A series of bomb threats on Friday caused significant disruptions at government offices across Jamaica, where both urban and rural areas were affected. Authorities say the warnings, delivered via email to the Passport, Immigration and Citizenship Agency (PICA), forced evacuations and heightened security at multiple sites.
In the Corporate Area, operations at the Island Traffic Authority (ITA), the National Housing Trust (NHT), and the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development were interrupted.
Meanwhile, in Manchester, the James Warehouse Plaza, which houses PICA’s office and the office of MP Rhoda Crawford, was cordoned off by police, firefighters, and soldiers. The nearby National Insurance Scheme (NIS) office also closed as a precaution.
In Port Antonio, PICA’s office faced similar measures, with traffic diverted to ensure safety. Authorities described the threats as a serious disruption, especially as voting for the general election by members of the security forces was underway on Friday.
Jamaica Labour Party General Secretary and National Security Minister Dr Horace Chang condemned the acts, noting they appeared intended to distract police from the democratic process. “It is important that the democratic voting process takes place unhindered… Law and order will prevail,” he said.
Specialised teams from the police and other emergency services were dispatched to assess the sites, enforce security protocols, and protect staff and the public. Staff at affected offices were evacuated while teams carried out thorough checks to ensure no danger remained.
In a statement, police reminded citizens that making security threats is illegal and urged anyone with information to come forward. Police also encouraged citizens to remain vigilant, report suspicious activity immediately, and cooperate with authorities.
It appears that the threats caused significant interruptions, but officials assured the public that safety measures remain in place. The police also assured citizens that investigators are working to identify those behind the attempts to intimidate government offices, as they will be held accountable.