Donique Weston – IrieFm: Recent Episodes
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The Maritime Air and Cyber Command division of the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) made a major marijuana seizure, in Hanover, this morning. The seizure consisted of 22 bags of the prohibited drug. According to the JDF, service members were deployed to the Great River Bay area of Hanover on Sunday, to locate and […]
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The Falmouth police are searching for the assailants involved in an early morning attack on a family in their home in albert town, Trelawny yesterday. The attack left 15-year-old Jamalia Cole dead. Reports are that about 1:00 AM, Cole, her mother and two other relatives were at home when assailants entered their home. […]
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A policeman was shot and killed on the Sandy Bay main road, in May Pen, Clarendon, this morning (August 5). He has been identified as 32-year-old Constable Justin Martin, who was attached to the St. Catherine North police division. Constable Martin’s licensed firearm was also stolen. Reports are that the Constable was […]
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Police Federation Chairman Corporal Rohan James has lost his bid to be re-instated with immediate effect, following his interdiction by the police high command. Corporal James will however receive 99% of his salary, instead of the two thirds that is paid to persons on interdiction. In a decision this morning, Supreme Court judge […]
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The government’s decision to raise the ages of retirement for the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) and the Auditor General (AG), was to fulfil a policy that was well debated and is in the interest of Jamaica. Prime Minister Andrew Holness made this declaration in response to questions regarding why the Opposition was not […]
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Police are probing the discovery of the charred remains of eight people in Spring Hill, Trelawny, last evening (August 2). Preliminary reports are that at about 6:15 PM, residents of Stewart Castle were walking along the Spring Hill main road when they stumbled upon the remains. The police were alerted. Upon their arrival, […]
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Chairman of the General Legal Council (GLC), Denise Kitson, has filed a complaint against attorney-at-law Isat Buchanan, relating to offensive comments he made about Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Paula Llewellyn, and Justice Minister Delroy Chuck. Kitson sent the complaint to the disciplinary committee of the GLC, yesterday (August 2). She is contending that […]
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Disunity among stakeholders in the public transport sector is being cited as the main stumbling block to efforts to get a working committee off the ground. This, as the operators are yet to meet and reach consensus on issues, they want to bring to the attention of the Transport Minister for redress, as well […]
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A ruling is to be made today, on a request made yesterday for Justice Carolyn Tie to recuse herself from the matter relating to interdicted chairman of the Police Federation, Corporal Rohan James. Attorney-at-law Hugh Wildman, who is representing James, argued that there would be a conflict of interest, if Justice Tie dealt with […]
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Attorneys representing Police Federation Chairman Corporal Rohan James are heading to court today (August 2), as they challenge the decision of Police Commissioner Major General Antony Anderson to interdict him. Corporal James has filed an application in court seeking to reverse the decision. He was interdicted last week for criticizing the high command […]
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Jamaica is targetting 250,000 visitors from Latin America over the next 5 years. The move forms part of Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett’s aggressive push to re-engage this large source market. According to Mr. Bartlett, the Latin American region has over 600 million people and represents one of the largest source markets for Jamaica. […]
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The People’s National Party (PNP) is calling for Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Paula Llewellyn, to step down from the post. This, considering controversy surrounding the amendment to the constitution to extend the retirement age for holders of the offices of the DPP and Auditor General (AG). Among the issues raised, is the […]
The post PNP continues to voice concerns over possible extension of DPP’s tenure; calls for her to step aside appeared first on IrieFm.
Two men were shot and killed by unknown assailants in Dover, St. Mary, last evening (July 27). They have been identified as 68-year-old Morris Forrester otherwise called ‘Marrow’, and 57-year-old Michael Harris, otherwise called ‘Fresh Air’, both of Dover district. Reports from the Port Maria police are that about 6:00 PM, residents heard […]
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Jamaicans for Justice (JFJ) has called for the police high command to immediately withdraw the recent interdiction imposed against Police Federation Chairman Corporal Rohan James. Corporal James was served a notice of interdiction by high command yesterday, following comments he made while speaking at the funeral service for the late Constable Damien Blair on […]
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Former Education Minister Ruel Reid and former Caribbean Maritime University (CMU) president Fritz Pinnock have lost their bid to have the court quash the decision by Chief Parish Judge Chester Crooks that they have a case to answer. The court also ruled that the matter is to proceed in the criminal court. They […]
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Government Members of Parliament yesterday followed through on their plan to move a censure motion against Opposition Leader Mark Golding after he failed to apologize and retract his controversial comment about dead voters. The matter was raised at the start of parliament, with government members chastising Mr. Golding for the comment, saying he has […]
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The government has approved an additional staff complement for the University of Technology (UTECH). Cabinet considered and approved the expanded staff structure consisting of 832 additional posts that were identified in the post audit conducted by the Ministry of Finance and the Public Service. The update was given by Education Minister Fayval Williams […]
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The Independent Commission of Investigations (INDECOM) is probing an incident in which a 29-year-old man was fatally shot, allegedly by an off-duty policeman, in Kingston, last night. Stephon Powell was shot dead, at a house on Colleyville Avenue, in Kingston 20. In a statement, INDECOM said it was informed that the off-duty police […]
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Despite objection from the Opposition, the government used its majority to pass a bill amending the constitution to increase the retirement age for the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) and the Auditor General. The change is from 60 to 65 years, bringing it in line with what obtains for other workers in the civil […]
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The National Integrity Action (NIA) is urging the government to clarify and expedite the new arrangements that are intended for the role formerly played by the Office of the Political Ombudsman. Since former ombudsman, Donna Parchment Brown, demitted office last year, no one has been appointed to the office. The call for an […]
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Opposition Leader Mark Golding has been warned that if he does not apologize for his comment about dead voters, a censor motion could be moved against him in the lower house. Chaos erupted in the lower house today, as Members of Parliament on both sides of the aisle argued about the comments made by […]
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The application brought by the government-run Financial Services Commission (FSC), to wind up the fraud-hit investment firm Stocks and Securities Limited (SSL) is to be heard at the supreme court in November. Last week, Justice David Batts ruled that the matter should be heard in open court so that creditors and other members of […]
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The Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) and human rights lobby group Jamaicans for Justice (JFJ) have taken issue with utterances by the Opposition Leader, seemingly suggesting that ballots should be cast in the name of deceased voters during the next general election. Mark Golding made the statement, last evening while encouraging persons to vote for […]
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Opposition Leader Mark Golding is calling for councillors who are at risk, based on the communities they serve, to be given regular protection by the state. This follows the murder of 55-year-old councillor Ainsley Parkins, otherwise called ‘Tyson’, who represented the Southborough division, in Portmore. Speaking at a tribute ceremony for Councillor Parkins […]
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St. Elizabeth has seen an increase in robberies in recent weeks. That’s according to the head of the division, Deputy Superintendent Coleridge Minto. Speaking at a Justice of the Peace awards ceremony in Mandeville, Manchester at the weekend, DSP Minto said men armed with high powered rifles are targeting businesses in the parish. […]
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The search continues today for the body of 19-year-old Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) trainee, Rayandre Pike who is believed to have drowned, in St. Elizabeth, yesterday morning. Pike who was from Linstead, St. Catherine reportedly drowned at the Tranquility Bay training academy in St. Elizabeth. Reports are that he was among a group […]
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The government has sought to reassure that due consideration has been given to mobilizing the necessary resources to take care of the welfare needs of the group of Haitians which arrived in the country illegally, last week. The assurance follows concerns raised about their well-being. Yesterday, the People’s National Party (PNP) called on […]
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The People’s National Party (PNP) is calling on the government to ensure due process and fair treatment of Haitian migrants who enter the country. The call follows the arrival of 37 Haitians in Portland by boat, last week. A decision is to be made on whether, the Haitians, will be charged with illegal […]
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There has been an escalation of the industrial action taken by staff at the open campus of the University of the West Indies (UWI) in Jamaica who are represented by the West Indies Group of University Teachers (WIGUT). Approximately 60 workers are on strike, as they have not received their June salaries. The […]
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Vector control and public health workers are being commended for their vigilance in eliminating mosquito breeding sites, which has resulted in a decrease in dengue cases. Health Minister Dr. Christopher Tufton told the lower house that the number of dengue cases has remained low since January. He said Trelawny has the highest dengue […]
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A 48-hour curfew has been imposed in sections of Spanish Town, St. Catherine. The curfew began at 6:00 PM on Wednesday, July 12 and will remain in effect until 6:00 PM, this Friday, July 14. The boundaries of the curfew are as follows: North: along an imaginary line approximately 850 metres from […]
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Foreign Affairs Minister Kamina Johnson Smith has indicated a reduction in the number of Jamaicans transiting Central America seeking to enter the United States illegally. Responding to questions at a post cabinet press briefing yesterday, Mrs. Johnson Smith noted that Jamaica continues to engage with its international partners to monitor the movement of citizens. […]
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Approximately 28,000 students will benefit from the 2023 national summer school, which got under way earlier this week. This was disclosed by Minister of Education, Fayval Williams, who indicated that the summer programme, runs from July 10 to 27. Mrs. Williams noted that summer school is being facilitated in 57 institutions, using face-to-face […]
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Persons listed as wanted by the police are being urged to avoid engaging the cops in gun battles, as they will not win. This, from Commanding Officer for the St. James police division, Senior Superintendent (SSP) Vernon Ellis. The statement follows the fatal shooting of one of St. James’ most wanted men, 26-year-old […]
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Mayor of Mandeville, Donovan Mitchell will represent the People’s National Party (PNP) as the candidate for Central Manchester in the next general elections. Out-going caretaker for the constituency, Senator Peter Bunting, made the announcement, at the PNP’s annual conference in Manchester, last evening. In endorsing Mr. Mitchell, Mr. Bunting noted that the mayor […]
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Three of the four sitting councillors of the Westmoreland Western constituency have resigned from the People’s National Party (PNP). They are Councillor for the Little London division – Ian Myles, Councillor for the Grange Hill division – Lawton Mckenzie and Councillor for the Sheffield division – Garfield James. They announced their resignations at […]
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A group of 37 Haitians arrived on the shores of the Boston Beach, in Portland, this afternoon (July 10). Reports are that the group consists of 24 men, five women, five boys and three girls. They arrived at the Boston Beach at approximately 1:40 PM. Head of the Portland police, Superintendent Lloyd […]
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Opposition Spokesman on National Security and Senator Peter Bunting is expressing dismay at the delay in the tabling of reports in both the upper and lower houses of parliament. Speaking in the senate this morning (July 7), the Senator said there should always be a timely and seamless publication of crucial reports. His […]
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The St. Ann Chamber of Commerce has called for urgent action to prevent crime eroding economic and social gains made in the parish. Chamber President Dr. Ransford Davidson made the appeal while addressing a town hall meeting in Brown’s Town last evening (July 6). Dr. Davidson noted that St. Ann continues to grow […]
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Dancehall entertainer Jahshii and members of his entourage were attacked by gunmen on Constant Spring Road in Kingston this morning (July 7). The entertainer was not hurt. Police report that the incident happened shortly after 4 AM as they left an event in the area. Speaking to IRIE FM News this morning, […]
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Convicted serial rapist Davian Bryan has been sentenced to 25 years imprisonment in relation to the rape and abduction of a college student, in Portland. Bryan had been charged with forcible abduction, grievous sexual assault, and rape, in relation to the student, who was sexually assaulted last March. He had previously pleaded guilty […]
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The government is continuing negotiations with the Jamaica North South Highway Company Limited, seeking to further delay the application of increased toll rates, for the Edward Seaga Highway. The increased rates should have taken effect on July 1, but the company agreed to delay them, until August 20. Speaking on the rates at […]
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Members of the public are being warned to expect longer than normal wait times at hospitals across the country. The Health Ministry says this is a result of the increasing number of patients requiring care at Accident and Emergency departments. It says it is working to ensure that the triage system is optimized, […]
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A total of 565 people have been charged under the new Firearms Act since the start of the year. Speaking at a Jamaica constabulary force press briefing yesterday (July 4), Commissioner of Police Major General Antony Anderson said cops have also seized 370 illegal guns, to date. Commissioner Anderson said this reflects the […]
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Transport Minister Daryl Vaz is reporting that over $400,000 US has been earmarked to purchase spare parts for the fleet of the Jamaica Urban Transit Company (JUTC). Speaking at a post cabinet press briefing this morning (July 5), Mr. Vaz noted that the funding is to prepare for the upcoming school term. He said […]
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Education Minister Fayval Williams says over 30% of the advertisements for teachers in the island’s papers are for temporary posts. This amidst concerns about a looming crisis in the education sector due to mass migration of teachers. Speaking at a post cabinet press briefing this morning, Minister Williams said that the concern raised […]
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The trial of 34-year-old St. Mary taxi operator Andre Thomas, the second person charged with the murder of two American missionaries, began in the Home Circuit Court in Kingston, yesterday, after 7 years. Forty-eight-year-old Randy Hetzel and 53-year-old Harold Nichols were found dead in bushes in Wentworth, St. Mary, on April 30, and May […]
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The St. Ann police are urging citizens not to engage in jungle justice. The call follows the mob killing of two men in Gibraltar, in the vicinity of Watt Town, yesterday (July 3). The deceased have been identified as 28-year-old Demar Rose, a construction worker of Hague, and 46-year-old O’neil Robinson, a taxi […]
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On the heels of several recent violent incidents involving children, the Education Ministry has acknowledged that violence against, and involving, the youth needs immediate intervention. Director of Safety and Security in schools, Richard Troupe, made the statement while delivering a message on behalf of portfolio minister Fayval Williams at a youth violence prevention […]
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A 14-year-old boy and his 19-year-old brother have been charged for the stabbing of a male Cumberland High School student, in St. Catherine, last Thursday. The identity of the 14-year-old accused is being withheld as he is a minor, however, his brother has been identified as Oshane Forbes. They have been charged […]
