Press Release From the Office of the Prime Minister - 20241126:
Click to listen to the audio.
The Government of Jamaica condemns the horrific acts of violence that occurred in the Waltham Park Road area last evening, resulting in six individuals shot. This brutal attack, which claimed the lives of five victims at a bar, serves to remind us of the terror inflicted on communities by criminal gangs. While the motive is still under investigation, this incident bears the hallmarks of gang-related violence aimed at spreading fear and destabilising the peace of our neighbourhoods.This government does not allow such acts of terror to go unanswered. As with similar incidents at Cherry Tree Lane and Rockfort in recent months, the response from the security forces will be swift. These criminals will be brought to justice. To aid in that effort, we have extended the $30 million fund set up after Cherry Tree Lane to reward citizens providing information on the perpetrators of all such multiple casualty events.Our police team has also been to make amendments to the Offences Against the Persons Act to treat with acts of violence with multiple victims more harshly. When warring gangs think of turning their guns on bystanders in order to “send a message”, they should expect the full force of the law to come down on them. Communities that harbour gangs should also note that by doing so, you only ensure that your family members and loved ones are at risk of being those bystanders.We have noted that roadside entertainment venues, such as bars, have increasingly become soft targets for criminal gangs seeking to execute acts of terror. These spaces, often central to community life and social engagement, are being exploited to commit atrocities and intimidate innocent citizens.The Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) has been directed to immediately engage with the operators of entertainment venues to develop and implement robust security measures to safeguard patrons and deter criminal activity, especially as we move into the Christmas season. These efforts will include targeted interventions in known hotspots, and collaboration with community stakeholders to identify vulnerabilities and enhance resilience against threats.We must be unequivocal: gangs are the cause of this violence. They are public enemies. They are a scourge on our society, destroying lives, families, and communities. This government is resolute in its mission to dismantle and eradicate these criminal organizations. Through strategic security operations, legislative reforms, and investment in community development, we are intensifying our fight to eliminate the grip of gangs on our people.Our hearts go out to the families and loved ones of the victims during their time of grief. We stand in solidarity with the good people of Waltham Park Road communities and all Jamaicans who are affected by this act of violence. Let this horrific event strengthen our collective resolve to build a safer, more peaceful Jamaica.We call on every citizen to reject gangs, gang culture, and gang influence, and support the efforts of law enforcement by sharing any information that may assist in bringing the perpetrators of this heinous crime to justice. Together, we will overcome this menace and secure a brighter future for all Jamaicans.
Editor:
The time has come when the Prime Minister must make some tough decisions. He must rally the nation to unite in the fight against crime. The nation must have the names and pictures of these wanted gang members and we should be able to uniquely identify these gang members. Communities need to have a reserve police force to offer immediate protection.
The immediate solution to deal with these gang members is to convict them and give them a life sentence in prison. Those who commit murder should be given priority treated in the judicial system. On conviction they should pay with their lives. This is a sure way to dismantle all gangs and to get rid of all murders who would not be able to repeat the act.
The government at the same time develop a plan of action to reduce the possibility of youngsters turning to a life of crime.
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