MANCHESTER, Jamaica — In response to a surge in violent crime, authorities have instituted a curfew affecting several neighborhoods in Manchester, including the Inverness area of Knockpatrick. This decision follows the tragic incident on Thursday, where 30-year-old Rushaine Weltshire was fatally shot during an attempted robbery at a bar, leaving his girlfriend injured.
The curfew, which took effect on Friday at 6:00 PM, will remain in place until 6:00 AM on Monday. It encompasses other identified hotspots such as Greenvale and the “L belt” areas stretching from Albion to Porus, including Newhall, Comfort, Broadleaf, and May Day. Local officials have expressed that this measure is necessary to mitigate the risk of retaliatory violence linked to recent criminal acts.
Authorities reported that the parish of Manchester has witnessed alarming statistics this year, with 43 homicides recorded thus far. Official data indicates that as of October 20, there have been 42 murders in the parish, marking a nearly 17 percent increase compared to 36 during the same period last year. Additionally, shootings in the area have also risen, with 36 incidents reported—a nine percent increase from the previous year.
The community is urged to adhere to the curfew as law enforcement works diligently to restore safety and security.
