Authorities in St. James, Jamaica, have imposed a stringent 48-hour police curfew across sections of the Salt Spring community in response to a dangerous escalation of gang-related violence. The security measure commenced at 6:00 pm on Tuesday, December 2, and is scheduled to remain in effect until 6:00 pm on Thursday, December 4.
The decision follows a series of violent incidents that have plunged the community into a state of fear. The turmoil was exacerbated by a double homicide occurring just over two weeks prior, compounded by the recent challenges residents faced from Hurricane Melissa. In a further development on Monday, a fatal police-involved shooting occurred. Law enforcement officials reported that during the execution of a warrant, 21-year-old Jodane James, also known as ‘Sizzla,’ allegedly pointed a firearm at officers. He was subsequently shot and later succumbed to his injuries at a local hospital.
A police source confirmed to Observer Online that the current volatile situation is directly linked to gang conflicts. ‘We have been carrying out a series of operations in the community,’ the source stated, emphasizing ongoing efforts to curtail the violence and restore public order. The imposition of the curfew represents the latest and most significant measure in these security operations, aimed at stabilizing the area and protecting residents.