And more than two years after the Tivoli Gardens incursion the Jamaica Defence Force, JDF, is confirming that mortars were used as part of the operation.
A mortar is an indirect fire explosive weapon.
But the military says it took precautionary measures in using the explosives:
In a release Thursday night, the JDF responded to a newly issued cable report out of the US which states that during the May 2010 Tivoli Gardens operation the military fired mortars and then used bulldozers to break through heavy barricades.
The barricades were erected by Christopher "Dudus" Coke’s supporters to block entry to the community.
The JDF says prior to the operation in Tivoli Gardens, intelligence indicated that there were significant numbers of heavily armed gunmen massing inside the community.
According to the JDF, there were also highly fortified barricades and defensive positions some of which were lined with explosives and other incendiary devices.
This was subsequently confirmed when the troops entered Tivoli Gardens.
Mortar rounds were fired into open areas as part of a diversion.
The JDF says at no time were persons or buildings targeted.
It explains that this diversionary tactic created confusion and disorientation among the gunmen, and allowed the JDF to use bulldozers to breach the barricades and enter the community.
The JDF says mortar rounds that were fired were well targeted and directed and it is satisfied that the use of these munitions was not only accurate and effective, but justified and necessary in order to achieve the operational objectives.
The JDF says under normal circumstances, it does not discuss details regarding operational tactics or procedures, but given the potential for speculation and misunderstanding surrounding the matter it issued the statement
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