JAMA-US POLITICS:
VISAS, EXTRADITION REQUEST & TIVOLI INCURSION
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Jama-US Politics:
Visas, Extradition Request & Tivoli Incursion
April 9, 2011 at 11:39pm
January 17, 2001
"This Administration has not condoned nor will ever condone, extrajudicial killings."
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Paul Robertson, in a letter to Amnesty International, 17 January 2001.
http://www.amnesty-caribbean.org/Jamaica/AMR3800101/bericht.htm
April 2, 2010
Email to Melissa in Congressman Thompson's office (see graphic)
April 5, 2010
Cancelled US visas for Sizzla, Beenie, Bounty, Mavado, Aidonia — Who next?
The artistes had both their work permits and the visitor's visa revoked and the fact is that most artistes use the US as a hub. Without a visitor's visa they are now unable to use Miami as a connection port into other parts of the world. Artistes, like it or not, also have entourages and numerous persons to take care of. These artistes are among the top earners and shutting them down will certainly affect more than just them and their immediate families.
As the summer approaches, the next couple of month is usually their busiest periods as they travel to festival all across the US to earn their living. Many are asking why and why now? It is felt that the stand-off between Washington and Kingston is playing a role in this unfolding saga. Interestingly, both Beenie Man and Bounty Killer had a show in Orlando, Florida, on Saturday and their absence, according to informed sources, was a big blow to the promoter. It was to be the first time that the two would have performed on the same stage in Orlando.
http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/entertainment/musings-visa-revoke-for-artistes_7521536#ixzz1J64vZrhP
April 13, 2010
Beenie Man - Visa Song {APRIL 2010}
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=se3eBoJwwcw
April 17, 2010 (email to attorney friend of mine qualified to the U.S. Supreme Court)
Dear Jim:
Politics all around in this industry. A couple weeks ago, the U.S. cancelled 8 visas for 5 headlining artists. The word on the street in Jamaica was that the U.S. was going to take more visas the following morning (Friday). The general belief was that the U.S. wanted to put pressure on Jamaica for their lack of response to Dudus (coke king) extradition request. Our justification for the visa revocation was not my concern. The fact that the U.S. could decimate the Jamaican Reggae industry in a matter of days, undermining the primary source of income for a small (300 artists), starving industry is my concern. Rastafari culture is too small and fragile to be drawn into political power struggles.
I've attached a copy of my facebook page I shared with over 1000 friends, many in Jamaica, so they could understand how to stop the political machine. Congressman Thompson's aide (Brad Onorato) and I have long-term good working relationship. We met when I introduced PTA to Lake County. He is aware of my facebook. When I called the Congressman's office, I was connected directly to visa support staff. They needed to know if the cancelled visas were for my artists. They were not. While we on the phone, they offered to help...
May 17, 2010
Jamaica to sign Dudus extradition request
PM not resigning, promises more action against crime
http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/news/Jamaica-to-sign-Dudus-extradition-request
May 19, 2010
Tivoli Gardens Home of Dudus Coke Turning into a Ghetto war zone
http://www.overthelimitentertainment.com/profiles/blogs/51910-tivoli-gardens-home-of?xg_source=activity
May 21, 2010
'Remove roadblocks, hand over Dudus' - beg police
http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/news/-Remove-roadblocks--handover-Dudus----beg-police
May 21, 2010
Armoured vehicle goes to bring 'Dudus' out
http://www.tribune242.com/05212010_Undersiege_editorial_pg4
May 21, 2010
Call to Congressman Thompson’s Office…
“Have you heard what’s going on in Jamaica right now as a result of our extradition request?” Tivoli Gardens is under siege and people are standing as human barricades between military tanks and gang road blocks.”
No. We have not heard. Where are you getting your information?
“…from friends in Jamaica. They are sharing local news with me. It’s all over the Internet.”
I’m sorry, but we do not get involved in the sovereign affairs of other nations.
“Nonsense. We got involved in Jamaica’s business when we issued an extradition request.”
(5-min debate about our nation’s responsibility... )
“Looks like politically engineered genocide. We are being irresponsible in our exercise of power.”
What do you want us to do? Withdraw the extradition request?
“Can we? …whatever we can do to help calm the situation… and we must do it now…
A couple hours later, they elevated the travel advisory…
May 22, 2010
In the Tivoli Gardens district of Kingston, the Jamaican capital, news of the decision was akin to pouring hot water in a hornets' nest. By Thursday, barricades, some reinforced with gas cylinders, had gone up around the streets where Coke is known to live and hundreds of residents marched towards parliament demanding that he be left alone.
www.independent.co.uk/news/world/americas/he-is-seen-as-a-saviour-they-are-prepared-to-die-for-him-1979978.html
May 22, 2010
Jamaican drug gangs barricade Kingston.
…the United States warned travelers of possible civil unrest.
http://www.liveleak.com/view?i=f44_1274521124&c=1
May 23, 2010
Army Going Into Tivoli For Dudus
http://snwmf.com/phorum/read.php?1,259133,259302
May 25, 2010
Forces Storm Alleged Drug Lord Christopher "Dudus" Coke's Hideout in Trivoli Gardens, Jamaica
http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-504083_162-20005870-504083.html
May 25, 2010
Troops storm barricades in hunt for drugs baron
Dudus' is a divisive figure in Kingston. Despite his notoriety as a drugs baron, his reputation is part Robin Hood and part Mafia godfather. He enjoys respect not just for ensuring peace in the neighbourhoods he controls, but for creating jobs. In West Kingston, many call him "president".
Typically, the Jamaican senator Tom Tavares Finson, who until recently served as Coke's lawyer, paints a picture of an upright local businessman. "Essentially he has overseen the transformation of a community riddled with criminality and violence into a place where people can make money," Finson told the Jamaica Observer, before standing down as Coke's representative because of a "conflict of interests".
http://www.thefirstpost.co.uk/63754,news-comment,news-politics,jamaicans-barricade-streets-to-stop-christopher-dudus-coke-extradition
May 27, 2010
Another battle in an unwinnable war
The bloody hunt for a gang leader shows that the mafias’ roots in society and politics run deep
http://www.economist.com/node/16219727
May 27, 2010
LIVE images from Tivoli Gardens
http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/news/live-images-from-tivoli
May 29, 2010
500 held, 73 dead...
still no sign of Dudus
http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/features/2992150/Slum-battle-over-Jamaican-drugs-baron-Christopher-Coke.html
May 31, 2010
How Dudus stayed ahead of police
http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/world/us_and_americas/article7140760.ece
June 1, 2010
“Wa gwan family? Is every one ok…?”
