial points in the tightly contested zone.

    Zone B leaders Humble Lion host Duncans United at Effortville, looking to improve upon their previous 1-1 stalemate. Simultaneously, a resurgent Falmouth United travels to face STETHS Elite FA, recalling their explosive 2-2 first-round encounter in Trelawny.

    The weekend schedule includes seven matches across various venues:

    Saturday Fixtures:
    – Tru-Juice vs Jamaica Defence Force at Dinthill
    – Sakka Club BrownsTown vs Lime Hall Academy at Drax Hall
    – Meadforest FC vs WiFi United at Bell Chung Oval
    – Grays Inn SC vs Baptist Alliance at Grays Inn
    – STETHS Elite FA vs Falmouth United at STETHS
    – Humble Lion FC vs Duncans United at Effortville
    – Petersfield FC vs St Bess United at Petersfield
    – Roaring River FC vs Reno FC at Llandilo