Byfield condemns violent incident involving Mayor Michael Belnavis; urges swift investigation by the JCF
KINGSTON, Jamaica-Junior Shadow spokesperson on Security and Defence, Jouvaughnie Byfield, has expressed deep concern and condemnation following an attack on the Mayor of St Ann’s Bay Michael Belnavis by an unknown assailant at his residence on Monday.
“I am deeply disturbed by the recent attack on Mayor Michael Belnavis. This violent act is completely unacceptable and highlights the ongoing need for decisive action to address crime in our country,” Byfield said in a statement.
Belnavis has reportedly been readmitted to the hospital after being released from the hospital on Tuesday. According to reports, Belnavis sustained non-life-threatening injuries.
Byfield is urging Mayor Belnavis to fully cooperate with the investigation to ensure that justice is served. He also expressed hope for a full and transparent report from the authorities on the circumstances surrounding the attack.
Byfield said, “In the context of the vague reports heavily influenced by political spin, the JCF needs to make a public statement on their investigation to assure the public that a thorough and impartial investigation is being conducted and that no cover-up is taking place to protect a politically connected person.”
Specifically, he is asking if the mayor’s hands were swabbed and whether ballistic testing was done on his firearm.
“If a violent crime occurred it is not up to Mayor Belnavis to determine whether or not a report is made to the police,” he argued.
Byfield further called on all Jamaicans to stand united in condemning this act of violence and to work towards creating a safer environment for all citizens.
