The People’s National Party (PNP) says it is both shocked and devasted by the murder of Councillor Ainsley Parkins, who was shot and killed behind the Naggo Head Infant School in Portmore while assessing a project earlier today in his division.

Atkins represented the Southboro Division in East Central St Catherine, which the PNP said he was dedicated to its welfare and progress. He is remembered by the party as an outstanding public servant who left a mark on those he served.

“As news of Councillor Parkins’ senseless killing reaches us, we are closely monitoring the situation and eagerly await further details from law enforcement regarding the circumstances surrounding his death. We have been informed that at the time of the shooting, he was on duty as councillor, diligently conducting assessments of a project he was passionately undertaking for the betterment of the community he loved and served,” the PNP said in a statement issued a short time ago.

“The PNP condemns this heinous act of violence in the strongest possible terms. We call upon law enforcement agencies to conduct a swift, thorough, and impartial investigation, leaving no stone unturned in their pursuit of justice. It is imperative that the perpetrators of this heinous act are swiftly identified and held accountable to face the full extent of the law,” the PNP wrote.

Additionally, it extended condolences to the Parkins’ family, colleagues, and constituents, promising continued support.

In the meantime, the PNP is urging residents of Southboro to stand united in the face of tragedy and uphold the legacy of the late councillor. It also appealed to citizens who may have any information that may assist the police to come forward.

The St Catherine South police are investigating the crime.