MONTEGO BAY, Jamaica — Just hours after Acting Assistant Commissioner of Police Glenford Miller, head of the Area One Police Division in Hanover, issued a stern warning to criminals that police would defend themselves when confronted by gunmen, he and his security detail reportedly came under gunfire.

Observer Online understands that on Wednesday night, ACP Miller, accompanied by his security detail, was on his way home when they noticed a vehicle near his premises. The officer and his detail reportedly approached to investigate when the occupants of the vehicle opened fire on them. The officers reportedly returned fire, causing the vehicle to speed off.

According to reports, none of the lawmen were injured in the attack. It is unclear if any of the occupants in the other vehicle sustained injuries.

The Independent Commission of Investigations (INDECOM), along with police in Montego Bay, are investigating the circumstances surrounding the gun attack.

On Wednesday, ACP Miller urged criminals to avoid confronting police as they carry out their mandate to serve and protect. He emphasised that lawmen are trained to defend themselves and will not hesitate to do so when met with violent force.

“I am appealing to the criminals, when my police officers come for you, surrender. Don’t try to confront my police officers. My police officers are trained to defend themselves and defend the citizens of this country and that they will do with the utmost respect and professionalism at all times. I appeal to you,” ACP Miller said. “Criminals want to take over our space and we will not tolerate that. That will not happen! The law-abiding citizens of this country, especially those persons who live in Hanover, do business in Hanover; must live in peace in Hanover and feel safe. And we, the police, we are here, will continue to protect them and try to ensure their safety and security at all times.”

READ: Police will defend themselves when confronted by gunmen-senior cop

The senior cop’s statements came following Tuesday afternoon’s fatal shooting of two brothers during an alleged confrontation with members of the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) in the parish.

The deceased brothers have been identified as Henrique Harvey and Romaine Harvey, both of Green Island addresses. Police were reportedly in the process of executing a warrant on a man in Green Island, who allegedly pointed a gun at them. The police responded, and the man was shot.

Police said another man, upon hearing what was happening, ran toward the police with a firearm and was also shot and killed. Residents have since disputed the police’s account, stating that the brothers were murdered.