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标签： Jamaica

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  • WATCH: Williams revisits his viral ‘latte’ moment to tout real estate market

    WATCH: Williams revisits his viral ‘latte’ moment to tout real estate market

    Christopher Williams, Chairman and CEO of different Capital, has reflected on a controversial statement he made approximately six years ago regarding housing affordability for the middle class. During his previous tenure as chairman of Proven REIT, while promoting a new residential development, Williams suggested that prospective buyers could afford units by reducing their daily coffee purchases—a remark that sparked significant public criticism and led to his subsequent apology, which he acknowledged as inappropriate at the time.

    In a recent video address, Williams highlighted that the property in question, originally valued at $19 million, has now appreciated to an estimated $35 million. He presented this substantial valuation increase as evidence supporting his underlying argument about real estate’s wealth-building potential. “Don’t ramp and play around with real estate cause that is the path to your long-term wealth, think different,” Williams advised viewers, emphasizing strategic property investment as a key to financial growth.

    Following his departure from Proven last year, Williams co-founded different Capital alongside businessman Gary Matalon. The new real estate brokerage firm aims to provide clients with access to investment properties throughout the Caribbean region, expanding opportunities for property investment and portfolio diversification.

  • Wanted man, ‘Blackhead’, killed in police operation

    Wanted man, ‘Blackhead’, killed in police operation

    KINGSTON, Jamaica – Jamaican law enforcement officials conducted a targeted operation in the Jacques Road district of Kingston early Saturday morning, resulting in the fatal shooting of a high-priority criminal suspect. The incident occurred approximately at 5:30 a.m. during what authorities describe as an intelligence-driven mission.

    The deceased has been identified as Devar Hodges, who operated under the aliases “Skeddo” and “Blackhead” from Browns Town, St. Ann. Hodges had been the subject of an active manhunt by Jamaican authorities for serious criminal offenses, including wounding with intent.

    The Jamaica Constabulary Force had previously classified Hodges as a significant figure in organized criminal networks operating throughout the island. Security forces had intensified efforts to apprehend him due to his alleged involvement in multiple criminal enterprises that threatened public safety.

    Police representatives confirmed the operation was conducted based on credible intelligence regarding Hodges’ whereabouts and activities. The precision operation forms part of broader initiatives by Jamaican law enforcement to combat organized crime and reduce violence in communities affected by criminal elements.

    Authorities have launched a standard internal review of the operation, consistent with police protocols regarding fatal encounters with wanted individuals. Further details regarding the specific circumstances of the engagement remain under investigation.

  • Damage Musiq drops ‘Created by Pain’ album featuring Teejay, Masicka, Tommy Lee and more

    Damage Musiq drops ‘Created by Pain’ album featuring Teejay, Masicka, Tommy Lee and more

    Visionary music producer Dwayne ‘Damage Musiq’ Parkinson is cementing his status as an architectural force in dancehall’s evolving landscape. His latest magnum opus, the various artistes album ‘Created By Pain,’ represents both a creative pinnacle and philosophical statement about transforming adversity into artistic triumph.

    The 2026 release showcases Damage Musiq’s signature fusion of commercially viable club anthems and raw street narratives that capture urban realities. Featuring collaborations with dancehall luminaries including Tommy Lee, Teejay, Shatta Wale, Masicka, and Popcaan, the album demonstrates the producer’s exceptional range. Standout tracks like Teejay’s ‘From Rags to Riches’—which amassed over 115 million streams—exemplify his ability to create culturally resonant hits.

    Beyond commercial success, Damage Musiq champions trap dancehall as the genre’s evolutionary direction, particularly for younger audiences immersed in hip-hop influences. ‘The genre varies tremendously,’ he notes, ‘and success depends on narrative consumption, requiring constant innovation.’

    The producer’s impact extends beyond charts, with his work on Shatta Wale’s ‘Reign’ album contributing to its Billboard #6 debut. Recent productions like Popcaan’s ‘Immortal Life’—garnering 1.7 million YouTube views—reinforce his commitment to uplifting messages about growth and spiritual alignment.

    Despite industry challenges, including AI-generated music threatening artist royalties and authorship, Damage Musiq maintains his focus on positive production. He consciously counters narratives glorifying violence by promoting themes of resilience, education, and community in his work. ‘I want to build a legacy that shapes identity and aspiration globally,’ he asserts, positioning himself as a transformative force in dancehall’s digital future.

  • T&T gov’t ends civil lawsuit involving CL Financial

    T&T gov’t ends civil lawsuit involving CL Financial

    The Government of Trinidad and Tobago has declared an immediate end to all civil proceedings related to the collapsed CL Financial Group, terminating a decades-long investigation that consumed billions in public funds through extensive legal fees. Attorney General John Jeremie delivered a scathing statement to Parliament, characterizing the protracted probe as a judicial ‘feeding frenzy’ and a prolonged ‘joke’ of an investigation.

