Carib Scope

标签： Jamaica

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  • Police federation appeals for blood for cop mowed down by taxi driver

    Police federation appeals for blood for cop mowed down by taxi driver

    KINGSTON, Jamaica—An urgent nationwide appeal for blood donations has been issued by the Jamaica Police Federation following a critical incident involving one of their officers. Constable Kwasian Kirlew, a dedicated member of the Public Safety and Traffic Enforcement Branch (PSTEB), sustained severe injuries after being struck by a taxi operator last Friday afternoon at the Hope Road and Lady Musgrave Road intersection in St. Andrew.

    The injured officer is currently undergoing intensive medical treatment at the University Hospital of the West Indies, where medical professionals have emphasized the critical need for immediate blood donations to support her recovery. The hospital’s medical team has formally declared an emergency requirement for blood supplies to facilitate Constable Kirlew’s urgent care needs.

    Authorities are encouraging compassionate citizens to visit any of the island’s blood collection facilities, including the National Blood Bank or the University Hospital of the West Indies’ dedicated blood collection center. Donors are specifically requested to present their donation receipts to the University Hospital’s blood collection center to ensure proper tracking and allocation of resources toward Constable Kirlew’s medical treatment. This collective effort demonstrates community solidarity with law enforcement personnel during times of crisis.

  • Westmoreland residents get water, light as JPS restores electricity to Roaring River pump

    Westmoreland residents get water, light as JPS restores electricity to Roaring River pump

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Following an intensive reconstruction effort, the Jamaica Public Service Company (JPS) has successfully reinstated electrical power to the National Water Commission’s (NWC) crucial Roaring River pump station. This vital infrastructure serves numerous communities across Westmoreland, marking a significant milestone in restoring normalcy to the region.

    The re-energization process was finalized on Wednesday evening, with comprehensive system testing confirming stable power delivery to the facility. According to JPS officials, the reactivated electrical lines are now simultaneously providing electricity to both the water pump and residential JPS customers in adjacent areas including Petersfield, Waterworks, and Shrewsbury Falls.

    The extensive restoration project presented substantial engineering challenges, requiring the complete reconstruction of more than 10 miles of electrical transmission infrastructure. Crews worked from the power generation source at JPS’s Paradise substation all the way to the NWC’s Roaring River pumping facility. The monumental effort mobilized over 100 line technicians who coordinated their expertise to accelerate project completion amidst challenging conditions.

    This achievement represents a critical step in reestablishing reliable water services for Westmoreland residents who depend on the NWC’s distribution system. The simultaneous restoration of residential power to surrounding communities provides additional relief to households affected by previous service interruptions.

  • different secures realtor license, aims to unlock investment properties across Caribbean

    different secures realtor license, aims to unlock investment properties across Caribbean

    KINGSTON, JAMAICA – different Capital, an innovative real estate brokerage firm headquartered in Kingston, has achieved a significant regulatory milestone by obtaining its official realtor license. This authorization enables the company to advance its pioneering business model designed to democratize access to premium commercial real estate investments across the Caribbean region.

    The announcement was formally made through a video statement by Gary Matalon, Deputy CEO of different Capital, who declared, “We’ve got it, it’s different, it’s official. Our mission is to curate and present the most compelling real estate investment opportunities throughout the Caribbean to our investors.”

    Co-established by Matalon and seasoned financier Christopher Williams, different Capital operates on a fractional ownership principle. This model permits retail investors to acquire shares in individual commercial properties rather than requiring full asset purchases. The recently secured brokerage license was a crucial prerequisite for the company’s planned US$6 million capital raise. These funds are earmarked for the acquisition of a commercial plaza, which the firm intends to transform into a standalone public entity. This structure will enable fractionalization of the property into affordable shares for small-scale investors.

