Schools in and outside Spanish Town impacted by ongoing violence

Ongoing violence in Spanish Town, St Catherine, forced schools in Jamaica’s first capital to dismiss students early on Thursday, with the unrest spilling over into the neighbouring parishes of Kingston and St Andrew.

Education Minister, Dr Dana Morris Dixon said the ministry was working closely with law enforcement authorities to monitor the situation and ensure the safety and security of students and staff.

“Parents and guardians are urged to exercise caution and make appropriate arrangements for their children. It is incumbent on everyone to ensure that all precautions are taken to preserve life and limbs, especially those of our most vulnerable, our children," Morris Dixon added.

She said the ministry will continue to provide updates as the situation develops and encourages all stakeholders to stay informed through official channels.

The violence started Wednesday afternoon when members of the security forces were attacked as they attempted to arrest a wanted man said to be affiliated with the One Order gang.

It continued into Thursday after the alleged leader of the gang, Ophniel ‘Thickman’ Lobban was fatally shot in a reported shootout with the police at Six Miles, St Andrew about 10:30 pm Wednesday.

The schools forced to close due to the flare-up of violence are St Jago High, Homestead Primary, Eltham High, Eltham Park Primary, St Catherine High and Burmar Academy. All other schools in the Spanish Town area.

Several other schools operating outside St Catherine also closed their doors early as many of their students live in or traverse the affected communities. They include Campion College, Clan Carthy High, Tarrant High, Vauxhall High, The Queen’s School, Meadowbrook High, Holy Childhood High, Ardenne High and Kingston College.