(silence…)
“Hello…”
(silence…)
“oh no… I’m on my way… see you soon. Stay strong. Jah guide and protect.”
June 4, 2010
Jamaica: Investigate Killings in Tivoli Gardens
Reports of Unarmed Men Shot by Soldiers
http://www.hrw.org/en/news/2010/06/04/jamaica-investigate-killings-tivoli-gardens
January 2011: Blessed love... ;D. Just back from Africa... little distracted these past six months. How is everything, Jamaica?
January 21, 2011
INDECOM to look into case of missing Tivoli Gardens teenager
http://go-jamaica.com/news/read_article.php?id=25882
February 5, 2011
Jamaica gov’t feared ‘Dudus’ extradition request could topple it – enquiry hears
(Jamaica Observer) A day after the United States requested the extradition of accused drug lord Christopher ‘Dudus’ Coke in 2009, National Security Minister Dwight Nelson is said to have expressed deep fears to then police commissioner Hardley Lewin that the Government could collapse if the request was granted
http://www.stabroeknews.com/2011/news/breaking/02/05/jamaica-gov%E2%80%99t-feared-%E2%80%98dudus%E2%80%99-extradition-request-could-topple-it-%E2%80%93-enquiry-hears/
February 5, 2011
Life and death in the police state of Jamaica: The scandal of the officers who double as state executioners
By JONATHAN GREEN
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/home/moslive/article-1352885/Jamaica-Life-death-police-state-officers-double-executioners.html#ixzz1J65ED2xf
February 17, 2012
Gov't must give INDECOM teeth
http://jamaica-gleaner.com/gleaner/20120217/letters/letters3.html
February 23, 2011
Prime Minister Bruce Golding does not rule out inquiry for Tivoli Gardens deaths
http://www.jis.gov.jm/news/opm-news/26886-prime-minister-bruce-golding-does-not-rule-out-inquiry-for-tivoli-gardens-deaths
April 1, 2011
How did Dudus know about the extradition request?
Golding can’t comment on how don knew about request hours after he got report
http://furiousproduction.com/news/?p=2200
July 4, 2011
Mavado is this afternoon expressing his heartfelt thanks to the United States governing for allowing him to travel to US once again.
http://iriefm.net/index.php/home/ebuzz/7079
July 29, 2011
INDECOM probing last year's police/military incursion in Tivoli Gardens
http://www.rjrnewsonline.com/news/local/indecom-probing-last-years-policemilitary-incursion-tivoli-gardens
August 9, 2011
Dancehall Artists Mavado and Beenie Man to Return to U.S. After Visa Snafu
Musicians' visas were revoked in May 2010, but were recently reinstated
http://www.rollingstone.com/music/news/dancehall-artists-mavado-and-beenie-man-to-return-to-u-s-after-visa-snafu-20110809#ixzz1nRQcF05a
The U.S. Embassy in Kingston gave no reason for revoking the visas, nor did they provide a rationale for their sudden reinstatement.
http://www.rollingstone.com/music/news/dancehall-artists-mavado-and-beenie-man-to-return-to-u-s-after-visa-snafu-20110809#ixzz1nRQPs7KD
September 25, 2011
Bruce Golding and Christopher 'Dudus' Coke
The Golding-Coke saga is one of the most shameful and humiliating in Jamaica's history. For nine months Golding and the JLP Government hijacked the extradition process. This resulted in near social anarchy, immeasurable economic damage and untold embarrassment for Jamaica in the international community.
http://jamaica-gleaner.com/gleaner/20110925/focus/focus6.html
September 25, 2011
Bruce Golding to resign and so should the police commissioner
http://lloyddaguilar.blogspot.com/2011/09/bruce-golding-to-resign-and-so-should.html
December 07, 2011
Over 500 Jamaican soldiers rushed into the teeming Tivoli Gardens neighborhood that day for what became known as Operation Garden Parish, a mission to capture the local mafia don, Christopher “Dudus” Coke. The mission was the result of heavy U.S. pressure:
http://www.wired.com/dangerroom/2011/12/jamaica-massacre/
December 7, 2011
US Plane Monitored Tivoli Operation
An investigative piece to be published in the American magazine, the New Yorker, has revealed that a US spy plane took surveillance imagery of Tivoli Gardens on May 24, 2010 during the incursion into that community. According to the article which is to appear in the magazine on December 12, a Lockheed P-3 Orion, belonging to the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) was flying above Kingston on May 24 "in support of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Jamaican Government".
jamaica-gleaner.com/gleaner/20111207/lead/lead5.html
February 17, 2012
Gov't must give INDECOM teeth
http://jamaica-gleaner.com/gleaner/20120217/letters/letters3.html
May 2, 2013
AN INTERIM report into what Public Defender Earl Witter describes as a "siege" of Tivoli Gardens during a state of emergency in May 2010 has called for a thorough commission of enquiry into activities of the security forces and gunmen.
The report, tabled in Parliament yesterday after missing several deadlines, highlighted that provisional claims for 688 persons who have submitted 1,295 documented complaints are quantified at a little more than $110.8 million.
http://jamaica-gleaner.com/gleaner/20130502/lead/lead1.html
December 1, 2014
Tivoli Enquiry: D'Aguilar Sets Off Commission Chairman"Meanwhile, Chairman Sir David said he would ensure that the enquiry is not abused for ulterior motives."
http://jamaica-gleaner.com/latest/article.php?id=56960
January 29, 2015
US NEEDS TO STEP UP
But we don't know the full story. And we can't know, not unless the United States steps up and does its share.
It was the US, after all, that originally demanded that Christopher Coke be extradited.
The commission should ask the United States for help. First, they should ask for money. Investigations like this are expensive. The United States had a major role in what happened and should have to pay its share. But more importantly, the commission should ask the US government for information.
http://jamaica-gleaner.com/gleaner/20150129/lead/lead3.html
Visas, Extradition Request & Tivoli Incursion
April 9, 2011 at 11:39pm
January 17, 2001
"This Administration has not condoned nor will ever condone, extrajudicial killings."
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Paul Robertson, in a letter to Amnesty International, 17 January 2001.
http://www.amnesty-caribbean.org/Jamaica/AMR3800101/bericht.htm
April 2, 2010
Email to Melissa in Congressman Thompson's office (see graphic)
April 5, 2010
Cancelled US visas for Sizzla, Beenie, Bounty, Mavado, Aidonia — Who next?
