标签: Jamaica

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  • Elderly wife killer heard voice of God

    Elderly wife killer heard voice of God

    An 85-year-old Jamaican farmer has been convicted of murdering his 73-year-old wife and their 80-year-old employer in a violent outburst fueled by jealousy and domestic disputes. Roy Nesbeth’s case, tried before Justice Courtney Daye in the Hanover Circuit Court, reveals a tragic narrative of marital breakdown culminating in extreme violence.

    According to court documents, the fatal incidents occurred on August 12, 2023, at the couple’s Grange District residence in Hanover. The confrontation began when Nesbeth confronted his wife of ten years, Tera Anderson-Nesbeth, about her withholding approximately J$6,400 and refusing to wash his clothes. The argument escalated when she declared their relationship over, prompting Nesbeth to strike her multiple times in the head and shoulder with a farming tool known as a ‘digger.’

    Following the assault on his wife, Nesbeth proceeded to the Kendel District home of retired nurse Patsy Allen, their employer. There, he accused Allen of destroying his marriage and alleged her younger relative had romantic intentions toward his wife. During the confrontation, Nesbeth assaulted Allen with his hands before using a screwdriver to inflict fatal wounds to her chest area.

    In a remarkable turn of events, Nesbeth described experiencing divine intervention after the murders. Overcome with guilt, he attempted suicide three times but claimed a voice from God instructed him to seek pastoral guidance and surrender to authorities. His subsequent confession provided chilling details of the attacks and his emotional state following the violence.

    Forensic examinations confirmed the cause of death for both victims. Anderson-Nesbeth succumbed to blunt force trauma to the head, specifically a fatal injury to the back of her skull that caused brain damage. Allen died from hemorrhagic shock resulting from sharp force injuries to the chest, with additional defensive wounds on her left hand indicating attempted self-protection.

    The investigation, led by Detective Constable Ellsworth Robinson with support from specialized crime division officers, culminated in a fourteen-day trial between December 3-30, 2023. Prosecuted by Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions Malike Kellier and Crown Counsel Loyata Richards, the case resulted in Nesbeth’s conviction by a seven-member jury. Sentencing has been deferred to a future date.

  • Coach Enzo Maresca leaves Chelsea

    Coach Enzo Maresca leaves Chelsea

    Chelsea Football Club has formally announced the departure of head coach Enzo Maresca after just 18 months at the helm. The decision, confirmed by the club on Thursday, severs ties with the Italian manager during a challenging period in their Premier League campaign.

    The club’s official statement cited a mutual agreement to part ways, emphasizing the need for a strategic shift to salvage the remainder of the season. Currently positioned fifth in the league standings, Chelsea finds itself trailing a staggering 15 points behind arch-rivals Arsenal, having secured only one victory in their last seven domestic matches.

    Mounting speculation regarding Maresca’s future intensified throughout Chelsea’s recent performance slump, compounded by reports of deteriorating relations between the coach and the club’s leadership. The situation reached a critical point following Tuesday’s tumultuous 2-2 draw against Bournemouth, after which Maresca notably abstained from the customary post-match press conference, with officials attributing his absence to illness.

    Maresca’s tenure, which began with considerable promise, saw the club capture both the Europa Conference League and Club World Cup titles in 2025 while successfully securing qualification for the prestigious Champions League. However, the coach had previously voiced frustrations regarding perceived lack of support from within the organization, particularly referencing what he described as “the worst 48 hours” of his Chelsea experience preceding December’s victory over Everton.

    The separation concludes a contract originally set to extend until summer 2029, featuring an optional additional year at the club’s discretion. Chelsea’s leadership now faces the urgent task of identifying a successor capable of revitalizing their campaign across four ongoing competitions, with Champions League qualification remaining a paramount objective.

  • ‘Several dozen’ presumed dead after fire at ski resort New Year party

    ‘Several dozen’ presumed dead after fire at ski resort New Year party

    CRANS-MONTANA, Switzerland — A devastating fire engulfed a popular nightclub in the upscale Alpine resort of Crans-Montana during New Year’s celebrations, resulting in what authorities describe as one of Switzerland’s deadliest nightlife disasters in recent history. The blaze erupted approximately at 1:30 AM local time (0030 GMT) at Le Constellation bar, which was operating at near-capacity with hundreds of revelers welcoming the new year.

