In a significant development in the tragic case of 13-year-old Shantina Sergeant, her father, Lawrence Sergeant, has been apprehended by law enforcement. The arrest occurred on Friday afternoon in Old Harbour, St Catherine, between 3:30 pm and 4:00 pm, following an intensive manhunt. Authorities had earlier identified Lawrence as a person of interest in connection with the murder of his daughter, whose charred remains were discovered on Monday behind their family home. The grim scene included a burnt-out refrigerator and zinc sheets, adding to the chilling nature of the crime. The arrest marks a crucial step in the ongoing investigation, as police continue to piece together the circumstances surrounding this heartbreaking incident.
标签： Jamaica
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Caribbean urged to accelerate AI training amid widening skills divide
A recent study by DeVry University has revealed a significant disconnect between Caribbean workers and employers regarding the skills required for an artificial intelligence (AI)-driven economy. The 2025 Bridging the Gap report indicates that while 85% of workers are optimistic about their job prospects over the next five years, nearly 70% of employers believe their teams lack the necessary skills to thrive in this evolving landscape. The findings, drawn from a survey of over 1,500 workers and 500 hiring managers, underscore the pressing need for practical AI training and clear usage policies. Scarlett Howery, DeVry’s Vice President of Public Workforce Solutions, emphasized that AI is transforming every sector, including higher education, and highlighted the gap between workers’ confidence and employers’ expectations. To address this, DeVry is collaborating with Caribbean education and industry leaders to expand access to online learning and establish ethical standards for AI use. Experts argue that while AI can automate routine tasks, human skills like ethical reasoning, creativity, and sound judgment remain indispensable. The report advocates for effective policies that enhance productivity by setting clear expectations and reducing risks without stifling innovation. Employers are also encouraged to provide structured AI training programs that focus on both technical and durable skills, such as problem-solving and communication, while creating safe environments for workers to integrate AI into their daily tasks. Caribbean leaders, including Jamaica’s Prime Minister Dr. Andrew Holness, have echoed the call for action, urging the region to embrace digital transformation to strengthen public services, bolster cybersecurity, and expand opportunities. Holness emphasized the importance of aligning AI and other technologies with Caribbean values to empower people to compete and thrive in the digital age.
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Sixteen dead after blast at US explosives factory
A catastrophic explosion at an explosives manufacturing facility in Bucksnort, Tennessee, has resulted in the deaths of 16 individuals, authorities confirmed on Saturday. The incident, which occurred on Friday at the Accurate Energetic Systems plant, initially led to fears that 18 people had perished. However, two individuals previously thought to be among the victims were later located and confirmed safe. The blast, described as a ‘tragic accident’ by the company, obliterated an entire building on the expansive campus, caused widespread structural vibrations, and scattered debris across the area. Humphreys County Sheriff Chris Davis noted that the vehicle and personal belongings of the two missing individuals were found at the scene, initially leading to the assumption of their demise. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) official Brice McCracken stated that the cause of the explosion remains undetermined, with investigations ongoing. Sheriff Davis emphasized that foul play has not been ruled out, and the process of examining the site is being conducted meticulously, with bomb technicians deployed as necessary. DNA testing will be utilized to identify the remains of the victims.
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Education Ministry launches ‘BullyProofJA’ campaign
The Ministry of Education, Skills, Youth, and Information (MOESYI) in Jamaica has introduced a groundbreaking digital initiative, ‘BullyProofJA,’ designed to address the pervasive issue of bullying in schools and communities. The campaign, encapsulated by the slogan ‘Block the Hate, Build the Love,’ underscores the Ministry’s dedication to fostering safe, supportive, and inclusive environments for all children.
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Alleged gang leader Brico killed in clash with cops
In a significant development in St Catherine, Jamaica, Bryan King, also known as Brico, a prominent figure in the criminal underworld, was fatally shot during a confrontation with law enforcement on Saturday. King, identified as the section leader of the Kitson Town-based Klansman Gang, was reportedly involved in a range of organized criminal activities, including contract killings, extortion, and armed robberies. His influence extended across Kitson Town and the Top Banks area of Spanish Town, where he allegedly commanded a network of gunmen responsible for numerous violent crimes. King’s rise to power followed the death of Sheldon ‘Termite’ Walters in 2024, after which he assumed leadership of the Top Banks faction of the Klansman Gang. Law enforcement had long sought King, listing him as a person of interest in multiple cases, including shootings targeting police officers and several high-profile murders. His death is seen as a major setback for organized crime networks in the region, particularly those affiliated with the Klansman Gang. The confrontation occurred around 1:00 pm in Kitson Town, where an illegal firearm was reportedly recovered from King. Authorities view his elimination as a critical step in curbing gang-related violence in the area.