The artistes had both their work permits and the visitor's visa revoked and the fact is that most artistes use the US as a hub. Without a visitor's visa they are now unable to use Miami as a connection port into other parts of the world. Artistes, like it or not, also have entourages and numerous persons to take care of. These artistes are among the top earners and shutting them down will certainly affect more than just them and their immediate families.
As the summer approaches, the next couple of month is usually their busiest periods as they travel to festival all across the US to earn their living. Many are asking why and why now? It is felt that the stand-off between Washington and Kingston is playing a role in this unfolding saga. Interestingly, both Beenie Man and Bounty Killer had a show in Orlando, Florida, on Saturday and their absence, according to informed sources, was a big blow to the promoter. It was to be the first time that the two would have performed on the same stage in Orlando.
http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/entertainment/musings-visa-revoke-for-artistes_7521536#ixzz1J64vZrhP
April 13, 2010
Beenie Man - Visa Song {APRIL 2010}
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=se3eBoJwwcw
April 17, 2010 (email to attorney friend of mine qualified to the U.S. Supreme Court)
Dear Jim:
Politics all around in this industry. A couple weeks ago, the U.S. cancelled 8 visas for 5 headlining artists. The word on the street in Jamaica was that the U.S. was going to take more visas the following morning (Friday). The general belief was that the U.S. wanted to put pressure on Jamaica for their lack of response to Dudus (coke king) extradition request. Our justification for the visa revocation was not my concern. The fact that the U.S. could decimate the Jamaican Reggae industry in a matter of days, undermining the primary source of income for a small (300 artists), starving industry is my concern. Rastafari culture is too small and fragile to be drawn into political power struggles.
I've attached a copy of my facebook page I shared with over 1000 friends, many in Jamaica, so they could understand how to stop the political machine. Congressman Thompson's aide (Brad Onorato) and I have long-term good working relationship. We met when I introduced PTA to Lake County. He is aware of my facebook. When I called the Congressman's office, I was connected directly to visa support staff. They needed to know if the cancelled visas were for my artists. They were not. While we on the phone, they offered to help...
May 17, 2010
Jamaica to sign Dudus extradition request
PM not resigning, promises more action against crime
http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/news/Jamaica-to-sign-Dudus-extradition-request
May 19, 2010
Tivoli Gardens Home of Dudus Coke Turning into a Ghetto war zone
http://www.overthelimitentertainment.com/profiles/blogs/51910-tivoli-gardens-home-of?xg_source=activity
May 21, 2010
'Remove roadblocks, hand over Dudus' - beg police
http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/news/-Remove-roadblocks--handover-Dudus----beg-police
May 21, 2010
Armoured vehicle goes to bring 'Dudus' out
http://www.tribune242.com/05212010_Undersiege_editorial_pg4
May 21, 2010
Call to Congressman Thompson’s Office…
“Have you heard what’s going on in Jamaica right now as a result of our extradition request?” Tivoli Gardens is under siege and people are standing as human barricades between military tanks and gang road blocks.”
No. We have not heard. Where are you getting your information?
“…from friends in Jamaica. They are sharing local news with me. It’s all over the Internet.”
I’m sorry, but we do not get involved in the sovereign affairs of other nations.
“Nonsense. We got involved in Jamaica’s business when we issued an extradition request.”
(5-min debate about our nation’s responsibility... )
“Looks like politically engineered genocide. We are being irresponsible in our exercise of power.”
What do you want us to do? Withdraw the extradition request?
“Can we? …whatever we can do to help calm the situation… and we must do it now…
A couple hours later, they elevated the travel advisory…
May 22, 2010
In the Tivoli Gardens district of Kingston, the Jamaican capital, news of the decision was akin to pouring hot water in a hornets' nest. By Thursday, barricades, some reinforced with gas cylinders, had gone up around the streets where Coke is known to live and hundreds of residents marched towards parliament demanding that he be left alone.
www.independent.co.uk/news/world/americas/he-is-seen-as-a-saviour-they-are-prepared-to-die-for-him-1979978.html
May 22, 2010
Jamaican drug gangs barricade Kingston.
…the United States warned travelers of possible civil unrest.
http://www.liveleak.com/view?i=f44_1274521124&c=1
May 23, 2010
Army Going Into Tivoli For Dudus
http://snwmf.com/phorum/read.php?1,259133,259302
May 25, 2010
Forces Storm Alleged Drug Lord Christopher "Dudus" Coke's Hideout in Trivoli Gardens, Jamaica
http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-504083_162-20005870-504083.html
May 25, 2010
Troops storm barricades in hunt for drugs baron
Dudus' is a divisive figure in Kingston. Despite his notoriety as a drugs baron, his reputation is part Robin Hood and part Mafia godfather. He enjoys respect not just for ensuring peace in the neighbourhoods he controls, but for creating jobs. In West Kingston, many call him "president".
Typically, the Jamaican senator Tom Tavares Finson, who until recently served as Coke's lawyer, paints a picture of an upright local businessman. "Essentially he has overseen the transformation of a community riddled with criminality and violence into a place where people can make money," Finson told the Jamaica Observer, before standing down as Coke's representative because of a "conflict of interests".
http://www.thefirstpost.co.uk/63754,news-comment,news-politics,jamaicans-barricade-streets-to-stop-christopher-dudus-coke-extradition
May 27, 2010
Another battle in an unwinnable war
The bloody hunt for a gang leader shows that the mafias’ roots in society and politics run deep
http://www.economist.com/node/16219727
May 27, 2010
LIVE images from Tivoli Gardens
http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/news/live-images-from-tivoli
May 29, 2010
500 held, 73 dead...
still no sign of Dudus
http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/features/2992150/Slum-battle-over-Jamaican-drugs-baron-Christopher-Coke.html
May 31, 2010
How Dudus stayed ahead of police
http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/world/us_and_americas/article7140760.ece
June 1, 2010
“Wa gwan family? Is every one ok…?”
(silence…)
“Hello…”
(silence…)
“oh no… I’m on my way… see you soon. Stay strong. Jah guide and protect.”
June 4, 2010
Jamaica: Investigate Killings in Tivoli Gardens
Reports of Unarmed Men Shot by Soldiers
http://www.hrw.org/en/news/2010/06/04/jamaica-investigate-killings-tivoli-gardens
January 2011: Blessed love... ;D. Just back from Africa... little distracted these past six months. How is everything, Jamaica?
