KINGSTON, Jamaica — The University of the West Indies (The UWI), Mona, says contrary to recent reports, there was no gun-related robbery at any campus banks.

According to the university, an internal investigation confirmed that the claims circulating on social media are false. However, the university said it was aware of recent incidents relating to robberies across campus and is taking decisive action to enhance campus security.

In a statement released on Thursday, the university sought to assure students, staff and the wider public that safety remains a top priority. It said, as a result, immediate measures have been implemented to reinforce campus security. These include but are not limited to:

— Increased security presence: The UWI says it is actively increasing the patrols of campus police officers and contracted security teams from King Alarm to enhance surveillance, response times and overall crime prevention efforts;

— Enhanced quick response teams: A dedicated security team from King Alarm is poised to respond swiftly to security threats. The university has also engaged King Alarm to provide a secondary team to bolster our response;

— Strengthened perimeter security: Entry points along the campus perimeter have been assessed with better-equipped personnel being stationed and patrol units circulating more frequently to provide re-enforcement;

— Improved lighting: Immediate assessments and upgrades to lighting across walkways, parking lots and less-trafficked areas are already underway;

— Greater support from Jamaica Constabulary Force: The security office has contacted the Jamaica Constabulary force who have assured increased police presence from both the Mona and Matilda’s Corner stations. Patrols along Garden Boulevard and Mona will provide additional enforcement and deterrence against criminal activities;

— Increased mobile patrols: Additional King Alarm patrols and a new security vehicle for the campus police will ensure broader coverage, particularly during high-risk hours;

— Controlled access measures: The university’s Garden Boulevard gate will remain locked with access limited to staff and students and discussions regarding a semi-closed campus model are ongoing; and

— Leadership reinforcement: A new manager at King Alarm has been appointed to oversee campus security operations and ensure the effective implementation of these measures.

The university is urging the campus community to stay informed through official university channels and to report any suspicious activity to the Campus Security Office at (876) 551-0134/36 (876) 702-4334 or email at security.director@uwimona.edu.jm.