Police say they are mobilising full resources against escalating bomb threats
KINGSTON, Jamaica – The Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) says it is intensively tackling a series of bomb threats that have been disrupting peace across Jamaica.
Recognised as a systematic attack on national stability, these events are being met with the full mobilisation of police resources, the JCF said in a statement on Thursday.
Last week, Deputy Commissioner of Police (DSP) Fitz Bailey confirmed that 71 institutions were impacted between Thursday, November 9 and Friday, November 10 with a hospital and a court building among recent targets on Friday.
All other targets were educational institutions, including Denbigh and Lennon High in Clarendon, Old Harbour and Greater Portmore High in St Catherine, and William Knibb Memorial Trelawny.
READ: Suspect in custody as cops probe series of bomb threats – DCP Bailey
DSP Bailey, in a recent press briefing, remarked, “The recent uptick in
these criminal activities have triggered alarm and societal disruption.” He stressed the critical nature and immediacy of the situation.
Highlighting the complexity of the threats, DCP Bailey said, “Our investigations indicate these threats are sophisticated, likely beyond the capabilities of novices.”
This suggests the involvement of highly skilled individuals in the cyber domain, the statement read.
The JCF, alongside the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF), Major Organised Crime and Anti-Corruption Agency (MOCA) and international partners are vigorously pursuing leads.
“We are fully committed to apprehending those responsible,” affirmed DCP Bailey.
He noted the use of various modern communication methods, including social media, emails, and phone calls, to disseminate these threats.
In addition to resource mobilisation, legal experts are scrutinising laws to ensure the harshest possible penalties for the culprits.
DCP Bailey stated, “We are exploring all legal avenues to ensure that the perpetrators face severe punishment.”
The JCF urged the public to stay vigilant and report any unusual activities. Community cooperation is essential in maintaining national security.
We are unwavering in our resolve to bring the offenders to justice,” DCP Bailey said.