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  • Jackson welcomes security operations in SSL fraud case

    Jackson welcomes security operations in SSL fraud case

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Jamaican security forces have initiated investigative operations regarding the massive Stocks and Securities Limited (SSL) fraud case, a development that has garnered approval from opposition figures who nonetheless criticize its timing as significantly delayed.

    Fitz Jackson, Opposition Spokesman on National Security and Member of Parliament, publicly commended the security agencies for their determination in advancing the protracted investigation. In an official release, Jackson characterized the operation as a necessary step toward addressing what he described as a multi-billion-dollar financial fraud that has deeply affected the nation.

    “The announcement of operations today by the various security agencies in the SSL fraud matter is welcomed, though long overdue in coming,” Jackson stated. He emphasized that the Jamaican public now anticipates tangible results, including prompt arrests and thorough prosecution of all individuals implicated in the scheme.

    The MP highlighted the severe impact of the alleged fraud, noting that ordinary citizens have suffered substantial financial losses, including the depletion of life savings, leading to considerable deterioration in their living standards.

    Jackson also recognized the role of persistent public advocacy, both from Jamaicans domestically and those within the diaspora, in maintaining attention on the case. Their continued demands for accountability, he noted, have been instrumental in keeping the investigation active in the public eye.

    He concluded by stressing that ongoing societal pressure remains essential to ensuring that justice is served impartially and that the rule of law is applied equitably, regardless of the power or status of those involved.

  • GraceKennedy mourns passing of business leader Mable Tenn

    GraceKennedy mourns passing of business leader Mable Tenn

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — GraceKennedy, the prominent Caribbean conglomerate, has announced with profound sorrow the passing of Mable Tenn, celebrated business pioneer and the company’s inaugural female board director. Tenn’s remarkable career spanned decades of transformative leadership and barrier-breaking achievements within Jamaica’s corporate landscape.

    Her professional association with GraceKennedy commenced in 1952 when she assumed the role of secretary to Carlton Alexander, then serving as director. Demonstrating exceptional business acumen and determination, Tenn subsequently established multiple thriving entrepreneurial ventures that would eventually be incorporated into the GraceKennedy portfolio through acquisition.

    In a historic corporate milestone, Tenn shattered the glass ceiling in 1972 by becoming the first woman appointed to GraceKennedy’s board of directors. This groundbreaking appointment established new precedents for gender diversity in Jamaican business leadership and created pathways for subsequent generations of female executives.

    Beyond her corporate legacy, Tenn made substantial contributions to Jamaica’s agricultural development initiatives and emerged as an inspirational figure for women pursuing leadership roles. Her career exemplified resilience, innovative vision, and an uncompromising commitment to excellence that transcended conventional expectations of her era.

    The GraceKennedy organization has extended heartfelt condolences to Tenn’s family, friends, and the countless individuals influenced by her extraordinary journey. The company emphasized that Tenn’s enduring impact on both corporate governance and broader Jamaican society will be perpetually honored with profound respect and appreciation.

  • Zachary Harding faces questioning in SSL fraud saga

    Zachary Harding faces questioning in SSL fraud saga

    Zachary Harding, the former Chief Executive Officer of Stocks and Securities Limited (SSL), is now undergoing formal questioning by Jamaican authorities in connection with the island’s largest financial fraud scandal. This development starkly contrasts with his January 2023 public declaration of having “clean hands” when the scandal first emerged.

    On December 27, 2025, Harding presented himself to detectives from the Financial Investigations Division (FID) and the Counter-Terrorism and Organised Crime Investigation Branch (C-TOC) of the Jamaica Constabulary Force. According to official statements, the interrogation focuses on “reasonable suspicion of breaches” spanning multiple financial regulations including the Bank of Jamaica Act, Securities Act, Banking Services Act, and Companies Act.

    The investigation intensified with coordinated dawn raids conducted by FID, C-TOC, and the Major Organised Crime and Anti-Corruption Agency (MOCA) targeting former SSL directors’ premises in St. James and St. Andrew. These operations resulted in three arrests: former SSL directors Hugh Croskery and Sarah Meany, plus Dermot Meany who faces separate firearms charges.

    During the 2023 interview with Observer Online, Harding had emphatically denied any knowledge of the fraudulent activities, stating: “I have nothing to hide. My heart is clear and my conscience is free.” He specifically claimed unawareness that Olympic champion Usain Bolt maintained an account with SSL during his tenure from September 2019 to June 2022.

