KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Court Administration Division (CAD) has announced the suspension of all court proceedings at the Spanish Town and Old Harbour courts scheduled for Thursday. This decision comes amid heightened security concerns following the declaration of a State of Public Emergency (SOE) in St Catherine South.
The SOE was implemented in response to a troubling escalation in violent crimes, including the recent fatal shooting of Othneil Lobban, also known as “Thickman,” the alleged leader of the One Order Gang. Lobban was gunned down at Six Miles in St Andrew late Wednesday night, further intensifying safety concerns in the region.
In a statement released Thursday morning, CAD emphasized its commitment to the safety and well-being of court users, staff, and stakeholders. “The safety of all individuals in and around our courts is of utmost importance. We are taking every necessary step to maintain the administration of justice while ensuring everyone’s protection in these volatile circumstances,” the statement read.
Individuals who had scheduled matters at the affected courts are advised to contact the relevant court office or CAD directly at 876-586-9783 for further guidance. The CAD has assured the public that rescheduled court dates will be communicated as soon as they are available.
The statement also expressed gratitude to the public for their patience and understanding during this period of uncertainty. “We appreciate your cooperation as we work to navigate these challenges and prioritize safety for everyone involved,” the release concluded.
This latest development underscores the far-reaching impact of the ongoing violence, as key public services are forced to adjust to the rapidly evolving situation.