January 21, 2011
INDECOM to look into case of missing Tivoli Gardens teenager
http://go-jamaica.com/news/read_article.php?id=25882
February 5, 2011
Jamaica gov’t feared ‘Dudus’ extradition request could topple it – enquiry hears
(Jamaica Observer) A day after the United States requested the extradition of accused drug lord Christopher ‘Dudus’ Coke in 2009, National Security Minister Dwight Nelson is said to have expressed deep fears to then police commissioner Hardley Lewin that the Government could collapse if the request was granted
http://www.stabroeknews.com/2011/news/breaking/02/05/jamaica-gov%E2%80%99t-feared-%E2%80%98dudus%E2%80%99-extradition-request-could-topple-it-%E2%80%93-enquiry-hears/
February 5, 2011
Life and death in the police state of Jamaica: The scandal of the officers who double as state executioners
By JONATHAN GREEN
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/home/moslive/article-1352885/Jamaica-Life-death-police-state-officers-double-executioners.html#ixzz1J65ED2xf
February 17, 2012
Gov't must give INDECOM teeth
http://jamaica-gleaner.com/gleaner/20120217/letters/letters3.html
February 23, 2011
Prime Minister Bruce Golding does not rule out inquiry for Tivoli Gardens deaths
http://www.jis.gov.jm/news/opm-news/26886-prime-minister-bruce-golding-does-not-rule-out-inquiry-for-tivoli-gardens-deaths
April 1, 2011
How did Dudus know about the extradition request?
Golding can’t comment on how don knew about request hours after he got report
http://furiousproduction.com/news/?p=2200
July 4, 2011
Mavado is this afternoon expressing his heartfelt thanks to the United States governing for allowing him to travel to US once again.
http://iriefm.net/index.php/home/ebuzz/7079
July 29, 2011
INDECOM probing last year's police/military incursion in Tivoli Gardens
http://www.rjrnewsonline.com/news/local/indecom-probing-last-years-policemilitary-incursion-tivoli-gardens
August 9, 2011
Dancehall Artists Mavado and Beenie Man to Return to U.S. After Visa Snafu
Musicians' visas were revoked in May 2010, but were recently reinstated
http://www.rollingstone.com/music/news/dancehall-artists-mavado-and-beenie-man-to-return-to-u-s-after-visa-snafu-20110809#ixzz1nRQcF05a
The U.S. Embassy in Kingston gave no reason for revoking the visas, nor did they provide a rationale for their sudden reinstatement.
http://www.rollingstone.com/music/news/dancehall-artists-mavado-and-beenie-man-to-return-to-u-s-after-visa-snafu-20110809#ixzz1nRQPs7KD
September 25, 2011
Bruce Golding and Christopher 'Dudus' Coke
The Golding-Coke saga is one of the most shameful and humiliating in Jamaica's history. For nine months Golding and the JLP Government hijacked the extradition process. This resulted in near social anarchy, immeasurable economic damage and untold embarrassment for Jamaica in the international community.
http://jamaica-gleaner.com/gleaner/20110925/focus/focus6.html
September 25, 2011
Bruce Golding to resign and so should the police commissioner
http://lloyddaguilar.blogspot.com/2011/09/bruce-golding-to-resign-and-so-should.html
December 07, 2011
Over 500 Jamaican soldiers rushed into the teeming Tivoli Gardens neighborhood that day for what became known as Operation Garden Parish, a mission to capture the local mafia don, Christopher “Dudus” Coke. The mission was the result of heavy U.S. pressure:
http://www.wired.com/dangerroom/2011/12/jamaica-massacre/
December 7, 2011
US Plane Monitored Tivoli Operation
An investigative piece to be published in the American magazine, the New Yorker, has revealed that a US spy plane took surveillance imagery of Tivoli Gardens on May 24, 2010 during the incursion into that community. According to the article which is to appear in the magazine on December 12, a Lockheed P-3 Orion, belonging to the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) was flying above Kingston on May 24 "in support of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Jamaican Government".
jamaica-gleaner.com/gleaner/20111207/lead/lead5.html
February 17, 2012
Gov't must give INDECOM teeth
http://jamaica-gleaner.com/gleaner/20120217/letters/letters3.html
May 2, 2013
AN INTERIM report into what Public Defender Earl Witter describes as a "siege" of Tivoli Gardens during a state of emergency in May 2010 has called for a thorough commission of enquiry into activities of the security forces and gunmen.
The report, tabled in Parliament yesterday after missing several deadlines, highlighted that provisional claims for 688 persons who have submitted 1,295 documented complaints are quantified at a little more than $110.8 million.
http://jamaica-gleaner.com/gleaner/20130502/lead/lead1.html
December 1, 2014
Tivoli Enquiry: D'Aguilar Sets Off Commission Chairman"Meanwhile, Chairman Sir David said he would ensure that the enquiry is not abused for ulterior motives."
http://jamaica-gleaner.com/latest/article.php?id=56960
January 29, 2015
US NEEDS TO STEP UP
But we don't know the full story. And we can't know, not unless the United States steps up and does its share.
It was the US, after all, that originally demanded that Christopher Coke be extradited.
The commission should ask the United States for help. First, they should ask for money. Investigations like this are expensive. The United States had a major role in what happened and should have to pay its share. But more importantly, the commission should ask the US government for information.
http://jamaica-gleaner.com/gleaner/20150129/lead/lead3.html
November 24, 2015
TIVOLI ENQUIRY: 4 apparent 'bomb' deaths in operation, Witter testifies
www.jamaicaobserver.com/news/TIVOLI-ENQUIRY--4-apparent--bomb--deaths-in-operation--Witter-testifies
November 24, 2015
Former Public Defender describes a calm Tivoli Gardens, no gunfire on visit
www.jamaicaobserver.com/news/Former-Public-Defender-describes-a-calm-Tivoli-Gardens--no-gunfire-on-visit
November 24, 2015
Dudus refuses offer to testify at Tivoli Inquiry
www.dre1allianceent.com/dudus-refuses-offer-to-testify-at-tivoli-inquiry/
Friday, November 27, 2015
TIVOLI ENQUIRY: JCF took no record of Tivoli bodies – attorney
www.jamaicaobserver.com/news/TIVOLI-ENQUIRY--JCF-took-no-record-of-Tivoli-bodies---attorney
June 9, 2016
Aidonia gets back US visa ...work permit returned after being revoked six years ago
jamaica-star.com/article/entertainment/20160609/aidonia-gets-back-us-visa-work-permit-returned-after-being-revoked
June 16, 2016
"...the report makes a number of significant recommendations for moving forward, including compensating victims, offering an official apology, and a suggestion against certain members of the security forces being allowed to lead such operations in the future."
