KINGSTON, Jamaica — Tension caused the early closure of the Institute of Sports (INSPORTS) today after two separate security companies turned up with the intention to provide security for the Government body.

The clash reportedly required police intervention. 

“The Board and Management of the Institute of Sports closed the main office at 9 Eureka Crescent in Kingston ahead of schedule today in a bid to protect staff, secure the facility and restore calm in the wake of tension over security arrangements,” a release from the Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport said.

According to the ministry, INSPORTS had, with board approval, contracted security company Knightsman to provide services at the location.

However, agents of another security firm went to the facility this morning to execute what they claim to be a contract with the body. The ministry said the agents claimed that the contract was awarded by the management of INSPORTS in December of last year and reportedly became effective today.

The police were reportedly called to prevent “an escalation of the situation”. 

Knightsman Security will reportedly continue to provide security services at the INSPORTS main office, which will reopen for business at 8:00 am on Monday, the ministry said.

INSPORTS has been in the news recently after administrative director Ian Andrews was suspended on “allegations of misconduct”. Andrews later accused the agency’s board directorate of victimisation.