The Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) has arrested several schoolboys following the circulation of a disturbing video last week, which seemingly depicts the violent sexual assault of a schoolgirl.

Minister of Education, Skills, Youth, and Information, Dana Morris Dixon, condemned the incident and pledged her Ministry’s full support to the victim and her family.

She stated, “This horrifying incident not only highlights the pervasive issue of violence against women and girls but also underscores the urgent need to address this scourge through education, awareness, and enforcement of the law.”

Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, Olivia Grange, described the contents of the video as heinous and expressed her outrage.

“This is appalling and despicable and has no place in our society. It shows why as a nation, we must come together to protect our women and girls. It is heartbreaking to see this kind of violence, especially against our children, who should be nurtured and protected in every space they occupy.”

The police, in confirming the arrests, are warning residents not to share the video.

“The video, which came to light sometime last week, depicts inappropriate behaviour involving one girl and multiple boys. The police are urging the public to refrain from sharing the clip as this can further traumatise the victim and, by extension, affect the successful outcome of the case,” the JCF said on Sunday.

Law enforcement is also reminding citizens that sharing such content may constitute a breach of the Child Pornography (Prevention) Act. Persons found guilty may face imprisonment for up to 20 years.