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States of Public Emergency have been declared for St. James and Westmoreland. The SOEs, which were declared upon the advice of the Commissioner of Police and the Chief of Defence Staff, commenced at 12:01 AM today (June 22) and will be in effect for an initial period of 15 days. This is the […]
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The Agriculture Ministry has allocated $63 million for recovery support to farmers impacted by recent heavy rains and flooding. The funds will go to farmers in Manchester, St. Elizabeth and St. Ann. Portfolio Minister Floyd Green said some of the money will go towards repairing irrigation systems. Mr. Green noted […]
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Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Fitz Bailey is appealing for persons who may have dash cam footage relating to the abduction and murder of 8-year-old Danielle Rowe to come forward. Danielle was taken from her primary school in St. Catherine, then found hours later with her throat slashed, along Roosevelt Avenue in St. Andrew, […]
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The Ministry of Labour and Social Security has denied that there is a fraud probe being conducted by its internal auditors into the National Insurance Scheme (NIS). Chief Technical Director for Social Security, Audrey Deer Williams, said the ministry has not received any report of fraudulent activity, relating to the Postmaster General as was […]
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It’s a great time to invest in Jamaica – that’s the word from Prime Minister Andrew Holness. This, as he wooed potential investors from the global digital services sector. Jamaica is re-launching its re-imagined outsourcing proposition to hundreds of entrepreneurs, business leaders and executives from multinational corporations, global startups, and trade promotion organizations […]
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Jamaica is again at the centre of a probe in relation to this year’s sitting of the Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) exams. It was revealed on Wednesday, that fireproof cabinets, containing examination papers for nine subjects, including some scheduled to be administered this week, were stolen from a school, in Montego Bay, St. James. […]
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The Education Ministry is taking steps to determine if there were breaches of established protocols, regarding the safety and security of students at the Braeton Primary and Infant School, in St. Catherine. This, in the wake of the abduction of a grade 2 female student, from the school, yesterday afternoon. The Ministry says […]
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National Security Minister Dr. Horace Chang said the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) is closer to achieving its target of 15,000 officers. Dr. Chang was speaking this morning (June 9) at a passing out parade and awards ceremony for 282 new police constables, at the National Police College of Jamaica, in St. Catherine. The […]
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Two high powered rifles and more than 70 rounds of ammunition were seized, and a man detained by detectives, during an early morning operation in Mountain View, Kingston, this morning (June 9). Reports are that the team from the Counter-Terrorism and Organised Crime Investigation (C-TOC) branch conducted operations at a house on Jacques Road […]
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Minister of Justice, Delroy Chuck, has expressed disappointment over what he described as the inadequate sentence imposed on convicted serial rapist Davian Bryan. Bryan was sentenced to 23 years imprisonment when he appeared in the St. Thomas parish court last Wednesday, having earlier pleaded guilty to 12 counts of rape, grievous sexual assault, and […]
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The person believed to be at the centre of yesterday’s bomb threat at a gas station in Ocho Rios, St. Ann, has been taken into custody. He was taken into custody in Old Harbour, St. Catherine, today (June 5). The police had appealed to him to turn himself in to the nearest police […]
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The Hanover police are probing a case of suspected drowning in Sandy Bay, in the parish, this morning (June 4). The deceased has been identified as Dinsmoore Campbell of Montpelier in Sandy Bay. IRIE FM News understands that Campbell and others from his community went fishing sometime around 7 AM. While at […]
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The operations of several businesses in Ocho Rios, St. Ann were disrupted for several hours today (June 4), as emergency personnel responded to an alleged bomb threat at the Rubis gas station. The police indicated that the call about the alleged bomb was received at approximately 9:00 AM. Personnel from the Jamaica Fire […]
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Prime Minister Andrew Holness is assuring the nation that neither the digital identification, nor digital currency, will be mandatory. Some Jamaicans have expressed concern about the digital transformation being undertaken by the government, pointing to, for example, the society going cashless. Acknowledging the concerns, Mr. Holness stated that there will be strong safeguards, […]
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Opposition Spokesman on Health Dr. Morais Guy has again stated that Jamaica is at risk of an outbreak of measles, mumps and rubella, due to challenges in the administration of vaccines to children. In his sectoral presentation yesterday, Dr. Guy said despite his warnings from last year nothing has been done to address the […]
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The government is moving to implement a $40 billion road improvement project to modernize over two thousand roads island wide, under the Shared Prosperity through Accelerated Improvement to our Road Network (SPARK) programme. Works Minister Everald Warmington made the announcement during his sectoral debate presentation in parliament yesterday (May 31). He described the […]
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The Advocates Network is doubling down on its call for the government to roll back the salary increases for all parliamentarians. This, following an announcement from Prime Minister Andrew Holness that he has directed the Transformation Implementation Unit, to remove his compensation from the new salary scale. The Prime Minister indicated that the […]
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President of the Jamaica Teachers’ Association (JTA) Lasonja Harrison says an action plan is to be announced in response to the massive pay increase to the political directorate. The increases were announced by Finance Minister Dr. Nigel Clarke in parliament last week. The adjustments have been met with public backlash, with citizens citing […]
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Leader of the Jamaica Evangelical Alliance Bishop Dr. Alvin Bailey has called on Jamaicans to boycott labour day activities, in protest of the massive increase in salaries for the political directorate. This action, Bishop Bailey said, will send a strong message to political leaders that Jamaicans should not be taken for granted or exploited. […]
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A number of Jamaican children are facing mental health challenges, are concerned about what’s happening in their homes and have considered suicide. These are among the findings of a report on the operations of the child and teen help line ‘SafeSpot’. SafeSpot is a division of the Office of the Children’s Advocate (OCA). […]
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Jamaicans are describing salary increases which were announced for the country’s political directorate as excessive. The pay hike was announced by Finance Minister Dr. Nigel Clarke. The increases for 3 fiscal years – 2021 to 2024 – will cost government $1.7 billion. Effective April 2024, the Prime Minister will receive just over […]
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Outfoxed… That’s the reaction of one political commentator to the salary increases being granted to the political directorate. Linton Gordon says Finance Minister Dr. Nigel Clarke was able to convince public servants that, among other things, funds were not available to pay them more, but now big increases have been announced for cabinet […]
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Opposition Spokesman on National Security, Senator Peter Bunting has expressed concern about the clear up rate for murders, recorded so far this year. According to Senator Bunting, of the 471 murders recorded up to Saturday May 13, only 156 have been cleared up. He said this is not adequate. Meantime, Senator […]
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The police are reportedly finalizing plans to prosecute persons who blocked several roadways in eastern Portland recently. Earlier this month, scores of residents in communities such as Fairy Hill used debris and stones, to block the roads to register their frustration over a lack of water, poor road conditions and dust nuisance. Head […]
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With the 2023 Atlantic hurricane season set to officially begin next month, Jamaicans are being urged to always be prepared for a storm. The advice comes from Director of the Meteorological Service, Evan Thompson. Speaking at the National Natural Disaster Risk Financing Policy Public Consultation, put on by the Ministry of Finance yesterday […]
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Forty-four murders were recorded across the island, last week. That’s according to Opposition Spokesman on National Security, Senator Peter Bunting, who was quoting the latest crime data released by the police. Senator Bunting said since the start of the year, 471 murders were recorded up to Saturday May 13, a 14% reduction compared […]
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Government Minister and Member of Parliament for Portland Western, Daryl Vaz, is defending his stewardship of the constituency. Speaking at a Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) area council meeting at the Port Antonio High School in the parish yesterday, Mr. Vaz said both he and his wife, who is the MP for Portland Eastern have […]
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The South East Regional Health Authority (SERHA) has advised that the newborn baby who was found in the Corporate Area last Wednesday morning is in the care of the Bustamante Hospital for Children, and is in good health. SERHA’s Regional Director, Errol Greene, says the situation was brought to the attention of the police […]
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A minor earthquake was felt in a section of the country, yesterday (May 7). The Earthquake Unit at the University of the West Indies reported that the quake was felt at about 5:58 PM, with the epicentre located approximately 3 kilometres south of Danvers Pen, St. Thomas. It had a magnitude of 3.7 […]
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Another public transport group has signalled its intent to ask government for a fare increase. The newly formed National Transportation Steering Committee (NTSC) says it will be submitting a fare increase request to the government on behalf of the public transportation sector. This, it says, comes amidst, the steady rise in costs associated […]
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Development Economist, Dr. Chris Stokes, has suggested that the rise in attacks on cash couriers is linked to the clamp down on lottery scamming. His comment comes on the heels of at least five attacks on beryllium cash in transit vehicles since the start of the year. One security guard was shot and […]
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Emergency teams have located the crash site where a small plane went down in Highgate, St Mary, this morning (May 5). Two people who were on board the aircraft have been airlifted to hospital. Emergency response teams from the Jamaica Fire Brigade, the Jamaica Defence Force and the Constabulary assisted in the […]
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A 48-year-old man was arrested after he was allegedly caught attempting to smuggle a quantity of cocaine through the Norman Manley International Airport (NMIA) in Kingston on Tuesday (May 2). Charged is Allister Christie of Above Rocks, St. Andrew, and Ontario, in Canada. Reports are that Christie checked in at the airport to […]
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The Island Traffic Authority (ITA) has begun the suspension of driver’s licences. The process began on May 2, in accordance with the Road Traffic Act and regulations. A release from the transport ministry says over 100 notices of suspension have been issued to persons, who accumulated 10 or more demerit points on their […]
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Despite same-sex marriage being illegal in Jamaica, the Justice Ministry is reporting that it has been receiving an increasing number of applications for same-sex marriage licences. Portfolio Minister Delroy Chuck, in his contribution to the sectoral debate in the house of representatives yesterday (May 2), noted that this, however, is not permissible. Section […]
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The Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) has established a special investigative team to probe the series of recent robberies targeting couriers employed to Beryllium Limited. This, according to head of the Crime and Security portfolio, Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Fitz Bailey. DCP Bailey, alongside a high-level team from the JCF, met with senior executives […]
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Two policemen have been charged with rape stemming from an 8-year long investigation involving a then 16-year-old girl from St. James. Sergeant Bruce Walker and Constable Rohan Mullings were assigned to the parish at the time of the incident, which is alleged to have taken place on May 28, 2013. Reports are that […]
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Ten thousand Jamaicans are to benefit from the Health Ministry’s oral health and dentures replacement programme dubbed ‘Second Chance Smiles’. Portfolio Minister Dr. Christopher Tufton made the announcement during his sectoral debate presentation this afternoon (May 3). He said $60 million will be spent on the programme, over a 2-year period. […]
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The Government has expressed concern about the recent disclosure of discussions regarding the selection process for the principal of the University of the West Indies’ Mona campus. The concern follows reports that Jamaica’s Education Ministry was allegedly uncomfortable with the prospective candidate. In a release today, the ministry said the government values transparency and integrity […]
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The government says it will become mandatory for businesses and entertainment events to have outward facing cameras. Prime Minister Andrew Holness says this will be part of efforts to tackle crime, as the cameras will be linked to the Jamaica Eye programme. He notes that the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) has been making […]
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A nineteen-year-old man was shot and killed during a confrontation with the police in Wilton Gardens, Kingston, yesterday (April 19). He has been identified as Nicholas Denton otherwise called ‘Fireball’, of Race Course Lane, Kingston 14. A 9MM Browning pistol with three rounds of ammunition was also reportedly seized during the incident. […]
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UNICEF Jamaica is calling on the Health Ministry to intensify its efforts to engage families and communities to ensure that every child receives their full schedule of childhood vaccinations. This, amidst findings that Latin America and the Caribbean has seen the biggest decline in routine immunization, of any region in the world, slipping from […]
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Seventeen people including 7 children have been left homeless, following a house fire on Text Lane in Downtown, Kingston yesterday (April 19). The fire reportedly began at around 4:20 PM. Public Relations Officer at the Jamaica Fire Brigade, Emelio Ebanks told IRIE FM News that 3 units responded to the blaze. Donique […]
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At least one person has been hospitalized, after a motor truck laden with goods overturned in a gully, at the roundabout in Mammee Bay, St. Ann, this morning (April 20). It is not clear if the man, was the driver of the truck. His condition is also not yet known. According to […]
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Custos of Manchester, Garfield Green, has called on parents and guardians, as well as school guidance counsellors to do more interventions, if they observe suicidal signs in children. His appeal follows the death of a teen girl who had reportedly ingested a poisonous substance. Dead is 14-year-old Athena Williams, of Bottom Coffee Grove, […]
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Finance Minister Dr. Nigel Clarke has sought to assure that security companies that do not adhere to stipulations relating to guards being treated as employees, will have their government contracts terminated. He was responding to concerns raised by opposition MP Fitz Jackson, as members of the house reacted to a statement by labour minister […]
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The Clarendon police have listed 5 men as wanted in connection with various crimes committed within the division. Head of the division, Superintendent Carlos Russell, said the men, who are considered armed and dangerous, should surrender immediately. He reminded citizens that it is a crime to harbour a fugitive. Persons with […]
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There is debate over the continuously increasing cost, for the ongoing renovations at the Cornwall Regional Hospital, in St. James. Initially, over $3 billion had been estimated for the works. This increased to just over $10 billion, and more recently, $14.1 billion. Additionally, during a tour of the facility on April 1, Prime […]
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Minister without portfolio in the Office of the Prime Minister, Floyd Green, says the government has begun holding its weekly review meetings, on the changes to the new road traffic act. The meetings were mandated by Chairman of the National Road Safety Council, Prime Minister Andrew Holness, following public outcry about some aspects of […]
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Three more people have been charged in relation to the multi-million dollar fraud at the Seprod group of companies. They are 40-year-old Carlington Reid, 29-year-old Maynard Anderson, and 48-year-old St. Patrick Waskit. The men were charged yesterday. Reid, Anderson and Waskit turned themselves in to the police on Monday, after being listed as […]
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A new report has ranked Jamaica tenth on a global list of countries with the highest rates of crime. The World Population Review notes that the crime rate is calculated by dividing the total number of reported crimes of any kind, by the total population, then multiplying the result by 100, 000. Using […]
