ST JAMES, Jamaica — The Westmoreland police arrested a man wanted for murder and seized two firearms in separate incidents in the parish over the last 24 hours.

Forty-two-year-old Dwight Williams, otherwise called ‘Cheeky’ of Gordon district in Whitehouse, was arrested on Sunday about 8:35 am when officers observed him sitting outside a location in Petersville with a bag in his lap.

After confronting him, the officers reportedly searched and seized a firearm from the bag he was holding. He was taken into custody pending further investigations.

In the other incident, officers acting on information, conducted a search in Little London about 3:00 pm where they reportedly discovered a 9mm pistol along with a magazine containing seven rounds of 9mm ammunition in a grassy area. Both the firearm and ammunition have been submitted for ballistic testing, the police said.

Head of the Westmoreland Police, Superintendent Othneil Dobson has commended the police for their unwavering dedication following the arrest and seizure  of the two illegal firearms.

Dobson attributed the success to the execution of ongoing coordinated operations across the parish.

“This success reflects a major push by the Westmoreland police to rid the parish of illegal weapons and criminals who seek to disrupt the safety and peace of our communities. These results were achieved through strategic planning, precision operations, and the efforts of a high performing team of officers who continue to deliver exceptional results,” he said.

He also lauded the citizens of Westmoreland for their continued support, noting that the partnership between the police and the community remains crucial in the fight against crime.

“The partnership with citizens has been invaluable. We thank the residents who have played their part in ensuring that criminals find no safe haven here,” Dobson added.

As the holiday season approaches, the police have ramped up their activities across the division, implementing enhanced vehicle checkpoints and increased patrols and targeted operations to ensure the safety of all residents and visitors.

Superintendent Dobson reassured the public that the Westmoreland police remain committed to maintaining law and order throughout the festive period and beyond. The police continue to urge citizens to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious activities and reiterate that collaboration between law enforcement and the community is key to creating a safer Westmoreland.