    A central component of different Capital’s strategy involves targeting the Caribbean diaspora, with ambitions to allocate up to 50% of its investment inventory to this demographic. Matalon outlined expansion plans, stating, “We are strategically building our realtor network in key international hubs including Broward County, Dade County, Atlanta, New York, London, Birmingham, and Canadian cities like Toronto. Investors should prepare for exceptional opportunities.”

    Christopher Williams recently addressed investment prospects at a Miami conference, advocating for real estate as a superior inflation hedge with attractive returns. He emphasized that real estate exhibits the lowest price volatility among asset classes when measured by standard deviation. “Our comprehensive analysis across asset categories consistently identifies real estate as the most compelling sector for serious investment consideration,” Williams asserted.

    He further elaborated that contemporary real estate participation extends beyond traditional property ownership, noting that consortium-based investments enable portfolio diversification without leveraging personal capital. This approach provides exposure to multiple properties while mitigating individual risk, making institutional-grade investments accessible to retail participants.

  • Three arrested in Trinidad after multi-million dollar drug bust

    Three arrested in Trinidad after multi-million dollar drug bust

    PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad — A significant law enforcement operation in the Beetham Gardens area has resulted in a major drug interdiction and three arrests, the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) confirmed this week. The operation, executed under the nation’s current state of emergency and its Emergency Powers Regulations of 2025, targeted a residential property suspected of narcotics trafficking. During a systematic search of the premises, conducted with the occupants present, officers uncovered a substantial cache of illicit substances. The discovery consisted of 111 multi-colored, rectangular packages, all containing high-grade cannabis. The total weight of the seized marijuana was precisely measured at 78.52 kilograms. Law enforcement officials estimated its potential market value at a staggering TT$8,617,334.44, equivalent to approximately US$1.38 million. Consequently, three individuals were taken into custody: two men, aged 45 and 32, and one woman of undisclosed age. All three suspects are slated for a court appearance to face formal charges related to the possession and intended distribution of the controlled substance. This bust represents one of the more significant seizures in recent operations, highlighting continued efforts to combat drug trafficking amidst the ongoing state of emergency.

  • Westmoreland man charged with arson

    Westmoreland man charged with arson

    A 39-year-old Westmoreland resident is confronting serious legal consequences following an alleged arson incident that occurred in the Smithfield district of Savanna-la-Mar on Tuesday, January 13. Jason Hinds has been formally charged with arson after authorities investigated a disturbing neighborhood altercation that escalated into property damage.

    According to official reports from the Savanna-la-Mar Police Department, the incident unfolded at approximately 10:00 AM when Hinds allegedly entered a neighbor’s property while carrying a container filled with what investigators believe was gasoline. Law enforcement authorities report that the suspect proceeded to pour the flammable liquid beneath a window of the residential dwelling before intentionally igniting it.

    The resulting fire caused significant damage to the window structure, surrounding wooden boards, and interior curtains before being extinguished by responders. Quick intervention prevented the blaze from spreading further through the property, potentially averting a more severe tragedy.

    Following a comprehensive investigation and crime scene processing by forensic specialists, Hinds was apprehended during a targeted police operation conducted along Barracks Road in Westmoreland later that same day. The efficient police response led to his arrest within hours of the reported incident.

    The case highlights ongoing concerns about community disputes escalating into dangerous criminal behavior in residential areas. Legal proceedings are expected to move forward as the judicial system evaluates the evidence against the accused individual.

  • Guyana’s anti-drugs agency warns of threats to minors after cannabis vape cartridges seized

    Guyana’s anti-drugs agency warns of threats to minors after cannabis vape cartridges seized

    GEORGETOWN, Guyana — Guyana’s Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU) has issued a public health alert following the seizure of multiple cannabis vape cartridges on Thursday, identifying them as a high-risk emerging threat particularly targeting minors. The agency revealed these THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) cartridges potentially contain poisonous chemical additives that pose serious health dangers.

