St Elizabeth double killing, Saharan dust alert and hurricane readiness lead CVM noon news

Police are probing the killing of two men found dead Sunday evening at a car mart in Longwood, near Santa Cruz in St Elizabeth. The dead were named as 64-year-old car mart operator Melvin Ble, also called Tutu or Tuta, and 34-year-old Romel Johnson, also known as Cotty. Residents reportedly heard explosions earlier Sunday, but the bodies were later discovered with suspected gunshot wounds.

The Ministry of Health and Wellness again urged Jamaicans to limit exposure to Saharan dust affecting the island. Officials warned that the dust can worsen asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, allergies and respiratory infections, while also irritating the eyes and skin and affecting water quality. People with breathing conditions were advised to stay indoors where possible, wear masks outdoors, protect their eyes and clothing, wash hands often, and keep treated water covered.

PNP Region Three committee chair Ethne Miller Simpson said Africa Day activities prompted discussion on Jamaican identity, sovereignty, language and links with Africa. She said participants reflected on Patois or Creole as Jamaica’s first language and considered whether related resolutions should be advanced.

Assistant Commissioner of Police Gary Francis said the Jamaica Constabulary Force is preparing to introduce a C5 technology system to strengthen command, communication, computer support and intelligence for emergency response and crime prevention.

Medical social work managers at the University Hospital of the West Indies, Kingston Public Hospital and Victoria Jubilee Hospital said abandoned and homeless patients continue to occupy hospital beds after discharge. UHWI’s Shireen Williams Hemmings said the problem has grown since COVID-19, with 20 current cases, mostly senior citizens, including one 16-year-old. Some patients have reportedly remained in hospitals for more than six years. KSA municipal officials also met more than 35 stakeholders to develop responses to mental health and homelessness concerns in the Corporate Area.

As the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season opened on June 1 and runs to November 30, ODPEM Director General Commander Gail said Jamaica’s national disaster system is operationally ready, though gaps remain. He said lessons from Hurricane Melissa include wider use of technology, faster data-driven decisions and better ways to reach communities cut off from electricity, internet and other communications.