The Independent Commission Of Investigations INDECOM is now probing an incident where a man was shot and killed by members of the Jamaica Constabulary Force at a deadyard in the community of Iterboreale on Friday.
The deceased was identified as Kevin Cunningham, also known as ‘Chemical, a 28-year-old of Crab Hill District, Annotto Bay, St. Mary address.
The incident has sparked outrage after a video recording by eyewitnesses questioned the police account of a reported shootout.
Acting Superintendent Anthony Wallace said that the security members came under attack after an attempt to shut down the event.
The incident took place at around 9:00pm
According to the police’s report, during the stand-off with residents, one man reportedly brandished a firearm at the police.
The police team quickly responded, discharging his service weapon and fatally wounded Mr. Cunningham.
An illegal firearm was reportedly retrieved.
Sources told Radam Magazine that an elderly man was also brutally beaten by the police team.
Video circulating on Social Media of the incident has brought into question again the use of body-worn cameras by security forces.
51 people have been killed by the police since the start of 2025, a 166% increase compared to the same period last year.
Jamaicans for Justice (JFJ) and Human Rights groups have criticized the increase in unjustified police murders.
The Commissioner of Police, Dr. Kevin Blake has since responded to the condemnation of the JFJ.
