MOCA appeals for ID help in Stella Maris threat case
KINGSTON, Jamaica — More than three weeks after a chilling video of a masked gunman directing threats at administrators at Stella Maris Preparatory School went viral, causing a rush on the Shortwood Road, St Andrew institution by fright-stricken parents, the Major Organised Crime and Anti-Corruption Agency (MOCA) has renewed its call for the public’s assistance in identifying the individual, who demanded $50 million while brandising a pistol.
In addition to monitoring varying allegations being made on social media, MOCA and the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) are conducting joint investigations, a police source told Observer Online, reassuring that the matter remains one of high priority and urgency.
“We might not have said much on this matter since the video went viral. However, we wish to reach out to the public for assistance in identifying this individual, reassuring any information will be treated with utmost confidence,” the police source added.
Meanwhile, Stella Maris Preparatory, which had undertaken a series of precautionary measures, effective Monday, May 11, in response to the threat, has continued working alongside the JCF to ensure safety of school administrators and students.
Principal Sister Mary Joseph said the school’s board chairman, Emile Lafayette, had directed an increase in the number of security guards from two to four, as well as additional police presence during morning drop-off hours between 6 am and 8 am and afternoon pick-up between 1 pm and 3 pm. Private security company, King Alarm, was also said to be conducting staggered armed patrols throughout the day after staff members were left shaken by the contents of the threatening video.
Despite the passage of three weeks, parents are still being urged to cooperate with the security arrangements implemented by ensuring children are picked up promptly after school and only by persons with whom students are familiar.
Meanwhile, MOCA has urged anyone with information on the matter to contact the Agency via its tip hotline, 888-MOCA-TIP (888-662-2847) or Crime Stop 311.
