Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Security, Dr Horace Chang has strongly condemned the gun attack in St James that left the wife of a policeman dead and seriously injured both the cop and his son.

The shooting occurred on Saturday and has sent shockwaves throughout the law enforcement community and the wider public.

In a statement issued Sunday, Minister Chang extended condolences on behalf of the Government of Jamaica and expressed solidarity with the grieving family.

“I convey, on behalf of myself and the Government of Jamaica, our deepest condolences to the policeman and his son, who have suffered a major and painful loss. We hope that both recover in a speedy manner,” the statement read. “I am confident that all well-thinking members of society will join us in holding up the policeman, his son, and his extended family in our prayers.”

Dr Chang also stressed that the violent attack will not deter the government and security forces from their efforts to reduce violent crime across the country.

“This attack has not shaken the resolve of the security forces and the Government in our move to improve upon the reduction in violent crimes, including murder,” he said. “The callous attack on the policeman and his family has doubled our determination to offer strong support to the security forces to find criminals who are intent on preying on and snuffing out the lives of Jamaicans with impunity.”

The security minister sought to reaffirm the Government’s full support for the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) in tracking down those responsible and ensuring they are brought to justice swiftly and within the bounds of the law.