    CANU officials emphasized that these illicit vaping products expose users to dangerously high concentrations of THC alongside unknown chemical compounds, creating significant short-term and long-term health hazards. The seizure operation uncovered multiple branded THC cannabis vapes that represent an alarming shift toward importing high-potency cannabis concentrates disguised as consumer vaping products.

    Notably, the confiscated items feature colorful, professionally printed packaging specifically designed to appeal to younger demographics, raising concerns about rapid proliferation among youth populations if circulation remains unchecked. The chemical composition and potential contaminants remain unknown, with samples currently earmarked for comprehensive laboratory analysis.

    CANU clarified that under Guyana’s Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (Control) Act, Cap 10:10, these substances remain completely illegal regardless of packaging, branding, or foreign “medical use” labels. The legislation explicitly classifies cannabis and its derivatives—including the cannabis plant, resin, extracts, tinctures, THC, and any THC-containing products—as controlled substances. This prohibition specifically encompasses live resin and THC vape oil as banned cannabis resins and extracts.

    The agency stressed that possession, trafficking, importation, or sale of these products violates Guyanese law, and the “medical use only” labels hold no legal standing within the country. None of these labels correspond to approvals from the Guyana Food and Drug Department, local licensing authorities, Guyana Forensics Laboratory testing, or any legal cannabis framework in Guyana.

    CANU’s early warning system actively monitors trends, packaging styles, chemical profiles, and trafficking patterns associated with concentrated cannabis products. Once flagged, this system generates alerts, provides guidance to frontline officers, and contributes actionable intelligence to national enforcement operations.

  • Market Bag: Mixed basket for food prices in Linstead

    Market Bag: Mixed basket for food prices in Linstead

    The Linstead Market in St. Catherine, Jamaica, presented consumers with contrasting price movements this weekend, creating a complex shopping landscape for household staples. A detailed market analysis reveals significant price reductions for several key vegetables, while other produce items experienced notable increases.

    Tomatoes emerged as the most dramatically reduced item, selling at approximately $400 per pound—a substantial decrease from the $600 per pound recorded at Kingston’s Coronation Market just one week prior. Carrots also saw a favorable dip in price, available for as low as $100 per pound, marking a $50 reduction from the previous week. Cabbage completed the trio of declining prices, now fetching $150 per pound, which represents a $100 savings for consumers compared to last weekend’s rates in Kingston.

    Conversely, the market witnessed upward price pressure on other essential ingredients. Escallion prices rose to $300 per pound, while lettuce reached $1,000 per pound. Scotch bonnet peppers, a staple in Jamaican cuisine, climbed to $800 per pound, presenting budgetary challenges for consumers seeking these particular items.

    The latest episode of ‘Market Bag,’ hosted by Carlysia Ramdeen, featured special guest Cleo Jones, a young poultry farmer, potentially offering insights into broader agricultural trends affecting market prices across the region. The program promises to deliver valuable perspectives on Jamaica’s food distribution networks and pricing mechanisms.

  • RAY OF SUNSHINE

    RAY OF SUNSHINE

    As Jamaica’s national netball team, the Sunshine Girls, finalizes preparations for their upcoming three-Test series against world champions Australia, Head Coach Sasher-Gaye Henry-Wright is projecting an optimistic outlook. The series, scheduled for February 5-11 in Australia, represents one of the most challenging fixtures on the international netball calendar.

    The squad receives a significant boost with the return of seasoned players Nicole Dixon-Rochester, Kadie-Ann Dehaney, and Latanya Wilson, who are rejoining the team directly in Australia following their club commitments. Their experience is expected to be crucial against the world’s top-ranked team.

    Coach Henry-Wright acknowledges the absence of familiar shooting personnel but views this as a valuable development opportunity for emerging talents. While statistical performance from shooters during the England series showed promise, the team identified ball delivery into the shooting circle as a key area requiring improvement.

    The technical focus for the Australian tour emphasizes reducing turnover rates, enhancing through-court transitional play, and significantly improving center pass conversion percentages. “Converting our center passes is fundamental to competing against elite opposition,” Henry-Wright stated in her interview with the Jamaica Observer.

