INDECOM probing 31 fatal shootings by security forces so far this year

By Clinton McGregor   

 

The Independent Commission of Investigations (INDECOM) says it is probing 31 fatal shootings involving members of the security forces since the start of the year.

 

The latest incident occurred early Tuesday morning along Crescent Road in the St. Andrew South Police Division.

 

Nineteen-year-old Brandon Reid, otherwise called 'Red Man', was fatally shot during a reported confrontation with a police team sometime after 2 o'clock.

 

Residents mounted roadblocks along Crescent Road off Spanish Town Road to protest against the killing.

 

They say Reid was shot while pleading for his life to be spared.

 

The police say during a search of the area a Glock 19 pistol with one magazine containing eight rounds was recovered.

 

INDECOM Commissioner Hugh Faulkner spoke with Radio Jamaica News on Tuesday afternoon and reported that his team is collecting statements in the case. 

 

"The officers report that shortly before 3 a.m., while on mobile patrol, they heard explosions sounding like gunshots. The officers further report that they encountered a man who opened fire at the police team. The fire was returned, the man fell, and the firearm and ammunition recovered," he said. 

 

Mr. Faulkner said no body camera was worn in any of the 31 fatal shootings it is investigating.