Prime Minister Andrew Holness has expressed outrage at the gruesome murder of nine-year-old Nikita Noel in Hanover on Wednesday.

Reports are that Noel, who was a student of Esher Primary, did not return home from school on Wednesday afternoon.

Her body was later found metres away from her home.

Noel is believed to have been raped and strangled to death.

READ: ‘It’s dreadful, it hurts’ – Mother of 9-y-o Hanover schoolgirl devasted after losing only daughter

“Nikita’s horrifying murder is a shock to our collective conscience and sense of community and can only be described evil,” Holness said.

Holness offered his deep condolence and support to Nikita’s family, as they try to make sense of her vicious murder.

He said, “My heart goes out to Nikita’s family and loved ones and I am sure the entire Jamaica is praying for the family at this very sad time.”

The prime minister further stated, “Our society must never become numb to the increasing barbarity of violent acts. The society must clearly define and defend the moral line by speaking out against and unequivocally condemning these violent acts and supporting measures that will bring the perpetrators to justice."

He said it is for this reason, government is urgently amending the Offenses Against the Person Act (OAPA) "to provide stiffer penalties for those who terrorize and prey upon our people, particularly vulnerable and innocent children. Such barbaric criminals must be in no doubt that the country wants them separated from the society.”