Police seek ‘Fugitive’ following huge firearms seizure at Montego Bay port
Published:Monday | February 12, 2024 | 9:19 PM
A major operation carried out by the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) and the Jamaica Customs Agency (JCA) led to a significant cache of firearms being intercepted at the Freeport Warehouse in Montego Bay, St James on Friday.
The police are now seeking a man known only as 'CJ', 'Fugitive' and 'Shippy', who they have identified as a person of interest in their investigation into the seizure.
“This operation is a significant blow to the transnational movement of illegal weapons from North America into the Caribbean, demonstrating the effectiveness of the combined efforts by the law enforcement agencies to combat organised crime and protect our nation's borders,” the JCF said in a statement this evening.
“Utilising advanced non-intrusive inspection technology, the JCA officers detected anomalies within a shipment from Florida, USA, during routine scanning procedures. The suspicious consignment, a blue plastic barrel addressed to a recipient in Bogue Village, Montego Bay, St James, prompted a thorough examination by the Contraband Enforcement Team.”
The police said that about 10:00 a.m., the officers uncovered a total of 14 firearms and 15 magazines hidden among household items.
The discovery included:
- One Taurus Armas pistol
- One Heckler & Koch VP9 pistol
- One CZP 09 pistol
- One Beretta APX pistol
- One Glock 19 pistol
- One Glock 17 pistol
- One Glock 45 pistol
- One Canik TP9 pistol
- One Glock pistol
“This successful seizure is attributed to the diligent application of intelligence and cutting-edge technology, underscoring the commitment of the JCF and JCA to safeguarding our nation against the influx of illegal arms,” the JCF said.
“Our efforts were supported by valuable insights from our international law enforcement partners, further highlighting the importance of global cooperation in our ongoing battle against criminal networks.”
The authorities believe the man called 'CJ', 'Fugitive' and 'Shippy' can help advance their investigation and are asking him to report to the nearest police station by midday on Wednesday, February 14.
“Jamaican law enforcement remains vigilant and dedicated to preventing the flow of illegal arms into the country, ensuring the safety and security of our citizens. Meanwhile, members of the public are being urged to share any information they believe may be helpful in advancing this and other investigations," the police said.
Persons may call the Police Emergency at 119, Crime Stop at 311, the NIB Tip Line at 811 or the nearest police station.
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