    The scandal, which initially revealed the theft of approximately US$12.7 million from Bolt’s account, has expanded to encompass nearly 200 clients with total losses approaching $4 billion Jamaican dollars. To date, only former SSL wealth advisor Jean-Ann Panton has been formally charged, with her case currently progressing through the judicial system.

    Harding maintained that his resignation in June 2022 preceded the scandal’s emergence, and he had no ongoing affiliation with the company. Investigators continue forensic examination of evidence collected during recent operations while assessing potential regulatory violations.

  • West Indies players fall in ICC Test rankings

    West Indies players fall in ICC Test rankings

    DUBAI, United Arab Emirates — The International Cricket Council’s latest Test batting rankings reveal a concerning development for West Indies cricket, with no regional batsman currently positioned within the top 50 globally. This represents a significant setback for the Caribbean team following their recent Test series against New Zealand.

    Shai Hope, previously the sole West Indian representative in the elite batting tier, has experienced a substantial decline, dropping 11 positions to 60th place. This demotion occurred despite Hope compiling 255 runs at a respectable average of 42.50 during the series, while battling health complications including an eye infection during the second Test and food poisoning in the final match.

    The rankings scenario appears particularly puzzling for Justin Greaves, the series’ top scorer with 283 runs at an average of 56.60, including an unbeaten double-century in the second Test. Despite these performances, Greaves fell one place to 62nd position. Former captain Kraigg Brathwaite, who last represented the West Indies in July against Australia, now occupies the 65th spot.

    Several players did achieve notable rankings progressions. Kavem Hodge surged 11 places to 66th following his unbeaten 123 in the third Test’s first innings, while Brandon King made the most dramatic ascent, jumping 27 positions to 73rd after replacing injured opener Tagenarine Chanderpaul and recording half-centuries in both innings of the final Test.

    The bowling rankings presented a similarly challenging picture. Veteran pace bowler Kemar Roach, who had climbed to 18th after an impressive opening Test performance, dropped two places to 20th. He remains one position ahead of injured sensation Shamar Joseph, who missed the series. Jayden Seales slipped one spot to 25th, while Alzarri Joseph and spinner Jomel Warrican maintained their positions at 31st and 32nd respectively. Gudakesh Motie remained stationary at 65th, and Roston Chase declined nine places to 67th. Justin Greaves provided the sole positive movement among bowlers, advancing 12 places to 80th position.

  • WATCH: NCB Foundation commends Black River community stalwart

    WATCH: NCB Foundation commends Black River community stalwart

    BLACK RIVER, Jamaica — In a heartening display of community recognition, 89-year-old Marjorie Monteith, a lifelong volunteer from St. Elizabeth parish, was celebrated this Saturday for her decades of unwavering service to the most vulnerable residents, even as she herself recovers from damages inflicted by Hurricane Melissa.

    The National Commercial Bank (NCB) Foundation honored Monteith during a targeted outreach initiative across the communities of Black River, Lacovia, and Kilmarnock. The event saw numerous residents receiving essential care packages and support, highlighting a symbiotic relationship between institutional aid and grassroots activism.

    NCB CEO Bruce Bowen, present during the house-to-house distribution, praised Monteith’s enduring commitment. ‘For years, both before and during the hurricane, she has been a pillar of support, offering care and shelter to those in need,’ Bowen remarked. ‘Her work embodies the spirit of building a better Jamaica—not through grand projects, but through genuine human connection.’

    Monteith, reflecting on her extensive involvement, recounted her earlier years managing a facility where the homeless could access meals, bathing facilities, and companionship. Although she now operates at a reduced capacity, her dedication remains unshaken. ‘It pains me when I cannot sit with them,’ she confessed. ‘I love the street people. I still visit, talk with them, and provide food, money, and clothes whenever possible.’

    The outreach also drew commendation from Superintendent Coleridge Minto, head of the St. Elizabeth police, who acknowledged the NCB Foundation’s efforts in reaching remote and severely affected areas such as Kilmarnock. Minto emphasized the police force’s role in facilitating aid delivery and ensuring security for volunteer groups.

    Bowen further recognized Superintendent Minto’s leadership in fostering community-police relations, noting the positive impact of collaborative efforts in disaster response and social support.