http://digjamaica.com/blog/2016/06/16/report-west-kingston-commission-of-enquiry-2016-full-text/
TIVOLI ENQUIRY: 4 apparent 'bomb' deaths in operation, Witter testifies
www.jamaicaobserver.com/news/TIVOLI-ENQUIRY--4-apparent--bomb--deaths-in-operation--Witter-testifies
November 24, 2015
Former Public Defender describes a calm Tivoli Gardens, no gunfire on visit
www.jamaicaobserver.com/news/Former-Public-Defender-describes-a-calm-Tivoli-Gardens--no-gunfire-on-visit
November 24, 2015
Dudus refuses offer to testify at Tivoli Inquiry
www.dre1allianceent.com/dudus-refuses-offer-to-testify-at-tivoli-inquiry/
Friday, November 27, 2015
TIVOLI ENQUIRY: JCF took no record of Tivoli bodies – attorney
www.jamaicaobserver.com/news/TIVOLI-ENQUIRY--JCF-took-no-record-of-Tivoli-bodies---attorney
June 9, 2016
Aidonia gets back US visa ...work permit returned after being revoked six years ago
jamaica-star.com/article/entertainment/20160609/aidonia-gets-back-us-visa-work-permit-returned-after-being-revoked
June 16, 2016
"...the report makes a number of significant recommendations for moving forward, including compensating victims, offering an official apology, and a suggestion against certain members of the security forces being allowed to lead such operations in the future."
http://digjamaica.com/blog/2016/06/16/report-west-kingston-commission-of-enquiry-2016-full-text/
July 26, 2016
Sizzla receives Visa
jamaica-star.com/article/entertainment/20160726/sizzla-receives-visa
January 07, 2017
“I believe up to this day that the country owes a debt of gratitude to the security forces because, in my opinion, the security forces rescued Jamaica, and I say so without any possible hint of contradiction that we acted in the best interests of the country as we were on the brink of collapse,” an emotive Hinds told the Sunday Observer.
http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/news/Tivoli-Gardens-enquiry-my-most-discouraging-moment-as-a-police-officer---DCP-Hinds_85923
October 22, 2017
"...my hope is for the government to do right by the people of Tivoli and by extension West Kingston, by carrying out the recommendations of the enquiry." jamaica-gleaner.com/article/entertainment/20171022/tivoli-maintains-over-150-were-killed
Sizzla receives Visa
jamaica-star.com/article/entertainment/20160726/sizzla-receives-visa
January 07, 2017
“I believe up to this day that the country owes a debt of gratitude to the security forces because, in my opinion, the security forces rescued Jamaica, and I say so without any possible hint of contradiction that we acted in the best interests of the country as we were on the brink of collapse,” an emotive Hinds told the Sunday Observer.
http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/news/Tivoli-Gardens-enquiry-my-most-discouraging-moment-as-a-police-officer---DCP-Hinds_85923
October 22, 2017
"...my hope is for the government to do right by the people of Tivoli and by extension West Kingston, by carrying out the recommendations of the enquiry." jamaica-gleaner.com/article/entertainment/20171022/tivoli-maintains-over-150-were-killed
October 22, 2017
"...my hope is for the government to do right by the people of Tivoli and by extension West Kingston, by carrying out the recommendations of the enquiry." jamaica-gleaner.com/article/entertainment/20171022/tivoli-maintains-over-150-were-killed
"...my hope is for the government to do right by the people of Tivoli and by extension West Kingston, by carrying out the recommendations of the enquiry." jamaica-gleaner.com/article/entertainment/20171022/tivoli-maintains-over-150-were-killed
...watching to see if Jamaica sets an international precedent in dealing with excessive police force by following the enquiry's recommendations of (1) compensating victims, (2) offering an official apology, and (3) prohibiting certain members of the security forces being allowed to lead such operations in the future. Tivoli
Yes, I suppose getting involved in JAMA-US politics may have had something to do with what happened my first year in the reggae industry. I know being involved in Lake County politics (PTA) definitely had an impact; Clearlake City police told me so. #becareful #riskybusiness
PART OF NOTE BEING REVIEWED AGAINST FACEBOOK COMMUNITY STANDARDS
April 9, 2011 at 11:39pm
Jama-US Politics: Visas, Extradition Request & Tivoli Incursion
January 17, 2001
"This Administration has not condoned nor will ever condone, extrajudicial killings."
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Paul Robertson, in a letter to Amnesty International, 17 January 2001.
http://www.amnesty-caribbean.org/Jamaica/AMR3800101/bericht.htm
April 2, 2010
Email to Melissa in Congressman Thompson's office (see photo at TOP OF PAGE...)
April 5, 2010
Cancelled US visas for Sizzla, Beenie, Bounty, Mavado, Aidonia — Who next?
The artistes had both their work permits and the visitor's visa revoked and the fact is that most artistes use the US as a hub. Without a visitor's visa they are now unable to use Miami as a connection port into other parts of the world. Artistes, like it or not, also have entourages and numerous persons to take care of. These artistes are among the top earners and shutting them down will certainly affect more than just them and their immediate families.
As the summer approaches, the next couple of month is usually their busiest periods as they travel to festival all across the US to earn their living. Many are asking why and why now? It is felt that the stand-off between Washington and Kingston is playing a role in this unfolding saga. Interestingly, both Beenie Man and Bounty Killer had a show in Orlando, Florida, on Saturday and their absence, according to informed sources, was a big blow to the promoter. It was to be the first time that the two would have performed on the same stage in Orlando.
http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/entertainment/musings-visa-revoke-for-artistes_7521536#ixzz1J64vZrhP
April 13, 2010
Beenie Man - Visa Song {APRIL 2010}
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=se3eBoJwwcw
April 17, 2010 (email to attorney friend of mine qualified to the U.S. Supreme Court)
Dear Jim:
Politics all around in this industry. A couple weeks ago, the U.S. cancelled 8 visas for 5 headlining artists. The word on the street in Jamaica was that the U.S. was going to take more visas the following morning (Friday). The general belief was that the U.S. wanted to put pressure on Jamaica for their lack of response to Dudus (coke king) extradition request. Our justification for the visa revocation was not my concern. The fact that the U.S. could decimate the Jamaican Reggae industry in a matter of days, undermining the primary source of income for a small (300 artists), starving industry is my concern. Rastafari culture is too small and fragile to be drawn into political power struggles.
I've attached a copy of my facebook page I shared with over 1000 friends, many in Jamaica, so they could understand how to stop the political machine. Congressman Thompson's aide (Brad Onorato) and I have long-term good working relationship. We met when I introduced PTA to Lake County. He is aware of my facebook. When I called the Congressman's office, I was connected directly to visa support staff. They needed to know if the cancelled visas were for my artists. They were not. While we on the phone, they offered to help...
