SPANISH TOWN, Jamaica – Following violent disruptions in Spanish Town, VM Building Society (VMBS) has announced the temporary closure of its branch in the area. The decision comes in light of safety concerns stemming from a series of disturbances that erupted after the fatal police operation targeting the reputed leader of the One Order Gang.
In a public notice, VMBS encouraged customers to use alternate options for their transactions. “We invite you to visit our Portmore or Linstead branches for your banking needs. Customers are also encouraged to access services online at myvmoline.myvmgroup.com,” the institution stated.
The unrest reportedly began after Othneil Lobban, also known as ‘Thickman,’ was killed during a confrontation with the Joint Anti-Gang Task Force (JAGTF) at Six Miles in St Andrew late Wednesday night. Lobban was identified as the leader of the One Order Gang, a notorious criminal organization operating in St Catherine and its environs.
Since the incident, supporters of the deceased have allegedly attempted to incite chaos in the area, including the arson of a Courts retail store in Spanish Town. Authorities have since bolstered their presence in the old capital, with combined forces from the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) and Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) working to restore order.
Residents and business operators are urged to remain cautious as law enforcement continues its efforts to stabilize the situation. VMBS has not yet confirmed when its Spanish Town branch will reopen but assures customers that updates will be provided as circumstances evolve.
