According to Radio Jamaica News, Deputy Commissioner of Police Fitz Bailey is assuring citizens that the police will continue to target criminals as part of their efforts to sustain the decrease in crime until the end of the year.
The Jamaica Constabulary Force has reported 1,349 murders committed up to December 16, which shows a decrease from the 1,469 recorded during the same period last year, marking an 8.2 percent reduction.
DCP Bailey has emphasized the increased presence of police and military personnel to ensure citizens feel secure throughout the Christmas season.
He is encouraging residents to take responsibility for their own safety.
“They must remain mindful of their surroundings when using ATM machines and exercise caution, especially in isolated areas. I recommend using ATMs located in enclosed buildings whenever possible and suggest minimizing the use of cash in favor of debit and credit cards.”
Furthermore, he strongly advises against leaving vehicles unlocked and valuable items visible on car seats, as this may attract potential thieves.
Arrest and Charge Following Seizure of Prohibited Weapon in Westmoreland
On Sunday, December 24, 2023, law enforcement officers in Westmoreland apprehended and charged a suspect in connection with the confiscation of a prohibited weapon in the Delle Ifle community in Grange Hill, Westmoreland.
The arrested individual, identified as Shamori Miller, 27, a carpenter from Godfrey Street in Grange Hill, has been charged with the possession of a prohibited weapon.
According to a report by the Gleaner, authorities at the Grange Hill police station mentioned that around 1:30 a.m., an off-duty law enforcement officer was present in the community when the suspicious behavior of two men, one of whom was carrying a bag, caught his attention.
The officer courageously confronted the suspects, leading to a pursuit as one of the individuals fled the scene. Following a successful apprehension, a search of the suspect led to the discovery of a 9mm Glock P80 pistol in Miller’s possession.
Subsequently, Miller was arrested and charged after a thorough interrogation in the presence of his legal counsel.
The appearance date for the suspect in court is pending.
Police Released Hopewell High School Principal from custody
The Hanover police have confirmed that they have released the Principal of Hopewell High School in Hanover. The police had taken the Principal into custody on suspicion following the fatal shooting of the school’s bursar on Wednesday, December 20, 2023.
According to Radio Jamaica News, the Principal was reportedly released Friday evening, December 22, 2023, after several days in custody.
Law enforcement authorities interrogated him about the shooting death of the bursar, 35-year-old Jermaine Roberts.
A lone gunman shot Mr Roberts on the school compound on Wednesday, December 20, 2023, at about 3:20 p.m.
Witnesses described the shooter as approximately 6 feet 2 inches tall, wearing a floral ‘hoodie.’
The Principal was reportedly wounded in the attack and was taken to hospital for treatment.
According to Radio Jamaica News, the Head of the Area 1 Headquarters, Assistant Commissioner Clifford Chambers, said the Principal was listed as a Person of Interest as the cops tried to identify the person who carried out the gun attack.
In the meantime, Leighton Johnson, President of the Jamaica Teachers Association, says the Association is closely monitoring the situation at the school, adding that the Association is “deeply concerned about the unfolding events.”
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