KINGSTON, Jamaica — Minister of State in the Ministry of Education, Youth and Information Alando Terrelonge has called on Jamaicans to protect the rights of children as the country marks the beginning of Child Month.

His call follows reports on the death of 11-year-old Trisha Morris, whose body was found on Tuesday morning in Hanover after she was reported missing on Saturday, April 27.

Morris, who was a student at Watford Hill Primary in the parish, reportedly left home on Saturday to attend church about 2:50 pm but did not return home.

Terrelonge said: “Trisha’s death is a stain on the moral fabric of the country and should be strongly condemned by all well-thinking Jamaicans. He says the discovery of her body with allegations on the brutality of her death should cause the nation to shudder at the violence and criminality that have become too common in our country.”

According to the ministry, Morris’ principal, Fania Davis, described her as being very helpful and well loved by her peers. Davis said the entire school community has been left devastated by the news.

Terrelonge expressed that:  “The murder of both Trisha Morris and young Chantae Skyers should prompt outrage and act as a wake-up call for Jamaicans to take action and cooperate with investigators to place those who perpetrate these vicious crimes in their rightful place behind prison bars.

“As the nation marks the beginning of Child Month, which is being celebrated under the theme Encourage, Enable, Include ME, he is pleading with everyone to have a collective resolve to stop remaining silent when they see injustice against our children.”

Terrelonge also extended condolences to the family of the child and assured the school community that the ministry would continue to provide the necessary support through counseling.