Commissioner confirms cop killed, another critical after Sligoville shootout

Commissioner of Police Dr Kevin Blake has confirmed that one police officer was killed and another left in critical condition after officers came under heavy gunfire during an operation in Sligoville, St Catherine, this morning.

In a video statement posted to the Jamaica Constabulary Force’s X account on Friday, Blake condemned the deadly attack, which unfolded as officers pursued a high-risk target linked to violent crime.

“Our members, while pursuing a high-risk target linked to violent crime, came under heavy and sustained gunfire. One colleague has been killed and another is in critical condition under medical care,” Blake said.

Preliminary reports indicate that members of the Special Operations Branch entered the Five Mile area about 5:15 a.m. in search of criminals and wanted persons.

The team reportedly approached a house when two gunmen opened fire on the officers before barricading themselves inside with other occupants.

Several police formations have been deployed to the scene.

Police sources say a young girl who was among occupants inside the house and who managed to flee the dwelling was found with gunshot injuries.

The circumstances surrounding how the child was shot are unclear at this time.

She was taken to hospital for treatment.

Blake said the Jamaica Constabulary Force was mourning with the family of the fallen officer and standing firmly with the family of the injured member.

“This tragedy lays bare the brutal conditions our officers confront daily, pursuing the most violent elements in our society, so that Jamaicans can live without fear,” he said.

The commissioner vowed that the force would not be intimidated by the attack.

“Let there be no misunderstanding. The Jamaica Constabulary Force will not be intimidated. We will not retreat, and we will not relent,” he said.

He added that those responsible, along with the criminal networks that enable them, would be pursued and brought to justice.

“There can be no community ceded to gunmen, no safe haven for gangs, no territory beyond the reach of the law,” Blake said.

Further details are expected as the situation develops.

We want to hear from you! Email us at star@gleanerjm.com and follow @thejamaicastar on Instagram and on X @JamaicaStar and on Facebook: @TheJamaicaStar, or on Whatsapp @ 876-550-2506.