Cop slain outside Old Harbour home

A pall of grief and disbelief hangs over the Claremont Drive community in Old Harbour, St Catherine, following the fatal shooting of a police officer early Saturday morning.

Corporal Kamal Mayne, a 20-year veteran of the Jamaica Constabulary Force, was gunned down just steps from his home by unknown assailants.

Affectionately called ‘Biggs’ by colleagues and community members, Mayne had just returned from duty in the Kingston Western Police Division when he was attacked.

According to initial reports, Mayne had completed his shift and was alighting from his vehicle at his gate when he was ambushed and shot. The cop was discovered lying near his car at about 5:30 a.m. by a passerby, who then alerted the police. Mayne was transported to the hospital, where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

The usually quiet Claremont Drive was transformed into a crime scene, with investigators combing the area and visibly shaken officers looking on in silence.

Deputy Commissioner of Police Richard Stewart, who is in charge of the crime and security portfolio, visited the scene.

“The facts the police have so far indicated that he alighted from his vehicle and was pounced upon by his assailants,” Stewart said. “This a stark reminder of the realities the police face on a day to day basis,” he added.

While the police are working on a theory, Stewart issued a plea to the public: “I am appealing to citizens who might have any information on the slaying of Corporal Mayne to contact the nearest police station.”

Neighbours, still grappling with the tragedy, expressed shock and sorrow.

One resident, who spoke to The Sunday Gleaner, said they did not hear any explosions Saturday night.

“He is a very nice man, kind to neighbours and always smiling. It’s so sad that someone took his life in that way,” the neighbour said.

Residents also noted that this is the first incident of its kind in the area, where Corporal Mayne had lived for most of his life.

Prime Minister Dr Andrew Holness described the murder as a “heartbreaking blow to his family, his colleagues in the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF), and to our entire country”.

Noting the sacrifices the police make on behalf of the country, he said Mayne’s death will not be in vain.

Shadow Minister of National Security Senator Peter Bunting condemned the murder.

“I am saddened by the murder of Corporal Kamal Mayne. This violent act is not only an attack on a committed officer but also a blow to public safety and the rule of law,” said Bunting.

“The death of any member of our security forces in such circumstances is a sobering reminder of the threats faced by the men and women of the JCF (Jamaica Constabulary Force). I urge anyone with information that can assist the investigation to come forward and support the efforts of law enforcement,” he added.

ruddy.mathison@gleanerjm.com