    Cantonal police commander Frederic Gisler confirmed multiple fatalities and approximately 100 injuries, many critical, with victims being transported to medical facilities across Switzerland. Emergency services mounted a massive response operation involving more than a dozen helicopters, 40 ambulances, and 150 medical personnel. The scale of the tragedy overwhelmed local hospitals, requiring patient transfers to specialized facilities in Zurich, Lausanne, and Geneva.

    While the exact cause remains under investigation, authorities have preliminary ruled out terrorist involvement. Wallis prosecutor Beatrice Pilloud stated that current evidence suggests the fire originated internally rather than from pyrotechnics or explosive devices, contrary to initial speculation. The investigation is focusing on accidental causes, with forensic teams working to determine the ignition source.

    The international dimension of the tragedy emerged as foreign ministries confirmed citizens among the victims. Italy’s foreign ministry offered specialized burn treatment facilities in Milan, while France confirmed at least two injured nationals. Swiss President Guy Parmelin, who assumed office the same day, declared national mourning, describing the event as a transformation from “moment of joy to day of mourning.”

    Le Constellation, with a maximum capacity of 340 patrons including terrace seating, represented the vibrant apres-ski culture for which Crans-Montana is renowned. The resort is scheduled to host World Cup skiing events later this month, with preparations now overshadowed by the tragedy. Identification procedures continue as authorities work to notify families across multiple countries.

  • Residents protest New Year’s killing in Granville

    Residents protest New Year’s killing in Granville

    The community of Granville in St. James, Jamaica, was thrust into turmoil on New Year’s Day as enraged residents mounted street protests following a deadly confrontation with state security forces. The demonstration was triggered by the alleged killing of three individuals, which included a four-year-old child and two adult males.

    Armed with placards denouncing the security forces, local inhabitants barricaded critical sections of roadway utilizing discarded furniture, household appliances, and various debris. This act of civil disobedience effectively disrupted transportation networks as protesters demanded accountability for the fatalities.

    Emotional outcries from community members highlighted profound grievances against perceived military impunity. One distraught woman articulated the collective anguish to gathered media representatives, stating, ‘Them kill the baby, four year old baby,’ while another male protester criticized the security approach as ‘shoot now and ask question after.’

    Preliminary reports indicate the tragedy unfolded when security personnel responded to reports of celebratory gunfire in the area. The situation allegedly escalated beyond control, resulting in the fatal shootings. Following the initial exchange, security forces were reportedly inquiring about wanted individuals in the vicinity, further inflaming community tensions.

    The incident has prompted formal demands for independent investigation, with residents explicitly calling for the Independent Commission of Investigations (INDECOM) to initiate immediate proceedings. Community leaders have issued warnings of continued demonstrations should their demands for justice remain unaddressed, with one resident vowing, ‘We will block the road again.’

  • In New Year’s message, PM reflects on overcoming challenges while staring down crises

    In New Year’s message, PM reflects on overcoming challenges while staring down crises

    Prime Minister Andrew Holness delivered a sobering yet resolute New Year’s address, framing Jamaica’s recovery from Hurricane Melissa—the most destructive storm in the nation’s history—as a catalyst for transformative change. The Category 5 hurricane, which claimed numerous lives and caused widespread devastation, has prompted what Holness termed a “renewed sense of purpose” among Jamaicans.

    Significant progress has been made in restoring critical infrastructure, with 90% of customers now having electricity, water, and telecommunications services reinstated. The government has initiated comprehensive school repairs and is implementing rotational learning modalities to ensure educational continuity, particularly for exam-bound students. Medical facilities are being restored with support from field hospitals, while first responders and healthcare workers received special commendation for their heroic efforts.

    A landmark home-repair program is underway, leveraging the administration’s economic management which enabled one of Jamaica’s largest social-care initiatives. Over 16,000 citizens have already received rehabilitation grants, with 50,000 damage assessments completed to facilitate targeted aid distribution. The Jamaica Defence Force, alongside engineering corps from Ghana and Guyana, is actively engaged in roof restoration, while modular housing solutions have been procured for those rendered homeless.

    Holness announced the establishment of a National Reconstruction and Resilience Authority with sweeping powers to coordinate rebuilding efforts across multiple sectors including infrastructure, healthcare, tourism, and agriculture. This ambitious initiative is backed by $6.7 billion in multilateral support for reconstruction, which the Prime Minister attributed to Jamaica’s strengthened economic foundation.