    Jeremie revealed the state has expended an estimated TT$28 billion (US$4.48 billion) on the CL Financial rescue operation, with an additional TT$3-4 billion (US$480-640 million) dedicated specifically to litigation expenses. These figures exclude substantial payments to liquidators, bringing the total financial burden significantly higher.

    The Attorney General presented the long-concealed Sir Anthony Colman report, which details the 2009 collapse of insurance giant Colonial Life Insurance Company (CLICO), a CL Financial subsidiary. The report, costing approximately TT$150 million (US$24 million) to produce, had never been previously disclosed to the public or Parliament despite its documentation of what Jeremie described as ‘the largest financial fraud in this country.’

    Jeremie criticized his predecessors for authorizing payments approaching half a billion dollars to legal and accounting firms, including nearly TT$400 million (US$64 million) to Deloitte and Touche alone. He noted that despite the enormous expenditure, not a single individual has faced criminal charges related to the financial collapse, which he attributed to ‘unconscionable action’ by previous administrations.

    The CL Financial collapse originated from excessive related-party transactions, high-risk investments, and plummeting asset values, culminating in a government bailout in January 2009. The Central Bank of Trinidad and Tobago assumed control until December 2022, when CLICO finally repaid its TT$17.3 billion (US$2.77 billion) debt.

    Jeremie highlighted the investigation’s inadequate resources, noting that just one to three police officers were assigned to examine evidence including tens of millions of emails, financial records, forensic analyses of cross-border transactions, 6,414 electronic evidence pieces, and 1,650 boxes of physical documentation.

    The Attorney General concluded that continuing to fund ‘professional services to persons who are sometimes golfers but who are always very wealthy’ constituted an irresponsible use of public resources, prompting the administration to terminate civil proceedings in a ‘cost-effective manner.’

  • PM welcomes upgrade in Jamaica’s travel advisory, reaffirms ‘shared commitment’ with US in talks with Rubio

    PM welcomes upgrade in Jamaica’s travel advisory, reaffirms ‘shared commitment’ with US in talks with Rubio

    In a significant diplomatic engagement, Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness held a substantive telephone discussion with United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Saturday, marking a reinforcement of bilateral cooperation between the two nations. The dialogue, confirmed by Jamaica’s Office of the Prime Minister (OPM), centered on multiple strategic areas including post-hurricane reconstruction, regional security collaboration, and economic development initiatives.

    Secretary Rubio formally acknowledged Jamaica’s effective management of relief operations following the devastating Category 5 Hurricane Melissa, particularly noting the expedited restoration of essential services across impacted regions. Prime Minister Holness reciprocated by expressing profound gratitude for the sustained assistance provided by the United States throughout the emergency response and early recovery phases.

    The leaders engaged in detailed conversations regarding the complex reconstruction requirements ahead, emphasizing the critical need for developing more resilient infrastructure systems to support economic stability. Rubio reaffirmed Washington’s commitment to supporting Jamaica’s rebuilding and climate resilience endeavors through continued partnership mechanisms, including potential private sector involvement.

    A notable development highlighted during the exchange was the U.S. State Department’s decision to elevate Jamaica’s travel advisory status from Level 3 to Level 2, reflecting recognized improvements in public safety infrastructure. Holness emphasized how this upgraded rating would positively impact tourism revenue, foreign investment confidence, and bilateral citizen exchanges.

    The security dimension featured prominently in discussions, with Holness detailing Jamaica’s substantial crime reduction achievements in 2025 through comprehensive law enforcement strategies. Both parties reiterated their mutual dedication to addressing narcotics and firearms smuggling, transnational criminal networks, and emerging security challenges across the Caribbean region.

    Jamaica’s contribution to the multinational Gang Suppression Force in Haiti was recognized as evidence of its commitment to regional stability. Holness positioned Jamaica as a dependable partner for the United States in addressing complex issues spanning security coordination, energy development, economic growth, and immigration management.

    The concluding consensus confirmed both nations’ intention to maintain close diplomatic engagement as they work to deepen their longstanding partnership based on shared democratic principles and mutual economic prosperity.

  • Trump invites more leaders to join Gaza ‘Board of Peace’

    Trump invites more leaders to join Gaza ‘Board of Peace’

    WASHINGTON — The architecture of former U.S. President Donald Trump’s proposed ‘Board of Peace’ for postwar Gaza solidified significantly this weekend as multiple international leaders signaled willingness to participate. The initiative, personally chaired by Trump, aims to address the reconstruction and governance of the war-devastated Palestinian territory.

