Press Release From FIDS - July 13, 2026
July 13, 2026, Kingston, Jamaica: Otis Williams and Nevin Forbes, the two men charged in Jamaica's first prosecution under the Microcredit Act, appeared before the Kingston and St. Andrew Parish Court on July 9, 2026, in the matter involving Forbes Affordable Loans Ja Limited et al. Both defendants were present and represented by legal counsel, Mr Davian Vassell, who indicated that the matter is not expected to be protracted, as the defendants intend to accept the charges.
The court extended bail for both men with the following conditions:
- They are required to report to the Greater Portmore Police Station three days per week, and
- Both have been directed to surrender their travel documents with immediate effect.
The presiding judge also made a stop order preventing both defendants from departing Jamaica pending the conclusion of criminal proceedings. The order, which alerts border control authorities – including the Passport, Immigration and Citizenship Agency (PICA) – to flag the defendants at all legal ports of entry and exit, reflects the court's interest in ensuring the defendants remain in the country. A fingerprint order was additionally made, requiring both men to submit their fingerprints to the police.
The matter has been set for Case Management on November 5, 2026.
Background
Williams and Forbes were originally charged on June 24, 2026, following an operation by the FID's Constabulary Financial Unit with support from the JCF's St. Catherine South Division. They are alleged to have provided microcredit services without a licence, contrary to Section 9(1) of the Microcredit Act. Under the Act, individuals found guilty of this offence face fines of up to J$1,000,000 or imprisonment of up to six months, while corporations may be fined up to J$2,000,000.
The FID reminds the public that the charges against Williams and Forbes remain allegations and that both men are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
The public is encouraged to verify that any lender or financial service provider is properly authorised before transacting. A list of licensed microcredit institutions is available at the BOJ’s website:
https://boj.org.jm/core-functions/financial-system/microcredit-regulation/
The FID is intent on protecting the integrity of the Financial sector, and therefore urges all participants to ensure that they have the relevant license(s) and comply with all requirements under the law.
A difficult case to prosecute if nonwilling participant in receiving such credit is willing to give evidence on behalf of the Crown.
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