Five men were shot, resulting in four fatalities by police in Westmoreland

According to the Jamaica Constabulary Force, (JCF) they conducted a deliberate and coordinated operation in Westmoreland on criminal gangs who were planning to execute a major heist. During the operation five men were shot, resulting in four fatalities.

Reports indicate that between 6:00 A.M. and 10:00 A.M., members of the Jamaica Constabulary Force’s Counter Terrorism and Organized Crime Investigation Branch (CTOC), acting on intelligence, intercepted multiple vehicles in Negril Square. The individuals opened fire on the police, who returned fire. Consequently, four gunmen were fatally wounded, and one is currently hospitalized.

In a press conference, Dr. Kevin Blake, Commissioner of Police; Assistant Commissioner Fitz Bailey; and Acting Head of Strategic Operations, Warren Clarke, stated that the operation is primarily aimed at deterring and disrupting criminal organizations across Jamaica. They mentioned that during the operation, six weapons were seized, including three high-powered rifles.

None of the police officers involved were harmed, and the authorities are urging individuals to surrender peacefully, emphasizing that engaging with highly trained officers poses significant risks and can lead to lethal consequences.

The police stated that the operation is a continuation of the robbery investigations related to the Beryllium van incidents, wherein criminal elements orchestrate violent crimes across the island.

The objective is to reassure the public that the JCF is committed to creating a safe environment for citizens and maintaining law and order throughout Jamaica.

Additionally, they reported that two criminals who had fled the country—one to the Dominican Republic and the other to the Bahamas—have been arrested in those countries and are set to be deported back to Jamaica. They affirmed that their relentless pursuit of criminals will extend globally, aiming to contain crime within Jamaica.