Holness calls National Security Council meeting following deadly Clarendon gun attack

Prime Minister Andrew Holness has called a meeting of the National Security Council (NSC) for Monday morning to discus the brutal gun attack on Cherry Tree Lane in Clarendon on Sunday night.

Up to midnight eight persons were killed, nine others were injured and being treated at hospital.

In a media release early Monday morning, the Office of the Prime Minister said the meeting will begin at 9 a.m.

It said the prime minister has advised the police to leave no stone unturned in bringing to justice the criminals who perpetrated the dastardly act.

"I condemn this reprehensible, brutal and senseless attack which resulted in several people in Clarendon being killed. I extend my deepest condolences to all families who are affected by this tragedy. I have spoken to the Police High Command and advised that all efforts must be extended to bring the perpetrators to justice, as quickly as possible," Holness said.

"The Jamaican State will not countenance such savagery being meted out to our people. We will respond strongly," he continued.

The Prime Minister said the incident is a reminder that despite the approximately 17 per cent reduction in murders which has been achieved this year, the Government will have to persist and intensify efforts to aggressively target criminal gangs across Jamaica.

"We will not relent in efforts to reduce criminality and we will not surrender our society to criminals. I wish to assure the nation that my Government will continue to pursue a multi-faceted approach as we support the security forces in the bid to further successfully reduce violent crime," said Holness.

The Prime Minister also called on anyone with information concerning the gun attack on Cherry Tree Lane in Clarendon to tell the police what they know.

Late Sunday night, Minister of National Security Dr Horace Chang said the authorities believe the attack may be connected to reprisal activities from a few years ago.

"I urge the police to utilise every available resource and power to apprehend the perpetrators swiftly.

"To the people of Clarendon and Jamaica, please remain vigilant and cooperate with law enforcement as we work together to ensure the safety and security of our communities," Chang said.

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