    The address highlighted remarkable security achievements, with murders declining by 42% in 2025—marking the first time in 31 years that homicides fell below 700. This third consecutive year of reduced violence demonstrates the success of Plan Secure Jamaica, which involved transforming security forces, creating MOCA, tripling security budgets, and implementing emergency measures.

    Despite these accomplishments, Holness issued a stark warning about impending challenges in 2026, citing climate change as an existential threat. He noted that historically rare weather events are now occurring with alarming frequency, citing back-to-back hurricanes Beryl (2024) and Melissa (2025) as evidence of this new reality. The Prime Minister also pointed to shifting global秩序, geopolitical maneuvering, and economic instability as additional sources of potential crisis, urging national preparedness and resilience in the face of multifaceted challenges.

  • Leftist Mamdani begins first day as New York mayor

    Leftist Mamdani begins first day as New York mayor

    NEW YORK — Zohran Mamdani, a 34-year-old democratic socialist who emerged from relative obscurity to claim America’s most prominent municipal office, was formally inaugurated as New York City’s mayor during a historic ceremony commencing the new year. The swearing-in ceremony occurred precisely at midnight within a decommissioned subway station beneath City Hall, symbolizing both the city’s infrastructure heritage and Mamdani’s grassroots political origins.

    The inauguration events continued Thursday with a ceremonial celebration featuring prominent progressive allies including Senator Bernie Sanders and Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. The production anticipated approximately 4,000 ticketed attendees with additional public viewing areas accommodating tens of thousands of spectators along Broadway, reflecting Mamdani’s commitment to accessible governance.

    In his initial remarks, Mamdani characterized the mayoralty as “the honor and privilege of a lifetime,” while political analysts immediately began scrutinizing his capacity to implement an ambitious progressive agenda featuring rent stabilization, universal childcare, and fare-free public transportation. The administration’s trajectory appears inevitably intertwined with national politics, particularly given Mamdani’s strained relationship with former President Donald Trump.

    Despite Trump’s previous characterization of Mamdani as a “communist lunatic” and threats to reduce federal funding, the two conducted unexpectedly cordial discussions at the White House in November. Columbia University political analyst Lincoln Mitchell noted the meeting exceeded expectations for Mamdani, though he cautioned about the relationship’s volatility, especially regarding impending immigration enforcement actions.

    The mayor, who has labeled Trump a fascist, has simultaneously pledged to protect immigrant communities, setting the stage for potential jurisdictional conflicts. Mamdani’s oath was administered by New York Attorney General Letitia James, who recently successfully prosecuted Trump for civil fraud, adding another layer of political symbolism to the transition of power.

  • JDF says alleged actions of soldier contrary to core values

    JDF says alleged actions of soldier contrary to core values

    A member of the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) is facing serious criminal charges following an incident involving the unauthorized discharge of a firearm in a public area on Christmas morning. Private Rushane Brown, a 30-year-old soldier from Comfort Hall, Manchester, was apprehended after allegedly firing shots into the air approximately at 5:15 am in St. Elizabeth.

    The incident came to light when an off-duty police officer witnessed the alleged firearm discharge and confronted the soldier. Following an investigation, Brown has been formally charged with multiple offenses including possession of a prohibited weapon, unauthorized possession of ammunition, and unlawful discharge of a firearm in a public space.

    In an official statement released Wednesday, the Jamaica Defence Force expressed strong disapproval of the alleged actions, emphasizing that such behavior contradicts the organization’s core values and professional standards expected of all personnel. The military institution explicitly stated that it does not tolerate unlawful, reckless, or irresponsible conduct by any members, regardless of whether they are on or off duty.

    The JDF has committed to full cooperation with the Jamaica Constabulary Force to ensure a thorough and transparent investigation process. Military officials reaffirmed their dedication to maintaining the highest standards of discipline and accountability, while assuring the public that incidents of this nature receive the most serious attention and appropriate disciplinary measures.