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The Manchester police are reporting a 21% increase in murders, up to April 12. Deputy Superintendent of Police in charge of operations, Collin Johnson, made the disclosure while addressing the monthly meeting of the Manchester Municipal Corporation yesterday (April 13). He noted, however, that there have been significant reductions in other serious crimes. […]
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The St. Ann police are probing two separate murder incidents across the parish, between last night and this morning. The deceased have been identified as 28-year-old Tevin Pinnock of Windward Road, Kingston 2, and a Noel Williams. In the latest incident at around 6:28 AM residents stumbled upon Williams’ body in Buckfield, Ocho […]
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Opposition Member of Parliament, Julian Robinson, has suggested that the cyber-crimes act be amended, to allow for the prosecution of persons who share gruesome images of traffic crashes. Speaking at the joint select committee reviewing the cyber-crimes act, yesterday (April 12), Mr. Robinson said the provision that covers the sharing of intimate images without […]
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The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) is still assessing the best way to intervene to assist with restoring stability in Haiti. That’s according to Foreign Affairs Minister, Kamina Johnson-Smith. She was speaking at a post cabinet press briefing at Jamaica house yesterday (April 12). In February, Prime Minister Andrew Holness led a special CARICOM mission […]
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An audit is being conducted, to verify the actual extent of the fraud, allegedly perpetrated by five employees at a Burger King location, in Kingston. Preliminary reports had indicated that the fraud amounted to approximately $10 million. Lawmen assigned to the fraud squad have charged the five employees, with larceny as a servant, […]
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The International Monetary Fund (IMF) is projecting growth of 2.2%, for Jamaica’s economy, this year. The projection is approximately half a percentage point, more than the 1.6% cumulative growth, expected for the Caribbean region in 2023. It was published in the IMF’s World Economic Outlook report, today, and comes amidst an overall slowdown, […]
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Eight people were killed in road crashes over the long Easter holiday. Their deaths pushed the number of road fatalities recorded since the start of the year to 119. One of the collisions occurred on the Discovery Bay main road, in St. Ann, last evening. Dead is 51-year-old Valerie Daley, of Duncan’s, […]
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Members of the public are being urged to cooperate with law enforcement officers working within their communities. This, as the security forces say public support is crucial in the collective efforts to maintain a safer environment for all Jamaicans. The Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) and the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) have been conducting a […]
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The Trelawny police are probing the suspected drowning of a teen in Wakefield in the parish. The deceased has been identified as 15-year-old Kevin trail, a student of Cedric Titus High school. Reports are that about 3 PM on Thursday, Trail and two of his friends went swimming in a river. While swimming, […]
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Finance Minister Dr. Nigel Clarke has refused to apologize for referring to Opposition Leader Mark Golding, as “Massa Mark”. He instead spent most of his response to the firestorm of criticism, attempting to justify his use of the term. Dr. Clarke addressed the matter during today’s sitting of parliament. He acknowledged that […]
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Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Paula Llewellyn will be seeking the death penalty in the case of 9-year-old Nikita Noel, who was allegedly raped and murdered by her step father in Hanover. Omar Green is charged for the offences of murder in the course or furtherance of rape and rape. The girl was […]
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The Jamaica Teachers’ Association (JTA) has indicated that it cannot guarantee normality in the public school system, come tomorrow (March 29). This, as many teachers have not yet received their March salaries and retroactive payments, due to anomalies. Some teachers received their salaries yesterday, but over 1,400 of them, who have been anticipating […]
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The prices of all products supplied by Petrojam are seeing decreases, effective today (March 23). A litre of both E10 87 and 90 Gasoline has gone down by $3.06. All other products have declined by $4.50 a litre. These are, Automotive Diesel Oil, Ultra-low Sulphur Diesel, Kerosene, as well as Propane and […]
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Minister with responsibility for Water, Matthew Samuda, is urging a switch to renewable energy to ensure increased access to potable water globally. Mr. Samuda says for countries to tackle development challenges with the commodity, there must be consideration of the link between water, energy, and food. Speaking at the United Nations water conference, […]
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The United States government has raised concerns about alleged human rights abuses in Jamaica, citing the need for stronger action from government. This, in its 2022 Report on Human Rights Practices in Jamaica. The report, published on March 20, says there were significant human rights issues in the country in the past year. […]
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The Health Ministry has confirmed that retroactive payments for dental assistants will be settled next Wednesday, March 29. The update follows a protest by dental assistants outside the Finance Ministry’s office in Downtown Kingston, this morning (March 22), over the government’s failure, to pay them their new wages under the restructured compensation system. […]
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Jamaica has taken another step in the process of becoming a republic. This, as the government has named the members of the Constitutional Reform Committee, which will provide guidance and oversight for Jamaica’s smooth transition from a constitutional monarchy. Prime Minister, Andrew Holness made the announcement at a press conference today (March 22). […]
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More visitors to the island are choosing to stay in non-hotel type accommodations such as Airbnb’s. This is according to Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett, who notes that there has been a resurgence of the villas sub-sector, due in part to the COVID-19 pandemic. Mr. Bartlett says close to a third of the visitors […]
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The Ministry of Economic Growth and Job Creation and the management of the Norman Manley International Airport have arrived at a temporary solution, for staff employed to the Met Service, who work at the airport. The parties met at 1: 00 today (March 20), to address concerns of the Met office workers, who have […]
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Despite the national minimum wage being increased by $1,000 more than the last figure put forward by the People’s National Party (PNP), the party’s general secretary Dr. Dayton Campbell is still not satisfied with the latest increase. Last week, Prime Minister Andrew Holness, announced that effective June 1, the national minimum wage, will be […]
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Finance minister and outgoing chair of the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) Dr. Nigel Clarke has hailed the regional body for the increased financial support it provided to small and vulnerable countries of the region, in the past year. Speaking at the IDB’s annual meeting of the boards of governors yesterday (March 18), Dr. Clarke […]
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A civilian and three security guards were shot and wounded in a brazen attack by gunmen, on a Beryllium security team in Braeton, Portmore, St. Catherine this afternoon (March 19). Police report that around 12:40 PM, the security guards were servicing an Automated Teller Machine (ATM), when they were pounced upon by armed men […]
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Despite the bouts of rainfall being experienced across the island, Jamaica is still facing a drought. This, according to head of the Meteorological Service of Jamaica, Evan Thompson. Jamaica has been facing a meteorological drought since late last year, with a further drop in rainfall levels in January and February this year. […]
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Two men were shot, one fatally by gunmen on Windward Road, in Kingston 2, early this morning (March 17). The deceased, who has not yet been identified, is of dark complexion, slim build, about 178 centimetres or 5 feet 10 inches, long and has a bearded face. The body was clad in a […]
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Prime Minister Andrew Holness says the National Commission on Violence Prevention is to provide a report next month, on the steps that should be implemented to curtail violence in the country. The commission, which was established in 2019, is aimed at finding ways of tackling the high level of crime and violence plaguing the […]
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A senior officer of the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) has resigned, following an investigation into allegations of sexual harassment, levelled against him. Last month, a female service member made an official report, regarding alleged inappropriate conduct by the senior officer. An immediate investigation was launched. In a statement today, the JDF said the […]
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Security forces conducted a major operation in Spanish Town, St. Catherine, this morning (March 16), in search of wanted men. Head of the St. Catherine North police division, Senior Superintendent Howard Chambers said the operation started at 5:00 AM and ended shortly after noon. He said the operation was a continuation of the […]
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A 17-year-old boy is in police custody, following the fatal stabbing of a man in St. Mary, this morning (March 16). The deceased is 56-year-old Leopold Graham, a labourer of Highgate, in the parish. The incident reportedly took place at about 8: 00 AM. Head of the St. Mary police, Senior Superintendent […]
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A State of Public Emergency (SOE) has been declared for Clarendon and St. James. The Office of the Prime Minister made the announcement in a statement today. The statement said the government, acting in accordance with the constitution, petitioned Governor General Sir Patrick Allen, on the advice of the Commissioner of Police and […]
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A male firefighter this morning climbed to the top of the Half-Way-Tree Transport Centre in St. Andrew, to register his discontent over the alleged poor treatment of firefighters in the country. The man, who identified himself, as Sergeant Leo Bennett, in a video circulating on social media, said he was advocating for firefighters, whose […]
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Executive Director of the National Solid Waste Management Authority (NSWMA), Audley Gordon, has welcomed the announcement from government that sanitation workers employed to the agency are to be upgraded to permanent employees. The workers are currently employed under renewable fixed term contracts. Finance Minister Dr. Nigel Clarke in his budget debate last week, […]
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The Labour Ministry has summoned the National Workers’ Union (NWU) and the management of the Passport Immigration and Citizenship Agency (PICA) to an emergency conciliatory meeting, today (March 14). The meeting comes after immigration officers employed by PICA, staged a sick out, yesterday. The workers, who have been reportedly restive since Friday, are […]
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Police Commissioner Major General Antony Anderson says the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) is implementing strategies to ramp up the recruitment and training of new officers. The force expects to lose approximately 400 members, annually. Speaking at the Manchester police town hall meeting at the Cecil Charlton Park in Mandeville yesterday (March 9), the […]
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Sixteen adults and four children are now homeless, following a fire on West Street in downtown Kingston, this morning (March 10). Public Relations Officer for the Jamaica Fire Brigade, Emeleo Ebanks told IRIE FM News that after receiving a call about the fire at 8 o clock this morning, six units responded to help […]
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Director of the Court Administration Division (CAD), Tricia Cameron-Anglin, says an announcement will be made soon regarding an increase in the stipend offered to jurors. This, amidst recent calls from stakeholders for the daily rate offered to jurors to be increased. Speaking during ‘A Conversation with the Judiciary’ today, Mrs. Cameron-Anglin said representatives […]
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The first guilty verdict for a man alleged to be a member of the Clansman gang was handed down today (March 1) by the Home Circuit Court. Chief Justice Bryan Sykes found Roel Taylor guilty of illegal possession of firearm and ammunition. Taylor, who claims to be a furniture maker, is the cousin […]
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There will be mixed movements in the prices of energy products supplied by Petrojam effective tomorrow (March 2). A litre of E10 87 Gasoline will be going down by $2.50 per litre, while E10 90 Gasoline will decrease by $3.00 a litre. Meanwhile, Automotive Diesel Oil is set to decrease by $1.16 per […]
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The inability of the Statistical Institute of Jamaica (STATIN) to recruit the required number of census takers will result in a further extension of the census exercise. The 15th population and housing census, was expected to be completed last December, following commencement in September last year, however, several challenges, including administrative issues, caused the […]
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Jamaica continues to see a decline in murders, compared to last year. According to the latest crime data from the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF), 179 murders were recorded as at Sunday, February 26. This is 61 fewer than the 240, recorded in the corresponding period in 2022. All divisions recorded murders, with St. […]
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The Independent Commission of Investigations (INDECOM) is probing the circumstances surrounding the shooting of two security guards, one of them fatally, by police in Negril, Westmoreland, yesterday. The deceased has been identified as Dellon Harding. The other man, who is 28 years old, is being treated at hospital. The guards who were on […]
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The Jamaica Society of Industrial Security (JSIS) has raised concern about the recent attacks on members of the security forces, particularly, security guards. Yesterday (February 27), three security guards attached to Beryllium Limited were shot – one of them fatally – by gunmen at the Jamaica National bank in Portmore Pines, St. Catherine. […]
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Effective March 13, 2023, Cuban nationals travelling to Jamaica, will require visas. This is according to an announcement from the Ministry of National Security. The Ministry did not explain the reason for the move but said the visa-free transit arrangement for a period of up to three days for Cuban nationals, would be discontinued. […]
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The St. Ann police are searching for a man who stabbed and killed another in Ocho Rios, on Wednesday afternoon (February 22). The deceased has not yet been formally identified, but IRIE FM News understands he went by the alias ‘Haitian’. Preliminary reports are that around 3 PM, the men were at the […]
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The Ministry of Labour and Social Security will be increasing engagement with parents and other key stakeholders, as part of measures to eliminate child labour in Jamaica. Portfolio Minister, Karl Samuda, noted that there are approximately 38,000 children, ages five to 17, who are involved in child labour in the country. He explained […]
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A Chinese businessman was shot and wounded by armed robbers, along the Ballard’s Valley main road, in Junction, St. Elizabeth, yesterday. Reports are that at about 10 AM, armed men traveling on a motorcycle accosted the businessman, as he was driving along the main road. In his bid to escape, the businessman crashed […]
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The opposition People’s National Party (PNP) is calling on Finance Minister, Dr. Nigel Clarke, to provide an update, on the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s involvement, in the probe, at fraud-hit Stocks and Securities Limited (SSL). Dr. Clarke announced on January 23 that the government had sought the assistance of the US based FBI, in […]
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Educators at Vauxhall High school in Kingston dressed in black this morning (February 17), as they called for more to be done to protect teachers against violence. It’s reported that the call was sparked by an incident at the school yesterday, where a teacher was allegedly physically assaulted by a student. Videos on […]
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The Financial Investigations Division (FID) says at this time, it’s still unable to quantify the exact amount which has been defrauded from all the affected accounts at Stocks and Securities Limited (SSL). In a statement, the FID says with respect to Usain Bolt, the sum of his investment has been identified and authenticated. […]
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The main suspect in the multi-million-dollar fraud at Stocks and Securities Limited (SSL), Jean Ann Panton, has been charged with several offences. She was charged this morning and is appearing in court today (February 17). Head of the Counter-Terrorism and Organised Crime investigations branch (C-TOC), Senior Superintendent Dr. Anthony McLaughlin, says Ms. Panton […]
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Motorists are seeing increases in gas prices effective today (February 16). Petrojam says a litre of E10 87 and 90 Gasoline now costs $3.06 more. Meanwhile, 19 cents have been added to the cost of a litre of automotive diesel oil. A litre of both Ultra-low Sulphur Diesel and Kerosene have each […]