  • WINDOW OF OPPORTUNITY

    WINDOW OF OPPORTUNITY

    Veteran Jamaican international Michail Antonio is on the verge of reigniting his professional career with a potential move to English Championship side Leicester City. The 35-year-old striker, currently training with the Foxes as a free agent, could sign a short-term contract that would bolster both club and country ambitions.

    Antonio’s journey back to competitive football follows a harrowing car accident in December that resulted in a broken leg, compounded by a calf injury that disrupted his national team participation. After a decade-long tenure with West Ham United that yielded 83 goals and 43 assists in 323 appearances, the powerful forward has been without a club since June.

    The potential signing comes at a critical juncture for both player and club. Leicester, relegated from the Premier League last season, sits 13th in the Championship and seeks offensive reinforcement with their current strike force managing just five combined goals in 22 matches. Manager Marti Cifuentes expressed optimism about Antonio’s trial, noting: ‘He’s been looking good in training and possesses experience that could benefit the team. While match fitness requires time, his strengths align with our needs.’

    For Antonio, club football represents the pathway to international redemption. The Reggae Boyz face crucial inter-confederation play-offs in March 2026 after failing to secure automatic World Cup qualification. Antonio has openly declared his ambition to help Jamaica reach their first World Cup since 1998, stating: ‘We’re now six games away from being qualified, and these matches are very doable for us.’

    Interim Jamaica head coach Rudolph Speid has emphasized selecting active players, making Antonio’s potential signing with Leicester particularly significant. The striker would join international teammate Bobby Reid at the club, potentially creating valuable synergy for the national team.

    Both parties indicate mutual interest in finalizing a deal before the new year, which would mark Antonio’s return to competitive football exactly one year after his last Premier League appearance—ironically, against Leicester in West Ham’s 1-3 defeat on December 3, 2024.

  • Three taken into custody in relation to SSL fraud probe

    Three taken into custody in relation to SSL fraud probe

    Jamaican law enforcement agencies launched a coordinated pre-dawn operation resulting in the detention of three individuals connected to the massive financial fraud case at Stocks and Securities Limited (SSL). The multi-agency raid, executed at approximately 4:30 AM, targeted properties linked to former SSL directors as investigators intensify their probe into the billion-dollar investment scandal.

    The operation involved specialized units including the Financial Investigations Division (FID), Constabulary Financial Unit (CFU), Counter-Terrorism and Organised Crime Investigation Branch (C-TOC), and the St James Police Division, with additional support from the Major Organised Crime and Anti-Corruption Agency (MOCA). Search warrants were executed at four locations—one in Kempshot district, St James, and three addresses in St Andrew.

    Authorities confirmed the detention of former SSL directors Hugh Croskery and Sarah Meany. Croskery was apprehended at a Wickham Avenue residence where investigators confiscated electronic devices and documentary evidence. He faces potential charges under multiple financial statutes including the Bank of Jamaica Act, Securities Act, Larceny Act, and Banking Services Act.

    Simultaneously, searches at the Meany residence in Kempshot yielded SSL-related documents and electronic equipment. Sarah Meany was taken into custody on suspicion of similar financial regulatory violations during her tenure at SSL. A third individual, Dermot Meany, was arrested for firearms-related offenses after authorities discovered ammunition exceeding legally permitted quantities despite his licensed firearm status.

    In a parallel development, former SSL and Delta Partners CEO Zachary Harding presented himself for questioning at FID and C-TOC facilities accompanied by legal counsel. His interrogation focuses on potential breaches of financial regulations including the Companies Act.

    All seized evidence is undergoing comprehensive forensic analysis as authorities continue to assess additional charges. The investigation remains active with promises of further updates as this complex financial fraud case develops.

  • Milk and Honey takes over Sabina Park on Sunday

    Milk and Honey takes over Sabina Park on Sunday

    Milk and Honey, Jamaica’s premier fashion-themed social gathering, is poised to deliver an enhanced experience for its 2025 edition while maintaining its reputation as the season’s most anticipated event. The upcoming installment is scheduled to transform Sabina Park on Sunday, December 28, marking another milestone in the event’s evolution since its local inception in 2018.

    Event Director Fabeion Dennisor revealed to the Jamaica Observer that continuous improvement remains a fundamental principle guiding each production. ‘Guests can anticipate a refined experience characterized by amplified spectacle and, most importantly, unforgettable fashion presentations,’ Dennisor stated. The event has strategically expanded its appeal to embrace a more diverse demographic through intentionally curated elements spanning culinary offerings, musical programming, guest services, and overall aesthetic design.