May 17, 2010
Jamaica to sign Dudus extradition request
PM not resigning, promises more action against crime
http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/news/Jamaica-to-sign-Dudus-extradition-request
May 19, 2010
Tivoli Gardens Home of Dudus Coke Turning into a Ghetto war zone
http://www.overthelimitentertainment.com/profiles/blogs/51910-tivoli-gardens-home-of?xg_source=activity
May 21, 2010
'Remove roadblocks, hand over Dudus' - beg police
http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/news/-Remove-roadblocks--handover-Dudus----beg-police
May 21, 2010
Armoured vehicle goes to bring 'Dudus' out
http://www.tribune242.com/05212010_Undersiege_editorial_pg4
May 21, 2010
Call to Congressman Thompson’s Office…
“Have you heard what’s going on in Jamaica right now as a result of our extradition request?” Tivoli Gardens is under siege and people are standing as human barricades between military tanks and gang road blocks.”
No. We have not heard. Where are you getting your information?
“…from friends in Jamaica. They are sharing local news with me. It’s all over the Internet.”
I’m sorry, but we do not get involved in the sovereign affairs of other nations.
“Nonsense. We got involved in Jamaica’s business when we issued an extradition request.”
(5-min debate about our nation’s responsibility... )
“Looks like politically engineered genocide. We are being irresponsible in our exercise of power.”
What do you want us to do? Withdraw the extradition request?
“Can we? …whatever we can do to help calm the situation… and we must do it now…
A couple hours later, they elevated the travel advisory…
May 22, 2010
Jamaican drug gangs barricade Kingston.
…the United States warned travelers of possible civil unrest.
http://www.liveleak.com/view?i=f44_1274521124&c=1
May 23, 2010
Army Going Into Tivoli For Dudus
http://snwmf.com/phorum/read.php?1,259133,259302
May 25, 2010
Forces Storm Alleged Drug Lord Christopher "Dudus" Coke's Hideout in Trivoli Gardens, Jamaica
http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-504083_162-20005870-504083.html
May 25, 2010
Troops storm barricades in hunt for drugs baron
Dudus' is a divisive figure in Kingston. Despite his notoriety as a drugs baron, his reputation is part Robin Hood and part Mafia godfather. He enjoys respect not just for ensuring peace in the neighbourhoods he controls, but for creating jobs. In West Kingston, many call him "president".
Typically, the Jamaican senator Tom Tavares Finson, who until recently served as Coke's lawyer, paints a picture of an upright local businessman. "Essentially he has overseen the transformation of a community riddled with criminality and violence into a place where people can make money," Finson told the Jamaica Observer, before standing down as Coke's representative because of a "conflict of interests".
http://www.thefirstpost.co.uk/63754,news-comment,news-politics,jamaicans-barricade-streets-to-stop-christopher-dudus-coke-extradition
May 27, 2010
Another battle in an unwinnable war
The bloody hunt for a gang leader shows that the mafias’ roots in society and politics run deep
http://www.economist.com/node/16219727
May 27, 2010
LIVE images from Tivoli Gardens
http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/news/live-images-from-tivoli
May 29, 2010
500 held, 73 dead...
still no sign of Dudus
http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/features/2992150/Slum-battle-over-Jamaican-drugs-baron-Christopher-Coke.html
May 31, 2010
How Dudus stayed ahead of police
http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/world/us_and_americas/article7140760.ece
June 1, 2010
“Wa gwan family? Is every one ok…?”
(silence…)
“Hello…”
(silence…)
“oh no… I’m on my way… see you soon. Stay strong. Jah guide and protect.”
June 4, 2010
Jamaica: Investigate Killings in Tivoli Gardens
Reports of Unarmed Men Shot by Soldiers
http://www.hrw.org/en/news/2010/06/04/jamaica-investigate-killings-tivoli-gardens
January 21, 2011
INDECOM to look into case of missing Tivoli Gardens teenager http://go-jamaica.com/news/read_article.php?id=25882
February 5, 2011
Jamaica gov’t feared ‘Dudus’ extradition request could topple it – enquiry hears
(Jamaica Observer) A day after the United States requested the extradition of accused drug lord Christopher ‘Dudus’ Coke in 2009, National Security Minister Dwight Nelson is said to have expressed deep fears to then police commissioner Hardley Lewin that the Government could collapse if the request was granted http://www.stabroeknews.com/2011/news/breaking/02/05/jamaica-gov%E2%80%99t-feared-%E2%80%98dudus%E2%80%99-extradition-request-could-topple-it-%E2%80%93-enquiry-hears/
February 5, 2011
Life and death in the police state of Jamaica: The scandal of the officers who double as state executioners
By JONATHAN GREEN
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/home/moslive/article-1352885/Jamaica-Life-death-police-state-officers-double-executioners.html#ixzz1J65ED2xf
February 23, 2011
Prime Minister Bruce Golding does not rule out inquiry for Tivoli Gardens deaths
http://www.jis.gov.jm/news/opm-news/26886-prime-minister-bruce-golding-does-not-rule-out-inquiry-for-tivoli-gardens-deaths
April 1, 2011
How did Dudus know about the extradition request?
Golding can’t comment on how don knew about request hours after he got report
http://furiousproduction.com/news/?p=2200
Email to Congressman Thompson c/o Melissa
July 4, 2011
Mavado is this afternoon expressing his heartfelt thanks to the United States governing for allowing him to travel to US once again.
http://iriefm.net/index.php/home/ebuzz/7079
July 29, 2011
INDECOM probing last year's police/military incursion in Tivoli Gardenshttp://www.rjrnewsonline.com/news/local/indecom-probing-last-years-policemilitary-incursion-tivoli-gardens
August 9, 2011
Dancehall Artists Mavado and Beenie Man to Return to U.S. After Visa Snafu
Musicians' visas were revoked in May 2010, but were recently reinstated
Read more: http://www.rollingstone.com/music/news/dancehall-artists-mavado-and-beenie-man-to-return-to-u-s-after-visa-snafu-20110809#ixzz1nRQcF05a
The U.S. Embassy in Kingston gave no reason for revoking the visas, nor did they provide a rationale for their sudden reinstatement.