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Milton Blake looks to tap into vinyl market
Milton Blake, a roots reggae artist based in Cleveland, Ohio, is capitalizing on the booming vinyl market by re-releasing his album, ‘Temporary Obstacle,’ in the classic vinyl format. Originally launched digitally six years ago, the album is now making a physical comeback, driven by both a global resurgence in vinyl demand and persistent requests from his dedicated fanbase. Blake, a Rastafarian musician, shared that he swiftly acted on pre-release orders from his Bandcamp page, sending the album to the pressing plant without delay. ‘Temporary Obstacle,’ featuring 12 tracks, marks Blake’s third studio album and was produced by Lloyd Dennis under the British label Pickout Records, renowned for hits like Tinga Stewart and Ninjaman’s ‘Cover Me’ and Conrad Crystal’s ‘True Love.’ The vinyl market, which had waned in the 1980s with the rise of CDs, DVDs, and digital formats, has experienced a remarkable revival over the past decade. Major artists like Taylor Swift, Ed Sheeran, Tupac Shakur, and The Beatles have also embraced this trend, releasing their works on vinyl. Blake, who began his career in the early 1990s during reggae’s vinyl heyday, noted that while sales dipped with the advent of digital downloads, vinyl has always maintained a loyal niche audience. ‘Vinyls have never been out,’ he emphasized, pointing out that many DJs and selectors continue to prefer the format for its authenticity. Born in Clarendon and raised in Central Village, St. Catherine, Blake moved to the U.S. in 2009, where he has gained recognition touring the Midwest with his band, the River Nile Band.
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Holness pens letter to Golding, calls for return to dialogue on Republic agenda
Prime Minister Andrew Holness has reiterated his appeal for cooperation with Opposition Leader Mark Golding to advance Jamaica’s transition to a republic. In a public letter, Holness emphasized the importance of collaboration and proposed reviving the Vale Royal Talks to facilitate constitutional reform. He urged Golding to engage with Justice Minister Delroy Chuck as a preliminary step, despite Golding’s insistence on direct talks between the two leaders. The letter outlines the historical context of the reform process, highlighting past agreements and recent disagreements over Jamaica’s final appellate court. Holness expressed hope for a renewed partnership to achieve the shared goal of transitioning Jamaica to a republic, emphasizing the need for unity and structured dialogue.
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Teen dead, younger brother in custody following stabbing incident in St Elizabeth
In a tragic incident in Comma Pen, St Elizabeth, Jamaica, an 18-year-old man lost his life following a violent altercation with his 14-year-old brother on Friday night. The victim, identified as Raheem Thompson, locally known as “Shota,” was a farmer and resident of the area. According to police reports, the dispute began around 10:00 pm and quickly escalated into a physical confrontation. A family member attempted to intervene and separate the two brothers. Thompson reportedly left the scene but returned shortly afterward with a severe stab wound to his chest. He was rushed to the Mandeville Regional Hospital but was pronounced dead upon arrival. Authorities have taken the 14-year-old brother into custody as investigations continue. The incident has left the community in shock, highlighting the devastating consequences of domestic violence.
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TOOTHLESS!
In a dramatic turn of events at the Ergilio Hato Stadium in Willemstad, Curacao delivered a stunning 2-0 victory over Jamaica in the Concacaf World Cup Qualifying final round on Friday night. This defeat marks Jamaica’s first loss in the campaign, leaving the Reggae Boyz in a precarious position in Group B. Curacao’s goals, courtesy of Livano Comenencia and Kenji Gorre, propelled them to the top of the group with seven points, overtaking Jamaica, who now trail with six points. With only the group winner guaranteed a spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Jamaica’s fate now hinges on Curacao dropping points in their remaining matches, including the return fixture in Jamaica. The Reggae Boyz must also fend off Trinidad and Tobago, who climbed to third place with a 3-0 win over Bermuda. The match saw Curacao dominate early, with Comenencia’s 25-yard strike in the 14th minute setting the tone. Despite Jamaica’s efforts, including near-misses from Tyreece Campbell and Jon Russell, Curacao’s defense held firm. Gorre’s spectacular goal in the 67th minute sealed the victory, leaving Jamaica’s late VAR-overturned goal by Richard King as a mere consolation. The Reggae Boyz now face a must-win clash against Bermuda on Tuesday, while Curacao prepares to host Trinidad and Tobago in their next fixture.
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Dolla and ICWI unveil loan-insurance package for taxi operators
KINGSTON, Jamaica — In a strategic move to support Jamaica’s transportation sector, Dolla Financial Services Limited and the Insurance Company of the West Indies (ICWI) have unveiled a groundbreaking loan and insurance package tailored specifically for taxi operators and public passenger vehicle (PPV) owners. This innovative offering combines Dolla’s One N’ Ready auto loan product with ICWI’s motor insurance, providing a comprehensive solution to address the financial and safety needs of transport operators. The package includes financing options of up to 95% for new vehicles and 70% for pre-owned vehicles, with repayment terms extending up to 36 months. Additionally, fixed and affordable weekly insurance payments ensure manageable costs for operators. The partnership also introduces several value-added benefits, such as free GPS tracking from Amber Connect, a guaranteed 12-hour loan approval process, and direct access to ICWI’s claims and customer support services. With thousands of Jamaicans relying on taxis and PPVs daily, the initiative seeks to enhance the financial stability and safety of operators, many of whom struggle to secure affordable financing and comprehensive insurance. Kenroy Kerr, CEO of Dolla Financial Services, emphasized that the initiative goes beyond mere financial support, offering “protection, peace of mind, and a safer future on the road” for transport operators. Paul Lalor, President of ICWI, highlighted the dual benefits of simplifying compliance and reducing financial burdens while improving road safety. This collaboration aims to create a safer, more convenient experience for Jamaica’s taxi operators while bolstering the reliability of the nation’s public transport system.