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Thousands of grade 6 students will be sitting the ability test component of the Primary Exit Profile (PEP), examination today (February 16). This is the first physical sitting of the exam since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Education Ministry said it had implemented various initiatives and support services, leading up to […]
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Prime Minister Andrew Holness has rejected the findings of the Integrity Commission regarding conflict of interest in the awarding of contracts to a company whose director is known to him. Mr. Holness said he did not exercise any influence over the contracts, and he strongly disagrees with some of the findings of the report […]
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The University of the West Indies student who allegedly held a female in his room for 3 days against her will, and assaulted her, has been slapped with two additional charges. Twenty-year-old Matthew Hyde of Braemar Avenue, in Kingston, was previously charged with assault occasioning grievous bodily harm. He will also answer to […]
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The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) says it will review and appeal a four-year and three-month sentence, handed down to a man, hit with firearm charges. In December last year, 28-year-old Dennis Mundell, pleaded guilty to illegal possession of a firearm and ammunition. He was sentenced to four years and […]
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The Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) has pledged to conduct a thorough investigation, aimed at apprehending the persons responsible, for the death of a District Constable in St. Thomas, yesterday (February 13). Mark Forsythe, who was assigned to the Trinity Ville police station, in the parish, was shot and killed, at around 3:40 PM. […]
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Staff at the offices of the Registrar General’s Department (RGD) are back on the job following a sick out, yesterday (February 13). The workers were restive about the government’s restructured compensation system. Several of the RGD’s locations were affected by the sick-out, including the St. Ann’s Bay, Port Antonio and the Savanna la […]
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The government will be advancing a number of flagship projects, including, the new parliament building, in the next financial year. This is according to Governor General Sir Patrick Allen. Delivering the throne speech at the ceremonial opening of parliament this morning, the governor general said over the past three years, Jamaica has not […]
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Restive workers, attached to the Registrar General’s Department (RGD) are to meet with their union, the Jamaica Civil Service Association (JCSA), at 1 PM today. The workers, who are upset about the government’s restructured compensation system, staged a sickout, disrupting operations at the RGD this morning. One source told IRIE FM News that […]
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Residents of Musgrave Street, in Brown’s Town, St. Ann are in a sombre mood this morning, following the drowning death of a 12-year-old in the community yesterday. The deceased has been identified as Nicholai Reid, a student at the Aboukir High school in the parish. Reports are that around 2 PM, the student […]
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A University of the West Indies (UWI) student is to face the court today after he allegedly held a female in his room for 3 days against her will, and assaulted her. Charged with assault occasioning grievous bodily harm is 20-year-old Matthew Hyde of Braemar Avenue, in Kingston. The incident occurred at one […]
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The St. Ann police are probing the suspected drowning of a 12-year-old boy on Musgrave Street, Brown’s Town, yesterday (February 12). He has been identified as Nicholai Reid, a student of the Aboukir High school in the parish. Reports are that around 2 PM, the student was at home with his mother who […]
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Member of Parliament (MP) for Manchester North-Western, Mikael Phillips says Manchester is experiencing a water crisis, that is negatively impacting the parish’s growth. Speaking at the opening ceremony for a water shop in Mile Gully, on Friday, Mr. Phillips said only a small part of his constituency has access to piped water. […]
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A bill to increase the penalties for persons who have committed sexual offences against women and children is before parliament. Minister of National Security, Dr. Horace Chang made the revelation while speaking to reporters in Westmoreland on Friday (February 10). Citing the death of 9-year-old Nikita Noel of Kew district, in Lucea, Hanover, […]
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The government is to ramp up its public education campaign following the implementation of the new Road Traffic Act (RTA). There have been concerns and protests by Public Passenger Vehicle (PPV) operators about aspects of the regulations since they were implemented on February 1. Prime Minister Andrew Holness admits that aspects of the […]
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While firefighters are still trying to ascertain the cause of yesterday’s fire that damaged a section of the Westwood High school in Trelawny, loss sustained is estimated at $10 million. That’s according to Public Relations Officer at the Jamaica fire brigade, Emeleo Ebanks, who spoke to IRIE FM News this morning (February 10). […]
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The Jamaica Bar Association has welcomed the Privy Council’s ruling relating to the law, which will require attorneys to report suspicious transactions of their clients. The Privy Council ruled that Jamaica’s anti-money laundering law as it applies to attorneys is not a breach of the constitution. In response, the bar association said the […]
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Agriculture Minister Pearnel Charles Jr. said the government will be putting greater investment into yam production. He made the comment, while speaking at the launch of the Hague Agricultural and Industrial show in Trelawny. According to Mr. Charles Jr., Trelawny was the second highest producer of domestic food for 2022, and the bulk […]
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Police Commissioner Major General Antony Anderson has stressed the importance of recruiting new members of the force, who can be professional officers, versus just focusing on increasing the number of boots on the ground. He was reacting to calls from sections of society, for the constabulary to boost its presence in various areas, as […]
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All but one of the products supplied by Petrojam will see a reduction come tomorrow (February 9). E10 87 and 90 Gasoline and Propane LPG, will all cost $0.25 less per litre. Meanwhile, Automotive Diesel Oil, Ultra-Low Sulphur Diesel and Kerosene are going down by $4.50 a litre. The only increase is […]
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The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has indicated that Jamaica is recovering strongly from the impact of shocks such as the Russia/Ukraine war and the coronavirus pandemic. The executive board of the IMF concluded its article 4 consultation with Jamaica, and released its report today. It said over the past few years, Jamaica has […]
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One of the country’s most wanted was shot and killed during a police/military operation in Clarendon today (February 8). He is Nesta ‘Bigga Crime’ Morrison of Eleven Miles, Bull Bay, who was wanted for double murder, shooting and arson. The intelligence led operation in Longville Park Clarendon was conducted by the Jamaica Defence […]
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Opposition Leader Mark Golding is to table a bill in parliament this afternoon (February 7), seeking to amend the child restraint provision in the new road traffic act. This, following protests by Public Passenger Vehicle (PPV), operators about the child seat and other requirements under the newly implemented act. Mr. Golding has urged […]
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Dozens of commuters, including school children, were left stranded for a second consecutive day, as motorists in some parishes protested aspects of the new road traffic act. Commuters in St. Ann and Manchester were among those affected. In St. Ann, motorists blocked sections of the Brown’s Town to Runaway Bay main road. […]
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The body of a homeless man was found with the throat slashed in Port Maria, St. Mary, on Sunday (February 5). He has been identified as O’neil Collin. Minister of Local Government Desmond McKenzie said Mr. Collin’s body was found, near the Port Maria police station. He noted that Collin was well […]
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Scores of transport operators across the island have vowed to withdraw their service again today (February 7), in continuation of their protest over the government’s handling of key matters affecting the sector. Yesterday, taxi operators attached to the One Voice Taxi Association withdrew service, affecting hundreds of commuters in several parishes including, St. James, […]
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Thirty-two people have been killed in vehicular crashes since the start of the year. This is 14 fewer than the 46 recorded in the similar period last year. While welcoming the decline, Vice Chairman of the National Road Safety Council, Dr. Lucien Jones says efforts to further reduce road crashes, must continue. […]
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Public Passenger Vehicle (PPV) operators have identified at least 11 sections of the new road traffic act, that they believe need revision. That’s according to president of the One Voice taxi group, Oscar Finnikin, who was speaking at a press conference this morning. Last week, the group noted that the laws requiring a […]
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A 23-year-old Clarendon man has been charged with the murder of a British tourist in Montego Bay, last month. Sean Patterson, was shot dead in Bogue Hill, Montego Bay, St. James on Monday, January 2. Javaughn Brown of Baillieston, in Clarendon has been charged with his murder. Reports are that at about […]
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Member of Parliament for St. Ann South Eastern, Lisa Hanna, has raised concerns about a $150 million cut in the budget for the modernisation of the agriculture sector. She was speaking during yesterday’s meeting of parliament’s Public Administration and Appropriations Committee (PAAC), which was discussing the third supplementary estimates of the budget. Miss […]
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The traffic police are reporting a high level of compliance by motorists with the stipulations in the new Road Traffic Act, on day one of its implementation. The act, and its accompanying regulations, came into effect yesterday (February 1). Head of the Public Safety and Traffic Enforcement branch, Assistant Commissioner of Police Gary […]
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The Hanover police have identified a suspect, and are following strong leads, in their investigation of the killing of a young girl, in Lucea, yesterday (February 1). The identity of the 9-year-old child, has not yet been released. Police have theorized that the girl had been sexually assaulted. Reports are that, when the […]
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Minister of Entertainment and Culture, Olivia grange, is urging churches, to play a greater role in developing the reggae gospel industry. Miss Grange was speaking today (January 29), at a reggae month church service, in Kingston. She said, while there are some Christians, who have created reggae gospel songs, more persons are needed within […]
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Justice Minister Delroy Chuck has again appealed to Jamaicans to make a will to prevent conflicts among relatives, when they die. Speaking at a Manchester Alternative Dispute Resolution forum recently, Mr. Chuck noted that there are oftentimes squabbles over the estates of deceased family members, some of which result in injury or death. […]
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A 19-year-old man was reportedly stabbed to death by his younger sibling, in St James, this morning (January 29). The deceased is Noel Demetrius of Tucker, in Irwin. Preliminary reports are that at about 9:00 AM, the siblings were at home in Irwin, St. James when a dispute developed between them. Noel reportedly […]
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Jamaica is seeing an increase in the number of electric vehicles (EVs) being registered for use in the island. That’s according to Legal Counsel at the office of Utilities Regulations (OUR) Nicole Morgan. Speaking during the OUR’s virtual regional media workshop titled “electric vehicle – the road to a new market, yesterday (January […]
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Transport Minister Audley Shaw has pledged that he will be putting an end to the practice of persons illegally purchasing drivers’ licenses. Speaking at the official launch of York Castle High School’s driver education programme, this morning (January 27), the minister said the practice is contributing to road fatalities. He noted that in […]
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Motorists are to see big increases in gas prices, tomorrow (January 26). For the second week in a row, five of the seven petroleum products supplied by Petrojam are going up by $4.50 per litre. These are: E10 87 and 90 Gasoline, Automotive Diesel Oil, Ultra-low Sulphur Diesel, and Kerosene. Meanwhile, Propane […]
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Governor of the Bank of Jamaica (BOJ), Richard Byles, has expressed confidence in the agency’s ability to provide efficient oversight of Jamaica’s financial sector This, following the expansion of the central bank’s supervisory and regulatory role from oversight of deposit taking financial institutions, to include non-bank financial institutions such as securities dealers, insurance companies […]
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Prime Minister Andrew Holness is urging citizens not to allow rumours being circulated in the public sphere, to influence their confidence in Jamaica’s financial sector. This, in the wake of a multi-million-dollar fraud at Stocks and Securities Limited (SSL), which saw several people, including renowned Jamaican athlete Usain Bolt, and some elderly investors being […]
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Motorists are seeing big increases in gas prices, today. The latest billing prices issued by Petrojam indicate that five of the seven petroleum products went up by $4.50 per litre. These are E10 87 and 90 Gasoline, Automotive Diesel Oil, Ultra-low Sulphur Diesel, and Kerosene. Meanwhile, Propane and Butane LPG saw increases […]
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Prime Minister Andrew Holness and Police Commissioner Major General Antony Anderson are among those paying tribute to former Police Commissioner Lucius Thomas, who passed away today (January 18). Thomas was 73 years old. In his tribute, Mr. Holness expressed condolences to the family and friends of Thomas. Mr. Holness said Thomas dedicated […]
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The Financial Services Commission (FSC) has defended its capacity to monitor and regulate effectively, the entities it oversees within the financial sector. Concern has been raised about the ability of the FSC to keep an eye on players in the sector, in the wake of reports of fraudulent activity at investment company, Stocks and […]
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Several members of the accounts department at Knox Community College have been placed on administrative leave, as a full investigation is undertaken into suspected fraud at the institution. The principal Dr. Davia Ramgeet issued a statement, explaining that certain irregularities involving the falsification of several cheques issued by the college, were discovered recently. […]
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Despite consumer confidence increasing by only 1.8 percentage points, over the fourth quarter of 2022, Jamaicans are still generally confident in the country’s economy. That’s the assertion made by Chief Executive Officer of Market Research Services Limited, Don Anderson during the fourth quarter business and consumer confidence indices webinar, this morning. Mr. Anderson […]
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The Opposition says it is concerned about the apparent failure of the Financial Services Commission (FSC) to provide adequate regulatory oversight, of companies operating in the non-deposit taking financial services industry. According to Spokesman on Finance, Julian Robinson, recent media reports have caused Jamaicans to become concerned about the safety of their funds at […]
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The Statistical Institute of Jamaica (STATIN) has revealed that issues with administrative processes, and the institute’s inability to achieve the employment target of 7,000 census takers, led to the delays with the completion of the 2022 Population and Housing census. Data collection for the census commenced in September last year, and was set to […]
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There has been a major reduction in murders in the first two weeks of the new year, when compared with 2022. According to the latest crime data from the Jamaica Constabulary Force, 32 people were killed up to Saturday January 14. This is 40 fewer than the 72 recorded in the similar period […]
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The Financial Services Commission (FSC) has appointed a special auditor for Stocks and Securities Limited (SSL). The appointment comes on the heels of alleged fraudulent activity at the agency, involving a former employee. The multi-million-dollar fraud is being probed by the Financial Investigations Division, the fraud squad, and the Jamaica Constabulary Force. […]
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A St. Ann based wealth advisor was charged this afternoon (January 16) in relation to fraud involving US $143,000. Khadene Thomas, an employee of the National Commercial Bank (NCB), was arrested in relation to the missing sums on Friday. She was charged following a question-and-answer session with her attorney, Bert Samuels, today. […]
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The St. Catherine South police have listed five men as persons of interest (POIs), in relation to recent murders committed in the division. Acting Commander Superintendent Hopton Nicholson notes that the men who are of Hellshire Park addresses, are being sought for questioning in relation to murders committed on January 5 and 11. […]
