JAMAICANS on Wednesday celebrated the work of the police, after cops quickly recaptured seven of nine men who escaped from the lock-up at the Constant Spring Police Station Tuesday morning.

Throughout the day, the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) periodically updated its social media pages, informing the public each time an escapee was recaptured. At the same time, the police are yet to provide details on how the lapse at the station occurred, which caused the men to escape.

Police initially said the nine men escaped by cutting their way through a grille and a metal door.

On Instagram Wednesday, people celebrated at each announced recapture.

“One by one unno going back in,” one user commented. “Great work as usual JCF,” another said.

The men recaptured so far are 23-year-old Talik Chambers, 27-year-old Brandon Ennis, 25-year-old Kemal Kelly, 31-year-old Junior Barnes, 25-year-old Donque Douglas, and 19-year-old Richard Bishop. A 45-year-old man, David Rhoden, was recaptured quickly after the jail break on Tuesday morning.

Up to press time Wednesday, those still on the run were 18-year-old Fray Messias, and 19-year-old Alunzo Espute.

Police say the escapees’ offences included murder, rape, possession of a prohibited weapon, identity theft, wounding with intent, shooting with intent, malicious destruction of property, burglary, larceny, and unauthorised ammunition.

Following the jail break, residents of Cassava Piece in St Andrew had expressed concern about possible threats to their safety and peace of mind. The lock-up adjoins the community.

They also expressed fear that police operations to recapture the escapees could restrict free movement throughout the community.

— Jason Cross