Police launch high level probe into criminal network after deadly Negril standoff

By Clinton McGregor    

 

The Police High Command says a high level probe has been launched into an organised criminal network following the fatal shooting of four members by the police in Westmoreland, on Friday morning.

 

The men were killed during a confrontation with a special police team from the Counter-Terrorism and Organised Crime Investigation Branch (CTOC) in Negril Square, near the Burger King outlet.

 

Six illegal firearms, including three high powered weapons, were seized.

 

Commenting on the incident on Friday afternoon, Police Commissioner Dr. Kevin Blake said the cops are searching for several suspects who escaped during the gunbattle.

 

"During the operation, our officers intercepted multiple vehicles associated with the criminal network. Unfortunately, the suspects chose to engage the police, resulting in a gunfight. As a result, five gunmen were shot, four died and one is being treated after being rushed to the hospital by police," he reported. 

 

No police officer was harmed during the incident. 

 

The operation, Dr. Blake said, was part of ongoing efforts to ensure the safety and security of citizens, while it underscores the police's "commitment to combatting criminal activities and dismantling criminal networks". 

 

Meanwhile, Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of crime, Fitz Bailey, revealed that the men are members of the criminal network which has been targeting Beryllium courier vehicles.

 

"The incident is as a result of an ongoing investigation that started as far back as February 2023. Out of the investigation, we have arrested eight persons. They are before the courts," he noted. 

 

He said the weapons seized in Friday's incident include two M16 rifles, one AK-47, one Glock pistol, another 9mm pistol and a .38 pistol. 

 

"We'll continue our investigation because we intend to dismantle this criminal network that has been operating right across Jamaica. We know who they are and we will not stop until every one of them is brought to justice," he warned. 

 

It's reported that the men were preparing to ambush a Beryllium truck on Friday morning when they were confronted by the police.

 

DCP Bailey said the men are linked to the multi-million dollar Beryllium heist in Manchester last year in which a large sum of money was stolen and persons were shot and injured. 

 

Prime Minister Andrew Holness has commended the Police High Command for the outcome of Friday's operation in Negril.

 

While he lamented the "unfortunate" loss of lives, he said the incident is "a warning to all the criminals that the JCF of today is not the JCF of ten years ago". 

 

He cautioned that the police force will be targeting criminal gangs and leaders of the gangs.