ST ELIZABETH, Jamaica— A man who police say was before the courts for several cases of larceny and break-ins plaguing south St Elizabeth was fatally shot during what the police say is an intelligence-driven operation in Seaview district near Junction, Sunday morning.

Police named the suspect as Ian Vassell, otherwise called “Papa”, a resident of Seaview district in the parish.

Police said that about 5:15 am, personnel executed a warrant at the suspect’s house when the team observed the suspect with a firearm, which they said he pointed in the direction of cops.

Police said the team opened fire on the suspect and he fell to the ground clutching the weapon.

The suspect was pronounced dead at hospital.

A .38 revolver and five .38 cartridges were seized, according to the police.

Police said the suspect was regarded as a serial breaker targeting houses, shops and livestock in the Seaview, Southfield, Top Hill, Barbary Hall and Treasure Beach areas. Vassell reportedly had five cases before the court for break-ins, larceny and robbery with aggravation.

Following the incident, the threat level against police personnel in the Junction and Pedro Plains areas was raised to high.

— Kasey Williams