A 23-year-old security guard has been detained in connection with the murder of former honorary British consul to Jamaica, John Terry.

The Gleaner understands that the suspect was arrested while he was at work at the Sangster International Airport.

His residence in Flankers, Montego Bay, was also searched but there was no immediate information as to whether any evidence turned up.

Assistant commissioner of police in charge of crime, Les Green, described the guard's arrest as a significant development in the investigation of Terry's murder.

"There are some matters still to investigate and other persons to interview, but we are well on our way."

Terry, 65, was found murdered on September 10, 2009 at his house in Mount Carey, St James.