ST JAMES, Jamaica — The Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) says it has made a significant breakthrough in the murder investigation of a 34-year-old vendor from Burnt Savannah in St Elizabeth.

The victim, Ackeem Robinson was killed in Montego Bay, St James.

Reports are that shortly after 2 pm on Thursday, November 23, Robinson was attacked while sitting along the Fustic Road in Montego Bay. A lone assailant, alighting from a motorcycle, opened fire on Robinson, striking him in the head. Despite the efforts of passers-by who rushed him to Cornwall Regional Hospital, Robinson succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead. His death came mere hours after a second state of public emergency (SOE) was announced in St James a bid to deal with the crime situation in the parish.

READ: St James police following strong leads in man killed hours after second SOE announced

The Montego Bay Criminal Investigation Branch (CIB), upon receiving the report of Robinson’s attack, immediately initiated a comprehensive investigation, utilising CCTV footage and community canvassing, according to the police.

Diligent investigative work led to the arrest of Tyrece Hunter, also known as Bobby, a 20-year-old motorcycle mechanic from Johns Hall, St James, on December 4, the cops said.

Hunter was reportedly found in possession of the motorcycle used in the crime, which has been seized. Following an interview with detectives, Hunter is said to have confessed to his involvement in the murder and was formally charged.

Additionally, the JCF is actively seeking one Andeno Burnett, also known as Deno, a 19-year-old unemployed individual from Katty Lane, Irwin, St James.It is reported that eight months ago, Burnett was arrested and charged for possession of a prohibited weapon and unauthorised possession of ammunition. At the time, a loaded weapon was taken from his waistband. He was however granted bail when he appeared in court. But he failed to appear in the Western Regional Gun Court as required on December 11. A bench warrant has since been issued for his arrest. The police have named him as a person of interest in this case.

In the meantime, the St James Police are seeking to assure the public of its unwavering commitment to bringing all perpetrators of violent crimes to justice. The Force appeals to anyone with information about the whereabouts of Andeno Burnett to contact the nearest police station or call Crime Stop at 311, the NIB Tip Line at 811 or Police Emergency at 119.