ST CATHERINE, Jamaica — Operations Officer for the St Catherine North Police, Deputy Superintendent Camendo Thoms, has sought to reassure residents that police in the division are committed to tackling issues such as burglary, robbery and housebreaking.

DSP Thoms was speaking with the Constabulary Communication Unit (CCU) following the arrest of a would-be burglar and the seizure of a firearm in Spanish Town over the weekend.

Reiterating the police’s commitment to the safety and security of its citizens, Thoms said “We are here for the long haul.”

“We are determined. We’re focused on ensuring that the citizens remain safe within this division. We want people to lock up their premises, their businesses and to return in the morning and to see the same in the order in which they left it.”

Reports are that about 2:00 am on Sunday, March 3, the police received reports that men were attempting to break into a business place on St John’s Rd. A police team swiftly responded and was reportedly met with gunfire upon their arrival. The police returned fire and when the shooting subsided, one of the gunmen was apprehended.

The police say they remain committed to capturing the other assailants.

The lawmen added that the incident not only resulted in the capture of one suspect but also the recovery of a firearm.

Anyone with any information they believe can assist in the investigation is being urged to contact Police Emergency at 119, Crime Stop at 311, the NIB Tip Line at 811 or the nearest police station.

Thoms has since issued a call to action for the community to remain vigilant and secure their properties.