KINGSTON, Jamaica – The Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) has confirmed that all its personnel deployed in Haiti are safe and in good spirits despite the challenges posed by Tropical Storm Melissa. The storm has unleashed torrential rains over Haiti, triggering devastating floods and landslides that have tragically claimed three lives. Brigadier O’Neil Bogle provided this update during a special press briefing held at the Office of the Prime Minister on Friday, October 24. As Jamaica braces for the storm’s impact, Bogle emphasized that comprehensive measures have been implemented to ensure the safety and security of JDF’s assets. Offshore patrol vessels have been strategically relocated out of the storm’s path, while inland patrol vessels have been secured along the coastlines. Additionally, the JDF has assessed its air assets, with plans to deploy a maritime patrol aircraft overseas and keep the BELL 429 helicopter on standby for post-hurricane operations. Bogle further detailed that all remaining assets have been safely stored in JDF hangars across various bases, and robust plans are in place to protect ground assets across defense estates.