标签： Jamaica

In response to a security alert issued by the United States Embassy, the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) has intensified protective measures nationwide to ensure the safety of citizens and government officials during the Divali holiday weekend. The US Embassy, in a notice released on Saturday, advised American citizens to avoid its facilities in Trinidad and Tobago, citing a ‘heightened state of alert.’ It also recommended that nationals remain vigilant, stay informed through reliable news sources, and report any suspicious activities to local authorities. Acting Commissioner of Police Junior Benjamin reassured the public that there is no immediate cause for alarm. He emphasized that the TTPS has implemented additional security protocols to safeguard both citizens and foreign nationals, as well as critical infrastructure. Benjamin stated, ‘We are going to support as much as we can in terms of having our officers briefed, but we really do not want to create any scare among the citizenry. We stand in support of ensuring the safety and security of all persons.’ He further revealed that he had convened a briefing with the heads of all TTPS operational units to ensure the protection of government officials. While acknowledging that there had been no specific discussions with the Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force or Coast Guard on this matter, Benjamin expressed confidence in the collaborative efforts of all national security agencies. ‘We always operate as a team, and therefore I am certain we have the support of all agencies under homeland security,’ he added.

A tragic accident occurred on the North South Highway in St Catherine, Jamaica, on Friday night, resulting in the deaths of two drivers. The incident, which took place around 8:30 pm near the Angels exit, involved a head-on collision between two Subaru vehicles. Preliminary investigations suggest that one of the cars was traveling in the wrong direction, leading to the fatal crash. The identities of the deceased have not yet been disclosed. Authorities are continuing their investigation into the circumstances surrounding the accident. Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.

TRELAWNY, Jamaica — Westwood High School has recently become a part of the Afro Day movement, a growing initiative that celebrates natural hair, cultural identity, and self-expression. Spearheaded by Kimberly Todd, a mathematics teacher and the 2022 Miss St Ann Festival Queen, the event saw female students proudly showcasing their natural curls, coils, and textures.

Todd, who has long advocated for this celebration, expressed her pride in finally seeing her vision come to life. ‘As a cultural ambassador, I’ve always wanted this for the girls since 2022. Although it didn’t happen two years ago, I’m thrilled to have succeeded this year. It’s crucial for the girls to embrace their true selves,’ she remarked. She also emphasized the importance of self-expression, even within the confines of the school’s uniform regulations, which traditionally include wearing hats.

The Afro Day movement, which gained momentum in Jamaican schools in 2023, has seen participation from institutions like St Catherine, Excelsior, Green Island, and Meadowbrook high schools. It aims to foster pride in African heritage and challenge outdated stereotypes surrounding natural hair. With Westwood High School now joining the movement, the event underscores Jamaica’s progress in celebrating black beauty and cultural authenticity.

KINGSTON, Jamaica — A 28-year-old man, Michael Jones of Haining Crescent, Kingston 5, has been formally charged with violating the anti-corruption act following an alleged attempt to bribe police officers during a routine traffic stop on Friday. The incident occurred around 11:40 am during a National Coordinated Roadblock operation, where Jones was observed driving a Toyota Axio without wearing a seat belt. Upon being signaled to stop, Jones failed to produce a valid driver’s license, prompting officers to prepare traffic citations. It is alleged that Jones then retrieved an envelope containing money from his vehicle and offered it to the officers in an attempt to avoid penalties. The police swiftly apprehended Jones, who was later charged after an interview. Authorities have reiterated that attempting to bribe a member of the Jamaica Constabulary Force is a grave criminal offense, emphasizing that such actions will be prosecuted rigorously. This case underscores the ongoing efforts to combat corruption within the law enforcement system and serves as a stark reminder to the public of the severe consequences of such misconduct.

A devastating bus accident in northeast Brazil has resulted in the deaths of at least 15 people, according to police reports on Saturday. The incident occurred late Friday in Pernambuco state, involving a bus carrying 30 passengers. The driver, who was traveling in the wrong direction, lost control of the vehicle after hitting rocks on the roadside. Although he managed to correct the direction, the bus subsequently crashed into an embankment and overturned. Among the victims were 11 women and four men, while the number of injured passengers remains undisclosed. The driver, who sustained only minor injuries and tested negative for alcohol, was taken into police custody. Authorities noted that some passengers were ejected from the bus during the crash.

KINGSTON, Jamaica — A 20-year-old construction worker, Romando Simpson, also known as ‘Prince,’ has been charged with multiple offenses, including murder, following the fatal shooting of a 22-year-old kitchen assistant in May. The incident occurred in Cobourn Gardens, Kingston 11, on Sunday, May 25. The victim, Judas Clarke, popularly known as ‘Froggy,’ was employed as a kitchen assistant at Maple View Road in the same community. According to police reports, Clarke was seated outside his residence around 7:00 pm when Simpson allegedly approached him armed with a handgun. Simpson reportedly opened fire, striking Clarke before fleeing the scene on a waiting motorcycle. Emergency services were called, and Clarke was rushed to the hospital, where he was later pronounced dead. Simpson was apprehended and formally charged on Friday after undergoing a question-and-answer session in the presence of his legal counsel. The charges against him include murder, possession of a prohibited weapon and ammunition, and using a firearm to commit a felony.