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Prime Minister Andrew Holness has hit back at comments, calling for the government to increase law enforcement numbers by expanding the security forces. Opposition Spokesman on National Security Peter Bunting is among those, who have called for more boots on the ground, to tackle the country’s crime problem. Mr. Bunting also attributed the […]
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Concerns about how police officers respond to motorists during stop and search operations were raised yesterday, at the monthly meeting of the St. James Municipal Corporation. Councillor for the Somerton division, Mark McGann, highlighted videos which have been circulating, showing interactions between police and motorists, noting issues relating to officers’ responses. He said […]
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Education Minister Fayval Williams has acknowledged, the critical need for special education centres across the country, to provide institutional support, to families of children with special needs. This, as she welcomed a sponsorship agreement, aimed at transforming the Santa Cruz Basic School in St. Elizabeth, into a special education centre. The agreement, was […]
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A decision is expected to be made by Public Passenger Vehicle (PPV) operators on how they will treat the vexed issue of outstanding traffic tickets, during a meeting later today. The Transport Operators Development Sustainable Services (TODSS) said the group is considering various responses, including legal actions against the government, and a withdrawal of […]
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Draft regulations for the National Identification System (NIDS) have been tabled in the house of representatives. Minister without portfolio in the office of the Prime Minister, Floyd Green says the regulations were been laid in draft form, to allow for consideration and review before debate on the regulations begins. He said one of […]
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The Government has blamed the Opposition People’s National Party (PNP) for holding up the start of the process for making Jamaica a republic. Minister of Legal and Constitutional Affairs, Marlene Malahoo Forte, says by refusing to name its representatives to the committee that has been assigned to spearhead the process, the opposition is hindering […]
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Livestock farmers in Westmoreland continue to struggle to get feed for their animals, and are appealing for help. Checks by IRIE FM News showed that some farm stores had run out of supplies with operators expressing hope, that their supplies will be replenished, this week. Farmers have also told IRIE FM News that […]
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Hundreds of maroons, joined by visitors from other parts of Jamaica and overseas, are expected to gather today in Accompong, St. Elizabeth for the annual celebration. This year’s event is special since it’s the first allowed gathering in the wake of the lifting of COVID restrictions, and after some tension during last year’s celebration, […]
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Telecommunications company Flow has assured that no further work will be carried out on the cell tower in Portsea, St. Elizabeth, until a resolution is reached with the municipal authorities and residents. Upset residents staged a demonstration yesterday (January 5), calling for the tower to be removed due to health concerns. In a […]
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The Government will be pursuing a major intervention programme to support mental health in the country. Prime Minister Andrew Holness made the announcement while speaking during the National Day of Prayer, yesterday (January 4, 2023). He said he will be discussing with the churches how they can be used nationally for mental health […]
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A man who was being sought in relation to the murder of a St. Catherine based police officer, was arrested during an operation in Hanover, yesterday (January 4, 2023). The suspect is to be questioned about the death of Corporal Delwin Jackson, two years ago. Head of the St. Catherine South police division, […]
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Opposition Leader Mark Golding has cited a ‘culture of disrespect’ as one of the contributors to crime and violence in the country. Speaking yesterday (January 4, 2023), at the National Day of Prayer ceremony, Mr. Golding called on Jamaicans to be respectful of each other, while also refraining from being disrespectful. Mr. Golding […]
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A police corporal based in Westmoreland is believed to have committed suicide at his home in Llandilo, Savanna-la-mar, this morning (January 4). Dead is Corporal Horace McDermott, who was assigned to the Frome police station. Commanding officer for the Westmoreland police, Senior Superintendent Wayne Josephs said McDermott was found with a gunshot wound […]
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The number of people charged under the new Firearms Act has increased to more than 80. This, according to Prime Minister Andrew Holness. Speaking at the National Day of Prayer held under the theme ‘Heal the Family, Heal the Nation’ today (January 4), Mr. Holness said he will need the support of the […]
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Jamaican/American recording artiste Joseph Marley, who is the son of Reggae star Stephen Marley and the grandson of Reggae legend Bob Marley, was found dead in the United States. The 31-year-old, who was also known as ‘Jo Mersa’ was reportedly found unresponsive in a motor vehicle. The cause of death has not yet been […]
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Commissioner of Police, Major General Antony Anderson, has reiterated that he will be seeking the declaration of a new State of Emergency (SOE), before the year ends. Speaking in an address on Christmas day, the Commissioner noted that the police have been working hard over the past three months to reduce violent crime. […]
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At least nine people have died on the nation’s roadways over the long weekend. Vice-chairman of the National Road Safety Council, Dr. Lucien Jones, made the disclosure while speaking to IRIE FM News this morning (December 27). He said some 35 people have died in December so far. The latest fatality occurred […]
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Agriculture Minister Pearnel Charles Jr. says his ministry has taken note of the concerns regarding the supply of feed and is working hard to improve the supply for poultry and livestock farmers. Yesterday, several poultry farmers expressed concern that they could lose their broilers as they were running out of feed. Speaking with […]
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Firefighters are still trying to ascertain the cause of a fire which caused damage to two businesses on Port Henderson Road in Portmore, St. Catherine, last night. Public Relations Officer at the brigade, Emeleo Ebanks, told IRIE FM News that two units responded to the fire which started around 7 PM. No one […]
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Concern is growing among poultry and livestock farmers across the island, who say they are running out of feed for their animals. This, amidst a major shortage of the commodity across the country. On Friday, the Agriculture Ministry assured that the matter would have been resolved at the weekend, but farmers are still […]
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Five men were detained by police following the seizure of a firearm and several rounds of ammunition at the intersection of Spanish Town and West roads in Kingston 12 this morning (December 26). Reports from the Denham Town police are that a motor vehicle with the five men aboard was stopped at a vehicular […]
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A vessel carrying a large shipment of cocaine from South America was interdicted at approximately 4:15 this morning, in Jamaica’s territorial waters. The seizure was made by the Jamaica Defence Force’s maritime air and cyber command, through coordination of its air and maritime assets in the JDF air wing and the JDF coast guard. […]
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Three people were arrested in relation to the seizure of a firearm and eleven rounds of ammunition during a joint police/military operation in Top Hill, Clarendon, this morning (December 24). Reports are that about 5:00 AM, members of the security forces conducted an operation at a premises during which the Taurus 9MM pistol with […]
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Prime Minister Andrew Holness has pledged that government will be spending more money on facilities that cater to the elderly and vulnerable. He made the announcement while speaking at a Christmas treat for seniors recently. This was the first time in two years that the annual treat was being held, having been suspended […]
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A 27-year-old security guard was shot and killed along the Barnett Street main road in Montego Bay, St. James, last night (December 23). He has been identified as Thomas Sterling, of Mount Salem, in the parish. Reports from the Montego Bay police are that about 11:30 PM, citizens heard explosions and summoned them. […]
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The Trelawny police are reporting a 61% clear up rate for serious and violent crimes. Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Winston Milton is hopeful that the ability of the police to complete these cases and make arrests will be a deterrent to crime. Meanwhile, DSP Milton says the plans implemented by the […]
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Dozens of passengers travelling to Jamaica from Canada have had their flights cancelled or delayed, due to a winter storm that is sweeping through North America. Among the cancelled flights from Canada to Jamaica, are three that were scheduled to arrive from the Toronto Pearson International Airport. Two of the flights, on WestJet […]
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Chairman of the CARICOM Reparations Commission, Professor Sir Hilary Beckles says the commission recognizes Monday’s apology by The Netherlands for its past actions to enslaved people, as historic. He noted Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte’s acknowledgment that the transatlantic slave trade and chattel slavery in general were crimes against humanity. Professor Beckles said […]
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Prime Minister Andrew Holness says the killing of the St. Catherine pastor, near his home recently, represents how violence producers have little regard for anyone. Lynval Lewis, the pastor of the Spanish Town and Greater Portmore Tabernacle churches, was rushed to hospital on Monday, after being shot several times, in his car. He […]
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Entertainment Minister, Olivia Grange, says the ministry has started procuring experts to assist with the tender process for an insurance scheme for entertainers. Miss Grange made the announcement at the Rebel Salute launch in Kingston, last evening. The Minister said she is pleased that the government is inching closer to the implementation of […]
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The States of Emergency (SOEs) declared in eight parishes on December 6, will come to an end tonight (December 20). The emergency measures covered St. Ann, Clarendon, St. Catherine, specified areas of Kingston and St. Andrew, St. James, Westmoreland and Hanover. They were declared after Prime Minister Andrew Holness noted that the country’s […]
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Commissioner of Police, Major General Antony Anderson says the four suspects intercepted following the December 9 armed robbery and double murder at a supermarket in Porus, Manchester, are among persons charged under the new firearms act. The Commissioner made the disclosure while touring the Manchester police division today (December 20). The new firearms […]
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The National Solid Waste Management Authority (NSWMA) says the backlog of uncollected garbage across the island, should be cleared by the end of today. Following the handing over of 50 garbage trucks to the agency late last month, the NSWMA said it would be seeking to clear the backlog of uncollected garbage across the […]
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Head of the Portland police, Superintendent Lloyd Darby, is imploring motor vehicle owners to invest in technology to secure their vehicles from thieves. He said motor vehicle theft is a concern in the parish. Meanwhile, Superintendent Darby says the police have ramped up their enforcement and presence across the parish. He […]
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The Private Sector Organization of Jamaica (PSOJ) says if all stakeholders do not work together to solve the country’s crime problem, all will be liable for blame, if the issue gets out of hand. The statement comes as Jamaica continues to record a high number of murders. Since the start of the year, […]
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Prime Minister Andrew Holness handed over 11 homes to citizens under the new social housing programme, this week. This, as the government seeks to scale up the programme, which was developed to improve the housing condition of the country’s poor and disadvantaged. Speaking at the handing over of the latest home under the […]
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Finance Minister Dr. Nigel Clarke has stressed that despite Jamaica’s new agreement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF), it will be business as usual. On Thursday, the IMF announced that it reached a staff level agreement with Jamaica, that will enable government access to approximately US $1.7 billion, under two multi-lateral instruments. The […]
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Minister without portfolio in the Office of the Prime Minister, Floyd Green, says the cabinet has no say in what the courts decide, when transport operators who have been granted an extension to settle outstanding tickets, appear before them. His comment follows claims by some transport groups that some of their members had their […]
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Prime Minister Andrew Holness has hinted that the government could implement another round of States of Emergency (SOEs) to ensure the safety of citizens, over the Christmas holidays. States of Emergency now in effect in eight parishes are to expire, shortly. Speaking at the handing over of a home, under the social housing […]
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A US national who was arrested at the Sangster International Airport yesterday, and later charged for firearms-related offences, was fined $30,000 or 30 days in prison when he appeared in the Western Regional Gun Court today (December 13). He is 27-year-old Auden Kayton, an electrical linesman of Mount Holly, North Carolina in the United […]
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Commissioner of Police, Major General Antony Anderson, has criticized the Independent Commission of Investigations (INDECOM) for its recent report on fatal shootings by the police. In the report last week, INDECOM said there were 126 fatal shootings between January and November, this year. It also expressed concern that police officers were involved in […]
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Minister of Legal and Constitutional Affairs, Marlene Malahoo Forte has rubbished claims that the recently imposed States of Emergency (SOEs) in several parishes were not valid because the regulations were not tabled in parliament. States of Emergency were declared in St. Ann, Clarendon, St. Catherine, specified areas of Kingston and St. Andrew, St. James, […]
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The country’s public health inspectors are disgruntled, and unsettled, after receiving news that they will not receive retroactive salaries owed to them, under the new compensation package, this month. The Jamaica Association of Public health Inspectors (JAPHI) notes that it has had a rocky journey, dealing with the new compensation package, offered to inspectors. […]
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The People’s National Party (PNP) has rolled out several initiatives to honour former Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller. Mrs. Simpson Miller was the first female president of the PNP, served in several posts and held several ministerial portfolios during her 43 years in politics. Party leader Mark Golding says the PNP executive passed […]
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President of the Transport Operators Development Sustainable Services (TODSS), Egeton Newman is advocating for more training and certification of Public Passenger Vehicle (PPV) operators. Speaking at a stakeholders’ road safety conference recently, Mr. Newman said training would help to reduce road fatalities and traffic breaches. President of the Falmouth Taxi Association Sheldon […]
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Member of Parliament for Manchester Southern Robert Chin is encouraging businesses and residents to be vigilant following a spate of robberies in Manchester. The latest incident at a supermarket in Porus, left two people dead and four gunmen in police custody. Police have not yet released the identities of the deceased, but IRIE […]
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Corporal Oliver Mullings, the policeman who was shot and killed by gunmen while on duty in October, today received a belated 21-gun salute. This, after the official honour was left out of his funeral last Sunday. Commissioner of Police Major General Antony Anderson had expressed disappointment at the omission and had promised that […]
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The Jamaica Fire Brigade says 19 people perished in fires and 45 others were injured up to October of this year. Local Government Minister Desmond McKenzie made the disclosure while speaking at a fire brigade graduation ceremony yesterday (December 3). He said the fires also resulted in 1, 468 Jamaicans being left homeless. […]
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Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of an unidentified man in a house fire in Orange Hill, Brown’s Town, St. Ann, this morning (December 4). Reports from the Brown’s Town police are that about 4:00 AM, they were called to the scene of a house fire. The fire department, which was […]
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All products supplied by Petrojam are seeing decreases in their prices, effective today (December 1). Five of the products now cost $4.50 less per litre. These are E10 87 and 90 Gasoline, Automotive Diesel Oil, Ultra-low Sulphur Diesel and Kerosene. As for cooking gas, a litre of Propane LPG costs $1.02 less, […]
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A call is being made for more funding to be provided to maintain government-owned cameras, which are a part of the Jamaica Eye network. Jamaica Eye is the country’s closed-circuit television (CCTV) surveillance system, which helps the police fight crime and maintain public order. Chair of the Private Sector Organization of Jamaica (PSOJ) […]
