The Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) is reporting the seizure of more than 3,900 rounds of ammunition, 19 exotic animals and uncustomed cigarettes in Whitehouse, Westmoreland on Monday (June 2).

The seizure was made during an intelligence-driven operation by the Counter-Terrorism and Organised Crime Investigation Branch (C-TOC) along the Camp Hope and San San beaches in Westmoreland.

The latest seizure comes in the wake of the seizure on Wednesday, May 28, of over 200 firearms and more than 50,000 rounds of ammunition that were imported from the United States.

Reports indicate that at 5:00 am, investigators from C-TOC’s Special Operations Unit went to the location. Two men were observed removing items from the shoreline, and on the approach of the police, they fled, leaving behind two knitted bags containing more than 3,900 rounds of ammunition, two makeshift cages
containing ten 10 live and nine dead exotic parrots, along with two squirrels. Several other items were
seized, including tools and more than 20 packs of uncustomed cigarettes.

The National Environment and Planning Agency (NEPA) was immediately contacted, and the animals were
taken into their care.

Superintendent of Police Victor Barrett lauded the efforts of the police, noting that the illegal importation
of exotic animals can pose a significant risk to the environment.

“The illegal trade of exotic animals is a clear and present danger to our public’s safety, national security,
and environmental well-being. The JCF is aware of the threat posed by this trade and is pursuing those
who are engaged in the act,” said Barrett.

The two suspects involved in this operation are still at large and are being sought by the police.
Meanwhile, anyone with information that can assist in this investigation is urged to contact C-TOC at 876-
967-1389, the National Intelligence Bureau at 811, Crime Stop at 311 or the nearest police station.