In a targeted operation this morning, members of the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF), in collaboration with the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF), successfully seized prohibited weapons in the Flanker community of St. James. The seizure underscores the authorities’  commitment to combatting violent crime and dismantling criminal networks in Jamaica.

Reports are that shortly after 7:00 a.m., a joint police-military team conducted a targeted raid on premises in Central Avenue, Flanker, aimed at apprehending individuals involved in the illegal possession of firearms and ammunition. The operation led to the recovery of a black and slightly rusted AKMS Rifle with a magazine affixed, along with a camouflage 9mm Suppressed Sub Machine Gun, also with a magazine affixed. These seizures took place in an abandoned building, further indicating the lengths to which criminal elements will go to hide their illegal activities.

No arrests were made in direct connection with the recovery of these weapons. However, one man was apprehended while attempting to evade the operation. He is currently in custody pending further investigations.

This operation comes in the wake of the fatal shooting of 25-year-old Peter Johnson, o/c ‘Jolo’,  on February 26, 2024, a known criminal wanted for serious crimes, including murders and shootings within the parish. Johnson who lived in the very yard where today’s weapons were found, was shot by the security forces when he engaged them in gunfire in proximity to a polling station.

The Jamaica Constabulary Force and the Jamaica Defence Force remain resolute in our mission to rid our communities of illegal firearms and to bring those responsible for perpetrating violence to justice.