Security Minister Chang and Bunting condemn attack on policeman and family in St James
Published:Sunday | August 10, 2025 | 1:02 PM
Minister of National Security Dr Horace Chang has condemned Saturday's brutal gun attack on a policeman and his family in Reading, St James, which left the officer’s wife dead and the policeman and his young son critically injured.
In a statement issued on Sunday, Minister Chang expressed his deepest condolences and urged the nation to support the family in prayers.
“I convey, on behalf of myself and the Government of Jamaica, our deepest condolences to the policeman and his son, who have suffered a major and painful loss. We hope that both recover in a speedy manner. I am confident that all well-thinking members of society will join us in holding up the policeman, his son, and his extended family in our prayers,” he said.
The minister highlighted the dangers faced by security personnel in their efforts to keep Jamaicans safe and reiterated the government’s resolve.
“This attack has not shaken the resolve of the security forces and the Government in our move to improve upon the reduction in violent crimes, including murder. It presents a stark reminder of the dangers our crime-fighters face as they strive daily to keep us safe and secure,” he noted.
He continued: The Jamaica Constabulary Force has the full backing of the Government of Jamaica in lawfully pursuing the thugs who attacked the policeman and his family and paving the way for them to be brought to swift justice.”
The name of the policeman is being withheld for security reasons.
Opposition Spokesman on National Security Senator Peter Bunting, also condemned the attack in the strongest terms, calling it a “cold-blooded assault on a young family” and expressed prayers for the recovery of the policeman and his son.
He additionally condemned the circulation of graphic images and videos of victims following violent crimes, calling it “deeply dehumanising” and retraumatising for grieving families.
Bunting reiterated the Opposition’s call for urgent and effective action to address violent crime and protect law enforcement families.
“We must act decisively to break the cycle of violence - and as a society, we must reject not only the acts themselves, but also the callousness that allows such indignities to be treated as entertainment.”
The shooting occurred around 8:39 p.m. on Saturday in Reading, St. James.
The policeman was attached to the Area One Lottery Scam Task Force.
The Jamaica Police Federation described the incident as “a sad time for the Jamaica Constabulary family” and urged members to remain vigilant on or off duty.
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