In a decisive move against international drug trafficking, the United States has executed a targeted strike on a suspected narcotics vessel, resulting in the elimination of three individuals identified as ‘narco-terrorists.’ The operation, announced by US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth via a post on X, took place on Friday in international waters under the jurisdiction of the US Southern Command, which manages military activities across Latin America. The vessel, reportedly linked to Colombia’s ELN guerrilla group, was intercepted along a well-documented drug-smuggling route and was found to be carrying significant quantities of illegal narcotics. While Hegseth did not disclose the precise location of the strike, he emphasized the operation’s success in disrupting a critical node of the global drug trade. This action underscores the US government’s ongoing commitment to combating transnational organized crime and narco-terrorism in the region.
标签: Jamaica
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Robbers steal French crown jewels from Louvre in 7 minute heist
In a brazen daylight robbery, thieves armed with power tools targeted the Louvre Museum in Paris on Sunday, making off with some of France’s most valuable crown jewels. The audacious heist, which lasted a mere seven minutes, saw the culprits flee the scene, leaving behind a damaged 19th-century gem-encrusted crown near the museum. Authorities have launched a manhunt, but the perpetrators remain at large. The incident forced the immediate closure of the Louvre, the world’s most-visited museum, which houses iconic treasures such as the Mona Lisa. Armed soldiers patrolled the area around the museum’s glass pyramid entrance, while evacuated visitors and tourists were kept at bay behind police tape. Witnesses described the scene as reminiscent of a Hollywood movie. The robbers reportedly used a powered, extendable ladder—typically employed for moving furniture—to access the gilded gallery housing the crown jewels. The stolen crown, belonging to Empress Eugenie, wife of Napoleon III, is adorned with 1,354 diamonds and 56 emeralds. Interior Minister Laurent Nunez confirmed that three or four thieves targeted two displays in the museum’s ‘Galerie d’Apollon,’ though the full extent of the stolen items remains unclear. The Louvre’s management stated that the closure was necessary to preserve evidence for the ongoing investigation. Experts fear the stolen jewels may be dismantled for their precious materials, as they would be ‘completely unsellable’ in their current state. This incident highlights a growing concern over museum security in France, following a series of high-profile thefts in recent months. French President Emmanuel Macron has pledged to enhance the Louvre’s security as part of a broader renovation plan.
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T&T opts not to endorse Caricom position amid US military strikes
In a notable divergence from its Caribbean Community (Caricom) counterparts, Trinidad and Tobago has opted not to endorse a unified regional stance on critical security and stability matters, particularly concerning the increasing presence of U.S. military forces in the Caribbean. This decision emerged during a recent Caricom meeting where regional leaders convened to address pressing issues, including the security buildup in parts of the Caribbean and its implications for member states. While other Caricom nations reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining the Caribbean as a Zone of Peace and emphasized dialogue and peaceful conflict resolution, Trinidad and Tobago reserved its position, offering no immediate explanation for its dissent. The meeting followed a series of U.S. military strikes targeting suspected drug-trafficking vessels off the Venezuelan coast, which reportedly resulted in the deaths of two Trinidad and Tobago nationals. Caricom leaders also reiterated their dedication to combating narcotics trafficking and the illegal arms trade, underscoring the need for international cooperation and adherence to international law. Trinidadian Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar has remained silent on both the regional security discussions and the fatalities, drawing criticism from opposition figures who have accused her of evading her responsibilities. Persad-Bissessar has previously expressed support for the U.S. military campaign, praising its efforts to curb drug trafficking and protect regional stability.
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Manning Cup round of 16 groups decided
The ISSA Wata Manning Cup has reached a pivotal stage as the round of 16 teams have been determined following a series of intense matches on Saturday. Defending champions Kingston College (KC) experienced their first setback of the season, settling for a 0-0 draw against Tivoli Gardens High School. Despite this, KC secured the top spot in Zone B with 28 points, while Tivoli Gardens claimed second place with 21 points. Meanwhile, Charlie Smith clinched third place in Zone B with an 18-point tally after a narrow 2-1 victory over Haile Selassie High, who finished fourth with 14 points and missed the cut for the next round. In Zone A, St George’s College edged out Hydel High in a thrilling 4-3 encounter, securing second place with 21 points. Hydel, despite their fourth defeat, advanced as the best fourth-placed team with 16 points. Excelsior High emerged as Zone A leaders with 24 points after a hard-fought 2-2 draw with St Jago High, who slipped to third but still progressed. In Zone D, St Catherine High maintained a flawless record with 10 wins from 10 games, finishing top with 30 points after a 1-0 victory over Eltham High, who secured second place with 24 points. Campion College, third in Zone D, also advanced. The round of 16 has been divided into four groups, with the top two teams from each group advancing to the quarterfinals. Group 1 features Excelsior High, Tivoli Gardens, St Andrew Technical High, and Wolmer’s Boys. Group 2 includes KC, Calabar, Campion, and Hydel. Group 3 comprises St Catherine High, St George’s College, Charlie Smith, and Vauxhall High. Group 4, arguably the toughest, pits Mona High, Jamaica College, Eltham High, and St Jago against each other. The round of 16 kicks off on Tuesday, October 21, promising exciting matchups.
