Prime Minister Andrew Holness has convened an urgent meeting of the National Security Council (NSC) this morning to address the horrific gun attack that took place on Cherry Tree Lane in Clarendon on Sunday night. The assault left eight people dead and nine others injured, all of whom are currently receiving treatment at the hospital.
The meeting is scheduled to begin at 9 a.m., as announced by the Office of the Prime Minister early Monday. In response to the tragedy, PM Holness has directed the police to exhaust all avenues in their pursuit of the criminals responsible for this heinous act.
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“I condemn this reprehensible, brutal, and senseless attack which resulted in several people in Clarendon being killed,” Holness stated. “I extend my deepest condolences to all families who are affected by this tragedy. I have spoken to the Police High Command and advised that all efforts must be extended to bring the perpetrators to justice, as quickly as possible.”
He added emphatically, “The Jamaican State will not countenance such savagery being meted out to our people. We will respond strongly.”
This incident serves as a stark reminder that, despite achieving an approximate 17% reduction in murders this year, the Government must persist and intensify efforts to aggressively target criminal gangs across Jamaica.
“We will not relent in efforts to reduce criminality, and we will not surrender our society to criminals,” Holness affirmed. “I wish to assure the nation that my Government will continue to pursue a multi-faceted approach as we support the security forces in the bid to further successfully reduce violent crime.”
The Prime Minister also urged anyone with information about the Cherry Tree Lane attack to come forward and assist the police.
Echoing the Prime Minister’s sentiments, Minister of National Security Dr. Horace Chang revealed late Sunday night that authorities believe the attack may be connected to reprisal activities from a few years ago.
“I urge the police to utilize every available resource and power to apprehend the perpetrators swiftly,” Chang said. “To the people of Clarendon and Jamaica, please remain vigilant and cooperate with law enforcement as we work together to ensure the safety and security of our communities.”
As the nation grapples with this tragic event, the call for unity and cooperation resonates strongly. The Government remains steadfast in its commitment to combatting crime and ensuring the safety of all Jamaicans.
