‘Play di fool and find out’, PM warns criminals as ground breaks on $3.8 billion Raintree development
Published:Wednesday | April 16, 2025 | 3:01 PM
Prime Minister Dr Andrew Holness has issued a strong warning to criminals who may attempt to exploit the construction of the Raintree Commercial Complex in St Catherine.
Speaking at the ground-breaking ceremony for the $3.8 billion development, Holness cautioned that if illicit actors are allowed to interfere at the start of construction, it would amount to the state relinquishing control of the project and fostering an environment where practices such as extortion could thrive.
“For those criminals listening, for those dons listening, for those who feel like they have control over this area—try it and see… play di fool and find out,” he stated.
The Prime Minister commended the security forces for achieving a 36 per cent reduction in murders so far this year, attributing this progress to the government’s strategic investments in national security over the past nine years.
He highlighted key initiatives such as the implementation of Zones of Special Operations, the deployment of States of Emergency, and investments in the equipment, capabilities, and training of both the Jamaica Defence Force and the Jamaica Constabulary Force.
“Those criminals who believe that they are operating in the same space are mistaken. And it is important that I warn them, because when they get what is coming to them—and there are those who will cry out in sympathy—the society will know that I went to great lengths, publicly, to warn them… and I would encourage you to take my words seriously,” he said.
Holness also noted that today’s ground-breaking represents the first definitive step in activating a space that has been zoned, master-planned, and environmentally assessed to support a new generation of enterprise and employment.
“It will deliver a much-needed supply of service-and investment-ready lots in proximity to major roads and urban centres, fulfilling a market gap for modern commercial infrastructure outside of Kingston’s core,” he said.
He shared that the commercial complex, which is being undertaken by the Urban Development Corporation, will support long-term private investments exceeding $15 billion.
The project is expected to generate 2,000 jobs during the construction phase and more than 5,000 jobs over the long term.
These jobs, he noted, will be in high-growth sectors such as business process outsourcing, logistics, manufacturing, warehousing, and other commercial activities.
“This project represents real opportunities for people. I can see the welders, the technicians, the engineers, the administrative staff, the ICT professionals, and small entrepreneurs. This is how we translate our economic gains into better lives for the people,” he said.
Follow The Gleaner on X, formerly Twitter, and Instagram @JamaicaGleaner and on Facebook @GleanerJamaica. Send us a message on WhatsApp at 1-876-499-0169 or email us at onlinefeedback@gleanerjm.com or editors@gleanerjm.com.