Governor-General Sir Patrick Allen on Wednesday (January 22) declared a State of Public Emergency for the police divisions of St Andrew South, St Andrew Central, Kingston Western, St Catherine South.

This declaration follows a significant increase in violent criminal activities within these areas.

“These locations have been identified as hotspots for gang-related warfare which poses public safety risks to residents as well as commuters and bystanders given their use as public thoroughfares,” according to a release from the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM) announcing the emergency measure.

According to the release, intelligence assessment has revealed that violence and criminal activity in these communities have reached a level beyond what standard policing strategies can manage to effectively restore stability and public order.

The declaration comes hours after gunmen and lawmen traded bullets in a section of Spanish Town Wednesday morning. Unconfirmed reports are that that criminal elements within the Tawes Pen area of Spanish Town took of arms after a man said to be the son of a don was arrested by the police.

Videos from the area show residents taking to the streets. Reports have also surfaced that fiery roadblocks were set. A number of police vehicles were damaged in the clash.

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The OPM release said that by declaring a State of Public Emergency, enhanced security tactics will “enable our security forces to disrupt criminal networks, apprehend offenders, and foster conditions for lasting peace”.

The OPM said these actions will be carried out with full respect for constitutional safeguards and the protection of citizens’ rights.

In addition, the OPM said the Government will continue addressing the underlying factors that fuel violence in these areas. This will involve working closely with relevant stakeholders to ensure that social intervention programmes accompany security measures, delivering long-term solutions to the social and economic challenges faced by residents.