ST CATHERINE, Jamaica — The Jamaica Police Federation has condemned Friday morning’s deadly attack on police personnel in Sligoville, St Catherine, which left one officer dead and another critically injured.

In a statement on Friday, chairman of the federation, Sergeant Doris Stewart, expressed shock and sadness at the incident, which claimed the life of Corporal Trevoy Shaw, who was attached to the Jamaica Constabulary Force’s (JCF) Special Operations unit.

“The Jamaica Police Federation is deeply shocked and saddened by the tragic incident in Sligoville, St Catherine this morning, which has claimed the life of a member of the Jamaica Constabulary Force and left another officer critically injured,” Stewart said.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the family, friends, and colleagues of our fallen corporal, whose life was cut short while serving and protecting the people of Jamaica. We extend our deepest condolences to his loved ones and to the entire Special Operations Branch family, who are grieving this devastating loss,” she added.

Stewart said the federation is also praying for the injured police personnel, including those undergoing surgery, and expressed hope that there would be no further loss of life.

She urged members of the force to remain resolute despite the tragedy.

The federation chairman also appealed to members of the public to exercise sensitivity and refrain from circulating unverified information, particularly reports concerning civilian casualties.

The appeal comes as the police continue to grapple with the aftermath of the deadly confrontation in the Five Miles area of Sligoville.

Reports are that about 5:15 am, a team from the JCF’s Special Operations unit was conducting an operation in search of wanted men when they came under heavy gunfire from two men who had barricaded themselves inside a house with other occupants.

Both gunmen were subsequently killed during the confrontation.

Several police personnel and a young girl were also injured in the incident. The girl is reportedly in serious but stable condition.

READ: UPDATE: Two men killed after gun battle with police in Sligoville