UPDATE: INDECOM ARRESTS 5 JCF MEMBERS IN RELATION TO ALPHA STUDENT SHOOTING INCIDENT

July 4, 2016 – The Independent Commission of Investigations (INDECOM) wishes to advise the public that as at 7:35 p.m. this evening, five (5) members of the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) attached to the Mobile Reserve Division have been arrested in relation to the shooting injury of a Convent of Mercy Academy (Alpha) student on Thursday, June 30, 2016.

The police officers will be placed before the Parish Court as soon as an Identification Parade and interviews are conducted.

The Commission thanks the High Command of the JCF for their cooperation in this investigation.

Background

The Commission launched an investigation into the shooting injury of the female student following the incident on Thursday, June 30, 2016. The incident occurred at the intersection of North Street and Mark Lane at approximately 7:15 a.m.

The student underwent emergency surgery at the Kingston Public Hospital and is still recovering in the Intensive Care Unit.

The report received by INDECOM was that a man who was operating a “robot” taxi transporting and students of Convent of Mercy Academy (Alpha) and St. Georges College, was allegedly stopped by the police. It was also alleged that after this taxi stopped, the police opened fire at the vehicle. One of the bullets hit one of the students in the head.

A team of INDECOM investigators and forensic examiners responded to the incident following the report. The incident scene and motor care were processed; and statements collected from eyewitnesses to the incident.

The Commission wishes to reiterate its appeal to anyone who may have witnessed or can provide any information about the incident to call 1.876.968.1932, or call our mobile number at 1.876.878.0167, or visit its office in Kingston. Persons are also encouraged to call our new Toll Free Lines: 1.888.991.5555 or 1.888.935.5550.

School Girl Shot in Taxi … Police Suspected … INDECOM Acted ..

A taxi being driven in Kingston Jamaica W. I. was shot up last week Friday morning at about 7:20 AM based on reports. There were about five passengers in the car … which was believed to be unregistered to officially be operated as a taxi.

Despite it’s apparent illegality, it is outrageous that police could fire into a car packed with passengers even as they were not fired on or their lives were not in danger in any shape or form.

See attached release from INDECOM in which 5 police officers have been arrested alleged for shooting up the taxi.

The student underwent brain surgery and is recovering in hospital. She is 13+ and attends Alpha Academy, a Roman Catholic High School.

We condemn this unwarranted and excessive use of force.

Wishing the student speedy and full recovery.

Hopeton O’Connor-Dennie is Senior International Correspondent & Photojournalist for Vision Newspaper Canada.