    Confirmations emerged from various capitals following Trump’s initial appointments. Argentine President Javier Milei expressed honor at the invitation via social media, sharing the official letter. In Canada, a senior aide to Prime Minister Mark Carney indicated probable acceptance, while Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan received an invitation to serve as a ‘founding member.’ Egyptian authorities confirmed Cairo is ‘studying’ a request for President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi’s participation.

    The board’s core executive team includes prominent U.S. figures: Secretary of State Marco Rubio, senior negotiators Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff, and former British Prime Minister Tony Blair. Blair’s appointment carries particular significance given his controversial legacy in the Middle East from the 2003 Iraq invasion and his subsequent role as representative of the Middle East Quartet (UN, EU, US, and Russia).

    According to White House statements, the board will tackle comprehensive challenges including governance capacity-building, regional diplomacy, reconstruction efforts, investment attraction, and large-scale funding mobilization. Additional members include World Bank President Ajay Banga, billionaire financier Marc Rowan, and National Security Council official Robert Gabriel.

    Parallel to these developments, a separate ‘Gaza executive board’ appears designated for advisory functions, though specific membership remains unclear. The announcements follow the inaugural Cairo meeting of a Palestinian technocrat committee intended for Gaza governance, attended by Kushner.

    Operational security measures advanced simultaneously with Trump’s appointment of Major General Jasper Jeffers to lead an International Stabilization Force. Jeffers, previously overseeing the Lebanon-Israel ceasefire monitoring, will command security operations and train a new police force to replace Hamas. This transition aligns with Washington’s declared second phase strategy: moving from ceasefire implementation to Hamas disarmament following the October 2023 triggered offensive.

  • Jamaica’s All-School team open CASA Youth Classic with 4-0 win

    Jamaica’s All-School team open CASA Youth Classic with 4-0 win

    Jamaica’s All-Schools national youth team commenced their CASA Youth Classic title defense in impressive fashion on Friday, securing a commanding 4-0 victory against Tekkerz FC at Lauderhill Sports Park, Florida.

    The young Reggae Boyz demonstrated remarkable adaptability and finishing prowess, with St Catherine High’s Kadean Young leading the offensive charge with a brace in the 8th and 76th minutes. Excelsior High’s Kimarly Scott extended the lead shortly after halftime in the 50th minute, while STETHS’ Kaieem Lewis completed the comprehensive victory with a 62nd-minute strike.

    Head coach Keon Broderick emphasized the strategic importance of the opening match triumph, noting initial challenges with the artificial turf surface. “The first half began somewhat tentatively as most players were unfamiliar with the astroturf conditions,” Bronderick explained to the Jamaica Observer. “However, once they adjusted to the playing surface, the team settled into an effective rhythm.”

    Broderick elaborated on the tactical shift that enabled their second-half dominance: “Our opponents performed commendably in the first period, but our lead forced them to adopt a higher defensive line after halftime. This created exploitable spaces behind their defense which we instructed our players to target with penetrating runs – instructions they executed perfectly.”

    While praising the overall performance, the coach maintained perspective: “This represents a solid foundation that we can certainly build upon as the tournament progresses.”

    The defending champions continue their campaign against ESP in their second group stage match Saturday evening at 8:30 PM local time, with qualification for Sunday’s championship final as their primary objective.

  • ‘Blackhead’ killed after pointing gun at cops, say police

    ‘Blackhead’ killed after pointing gun at cops, say police

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — New investigative details have surfaced regarding the police-involved shooting that resulted in the death of Devar Hodges, a wanted criminal, in Kingston’s Mountain View area last Saturday morning.

    According to official reports from Jamaican law enforcement, the fatal encounter occurred approximately at 5:30 a.m. when officers from the Kingston Eastern division executed an operation at a residential premises where Hodges was residing. The situation escalated when police witnessed a female individual fleeing from a room moments before their entry.

    Upon entering the room, authorities confronted Hodges, who responded by allegedly directing an illegal firearm toward the officers. The law enforcement personnel reportedly implemented evasive maneuvers before discharging their service weapons, striking the suspect.

    Emergency medical services transported the critically injured Hodges to Kingston Public Hospital, where attending physicians subsequently pronounced him deceased. Police officials confirmed the seizure of a black Jimenez Arms Inc pistol from the scene, containing a loaded magazine with seven live 9mm rounds.

    Hodges, who operated under the street aliases ‘Skeddo’ and ‘Blackhead,’ originated from Browns Town in St. Ann parish. He had been actively sought by the St. Ann Police Division regarding serious charges of wounding with intent. His profile had recently been featured in the Jamaica Constabulary Force’s ‘Wanted Wednesdays’ public awareness campaign.

