The communities of Ellerslie Pen and Tawes Meadows in Spanish Town, Jamaica, are now under a curfew as the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) works to restore order following the fatal shooting of a reputed gang leader.
The curfew, which began Thursday, January 23, will remain in effect until 6:00 pm on Friday, January 25.
The restricted area spans:
- North: From the roundabout along the Spanish Town Bypass to Williams Street.
- East: From Williams Street to French Street.
- South: From French Street to Oxford Road.
- West: From Oxford Road back to the roundabout.
Residents within these boundaries must remain indoors unless otherwise authorized by the police commander.
Violence affecting schools and businesses
The curfew follows the killing of Othneil Lobban, also known as “Thickman,” the reputed leader of the One Order Gang. Lobban, who was one of the National Joint Anti-Gang Task Force’s top five most wanted, was fatally shot during an operation in Six Miles, St. Andrew, on Wednesday night.
According to the JCF, Lobban was a central figure in directing violent activities and organized crime across St. Catherine, Kingston, and other parishes. His death has triggered unrest, with police reporting attempts by supporters to disrupt the area.
Several businesses in Spanish Town, including Victoria Mutual Building Society, JN Bank, National Commercial Bank, and the National Water Commission, remained closed on Thursday due to security concerns. Early Thursday morning, the Courts Bargain Centre furniture store on Young Street was set ablaze, further escalating tensions.
Several schools in the town also dismissed early, giving students and stafff the opportunity to get home earlier than usual.
The police and Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) have maintained a strong presence in the area, assuring the public that measures are in place to ensure safety. The JCF noted an “extreme threat level” but emphasized that the situation is under control.
Opposition Spokesperson on National Security, Peter Bunting, condemned Thursday’s attack on law enforcement during an operation to apprehend a wanted man in the area known as ‘Capture Land.’ He criticized the semi-militarized environments that shield criminal leaders and called for more community-focused policing strategies.
Authorities are urging residents to remain calm and cooperate with the security forces. The curfew and heightened police presence aim to stabilize Spanish Town and prevent further violence.
As investigations continue, the JCF is working to address the root causes of gang violence in the region while ensuring the safety of its citizens and law enforcement personnel.