    To bridge the competitive gap, Jamaica will arrive early in Australia for preparatory matches against local teams. The coaching staff has been analyzing game tapes to identify strategic advantages and potential pairing opportunities against the Australian side.

    Domestically, the team has been training against male netball squads to simulate the intensity and physicality expected from the world champions. Although acknowledging the difference in playing styles, Henry-Wright emphasized these sessions provide essential match practice and competitive readiness.

    This series serves as critical preparation for the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, with Jamaica aiming to upgrade their silver medal performance from the 2022 Birmingham Games. The Australian tests will provide the ultimate benchmark against netball’s dominant force.

  • Haiti’s security forces target Barbecue’s ‘stronghold’ in operation

    Haiti’s security forces target Barbecue’s ‘stronghold’ in operation

    Haitian security forces launched a coordinated assault this week on the fortified headquarters of notorious gang leader Jimmy ‘Barbecue’ Cherizier in Port-au-Prince’s Delmas 6 district. The operation, conducted jointly by the Haitian National Police (PNH), Armed Forces of Haiti (FAD’H), and specialized Gang Suppression Force (GSF), targeted the core operational base of Cherizier’s ‘Viv Ansanm’ armed coalition.

    Visual evidence from the raid circulated online depicts substantial explosive ordnance detonating at the location, with at least one structure completely demolished and adjacent buildings suffering collateral damage. A massive plume of smoke billowed over the capital neighborhood following the explosion. Official casualty reports remain pending as authorities continue assessing the operation’s outcomes.

    The 48-year-old Cherizier, a former police officer turned gang leader, evaded capture during the assault. His Viv Ansanm alliance controls significant portions of Haiti’s capital and stands accused of perpetrating hundreds of killings, sexual violence incidents, and sustained armed confrontations against state security forces. The coalition’s stated objective involves overthrowing the provisional government established after President Jovenel Moise’s July 2021 assassination.

    International pressure against Cherizier continues mounting, with both United Nations sanctions and a US$5 million reward from the United States Department of State for information leading to his capture. This security operation coincides with Haiti’s approaching political milestone—the February 7 expiration of the current transitional government’s mandate.

    The Caribbean Community’s Eminent Persons Group recently urged Haitian stakeholders to prioritize national patriotism during this critical juncture, emphasizing self-determination for the crisis-stricken nation facing compounded security and governance challenges.

  • US air authority warns of ‘military activities’ over Mexico, Central America

    US air authority warns of ‘military activities’ over Mexico, Central America

    NEW YORK, United States — The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a significant advisory urging airlines to exercise heightened caution when traversing airspace over Mexico, Central America, and specific oceanic regions. The notices, published on Friday, cite ongoing ‘military activities’ as the primary cause for concern, highlighting a ‘potentially hazardous situation’ that could lead to disruptions in Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) signals, which are critical for modern flight navigation.

    The advisory encompasses vast areas, including the airspace over Mexico, Central American nations, Panama, and the Bogota and Guayaquil flight information regions, as well as the Mazatlan Oceanic Flight Region and parts of the eastern Pacific Ocean. An FAA spokesperson confirmed that these notices to airmen (NOTAMs) are set to remain active for a period of 60 days, indicating a sustained period of potential risk.

    This development occurs against a backdrop of escalating regional military tensions. The context includes the recent January 3rd operation by U.S. special forces, which resulted in the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores. They are now facing trial on serious charges, including drug trafficking. Furthermore, statements from President Donald Trump have intensified concerns. In a recent Fox News interview, President Trump explicitly suggested plans to initiate ‘land strikes’ against powerful drug cartels operating within Mexico, a move that would constitute an unprecedented military intervention on the territory of a neighboring nation and a key U.S. trading partner. These factors collectively contribute to a volatile security environment, prompting the FAA’s precautionary measures to ensure aviation safety.