KINGSTON, Jamaica — People’s National Party (PNP) Spokesperson on Gender Affairs, Denise Daley is calling for urgent action to protect Jamaica’s women and girls as police continue their investigations into the disappearance of Anisa Dilworth, a pharmaceutical technology student at the Papine, St Andrew-based University of Technology (UTech).

Dilworth has been missing since Tuesday, May 6.

READ: UTech student reported missing

The police on Saturday reportedly apprehended an inDrive driver in connection with the case and are in pursuit of another individual.

Daley has since expressed outrage and deep concern.

“As a nation, we cannot become numb to the continued reports of women and girls going missing. Every life matters, and this young woman’s disappearance is another painful reminder that our society still fails to provide the safety and protection our women deserve,” Daley said.

She commended the Jamaica Constabulary Force for their swift response in apprehending the driver and is urging law enforcement to continue working with urgency and transparency.

“I thank the police for moving quickly to act on this case. Their response gives hope to the family and the wider public that justice and answers are being pursued. But this must go beyond one incident; systemic protection must be our priority,” Daley said.

The spokesperson is also calling on members of the public to remain vigilant and especially careful when using transportation services. She urged anyone with information, no matter how small, to come forward. “If you know something, say something. Your information could lead to her safe return. We are praying for her and for strength for her loved ones during this terrible time.”

Daley also referenced a separate but equally disturbing report involving a ride-sharing driver found bound and injured on Molynes Road, noting that the incident highlights broader security concerns within the transportation sector.

“These incidents, both the disappearance of a young woman and the attack on a transportation provider, point to a troubling breakdown in public safety. They reflect the growing dangers faced by both passengers and drivers, and the urgent need for a coordinated national response to protect lives,” she said.

The PNP reiterated its call for robust national measures to combat violence against women and girls, and to ensure that every Jamaican woman can feel safe in her community.

“The safety of our women is not optional. It is fundamental. The PNP will continue to advocate for stronger protections, accountability, and the resources needed to keep our women and girls safe,” it said.

In the meantime, the People’s National Party Youth Organisation (PNPYO) also called on the Government to immediately reinstate and modernise the Stay Alert App — a crucial digital tool for real-time emergency alerts, security updates and direct access to assistance.