标签： Jamaica

A heated morning dispute at the Barnett Street transport center in Montego Bay, Jamaica, resulted in a court appearance for Tavon Thompson on Wednesday. Thompson faced charges of assault causing bodily harm before Judge Natiesha Fairclough-Hylton at the St James Parish Court. The incident, which occurred on August 23 around 9:50 am, began when the complainant boarded a PPV bus where Thompson was seated. According to court documents, as the complainant passed Thompson, the latter allegedly raised his leg, causing the complainant to stumble over his foot. Thompson then reportedly pushed the complainant in the face. After the complainant took his seat, Thompson exited the bus and attempted to pull the complainant through the window, resulting in pain and swelling to the complainant’s right hand. A physical altercation ensued outside the bus, during which Thompson allegedly held the complainant in a necklock while gripping his left arm. The confrontation attracted a crowd, prompting nearby police officers to intervene. Both men were taken to the Barnett Street Police Station, where Thompson was arrested and charged. During the court proceedings, Thompson revealed that he had also filed a report against the complainant, though this matter was not addressed in court. Judge Fairclough-Hylton set the next hearing date for October 15, when the cross-case is expected to be reviewed. Thompson’s bail was extended until then.

KINGSTON, Jamaica — A 35-year-old taxi operator, Andre Catnott from Longwall, Stony Hill, has been formally charged with the trafficking of a 16-year-old girl. The case, which has drawn significant attention, underscores the ongoing issue of human trafficking in the region. According to law enforcement officials, Catnott allegedly exploited the teenager after she ran away from home in November 2024. Posing as a driver for a ride-share company, he reportedly offered her a modeling job at his massage business, only to coerce her into engaging in sexual acts with clients for financial gain. Catnott is accused of managing these transactions and profiting from the exploitation. The teenager was eventually located by a family member in February 2025, leading to a formal police investigation. On September 17, officers from the Jamaica Constabulary Force’s Counter-Terrorism and Organised Crime Investigation Branch (C-TOC) executed a raid on Catnott’s residence, resulting in his arrest. Acting Senior Superintendent Victor Barrett of C-TOC emphasized the force’s commitment to safeguarding vulnerable individuals, stating, ‘The Jamaica Constabulary Force is working tirelessly to locate and arrest those who exploit children and prey on the most vulnerable in our country.’ Catnott was formally charged on September 22 and is set to appear in the Kingston and St Andrew Parish Court on September 26, 2025. Authorities are continuing their investigation to identify and apprehend additional individuals involved in the operation. The public is encouraged to report any information related to human trafficking or organized crime to C-TOC at 876-967-1389, the National Intelligence Bureau at 811, Crime Stop at 311, or their nearest police station.

Montego Bay, Jamaica, is witnessing a significant rise in 5K running events, prompting local authorities to take formal steps to accommodate this growing wellness trend. Mayor Richard Vernon of the St James Municipal Corporation revealed that officials are collaborating with police and event organizers to establish designated routes. These routes aim to minimize disruptions to traffic and local businesses, which currently face challenges due to the varying courses chosen by race organizers.

‘We are exploring the possibility of designating a specific area for 5K events,’ Vernon stated. ‘Our goal is to identify a location that allows residents to engage in these activities without hindering daily operations.’

In addition to addressing the logistical challenges posed by the surge in 5K events, Montego Bay is also expanding its green spaces as part of broader urban development plans. Mayor Vernon emphasized that these initiatives will enhance air quality and bolster public health efforts.

One of the standout events this year was the MBJ Charity Run, which attracted nearly 3,000 participants and raised approximately $30 million for educational grants. The event garnered support from over 100 companies, including Caribbean Solar Life and the Airports Authority of Jamaica. Applications for grants under the MBJ Charity Run’s expanded program remain open until September 30, 2025, and can be accessed at www.mbjairport.com.

In a recent update from the University Hospital of the West Indies (UHWI), it has been confirmed that most of the students injured in a bus accident on Tuesday along the Dublin Castle main road in Gordon Town, St Andrew, have been discharged following necessary medical treatment and observation. The incident, which involved students from St Martin De Porres and Louise Bennett-Coverley Primary Schools, occurred when the bus experienced mechanical issues, leading to it overturning after multiple attempts to restart it failed. Only one child remained hospitalized as of Tuesday night. Dr. Carl Bruce, Chief Medical Officer at UHWI, highlighted the hospital’s swift response, mobilizing pediatric, emergency, surgical, and ancillary care teams to provide comprehensive and compassionate care. The hospital also offered psychosocial support to the affected students and their families, emphasizing their commitment to the children’s emotional, mental, and physical recovery. UHWI continues to monitor the situation closely and will provide updates to relevant stakeholders, including the Ministry of Health and Wellness and the Ministry of Education, as more information becomes available.

The St. Catherine Parish Court in Jamaica has returned to normal operations after a brief closure on Wednesday prompted by a bomb threat. The Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) swiftly responded to the situation, conducting a thorough search of the premises. Following a meticulous inspection, authorities confirmed that no explosive devices or threats were found, allowing the court to resume its afternoon sessions without further delay. The Court Administration Division (CAD) expressed gratitude to the court staff, users, and the general public for their understanding and cooperation during the temporary disruption. This incident highlights the importance of vigilance and preparedness in ensuring public safety, particularly in high-traffic institutions like courts. While the threat proved unfounded, the swift response by law enforcement underscores the effectiveness of Jamaica’s emergency protocols in handling potential security risks.