INDECOM probes fatal police shooting of Jowayne Salmon in St Elizabeth

INDECOM is investigating the fatal shooting of Jowayne Salmon by police in Balaclava, St Elizabeth. Civilian accounts contradict the officers' version of events.

Fatal shooting in Balaclava triggers INDECOM probe and community protests

The Independent Commission of Investigations (INDECOM) is investigating the shooting death of Jowayne Salmon, also known as 'Mani', who was killed by police in Balaclava, St Elizabeth on Tuesday, jamaica-gleaner.com reports.

According to the police, officers received information about armed men travelling on motorcycles. Lawmen signalled the riders to stop and were met with gunfire, which they returned. Salmon was subsequently shot and injured, later succumbing to his wounds. His co-rider reportedly fled the scene. A firearm was said to have been recovered.

Police identified Salmon as a member of the Speculation gang, which operates in St Elizabeth. His killing prompted protests in the community of Speculation, near Black River.

INDECOM noted, however, that civilian accounts contradict the police narrative. Witnesses indicated that officers discharged their firearms at the riders without any lawful basis. It was also reported that Salmon and his co-rider had attended court matters at the Parish Court in Balaclava prior to the incident.

Following the community protest, INDECOM investigators and a Family Liaison Officer visited the area on Wednesday and interviewed witnesses. The agency noted that, as a matter of policy, its Family Liaison Officers also identify and address any emotional distress arising from such incidents.

INDECOM has called on anyone with information, photographs, or video footage related to the shooting to come forward and assist with the investigation.

Source: Google News JM — Crime