Bunting condemns attack on police in Spanish Town

Opposition Spokesperson on National Security, Peter Bunting, has condemned yesterday's attack on law enforcement officers in Spanish Town, St Catherine during an operation to apprehend a wanted man.

The incident occurred in an area known as ‘Capture Land’ and involved members of the Fugitive Apprehension Team.

"My understanding is that members of the fugitive apprehension team went for a particular person who is the son of a 'One Order' gang don who resides abroad when they were attacked," Bunting stated.

He noted that such incidents highlight the challenges the police face in semi-militarised communities that protect dons and area leaders.

Bunting stressed the need for less militaristic policing and more community-focused strategies.

St Catherine North Police commander Superintendent Hopeton Nicholson said the police team went into the area to apprehend Roniel Hope, otherwise called ‘Ron’, who managed to escape during the chaos.

He said the residents were unprovoked when the incident occurred.

Meanwhile, Bunting also visited the home of 23-year-old Richard Thomas, who was killed two weeks ago in Lakes Pen, St Catherine.

Police reported that Thomas died in an alleged armed confrontation, but family members dispute this, calling for an independent investigation.

Bunting dismissed National Security Minister Dr Horace Chang's position that body-worn cameras cannot be used in certain operations.

"Minister Chang talks some nonsense... this is exactly when you need it," he said, emphasising accountability and protection for officers.

Bunting pledged to advocate for an independent investigation into Thomas' death with the Police High Command and Independent Commission of Investigation.

- Ruddy Mathison

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