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In the wake of claims that some public transport operators are planning to withdraw their services today, because they are still upset about the traffic ticket situation, a Government Minister is urging them not to jeopardize the process that is already underway. The matter was raised during a Transport Operators Development Sustainable Services (TODSS) […]
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Prime Minister Andrew Holness says the government is far advanced in the roll out of its national broadband initiative. Speaking yesterday at day one of the Invest Jamaica 2022 Business Conference, the Prime Minister noted that government has been making effort to improve Jamaica’s business environment and the build out of broadband internet is […]
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Transport operators are still waiting for a response from government about the proposal for an outstanding traffic ticket payment plan. The proposal was submitted to Transport Minister Audley Shaw, who promised to take it to cabinet, for consideration. This, after the government rejected calls for a traffic ticket amnesty. President of the Transport […]
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A search for wanted men in Bull Bay, St. Thomas, yesterday led to the seizure of three firearms, more than 100 rounds of ammunition and a large sum of counterfeit cash. The Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) says its joint anti-gang task force closed in on one of the many hide outs of one of […]
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Members of the senate are expected to vote on the extension of the States of Emergency in 10 police divisions, today (Friday, November 25). The extension was approved in the Lower House on Tuesday without the support of the Opposition but will require support from at least one Opposition senator to be approved in […]
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Vendors who ply their wares in the corporate area are being encouraged to re-establish their association, so they can lobby the Kingston and St. Andrew Municipal Corporation (KSAMC), to have their concerns addressed. The advice came from minority leader of the opposition People’s National Party caucus in the KSAMC, Andrew Swaby. During a […]
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The tourism industry continued to perform well in the third quarter of this year. This is according to Director General of the Planning Institute of Jamaica (PIOJ), Dr. Wayne Henry, who gave an update on the sector during the institute’s quarterly press briefing. Dr. Henry noted that stopover visitor arrivals for July to […]
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The Manchester police have launched a manhunt for three gunmen who robbed a supermarket in Nashville on Tuesday (November 22). A fourth man was fatally shot by a licensed firearm holder during the incident. Police reports are that about 6:30 PM, four men entered the supermarket, ordered customers to lay on the ground […]
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A Jamaican living in Trinidad and Tobago has expressed concern about the number of Jamaicans that have been killed or abducted in that country. Ian Harrow is concerned that not enough is being done to ensure the safety of Jamaicans there. His comment follows the disappearance of a Jamaican woman, Kimalee Larmond-John in […]
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The prices of all products supplied by Petrojam are seeing decreases, effective tomorrow (November 24). Five products will be going down by $4.50 per litre. These are Automotive Diesel Oil, E10 87 and 90 Gasoline, Ultra-low Sulphur Diesel and Kerosene. Meantime, as it relates to cooking gas, a litre of Propane LPG is […]
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The Planning Institute of Jamaica (PIOJ) says the prospects for the Jamaican economy remain positive in the short to medium term, with growth of 2.5% to 3.5% expected this quarter. Speaking at a quarterly press briefing on Wednesday, PIOJ Director General Dr. Wayne Henry noted that the removal of the previously implemented COVID-19 containment […]
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With the gun amnesty set to end on Saturday at midnight, National Security Minister Dr. Horace Chang is appealing to residents to hand over their illegal weapons. The gun amnesty which allows persons to turn over illegal firearms without being charged began on November 5. In a social media post by the Jamaica […]
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Two men are dead, and a toddler is among four others left wounded following an attack by gunmen in Norwood, St. James last evening. The deceased are 31-year-old shopkeeper Delano Christie and 26-year-old Jordaine Brown, both of Norwood, St. James. Preliminary reports from the police are that about 8: 15 PM, Christie and […]
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Agriculture Minister Pearnel Charles Jr. has lauded farmers for six consecutive quarters of growth since the second quarter of 2021. He said the agriculture sector has been achieving unprecedented numbers since the start of the year, with the third quarter of 2022 reflecting one of the best-performing quarters on record. He said […]
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Director of Safety and Security in schools, Richard Troupe, says there needs to be a review of the use of suspension and expulsion of school children as a means of discipline. The call comes amidst concerns from the police about children who are out of school being at greater risk of being recruited by […]
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The prices of all products supplied by Petrojam are seeing a decrease effective today. Five of the products now cost $4.50 less per litre. They are E10 87 and 90 Gasoline, Automotive Diesel Oil, Ultra-low Sulphur Diesel, and Kerosene. As for cooking gas, a litre of Propane LPG costs $1.50 less, while Butane […]
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The St. James police say they are facing several roadblocks in the investigation into the murder of nine-year-old Gabriel King, in an alleged carjacking in St. James in January this year. King’s body was found with the throat slashed in his mother’s blue Audi SUV, after she was allegedly forced from the vehicle by […]
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The Ministry of Transport is to step up its education campaign and community engagement on road safety as part of efforts to reduce fatalities on the nation’s roads. Concerned about the number of serious crashes and road fatalities, the National Road Safety Council (NRSC) convened a meeting last week to explore strategies to reduce […]
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Two people were killed in vehicular crashes in separate incidents this morning. In the latest incident, a woman was killed in a crash involving two coaster buses along the flanker main road in St. James. Operations officer for the St. James police, Superintendent Eron Samuels says the accident occurred about 9:50 AM. The […]
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The traffic police will be seeking to increase the number of breathalyzer tests conducted on motorists. Head of the Public Safety and Traffic Enforcement Branch (PSTEB), Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Gary Mckenzie says so far this year, over 12,000 tests have been done. He notes that the Desnoes and Geddes (D&G) foundation […]
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Individuals and companies adversely affected by the July/August effluent spill and subsequent fish kill in the Rio Cobre, St. Catherine, will be getting less than they anticipated for compensation pay-out. This as the $117 million bond, from bauxite company UC Rusal/Windalco is not enough to cover the amounts being sought by some affected groups. […]
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A quarrel between two brothers in St. Elizabeth has left one dead and the other in police custody. Dead is 30-year-old Renroy Francis, of Lititz. Police reports are that sometime after 10 o’clock last night, Francis was at a bar when an argument developed between him and his brother. Francis left the […]
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Prime Minister Andrew Holness has stressed that several options are being contemplated as it relates to the restoration and use of Vale Royal. The historical building has served in the past as a residence of government ministers, including prime ministers. Concern was raised by the Opposition about the deteriorating state of Vale Royal. […]
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Executive Director of the National Solid Waste Management Authority (NSWMA) Audley Gordon says Jamaica will receive the 50 garbage trucks approved in cabinet this year, in short order. Last month Prime Minister Andrew Holness tweeted that the garbage trucks were on their way to Jamaica and were expected to arrive at the end of […]
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As respiratory cases in children remain high, the South East Regional Health Authority (SERHA) has intensified its call for parents and guardians to use clinics where possible, to reduce the mounting pressure at hospitals. Last week, SERHA’s Regional Director, Errol Greene told IRIE FM News, that the increase in respiratory illnesses, especially among children, […]
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Five tuberculosis (TB) cases have been confirmed among inmates at a correctional facility. The Department of Correctional Services, in a statement today says the inmates have been hospitalized and are responding well to treatment. No staff member has tested positive for TB. The Ministry of Health and Wellness is now conducting TB […]
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Bank of Jamaica (BOJ) Governor Richard Byles has indicated that the country could see further increases in interest rates, soon. The bank’s latest increase to deposit-taking institutions was by 500 basis points to 6.5% per annum, effective September 30. Speaking at an Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) seminar this morning (October 13), Governor Byles […]
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Constable Noel Maitland, who is charged with the murder of his girlfriend, Donna-Lee Donaldson, has been denied bail. The ruling was handed down by judge Vinnette Graham Allen in the Home Circuit Court in Kingston, this morning (October 13). Maitland who has also been charged with prohibition of the lawful burial of a […]
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There will be increases in the prices of all products supplied by Petrojam, effective today. The prices of 87 and 90 gasoline are going up by 25 cents per litre. Meantime, kerosene, diesel and ultra-low sulphur diesel are going up by $4.50 per litre this week. Propane LPG is up $1.33 per […]
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Information Minister Robert Morgan says the government has a responsibility to set standards for spaces it controls, and that it’s not trying to restrict people’s right to free speech. His comment follows the latest directive from the Broadcasting Commission to radio and television broadcasters, immediately banning the airing of recorded material that promotes or […]
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The Kingston Western police are warning violence producers, that they will not tolerate a resurgence of crime in the area. The warning follows a shooting incident in Denham Town last evening, which left three young men wounded. Speaking with IRIE FM News, the division’s commanding officer, Senior Superintendent, Michael Phipps, said the Denham […]
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A dispute in Dumbarton, St. Ann, has left one man dead and female nursing knife wounds. Police have not issued a statement on the incident, but preliminary reports are that there was a dispute involving three people – two men and a woman – sometime this morning. It’s reported that a knife was […]
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Hundreds of residents of Lowe River in Trelawny will now benefit from free internet in their community. The Universal Service Fund (USF) launched another of its free community hotspots in the area, yesterday. The amenity will give up to 200 persons access at any given time. Speaking at the launch, Member of […]
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Close to 50 firearms were seized in the last 17 days, since the launch of Operation Relentless II. The operation, which was launched on September 23, targets criminal gangs, illicit guns, narcotics trade, and lottery scams. In giving an update on the initiative the Jamaica Constabulary Force says 49 firearms have been seized. […]
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The Major Organized Crime and Anti-Corruption Agency (MOCA) launched its first course for polygraph examiners, yesterday. The course, which is the first of its kind in the region, will end on December 16. It will facilitate the certification of eight new polygraph examiners, from both local and regional law-enforcement agencies. Speaking at […]
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Jamaica will have 50 new garbage trucks by the end of this month. That’s according to Information Minister, Robert Morgan. Mr. Morgan said the COVID-19 pandemic had delayed the purchasing of 100 garbage trucks for the country, but the government is getting back on track, with 50 of the 100 trucks. […]
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A man who had been listed as most wanted by the St. James police was killed during an alleged confrontation with cops in St. Elizabeth, yesterday (October 5). Dead is Oshane Earle otherwise called, ‘Motumbo’ A statement from the constabulary said Earle was killed during an armed confrontation with members of the Counter […]
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Commissioner of Police, Major General Antony Anderson, has welcomed the gift of 6 marine vessels from the Japanese government. The commissioner says the vessels will aid the marine police in securing the country’s borders. He was speaking yesterday at the handing over of one of the vessels, a rubber hull inflatable boat. […]
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Charges have been laid against a bus conductor in the case of 5-year-old Denique Salmon, who was shot and killed as she slept in her bed nearly a year ago. Police had reported that gunmen from warring factions were trading bullets in New Haven, Kingston. Charged with murder, conspiracy to murder and illegal […]
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The long-awaited legislation relating to bail was tabled in the lower house today (October 5) by Minister of Legal and Constitutional Affairs Marlene Malahoo Forte. The minister noted that the new act has several features aimed at creating a balance between individual freedom and public safety. Mrs. Malahoo Forte noted that the […]
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Come tomorrow, demolition will begin on several illegal structures that were constructed in a section of Bernard lodge, next to the Clifton community, in St. Catherine. Prime Minister Andrew Holness told parliament today that unfinished buildings will be taken down first, while the government discusses options with occupants of the completed buildings. […]
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Jamaica has earned US $5.7 billion since re-opening its borders to tourists in June 2020. That’s according to the Minister of Tourism, Edmund Bartlett who made the announcement at the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association’s travel marketplace, in San Juan, Puerto Rico, recently. He said the phenomenal earnings and arrival figures are a […]
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The seventeen-year-old Kingston Technical High school student involved in last Thursday’s stabbing death of her schoolmate has been charged. The teen was charged with the murder of 17-year-old Michion Campbell, following a question and answer session, yesterday. The accused girl is expected to appear in court later this week. Police reports are […]
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The bail hearing for Constable Noel Maitland who is charged with the murder of his girlfriend social media influencer Donna-Lee Donaldson is set for today (October 4) in the Home Circuit Court. The accused has been in custody since his arrest on July 27. While setting the date last month, the presiding judge […]
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Prime Minister Andrew Holness says a plan is being worked on to address the problem of improper waste disposal, as part of efforts to reduce instances of waste contributing to blocked drainage systems. He says the government is also aware of the challenges with inadequate drain infrastructure, to handle large volumes of flood water, […]
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The Education Ministry will be conducting an assessment of students’ access to e-books, later in the academic year. Portfolio Minister Fayval Williams said the ministry wants to evaluate how students are doing with the e-books so that a decision can be taken on how to proceed. Cabinet recently awarded a contract to provide […]
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With the new school year on the horizon, Education Minister Fayval Williams is urging parents to avoid reinforcing negative behaviour in their children and to ensure their children obey school rules. Mrs Williams made the call while speaking at the North Street Seventh Day Adventist church, yesterday (August 3). She expressed concern about […]
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The Clarendon police have listed 5 men as wanted in relation to investigations of various crimes, including robbery, shooting, and murder. First on the list is 20-year-old Romaine Murray, otherwise known as ‘John Tom’, whose last known address is Comfort district, Osbourne Store. Murray is wanted for wounding with intent. He is […]
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There is mounting pressure from stakeholders for Labour Minister Karl Samuda to address alleged poor working conditions and bad treatment being faced by Jamaicans on the Canadian farm work programme. The Minister was slated to host a press conference today (Sept. 1), to update the nation on the work of the ministry and […]
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The Jamaica Customs Agency (JCA) is reporting that measures put in place in recent years to stem corruption are yielding results JCA Commissioner Velma Ricketts Walker says anti-corruption initiatives remain at the forefront of the agency’s operations, and that the agency stands ready to fight against illicit activities. She notes that new […]
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There will be mixed movements in the prices of products supplied by Petrojam effective today. For the second consecutive week, the prices of 87 and 90 gasoline are going down by $4.50 per litre. However, there will be increases in the cost of all other products. Both diesel and ultra-low sulphur diesel are […]