Read more: http://www.rollingstone.com/music/news/dancehall-artists-mavado-and-beenie-man-to-return-to-u-s-after-visa-snafu-20110809#ixzz1nRQPs7KD
September 25, 2011
Bruce Golding and Christopher 'Dudus' Coke
http://jamaica-gleaner.com/gleaner/20110925/focus/focus6.html
September 25, 2011
Bruce Golding to resign and so should the police commissioner
http://lloyddaguilar.blogspot.com/2011/09/bruce-golding-to-resign-and-so-should.html
December 07, 2011
Over 500 Jamaican soldiers rushed into the teeming Tivoli Gardens neighborhood that day for what became known as Operation Garden Parish, a mission to capture the local mafia don, Christopher “Dudus” Coke. The mission was the result of heavy U.S. pressure:
http://www.wired.com/dangerroom/2011/12/jamaica-massacre/
February 17, 2012
Gov't must give INDECOM teeth
http://jamaica-gleaner.com/gleaner/20120217/letters/letters3.html
May 2, 2013
AN INTERIM report into what Public Defender Earl Witter describes as a "siege" of Tivoli Gardens during a state of emergency in May 2010 has called for a thorough commission of enquiry into activities of the security forces and gunmen.
The report, tabled in Parliament yesterday after missing several deadlines, highlighted that provisional claims for 688 persons who have submitted 1,295 documented complaints are quantified at a little more than $110.8 million.
http://jamaica-gleaner.com/gleaner/20130502/lead/lead1.html
December 1, 2014
Tivoli Enquiry: D'Aguilar Sets Off Commission Chairman"Meanwhile, Chairman Sir David said he would ensure that the enquiry is not abused for ulterior motives."
http://jamaica-gleaner.com/latest/article.php?id=56960
US NEEDS TO STEP UP
But we don't know the full story. And we can't know, not unless the United States steps up and does its share.
It was the US, after all, that originally demanded that Christopher Coke be extradited.
The commission should ask the United States for help. First, they should ask for money. Investigations like this are expensive. The United States had a major role in what happened and should have to pay its share. But more importantly, the commission should ask the US government for information.
http://jamaica-gleaner.com/gleaner/20150129/lead/lead3.html
Jama-US Politics: Visas, Extradition Request & Tivoli Incursion
January 17, 2001
"This Administration has not condoned nor will ever condone, extrajudicial killings."
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Paul Robertson, in a letter to Amnesty International, 17 January 2001.
http://www.amnesty-caribbean.org/Jamaica/AMR3800101/bericht.htm
April 2, 2010
Email to Melissa in Congressman Thompson's office (see photo at TOP OF PAGE...)
April 5, 2010
Cancelled US visas for Sizzla, Beenie, Bounty, Mavado, Aidonia — Who next?
The artistes had both their work permits and the visitor's visa revoked and the fact is that most artistes use the US as a hub. Without a visitor's visa they are now unable to use Miami as a connection port into other parts of the world. Artistes, like it or not, also have entourages and numerous persons to take care of. These artistes are among the top earners and shutting them down will certainly affect more than just them and their immediate families.
As the summer approaches, the next couple of month is usually their busiest periods as they travel to festival all across the US to earn their living. Many are asking why and why now? It is felt that the stand-off between Washington and Kingston is playing a role in this unfolding saga. Interestingly, both Beenie Man and Bounty Killer had a show in Orlando, Florida, on Saturday and their absence, according to informed sources, was a big blow to the promoter. It was to be the first time that the two would have performed on the same stage in Orlando.
http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/entertainment/musings-visa-revoke-for-artistes_7521536#ixzz1J64vZrhP
April 13, 2010
Beenie Man - Visa Song {APRIL 2010}
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=se3eBoJwwcw
April 17, 2010 (email to attorney friend of mine qualified to the U.S. Supreme Court)
Dear Jim:
Politics all around in this industry. A couple weeks ago, the U.S. cancelled 8 visas for 5 headlining artists. The word on the street in Jamaica was that the U.S. was going to take more visas the following morning (Friday). The general belief was that the U.S. wanted to put pressure on Jamaica for their lack of response to Dudus (coke king) extradition request. Our justification for the visa revocation was not my concern. The fact that the U.S. could decimate the Jamaican Reggae industry in a matter of days, undermining the primary source of income for a small (300 artists), starving industry is my concern. Rastafari culture is too small and fragile to be drawn into political power struggles.
I've attached a copy of my facebook page I shared with over 1000 friends, many in Jamaica, so they could understand how to stop the political machine. Congressman Thompson's aide (Brad Onorato) and I have long-term good working relationship. We met when I introduced PTA to Lake County. He is aware of my facebook. When I called the Congressman's office, I was connected directly to visa support staff. They needed to know if the cancelled visas were for my artists. They were not. While we on the phone, they offered to help...
May 17, 2010
Jamaica to sign Dudus extradition request
PM not resigning, promises more action against crime
http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/news/Jamaica-to-sign-Dudus-extradition-request
May 19, 2010
Tivoli Gardens Home of Dudus Coke Turning into a Ghetto war zone
http://www.overthelimitentertainment.com/profiles/blogs/51910-tivoli-gardens-home-of?xg_source=activity
May 21, 2010
'Remove roadblocks, hand over Dudus' - beg police
http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/news/-Remove-roadblocks--handover-Dudus----beg-police
May 21, 2010
Armoured vehicle goes to bring 'Dudus' out
http://www.tribune242.com/05212010_Undersiege_editorial_pg4
May 21, 2010
Call to Congressman Thompson’s Office…
“Have you heard what’s going on in Jamaica right now as a result of our extradition request?” Tivoli Gardens is under siege and people are standing as human barricades between military tanks and gang road blocks.”
No. We have not heard. Where are you getting your information?
“…from friends in Jamaica. They are sharing local news with me. It’s all over the Internet.”
I’m sorry, but we do not get involved in the sovereign affairs of other nations.
“Nonsense. We got involved in Jamaica’s business when we issued an extradition request.”
(5-min debate about our nation’s responsibility... )
“Looks like politically engineered genocide. We are being irresponsible in our exercise of power.”
What do you want us to do? Withdraw the extradition request?
“Can we? …whatever we can do to help calm the situation… and we must do it now…
A couple hours later, they elevated the travel advisory…
May 22, 2010
Jamaican drug gangs barricade Kingston.