    The luxury experience is further elevated through partnerships with premium spirits brands Johnnie Walker and Don Julio. Nadine Thomas-Hylton, brand manager for both labels, emphasized the natural synergy between the event and the spirits: ‘Milk and Honey is renowned for spectacular fashion and personality displays, while our brands are celebrated for the authenticity they provide to discerning consumers.’

    Thomas-Hylton highlighted the three-year successful association, noting that the partnership transforms the venue into a luxury celebration haven. The brands aim to foster an atmosphere of genuine togetherness and celebration while supporting Jamaica’s economic recovery efforts. Patrons can expect expertly crafted premium cocktails and a secure environment for creative expression and social connection.

    The musical dimension will feature performances by DJ Tyler, Ricky Platinum, Noah Powa, Chromatic, and Shukkle Bus, ensuring a dynamic auditory experience complementing the fashion-forward visual elements. The event continues to attract notable personalities, including social media influencers Jermaule ‘Nino’ Adair and Shanzi, who added their star power to recent stagings.

  • JN helps small business operators rise from Melissa’s ruins

    JN helps small business operators rise from Melissa’s ruins

    For over twenty years, Joan Palmer successfully operated Best Buy Gold Shop on High Street in Black River, St. Elizabeth. Her enterprise, which specialized in jewelry, small appliances, and various household goods, was completely obliterated when Category 5 Hurricane Melissa made landfall on October 28. The catastrophic storm shattered the store’s glass front, enabling powerful floodwaters from the adjacent sea and river to inundate the premises, sweeping away the majority of her inventory valued at millions of dollars.

    The devastation extended beyond her commercial enterprise. Palmer’s rented residence sustained extensive damage, resulting in the loss of personal belongings and furniture worth additional millions. The hurricane’s impact also crippled the businesses of her husband, Zepheniah, who ran a furniture operation, and her son, Damor, who operated a phone store on the same street. The collective destruction left three employees jobless and presented overwhelming challenges for the family.

    Demonstrating remarkable resilience, Palmer relocated her business approximately 25 miles away to Junction, St. Elizabeth, where her son provided space for both her and her husband to restart their ventures. The new location has begun attracting her former customer base from Black River, who now have limited shopping alternatives. Support also came from suppliers in Kingston and Montego Bay, who provided goods on credit and through donations.

    A client of JN Bank Small Business Loans (JNSBL) for nearly 25 years, Palmer sought financial assistance to accelerate her recovery. The institution responded by restructuring her existing short-term loan—extending its repayment period and increasing its value—and providing a new long-term loan to facilitate business stabilization.

    Jacqueline Jeffers, Client Relations Manager at JNSBL, emphasized the organization’s commitment to small business owners during disasters, noting that their support extends beyond mere financing to include personalized guidance and practical recovery solutions. Palmer credits her faith and the timely financial intervention for enabling her to move forward, offering encouragement to other entrepreneurs facing similar hardships to proactively seek help and persevere.

  • We Jammin reigns supreme in Wayne DaCosta Two-Year-Old Stakes

    We Jammin reigns supreme in Wayne DaCosta Two-Year-Old Stakes

    Caymanas Park witnessed a spectacular display of equine prowess on Friday as the two-year-old chestnut colt We Jammin, under jockey Omar Walker, delivered a commanding performance to seize the prestigious $4-million Wayne DaCosta OD Jamaica Two-Year-Old Stakes. Trained by Peter-John Parsard, the colt executed a strategic race, biding his time within the pack before unleashing a devastating late surge in the final stretch. We Jammin covered the one-mile distance in a swift 1:42.2, ultimately crossing the finish line a formidable six lengths clear of the competition, leaving favorites Salute The Don and Fernando in his wake.

    The day’s racing card featured another highlight in the $1.25-million Boxing Day Sprint, an Overnight Allowance event. The Gary Subratie-trained Money Market, piloted by jockey Dane Dawkins, showcased a similar come-from-behind tactic to clinch victory over the six-and-a-half-furlong course. Money Market secured the win ahead of Supremasi with a final time of 1:20.0. This triumph marked a notable double for both trainer Subratie and jockey Dawkins, who had previously combined forces to guide You’re My Sweetie to victory in the day’s fourth race. The action at Caymanas Park is scheduled to resume on Saturday.