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Members of the transport sector say they are ready for the new academic year, despite the many issues plaguing the sector. The new school year starts next Monday, September 5. IRIE FM News spoke to members of the transport sector who say they are prepared for the turnout of the nation’s teachers, […]
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Minister of Local Government, Desmond Mckenzie, is offering a reward of half a million dollars for information, that can help in the arrest of those responsible for the killing of a homeless man in Kingston, yesterday (August 29). Dead is Lionel Johnson. Reports are that at around 1 AM, lawmen found Mr. Johnson, on […]
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The National Works Agency (NWA) is monitoring sections of Lucea in Hanover, after heavy rainfall resulted in major flooding in sections of the town, yesterday (August 29). Videos circulating on social media show motorists and commuters trying to navigate the flooded roadways. Among the affected roads were Cash Hill to Mount peace, and […]
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Opposition Spokesman on Health, Dr. Morais Guy says the confirmation of a third locally transmitted case of monkeypox, shows that there are some cases in the population that remain undetected. Yesterday, the Health Ministry revealed that Jamaica recorded a fifth monkeypox case, last week. It said the patient is a male from Kingston and […]
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The bodies of brothers, Tavaris and Tavaughn Bulgin have been released to their parents. The brothers died after jumping off the Jaws Bridge, in Martha’s Vineyard, USA. Relatives from Clarendon had travelled to the US to formally identify the bodies and make arrangements to bring them back to Jamaica. Spokesperson for the […]
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The Kingston Western police are seeking two suspects who were involved in the abduction of a taxi operator and the rape of a female passenger. One of the suspects has been identified by the alias “Skinny Man”. Commanding Officer for the Kingston Western police division, Senior Superintendent Michael Phipps, told IRIE FM News […]
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The body of a young girl who was carried away by a river in Jobs Hill, St. Mary, was found this morning. A second child who was also washed away is still missing. According to police reports, the two children, aged 10 and 14, are related. They allegedly went to the river, […]
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There will be mixed movements in the prices of products supplied by Petrojam effective tomorrow (August 25). Petrojam says 87 and 90 Gasoline will go down by $4.50 per litre, however, there will be increases in the cost of all other products. Both Diesel and Ultra Low Sulphur Diesel are to increase by […]
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The National Environment and Planning Agency (NEPA) says there is no evidence that there was another chemical spill from bauxite company Windalco into the Rio Cobre in St. Catherine. This, after concern was raised of a possible pollution incident at a section of the river, this morning. NEPA says at approximately 8 AM, […]
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Prime Minister Andrew Holness has defended the National Housing Trust’s (NHT) decision to tie its subsidies to the income of beneficiaries. This, after the Opposition, expressed concern about the removal of subsidies for disabled people and some civil servants. The NHT has indicated that under its new policy, income is the sole determinant […]
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Head of the Public Safety & Traffic Enforcement Branch, Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Gary Mckenzie, is once again pleading with the public to be vigilant while traversing the roadways. He was reacting to this morning’s accident on the Bustamante highway which left one person dead and several others injured. The deceased has […]
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Member of Parliament for South East St. Andrew, Julian Robinson says students who come from poor households will suffer the most if the issue of teacher migration is not addressed. Speaking at a divisional conference, in South East St. Andrew yesterday, Mr. Robinson called the migration of the nation’s educators, a crisis. He […]
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The Education Ministry is reporting that 167 teachers have left the classroom since July of this year. Education Minister Fayval Williams made the disclosure while speaking at a press conference this morning (August 22). She said she does not know how many of the teachers who have resigned have migrated. Her comment […]
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Opposition Spokesman on Education, Damion Crawford is calling on the government to engage its stakeholders to negotiate a more impactful sixth form pathways programme. Speaking at a press conference yesterday, Mr Crawford said the programme, in its current format, is not working. Mr Crawford said the opposition is concerned about the poor and […]
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The Private Sector Organisation of Jamaica (PSOJ) is imploring corporations that generate waste, to pay close attention to the discharge of effluent and the general management of wastewater. Chair of the PSOJ’s Energy, Environment, and Climate Change committee, Eleanor Jones says the group is deeply concerned about the recent contamination of the Rio Cobre […]
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A Jamaican man is dead and his brother is missing, after jumping from a bridge in Martha’s Vineyard, in Massachusetts, in the United States, yesterday. The brothers were in the US on the summer work and travel programme. The body of Tavaris Bulgin was found around 9 this morning, however, his brother Tavaughn […]
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There are mixed feelings among residents of South East St. Ann following the announcement by Member of Parliament Lisa Hanna that she will be leaving representational politics. Miss Hanna announced her intention to leave politics after serving for over a decade. She will leave at the end of the current term and as such […]
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There will be a major reduction in the prices of most products supplied by Petrojam come tomorrow (August 11, 2022). Petrojam notes that 87 and 90 gasoline and Automotive Diesel Oil are all going down by $4.50 per litre. Propane LPG goes down by $2.53 cents per litre, while Butane is down by […]
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More than 7,000 people will be employed and more than $2 billion will be spent by the government to undertake Jamaica’s 15th population and housing census. That’s according to Finance Minister Dr. Nigel Clarke. Speaking at the launch of the national census this morning (August 10), Dr. Clarke noted that the Statistical Institute […]
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Jamaica has confirmed its second locally transmitted monkeypox case. This pushes the total number of cases confirmed by the Ministry of Health to 4. The Ministry says the new patient, who is from St. James, is isolated at home and that the parish health department has commenced contact tracing. It said the patient has […]
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The first locally acquired monkeypox case has been confirmed in Jamaica. This brings to three, the number of monkeypox cases recorded on the island. The health ministry explains that the patient had no recent travel history and has not been linked to the two previous cases. The patient is in isolation […]
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The National Environment and Planning Agency (NEPA) will be serving UC Rusal/Windalco with a notice of intention to suspend its environmental permits and licences over the latest effluent spill, in the Rio Cobre, in St. Catherine. The announcement was made by Chief Executive Officer at NEPA, Peter Knight, during a virtual press conference this […]
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The police are theorizing that missing social media influencer, Donna Lee Donaldson, was killed on July 12. Her boyfriend, police constable Noel Maitland, who was arrested in the case last week, was charged with her murder this afternoon (August 2). Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Fitz Bailey gave an update on the case […]
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The recent cruise industry recruitment exercise, which began on July 8, has resulted in the employment of over 3,600 Jamaicans so far. Tourism minister Edmund Bartlett made the announcement in parliament, on Tuesday. Mr. Bartlett said the aim is to have over 5,000 Jamaicans employed from this current recruitment session. He […]
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Noel Maitland, the police constable linked to the case of missing influencer Donna Lee Donaldson, has been taken into custody. Additionally, police are indicating that there is currently no evidence linking district constable Kathy-Ann Smith, to the disappearance of Donaldson. Miss Donaldson went missing on July 11. In giving the update last […]
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Opposition Spokesman on Energy, Phillip Paulwell, says the recent reduction in import duties on electric vehicles does not take into consideration ordinary citizens. On Tuesday, the lower house approved an order, brought by the finance minister, to further reduce the import duty on electric vehicles, from 30% to 10%. The house also approved […]
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The security forces seized a combined total of over 10 million JMD in cash from one of the target premises in St. Andrew, during the joint multi-agency anti-narcotics operation in St. Andrew and St. James today. Police say the sums seized consisted of US $40,000, Canadian $29, 000 and Jamaican $537, 000. Six […]
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The female District Constable at the centre of the probe into the disappearance of influencer Donna-Lee Donaldson has retained attorney-at-law, Oswest Senior Smith to represent her. The female cop has come under public scrutiny, following allegations that she may be involved in the disappearance of Donaldson, who went missing on July 11. Mr. […]
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Discussions are ongoing between the police and the Ministry of Health to determine what actions are to be taken against the monkeypox patient who left isolation at the May Pen Hospital, in Clarendon yesterday. He has since been returned to the facility after reportedly going to a relative’s house in the parish. Head […]
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The police reported at least five murders across the country on Saturday. In the first incident, one man was killed in Sandy Park, St. Andrew, while 5 people were wounded in the same incident. The deceased is 26-year-old Ishmael Sicard, a construction worker. It’s reported that Sicard and the others were at a […]
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Prime Minister Andrew Holness has expressed sadness at the passing of Councillor for the Knockpatrick division in the Manchester Municipal Corporation, Cleon Francis. Mr. Francis died at the hospital today (July 8) after ailing for several weeks. The Prime Minister said Councillor Francis was a brave, loyal and fearless representative. He was […]
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Education Minister Fayval Williams says 87% of students who sat the Primary Exit Profile (PEP) examination this year, have been placed in one of seven schools of their choice. Speaking during a press conference this morning (July 8), Mrs. Williams noted that 35, 292 students sat the examinations. This means 30, 778 students […]
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The Custos of St. Andrew is to launch a full investigation into the conduct of Justices of the Peace, who were seen in a viral video with murder accused Rushane Barnett. In a release, the Justice Ministry said the matter will be fully investigated, under the auspice of the relevant Custos, and if the […]
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Prime Minister Andrew Holness has chastised the opposition for engaging in what he calls political one-upmanship, in a bid to take advantage of the country’s economic situation and the frustration of citizens. His comments come in the wake of calls from the opposition to remove the tax on fuel, as part of measures to […]
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Hundreds of people gathered last night at the home of the family brutally killed in Clarendon, as they sought solace in prayer, song, and fellowship, during a candlelight vigil. Relatives of the slain woman and her 4 children were among those gathered, taking comfort in the support of other residents of the Chapelton community, […]
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Jamaica’s COVID-19 hospitalizations have fallen below 100. The health ministry says hospitalizations have decreased from 114 to 97. Of those hospitalized, 29 are moderately ill, 9 are severely ill and 3 are critically ill. Meanwhile, 115 new COVID-19 cases were recorded yesterday. They consist of 73 females and 42 males, ranging in age […]
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Two men were killed in a motor vehicle collision along the Rose Hall main road in St. James early this morning (June 25). Their identities have not yet been released. Reports from the constabulary are that at about 1 AM, a red Toyota Corolla motor car was being driven from Falmouth towards Montego […]
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A minor is among seven people taken into custody, following a joint police-military operation in Great Pond, St. Ann today. During the operation, which occurred between 5 and 9 AM, several homes at the Great Pond Estate were searched. Three BMW motorcars, one Mark X, and one Toyota Crown were seized. In addition, 10 […]
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“Someone has to be held accountable for this grievous mistake.” That assurance came from National Security Minister Dr. Horace Chang as he addressed the special sitting of the lower house today when the correct regulations for the State of Emergency (SOE) for St. Catherine were tabled. Today’s special sitting was called after the minister […]
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National Security Minister Dr. Horace Chang has assured that the security forces, and by extension the government, are making some gains in the fight against crime, be it gang-related, or family-oriented. The minister noted that based on the latest figures from the constabulary force, there has been a decrease in criminal activity so far […]
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The man listed as a Person of Interest, in relation to the murders of a Clarendon woman and her 4 children, is now in police custody. Twenty-three-year-old Rushane Barnett, otherwise called ‘Jett’ or ‘Nick’, was held by the police in Wilson Run, Warsop, Trelawny, last evening (June 21). Police believe Barnett can assist […]
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The St. Catherine police continue to reap success from the recently declared State of Emergency (SOE). The SOE was declared on Friday (June 17), following a flare-up of violence in sections of the parish. Superintendent of police attached to the St. Catherine South division, Hopton Nicholson in giving an update, said as at […]
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All remaining defendants in the Clansman-One Don gang trial will have to answer to the charge of being a member of a criminal organization, despite being freed on eight other charges in their 19-count indictment. Chief Justice Bryan Sykes made rulings, on the no-case submissions brought on behalf of several defendants, this morning. […]
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Jamaica continues to see a decline in new COVID-19 cases. This, as 88 more people tested positive for the virus, pushing the case count to 141, 720. Of the new cases, 54 are females and 34 are males. They range in age from 27 days to 97 years. The positivity rate has also declined […]
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Some school principals in Spanish Town, St. Catherine are reporting that student and staff turnout has improved greatly, when compared to last week, amid a recent upsurge in crime and violence. A state of public emergency has been implemented in the parish in response to the violence. School administrators have been trying to […]
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Director of the Meteorological Services of Jamaica, Evan Thompson says research is being conducted to determine if the Atlantic Hurricane Season needs to be extended, beyond the current six months. The hurricane season officially commenced on June 1 and will continue until November 30. Citing the development of storm systems outside of the […]
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The Independent Commission of Investigations (INDECOM), is probing the fatal shooting of a man, in St. Mary, yesterday (June 15). Dead is 42-year-old Marlon Bell. Reports are that 3 police officers, acting on information, went to a premises in Crab Hall, Annotto Bay, and during an exchange of gunfire, Bell was shot and […]
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Prime Minister Andrew Holness has expressed concern that record-high gas prices could impact Jamaica’s tourist arrivals in the coming months. Speaking at the 2022 Summit of the Americas in the United States yesterday (June 9), Mr. Holness noted that in the short term, global travel will be another area of increased concern. He […]
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A St. Mary man accused of stealing electricity, died after being electrocuted in the Richmond community, yesterday ( June 8 ). Head of the St. Mary police division, Superintendent Bobette Morgan Simpson said the man’s identity is being withheld, until formal notification of relatives. The incident occurred about 6 PM. Meantime, the Jamaica […]
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The government has expressed hope that construction of the Marcus Garvey Museum, at the site of his childhood home in St. Ann, will begin this year. The project has been in limbo for several years as the government continues to negotiate with one remaining occupant of the property. Two of the 3 sisters, […]
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The prices for all but one of the products supplied by Petrojam are seeing an increase, effective today (June 9). Five of them cost $4.50 more, per litre. These are E10 87 and 90 Gasoline, Automotive Diesel Oil, Ultra-low Sulphur Diesel, and Kerosene. As for cooking gas, a litre of Propane LPG now […]
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Police are investigating a hit-and-run collision along the Rose Hall main road in St. James, today (June 6), which resulted in the death of a woman. Dead is 46-year-old Angella Summerville-Palmer, of Flower Hill, St. James. Reports from the Coral Gardens police are that at about 2:30 AM, Summerville-Palmer was along the roadway, […]