…the United States warned travelers of possible civil unrest.
http://www.liveleak.com/view?i=f44_1274521124&c=1
May 23, 2010
Army Going Into Tivoli For Dudus
http://snwmf.com/phorum/read.php?1,259133,259302
May 25, 2010
Forces Storm Alleged Drug Lord Christopher "Dudus" Coke's Hideout in Trivoli Gardens, Jamaica
http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-504083_162-20005870-504083.html
May 25, 2010
Troops storm barricades in hunt for drugs baron
Dudus' is a divisive figure in Kingston. Despite his notoriety as a drugs baron, his reputation is part Robin Hood and part Mafia godfather. He enjoys respect not just for ensuring peace in the neighbourhoods he controls, but for creating jobs. In West Kingston, many call him "president".
Typically, the Jamaican senator Tom Tavares Finson, who until recently served as Coke's lawyer, paints a picture of an upright local businessman. "Essentially he has overseen the transformation of a community riddled with criminality and violence into a place where people can make money," Finson told the Jamaica Observer, before standing down as Coke's representative because of a "conflict of interests".
http://www.thefirstpost.co.uk/63754,news-comment,news-politics,jamaicans-barricade-streets-to-stop-christopher-dudus-coke-extradition
May 27, 2010
Another battle in an unwinnable war
The bloody hunt for a gang leader shows that the mafias’ roots in society and politics run deep
http://www.economist.com/node/16219727
May 27, 2010
LIVE images from Tivoli Gardens
http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/news/live-images-from-tivoli
May 29, 2010
500 held, 73 dead...
still no sign of Dudus
http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/features/2992150/Slum-battle-over-Jamaican-drugs-baron-Christopher-Coke.html
May 31, 2010
How Dudus stayed ahead of police
http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/world/us_and_americas/article7140760.ece
June 1, 2010
“Wa gwan family? Is every one ok…?”
(silence…)
“Hello…”
(silence…)
“oh no… I’m on my way… see you soon. Stay strong. Jah guide and protect.”
June 4, 2010
Jamaica: Investigate Killings in Tivoli Gardens
Reports of Unarmed Men Shot by Soldiers
http://www.hrw.org/en/news/2010/06/04/jamaica-investigate-killings-tivoli-gardens
January 21, 2011
INDECOM to look into case of missing Tivoli Gardens teenager http://go-jamaica.com/news/read_article.php?id=25882
February 5, 2011
Jamaica gov’t feared ‘Dudus’ extradition request could topple it – enquiry hears
(Jamaica Observer) A day after the United States requested the extradition of accused drug lord Christopher ‘Dudus’ Coke in 2009, National Security Minister Dwight Nelson is said to have expressed deep fears to then police commissioner Hardley Lewin that the Government could collapse if the request was granted http://www.stabroeknews.com/2011/news/breaking/02/05/jamaica-gov%E2%80%99t-feared-%E2%80%98dudus%E2%80%99-extradition-request-could-topple-it-%E2%80%93-enquiry-hears/
February 5, 2011
Life and death in the police state of Jamaica: The scandal of the officers who double as state executioners
By JONATHAN GREEN
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/home/moslive/article-1352885/Jamaica-Life-death-police-state-officers-double-executioners.html#ixzz1J65ED2xf
February 23, 2011
Prime Minister Bruce Golding does not rule out inquiry for Tivoli Gardens deaths
http://www.jis.gov.jm/news/opm-news/26886-prime-minister-bruce-golding-does-not-rule-out-inquiry-for-tivoli-gardens-deaths
April 1, 2011
How did Dudus know about the extradition request?
Golding can’t comment on how don knew about request hours after he got report
http://furiousproduction.com/news/?p=2200
Email to Congressman Thompson c/o Melissa
July 4, 2011
Mavado is this afternoon expressing his heartfelt thanks to the United States governing for allowing him to travel to US once again.
http://iriefm.net/index.php/home/ebuzz/7079
July 29, 2011
INDECOM probing last year's police/military incursion in Tivoli Gardenshttp://www.rjrnewsonline.com/news/local/indecom-probing-last-years-policemilitary-incursion-tivoli-gardens
August 9, 2011
Dancehall Artists Mavado and Beenie Man to Return to U.S. After Visa Snafu
Musicians' visas were revoked in May 2010, but were recently reinstated
Read more: http://www.rollingstone.com/music/news/dancehall-artists-mavado-and-beenie-man-to-return-to-u-s-after-visa-snafu-20110809#ixzz1nRQcF05a
The U.S. Embassy in Kingston gave no reason for revoking the visas, nor did they provide a rationale for their sudden reinstatement.
Read more: http://www.rollingstone.com/music/news/dancehall-artists-mavado-and-beenie-man-to-return-to-u-s-after-visa-snafu-20110809#ixzz1nRQPs7KD
September 25, 2011
Bruce Golding and Christopher 'Dudus' Coke
http://jamaica-gleaner.com/gleaner/20110925/focus/focus6.html
September 25, 2011
Bruce Golding to resign and so should the police commissioner
http://lloyddaguilar.blogspot.com/2011/09/bruce-golding-to-resign-and-so-should.html
December 07, 2011
Over 500 Jamaican soldiers rushed into the teeming Tivoli Gardens neighborhood that day for what became known as Operation Garden Parish, a mission to capture the local mafia don, Christopher “Dudus” Coke. The mission was the result of heavy U.S. pressure:
http://www.wired.com/dangerroom/2011/12/jamaica-massacre/
February 17, 2012
Gov't must give INDECOM teeth
http://jamaica-gleaner.com/gleaner/20120217/letters/letters3.html
May 2, 2013
AN INTERIM report into what Public Defender Earl Witter describes as a "siege" of Tivoli Gardens during a state of emergency in May 2010 has called for a thorough commission of enquiry into activities of the security forces and gunmen.
The report, tabled in Parliament yesterday after missing several deadlines, highlighted that provisional claims for 688 persons who have submitted 1,295 documented complaints are quantified at a little more than $110.8 million.
http://jamaica-gleaner.com/gleaner/20130502/lead/lead1.html
December 1, 2014
Tivoli Enquiry: D'Aguilar Sets Off Commission Chairman"Meanwhile, Chairman Sir David said he would ensure that the enquiry is not abused for ulterior motives."
http://jamaica-gleaner.com/latest/article.php?id=56960
US NEEDS TO STEP UP
But we don't know the full story. And we can't know, not unless the United States steps up and does its share.
It was the US, after all, that originally demanded that Christopher Coke be extradited.
The commission should ask the United States for help. First, they should ask for money. Investigations like this are expensive. The United States had a major role in what happened and should have to pay its share. But more importantly, the commission should ask the US government for information.
http://jamaica-gleaner.com/gleaner/20150129/lead/lead3.html
Facebook offers me the opportunity to delete the note under review, but the delete option does not work for me. I tried. 22OCT2017 5:18AM