JCF AND JUTC LAUNCH COORDINATED RESPONSE TO STONE THROWING ATTACKS ON PASSENGERS IN PUBLIC BUSES – JAMAICANS URGED TO OBSERVE & TELL IN SAFEGUARDING NATIONAL TRANSPORTATION SYSTEM

The Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) and the Jamaica Urban Transit Company (JUTC) have launched a robust, coordinated response to an increasing wave of stone-throwing and acts of vandalism at passengers in public buses in sections of Kingston, St. Andrew, and St. Catherine.

In a high-level meeting convened on Saturday, July 19, the Police High Command and Directorship of the JUTC discussed the national security and public safety implications of these attacks and presented a unified front to protect commuters, JUTC personnel, and the nation’s public transportation infrastructure.

Mr. Owen Ellington reported that the attacks are impacting the newer buses, particularly along sections such as Washington Boulevard between Headley Avenue and Drewsland, where a concerning pattern of interference from illegal and unscrupulous individuals, usually associated with illegal taxis, as well as PPV operators, are suspected of being involved in the attacks.

“We believe there are coordinated efforts aimed at disrupting the people’s service, and we are working closely with the JCF to ensure offenders are brought to justice,” Ellington stated. He also confirmed new incidents in the Rockfort area as recently as July 18 and reiterated that all JUTC buses are equipped with surveillance technology to aid investigations.

Commissioner of Police Dr. Kevin Blake strongly condemned the incidents, describing them as deliberate and dangerous acts placing the public at risk. “These are not isolated acts of mischief; they represent a form of criminality that undermines safety and security. The buses are public assets owned by the people of Jamaica; any effort to undermine their operation is an attack on our citizens.

We will not tolerate it,” said Commissioner Dr. Blake. “These actions are being treated with the highest level of seriousness and urgency.”

Mr. Warren Clarke, Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Strategic Operations, provided an update on the activation of a special joint JCF/JUTC response in the circumstances, including:

  • Heightened mobile and static points along vulnerable routes, especially in known hotspots.
  • Strategic covert deployments to detect and apprehend perpetrators in real time.
  • Monthly joint JCF/JUTC reviews to ensure ongoing effectiveness and strategic refinement.
  • Technical collaboration with public and private stakeholders to support identification, evidence gathering, and prosecution of college.
  • Continue to prioritise transportation safety, engaging rapid response protocols with proactive monitoring systems that are already in place, supported by enhanced community policing efforts in affected areas.

The JCF and JUTC appeal to all citizens to play their part in protecting the integrity of Jamaica’s transport system. If you see something, say something. Report all incidents of stone-throwing, vandalism, and suspicious behaviour immediately by calling the Police 119 Emergency Number or report offenders anonymously to Crime Stop at 311.

Those who seek to destabilise essential public services will face the full force of the law. The JCF and JUTC remain steadfast in their commitment to ensuring that every Jamaican will travel safely and confidently on the nation’s roads.