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More than 90 pounds of marijuana was seized by the marine police near the Kingston wharves, in Downtown Kingston, yesterday (June 5). Two men who were allegedly seen preparing the marijuana for export were taken into custody. Reports are that at about 11:30 PM, police were patrolling the area when the men were […]
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Students and staff at the Discovery Bay All-Age and Infant school, in St. Ann, are in a sombre mood this morning, as they mourn the loss of one of their members. Delores McFarlane, a teacher at the institution passed away at the weekend. Speaking during an IRIE FM interview at the school this […]
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The Portland police have been plunged into mourning, following the death of a District Constable in a car crash last evening. Twenty-five-year-old Romar Steele died in an accident in Orange Bay, Portland. Reports are that he crashed into a utility pole and was removed from the vehicle with the assistance of firefighters. He […]
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Police are investigating the stabbing death of a twenty-year-old man in brown’s town, St. Ann, early this morning. He has been identified as Qwon Campbell, a mechanic, of Enfield in the parish. Reports from the police are that at about 1: 45 AM, Campbell got into an argument with his girlfriend, when another […]
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Three men were killed in a motor vehicle crash along the northern coastal highway, in Mosquito Cove, Hanover this afternoon (June 5), after they allegedly tried to evade police officers conducting spot checks in the area. Five other people, including four tourists, who were injured in the crash, are receiving medical treatment. Head […]
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Motorists are seeing another price hike for gas at the pumps, effective today (May 19, 2022). This, as Petrojam announced an increase of $4.50 cents a litre, for both E10 87 and 90 gasoline. All other products supplied by Petrojam are seeing a cost reduction. Its costs $0.25 less for a litre […]
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President of the Medical Association of Jamaica, Dr. Brian James, has pointed out that Jamaica’s COVID-19 death rate is higher than the rest of the world. Dr. James said with the country now in the 5th covid wave, medical workers are concerned about the impact on health services. He noted that the 5th […]
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The Ministry of Health and Wellness recorded 276 new COVID-19 cases yesterday (May 12). This has increased the country’s positivity rate from 15.6% to 28.2%. The new cases consist of 168 females and 108 males, ranging in age from 10 months to 89 years. St. James had the most cases with 58, followed […]
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A day after Prime Minister Andrew Holness urged workers and their unions to be reasonable as they press for better wages, another public sector grouping has taken industrial action. Dozens of disgruntled workers employed by the National Housing Trust (NHT) walked off the job this morning. The non-management workers are staging a protest […]
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Residents of Victoria Town in southern Manchester have blocked a section of the main road in the area, in protest over yesterday’s mob killing of a man in Mandeville. The deceased has been identified as Chieften Campbell. Councillor for the Porus division, Claudia Morant-Baker, said residents are upset about the killing, which they […]
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The Opposition is calling on the government to implement measures aimed at addressing the concerns of farmers, such as lack of access to capital, praedial larceny, and the high costs of production inputs. Member of Parliament for St Andrew South Eastern, Julian Robinson made the call during a meeting with farmers in Guys Hill, […]
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The Portland police have charged the security guard, held in relation to an explosion, at the Bank of Nova Scotia’s Port Antonio branch, last month. Thirty-one-year-old Calvin Hill, of Pleasant Hill, was charged with arson, housebreaking, and creating public mischief. Reports are that on April 23, the explosion, and subsequent fire, destroyed two Automated […]
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National Security Minister Dr. Horace Chang says he expects the Jamaica Defence Force’s internal review mechanism, will be used to address issues, relating to members assigned to the Zone of Special Operations (ZOSO) in Denham Town, Kingston. The Minister’s statement comes in the wake of several confrontations between JDF soldiers and residents, videos of […]
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With rescue teams still searching for an elderly woman who was washed away in floodwaters in Montego Bay, St. James yesterday, the issue of the improper drainage system in the tourism capital, has again come to the fore. Speaking with IRIE FM News, Opposition Spokesperson on Tourism, Senator Janice Allen lamented the death of […]
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Prime Minister Andrew Holness says Jamaica is facing a shortage of skilled workers and could be forced to import labour if the gap is not closed. Speaking at the ground-breaking for the Riu Aquarelle hotel in Trelawny, Prime Minister Holness noted that the labour shortage is particularly acute in the construction sector. He […]
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Tension remains high on Charles Street, in downtown Kingston, where a man was fatally shot by a member of the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) last evening. The deceased has been identified as 32-year-old Oraine Glenn of Charles Street, Kingston 14. Police say Glenn was fatally shot during a confrontation. Preliminary reports are […]
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A 37-year-old American man was arrested and charged with illegal possession of ammunition following an incident at the Sangster International Airport yesterday (Apr. 16). Charged is St. Lowrie Williams of Ohio, Missouri, in the United States. Reports are that at about 1:08 PM, Williams was in the process of boarding a flight home […]
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The St. Ann police have indicated that measures will be put in place to prevent a recurrence of the traffic gridlock that occurred in and around Ocho Rios yesterday. It’s reported that at least 3 additional lanes of traffic were created by motorists, in the vicinity of the toll exit in Mammee Bay. […]
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The Jamaica Fire Brigade is calling on motorists to be careful on the roads throughout the Easter break. This, as the country, continues to see a high number of road fatalities. Since the start of the year, 130 people have died on the nation’s roads. Speaking to Irie FM News this morning, Acting […]
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Four people were taken into police custody following the seizure of an illegal firearm and several rounds of ammunition in Snow Hill, Portland, this morning (April 15). Head of the Portland police Superintendent Kenneth Chin said the seizure occurred during a targeted raid. He noted that three illegal firearms have been seized in […]
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Jamaica and Rwanda have signed two Memoranda of Understanding in the areas of political consultation and tourism. The MOUs are aimed at formalizing joint activities and engagement between the two countries. Prime Minister Andrew Holness made the announcement during a joint address with Rwandan president Paul Kagame. President Kagame is on a […]
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The St. Ann police have restored access to the main roads from Brown’s Town to Runaway Bay and Discovery Bay, which were blocked in several sections by residents early this morning. Police say they received reports about the roadblocks from about 3 AM. The residents were reportedly protesting against poor road conditions. Head […]
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Local children’s lobby group ‘Hear the Children’s Cry’ has forged a partnership with the operators of the video-sharing app TikTok aimed at protecting against exploitative child content. The move follows increasing national concern about inappropriate and exploitative content of children on digital platforms. This is the first partnership of its kind in Jamaica […]
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Petrojam has announced an increase in the prices of some petroleum products supplied by the refinery. The price of 87 and 90 gasoline will increase by $3.06 per litre. Automotive diesel oil, ultra-low sulphur diesel and kerosene will move up by $4.50 cents a litre. However, there will be a reduction in […]
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Police have taken a suspect into custody in relation to the shooting death of a Papine High School student in Liguanea, this morning (Mar.23). The student’s identity has not yet been released by the police. Head of the St. Andrew Central police, Senior Superintendent Marlon Nesbeth, says the shooting incident occurred around 11: […]
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Prime Minister Andrew Holness has again made it clear, that the government intends to follow through on the wishes of the populace, and eventually cut ties with Britain. He told the visiting royals, during a courtesy call at Jamaica House today, that Jamaica is moving on, and intends to fulfill ambitions as an independent, […]
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Three men were shot, two of them fatally, in Highgate, Westmoreland, last night. Dead are 22-year-old Nicholas Warlock and 35-year-old Soniel Leslie of Highgate district in Westmoreland. Reports from the Savana-la-mar police are that about 10:10 PM, Warlock, Leslie, and another man were inside a shop when they were pounced upon by a […]
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A major backlog in surgical procedures has developed at the nation’s public hospitals. The situation developed due in part to the suspension of some surgeries as a result of issues caused by COVID-19. President of the Medical Association of Jamaica, Dr. Brian James explains that despite the resumption of general operations at hospitals, […]
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The Hanover police will be ramping up operations in the Green Island community following a shooting incident last night, which left 3 men dead and 4 others wounded. Dead are 44-year-old Omar Mahabee, 55-year-old Michael Smith, and 37-year-old Mark Austin of Green Island, in Hanover. Four other men remain hospitalized. Speaking with […]
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The parliamentarians who attended the album launch party of a popular dance hall artiste, recently, will each have to fork out $100,000 in fines, for not adhering to the COVID-19 measures. Prime Minister Andrew Holness made the announcement today (Mar. 17) while addressing the lower house. The fines come in the wake of […]
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Effective tomorrow, the orders and COVID-19 containment measures, under the disaster risk management act (DRMA) will be withdrawn. However, some of the existing COVID-19 prevention measures will remain in effect, under the public health act. The announcement was made today by Prime Minister Andrew Holness, in his presentation to parliament. He […]
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Jamaica has seen another record weekend of stopover visitor arrivals, with close to 35,000 visitors, arriving between Thursday, March 10 and Sunday, March 13. This number tops the combined 30,000 arrivals, the previous weekend. Reacting to the numbers, Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett said Jamaica continues to be the destination of choice, in the […]
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The Agriculture Ministry says it will be presenting a proposal to the Finance Ministry, for the consideration of the removal of duties on imported items necessary, for agricultural production. This, as the costs of fertilizer and feed, continue to increase, due to supply chain disruptions caused by the pandemic and the crisis in Ukraine. […]
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The Health Ministry has reported two new COVID-19 related deaths. They are a 65-year-old male from Westmoreland who died last year, and a 94-year old female from St. Catherine who died this month. Meanwhile, 45 people tested positive for COVID-19. They consist of 19 males and 26 females, ranging in age from 2 […]
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Health Minister Dr. Christopher Tufton said it’s anticipated that more public sector health workers will leave for better-paying jobs overseas. He disclosed that since the pandemic began 2 years ago, more than 700 nurses have left for work in other countries. The Health Minister was giving an update to parliament, yesterday March 10, […]
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Opposition Spokesman on Finance Julian Robinson has cautioned the government against divesting its 20% stake in the Jamaica Public Service (JPS). In his budget debate contribution yesterday Mr. Robinson noted that, with the current global energy crisis, it’s crucial that government remains a shareholder to mitigate the impact on citizens. Mr. […]
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As customers brace for an increase in animal feed prices come Monday, the need for the country to find a local substitute, to supply the nation’s farmers, has again come to the fore. In a social media post yesterday, feed supplier, Nutramix, announced, that due to the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, coupled […]
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The Education Ministry reported a high level of enthusiasm among students and teachers as full face-to-face classes resumed today (March 7, 2022). The resumption of classes at some early childhood, primary and secondary schools, follows a prolonged closure and the engagement of students via different modalities due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Education Minister, […]
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Despite the challenges associated with the COVID-19 pandemic, the University of the West Indies Mona campus says it saw an increase in the number of students graduating from the institution last year. Speaking at a campus council meeting this morning, Principal Professor Dale Webber noted that all faculties saw an increase in students graduating. […]
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With schools resuming full face-to-face classes today, some parents and guardians have expressed relief that their children are back in the classroom. Classes were suspended in March 2020, due to COVID-19, and a blended format taken on by schools months later. Deslin Parker, who accompanied her grandson to the Kendal Primary school in […]
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Health Minister Dr. Christopher Tufton says the lessons learnt throughout the COVID-19 pandemic have prepared the country for the resumption of face-to-face classes. Schools are slated to resume full face-to-face sessions tomorrow. Speaking at the Ministry of Education’s virtual town-hall meeting this weekend, Dr. Tufton said he is very supportive of the re-opening […]
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The National Environment and Planning Agency (NEPA) has issued two environmental permits to Noranda Jamaica Bauxite partners for the mining of over 1,300 hectares of land in St. Ann. The permits were issued to Noranda on February 7. In a release today, NEPA confirms that the permits are for a limited geographical area […]
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Business owners affected by recent flood rains, who do not have insurance, are to get special assistance from the government. The pledge was made by Local Government Minister Desmond Mckenzie, as he toured affected areas of St. Ann, St. Mary, and Portland, today (Feb.9). Mr. Mckenzie said teams from the ministry, along with […]
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Jamaica today received more than half a million doses of Pfizer COVID-19 vaccines. The 649,000 doses were donated by France, through the COVAX facility. The shipment arrived on the island, this afternoon (Feb.7). The Health Ministry has expressed gratitude for the donation. Meantime, the ministry says over 1.3 million doses of […]
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Eight men were arrested in relation to an illegal bottling operation with counterfeit liquor, on Old Harbour Road in St. Catherine, this morning (Feb.7). Reports are that between 5:00 and 8:30 AM, a joint police/military team entered a premises where they uncovered the illegal operation. The team reportedly discovered hundreds of bottles, labels […]
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Residents of Port Maria in St. Mary continue to clean up their homes, which were devastated by floodwaters, last Tuesday. While the waters have receded, many families are left to pick up the pieces of their lives not washed away during the heavy rain. Many need help and are looking to the authorities […]
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The Trelawny police say they will be carrying out thorough follow-up operations across the parish today, following the seizure of several illegal guns yesterday (Feb.3). Thirteen firearms, along with a number of lead sheets, were seized at a Florence Hall dwelling. One woman was also taken into custody. Speaking with Irie FM […]
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A man and his wife were stabbed to death and their son has been taken into police custody. The incident occurred in Christian Meadows, St. Catherine this morning. The deceased are 69-year-old Cecil Ramsey, a minister of religion, and 55-year-old Phyliss Ramsey, an acting vice-principal of a preparatory school, both of Christian Meadows. […]
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A 63-year-old woman of Wakefield, St. Catherine was chopped to death at her home early this morning. She has been identified as Murdeline Sullivan, of Buxton Town, in Wakefield. Reports from the Linstead police are that about 1:00 AM, Murdeline and her husband were sleeping when they heard a sound outside and her […]
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The St. James police have charged a suspected serial rapist who was nabbed in the parish last week. He is 24-year-old Odane Jackson of Norwood, St. James. Jackson has been charged with assault at common law, assaulting a female, two counts of rape, two counts of robbery with aggravation and buggery. The […]
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The B.B. Coke High school in St. Elizabeth has been plunged into mourning following the death of one of its teachers, yesterday. Dead is 59-year-old Garfield Dennis, a construction teacher at the institution. Dennis was allegedly found hanging from the ceiling of a woodwork shop located at his home in Malvern, by police. […]
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