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Denyque’s back
Jamaican singer-songwriter Denyque is making a powerful comeback with her latest single, *Who Dem*, a deeply personal track that resonates with her journey of overcoming self-doubt and insecurity. Despite being out of the musical spotlight in recent years, Denyque has been tirelessly working behind the scenes, and her efforts are now paying off as her fan base grows exponentially.
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Man Utd stretch Liverpool losing streak to four games
In a historic turn of events, Manchester United clinched a 2-1 victory against Liverpool at Anfield on Sunday, marking their first win at the iconic stadium in nearly a decade. This triumph also handed Liverpool their fourth consecutive defeat, a feat not seen in 11 years. Harry Maguire’s decisive 84th-minute header sealed the win, propelling United to their first back-to-back Premier League victories under manager Ruben Amorim. The match began dramatically, with Bryan Mbeumo scoring just 61 seconds into the game, only for Cody Gakpo to equalize late in the second half. However, defensive lapses allowed Maguire to capitalize on a Bruno Fernandes cross, securing the three points for United. Liverpool, now four points behind league leaders Arsenal, continues to grapple with squad integration issues despite a £450 million spending spree in the transfer market. The loss further complicates their pursuit of a record 21st English top-flight title, while United’s resurgence eases pressure on Amorim, who celebrated his most significant win in nearly a year at the helm.
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Box for a bed
For months, a 63-year-old man in downtown Kingston called a cardboard box his home. Shielded only by a discarded plastic mattress wrap, he endured the elements, with Kingston Harbour serving as his makeshift bathroom. Dependent on sporadic meals from charitable organizations, he lived in absolute poverty, uncertain of his next meal. His life took a dramatic turn in 2003 when he found refuge at The Lord’s Place, a sanctuary run by the Missionaries of the Poor. Today, he has a stable job in landscaping, a roof over his head, and the ability to assist others experiencing homelessness.
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Durant agrees to NBA Rockets two-year $90m extension — reports
NBA icon Kevin Durant has inked a two-year, $90 million contract extension with the Houston Rockets, as confirmed by multiple sources on Sunday. The 37-year-old forward, a two-time NBA champion with the Golden State Warriors, will now hold the record for the highest career earnings in NBA history, surpassing LeBron James’s $583.9 million with a staggering $598.2 million.
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MBU, Racing clash atop JPL table
The Jamaica Premier League (JPL) is set for a thrilling top-of-the-table clash as leaders Montego Bay United (MBU) take on the unbeaten Racing United at the Montego Bay Sports Complex tonight at 7:00 pm. With just four points separating the two teams, the stakes are high. MBU currently leads with 19 points from eight games, while Racing United, tied with Portmore United at 15 points, has played one fewer game. The encounter promises to be a test of skill and strategy as both teams aim to solidify their positions in the league standings. Racing United, in their second JPL season, has yet to score against MBU in their three previous meetings, losing twice and drawing once. However, with 14 goals scored this season, they are second only to MBU in offensive prowess. MBU, returning home after consecutive away victories, will look to break through Racing’s defense, which has not conceded a goal in four games. Key players like Jourdain Fletcher, Dwight Merrick, and Jahmari Clarke will be crucial for MBU, while Racing’s Giovanni Cunningham and Tajay Grant aim to extend their unbeaten streak. Earlier in the day, the league’s double-header at Drewsland will see defending champions Cavalier SC face Spanish Town Police at 3:00 pm, followed by Waterhouse FC hosting Dunbeholden United at 5:30 pm. At Turner’s Oval, Chapelton Maroons and Molynes United will battle at 3:00 pm, with both teams desperate for a win. The weekend’s fixtures will conclude with Monday’s games featuring Portmore United vs Harbour View FC and Arnett Gardens FC vs Tivoli Gardens FC. As the JPL season progresses, these matches could significantly shape the league’s standings and set the tone for the remainder of the competition.
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Gyptian to feature at Mask 25th anniversary Halloween show
The iconic Halloween extravaganza, Mask, is set to make a grand return to the Sport of Kings venue at Gulfstream Racetrack in Hallandale, South Florida, on October 25. This year marks a significant milestone as the event celebrates its 25th anniversary, promising an unforgettable night filled with surprises and electrifying performances. Co-founded by Jamaican Jaime Young, Mask has become a staple in South Florida’s entertainment scene, blending Caribbean culture with Halloween festivities. Attendees are encouraged to unleash their creativity by donning extravagant costumes, embodying their alter egos for a night of freedom, fun, and flair. This year’s edition, aptly titled ‘The Masked Performer Edition,’ will feature a special birthday celebration for Gyptian, the renowned reggae artist who turns 42 on the same day. The event will be powered by a lineup of top-tier DJs, including Delano of Renaissance, Selecta Renegade, DJ Nicco 876, DJ LS One, and Nocturnal Sound, led by Papa Keith. These maestros will keep the crowd moving to the infectious rhythms of reggae, dancehall, and soca. Young, a veteran promoter with three decades of experience in South Florida, has curated high-profile events such as Stages Miami, Naked, French Reserve, Truckstop, and Foam Wet Fete. He proudly describes Mask as Miami’s premier annual themed costume event, a vibrant celebration of creativity, culture, and connection.