    The Independent Commission of Investigations (INDECOM) has initiated standard protocol procedures, deploying investigators to examine the circumstances surrounding the shooting incident. The independent oversight body will conduct a comprehensive review to determine whether proper police protocols were observed during the operation.

  • Two gov’t employees arrested in cocaine bust at Sangster airport

    Two gov’t employees arrested in cocaine bust at Sangster airport

    KINGSTON, Jamaica – In a significant anti-narcotics operation, authorities at Sangster International Airport have apprehended two high-ranking government officials attempting to traffic approximately 9.25 kilograms of cocaine with an estimated street value of $5.4 million. The dramatic Friday midday interception occurred as the male and female suspects, whose identities remain protected pending ongoing investigations, attempted to board a New York-bound flight.

    Security personnel from port authorities and the Firearms and Narcotics Investigation Division (FNID) discovered the illicit substance concealed within sophisticated false compartments in the suspects’ luggage during routine checkpoint screening. Additionally, officers recovered an unspecified amount of United States currency from a handbag during the search.

    Following the initial arrests, FNID investigators executed follow-up operations at both suspects’ residences, uncovering further evidence including a Glock 19 pistol, thirteen rounds of ammunition, and an additional ounce of cocaine. In a concerning development, one suspect disclosed having ingested over seventy cocaine pellets, requiring immediate medical hospitalization under police supervision.

    Superintendent Patrae Rowe, Director of FNID, emphasized the operation’s significance in Jamaica’s broader campaign against organized crime. “This operation underscores the intensified investigations by the Jamaica Constabulary Force to maintain the integrity of our borders and hold all individuals accountable, regardless of their professional standing or social status,” Rowe stated. “We are continuing our mission to further dismantle the networks that facilitate the trafficking of illicit drugs and firearms.”

    The case represents a notable success in Jamaica’s ongoing efforts to combat drug trafficking networks that often exploit official positions and transportation infrastructure. Law enforcement officials confirm investigations remain active as they work to identify potential accomplices and broader criminal connections.

  • UK-Caribbean Healthcare Mission strengthens UK-Jamaica partnership

    UK-Caribbean Healthcare Mission strengthens UK-Jamaica partnership

    In a significant development for regional healthcare cooperation, Jamaica and the United Kingdom have substantially strengthened their partnership in medical regulation and system development following Jamaica’s active participation in the groundbreaking UK-Caribbean Healthcare Mission. This pioneering initiative, designed to foster more resilient and effective healthcare infrastructures throughout the Caribbean, represents a new chapter in international health collaboration.

    The mission convened high-level representatives from Jamaica alongside delegates from Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados, Guyana, and St. Lucia, creating an unprecedented platform for knowledge exchange and strategic alignment. The collaborative effort focused extensively on enhancing healthcare delivery mechanisms, elevating regulatory standards, and promoting innovation throughout the regional health sector.

    British High Commissioner to Jamaica Alicia Herbert emphasized the historic nature of the initiative, stating: ‘This mission represented a first-of-its-kind collaboration with a unified objective – fortifying healthcare systems and building sustainable resilience for future challenges. Through sharing British expertise in life sciences, medical technology, and regulatory frameworks, we’ve established a robust foundation for UK-Jamaica partnership addressing shared health priorities.’

    Delegates engaged in comprehensive examinations of the UK’s internationally acclaimed healthcare and pharmaceutical regulatory systems, with particular attention to practical methodologies for Caribbean system improvement. Critical discussion areas included streamlining medication registration procedures, digital transformation of regulatory architectures, enhancing safety protocols and quality assurance measures, combating illicit pharmaceutical imports, and harmonizing with global standards.

    The program additionally facilitated exploration of cross-sector partnerships, professional capacity building, and regulatory equivalence applications to accelerate access to safe, effective medications.

    Participants gained invaluable insights through sessions with prestigious UK institutions including the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA), King’s College London, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), the Association of the British Pharmaceutical Industry (ABPI), and the Centre for Innovation in Regulatory Science (CIRS). These engagements provided exposure to advanced governance models, health technology assessment methodologies, and international regulatory benchmarks directly relevant to Jamaica’s healthcare objectives.

    This mission underscores the UK’s sustained commitment to supporting Jamaica’s healthcare advancement through cooperative innovation and expertise sharing, forming part of broader British engagement in Caribbean health, development, and regulatory cooperation. Both nations anticipate building upon these outcomes through continued collaboration with Jamaica and regional partners to strengthen healthcare systems that deliver improved outcomes for communities across Jamaica and the wider Caribbean.