  • Ex-boxing champ Joshua discharged from hospital after fatal car crash

    Ex-boxing champ Joshua discharged from hospital after fatal car crash

    Nigerian authorities confirmed Wednesday evening that former world heavyweight boxing titleholder Anthony Joshua has been released from medical care following a devastating road accident that claimed the lives of two close companions. The incident occurred along the heavily traveled Lagos-Ibadan expressway in southwestern Nigeria, where the sports icon’s sports utility vehicle collided with a stationary truck under circumstances now under official investigation. Preliminary findings from the Ogun State Traffic Compliance and Enforcement Agency (TRACE) indicate a tire rupture may have precipitated the catastrophic impact. Joint statements from Lagos state spokesman Gbenga Omotoso and Ogun state representative Kayode Akinmade clarified that while Joshua remains emotionally devastated by the loss of his friends, medical professionals determined his physical condition permitted recovery outside clinical supervision. Both state governments coordinated the athlete’s treatment following Monday’s tragedy. Before returning home, Joshua paid respects at the mortuary where deceased companions Sina Ghami and Latif Ayodele were being prepared for transportation to their final resting places.

  • Supreme Ventures announces intended strategic divestment of Evolve Loan Co

    Supreme Ventures announces intended strategic divestment of Evolve Loan Co

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — A significant strategic realignment is underway in Jamaica’s financial sector as Supreme Ventures Limited has entered preliminary negotiations with Dolla Financial Services Limited concerning the divestiture of Evolve Loan Co’s loan portfolio and select digital assets.

    The proposed transaction, announced Wednesday, forms part of a deliberate capital optimization strategy designed to enhance balance sheet efficiency for Supreme Ventures. The move aims to reduce credit risk concentration while improving risk-adjusted returns, all while maintaining strategic exposure to the portfolio’s future performance.

    This divestiture will catalyze a fundamental operational transformation for Evolve Loan Co, shifting it toward an asset-light business model. The restructured entity will concentrate strategically on loan origination services, digital platform enablement, and developing fee-based revenue streams—a transition expected to boost capital returns while mitigating balance sheet vulnerabilities.

    For acquiring entity Dolla Financial Services, this acquisition represents a strategic expansion that significantly scales operations and fortifies its lending infrastructure. Company CEO Kenroy Kerr emphasized that the transaction “meaningfully expands our microcredit footprint and reinforces our commitment to inclusive financing,” anticipating substantial positive impact on the company’s loan book balance and growth trajectory.

    Supreme Ventures will maintain financial exposure to future value creation through retained 15% equity ownership in Dolla Financial Services Limited. Executive Chairman Gary Peart characterized the move as reflecting “disciplined capital allocation and a clear focus on shareholder value,” strengthening immediate financial positioning while preserving long-term upside potential through a more scalable operational structure.

    Final transaction details remain under negotiation pending regulatory approval from the Bank of Jamaica.

  • Three dead in US strikes on alleged drug boats—US military

    Three dead in US strikes on alleged drug boats—US military

    WASHINGTON (AFP)—The United States military has confirmed the deaths of three individuals during maritime operations targeting suspected narcotics trafficking vessels. According to a statement released Wednesday by US Southern Command (SOUTHCOM), the incident occurred on Tuesday when forces engaged three vessels traveling as a convoy in international waters.

    The operation, which targeted what the military described as ‘narco-trafficking vessels’ operated by ‘Designated Terrorist Organizations,’ resulted in the fatalities occurring aboard a single boat. Accompanying footage released by SOUTHCOM on social media platform X showed three boats being struck by successive explosions while moving together at sea.

    Military officials stated that after the initial engagement eliminated the three individuals on the first vessel, remaining occupants abandoned the other two boats before subsequent actions sank both vessels. The exact location of the confrontation remains unspecified, though previous similar operations have typically occurred in Caribbean or eastern Pacific waters.

    SOUTHCOM indicated that the Coast Guard was notified to activate search and rescue protocols, though no further details were provided regarding the fate of those who abandoned the vessels.

    This incident brings the total death toll in Washington’s counter-narcotics campaign to at least 110 since September, with over 30 similar strikes conducted against alleged drug smuggling operations. The military has not presented concrete evidence publicly demonstrating the targeted vessels’ involvement in trafficking activities.

    International legal experts and human rights organizations have raised concerns that these operations may constitute extrajudicial killings, arguing they apparently target civilians who pose no immediate threat to US security.

    The maritime operations occur against the backdrop of heightened tensions between the US and Venezuela. President Donald Trump has intensified pressure on Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro, accusing him of operating a drug cartel—an allegation Maduro vehemently denies while accusing Washington of pursuing regime change to access Venezuela’s substantial oil reserves.