Illegal firearms taken off the streets

A multi-agency, intelligence-led operation conducted across several communities in Westmoreland led to the seizure of illegal firearms, including a high-powered rifle yesterday.

The operation involved the coordinated efforts of the Westmoreland Police Division, the Special Investigations Branch, the Specialised Operations Branch, the Public Safety and Traffic Enforcement Branch, the Area 1 Fugitive Apprehension Team, the Transport Authority and the Island Traffic Authority, with support from the Jamaica Defence Force. The teams targeted the communities of Savanna-la-Mar, Frome, Bethel Town, Morgans Bridge, Little London and Whithorn.

During a search conducted in the Petersfield community, the team seized an AK-47 rifle and a 12-gauge shotgun, along with ammunition and imitation firearms. Four persons were arrested and charged in connection with the seizure, while several others were taken into custody for processing as part of ongoing investigations. In another targeted raid in Bath Mountain, the team seized approximately $1.2 million in cash during the search of a premises. A woman was arrested on reasonable suspicion of breaching the Proceeds of Crime Act.

Traffic enforcement also formed a significant component of the operation. Several breaches of the Road Traffic Act were detected, resulting in tickets and summonses being issued, illegal tints being removed, and motorcycles being seized for operating outside the law. The operation included coordinated raids, vehicular checkpoints, patrols and traffic enforcement activities aimed at locating wanted persons, removing illegal weapons from circulation and disrupting criminal activity. The team also conducted community engagements, carrying out walkthroughs and interacting with residents and transport operators on issues related to crime prevention and road safety