WESTMORELAND, Jamaica — A significant police operation, dubbed ‘Operation Reassurance,’ has successfully led to the arrest of several individuals in Westmoreland, with four of them listed as wanted for various crimes. The operation, carried out on Wednesday, aims to reassure the public of the police’s commitment to maintaining safety and low crime rates throughout the parish.
Among the arrested was Nicholas Muthra, a wanted man from Benta district in Withorn. Muthra was detained in Hartford and is connected to the recent murder of Iwayne Bennett, known as ‘Mad Dog,’ which took place on November 10, 2024, in Bastard Cedar Walk.
While Muthra’s arrest was a highlight, the operation also targeted other individuals wanted for different offenses. Authorities took into custody two people of interest from the Corporate Area, while a separate individual was apprehended for marijuana trafficking. Additionally, police uncovered paraphernalia related to lottery scamming, leading to several arrests, with charges expected to follow.
Superintendent Othneil Dobson, the commanding officer for Westmoreland, emphasized the importance of continued community cooperation in the fight against crime. “These individuals are linked to serious criminal activities, and their apprehension is critical to reducing crime in the area. We urge the public to support the police as we cannot do it alone,” Dobson stated.
The extensive operation saw the participation of 124 officers from the Jamaica Constabulary Force, Jamaica Defence Force, the Area One Fugitive Apprehension Team, Highway Patrols, and the Transport Authority. Efforts were focused on high-crime areas including Morgans Bridge, Frome, Whithorn, Savanna-la-Mar, and Negril.
As the festive season approaches, Superintendent Dobson reminded residents to stay vigilant and adhere to road safety measures. “We ask motorists to carry their vehicle documentation, and motorcycle riders to wear helmets to help us ensure a safe holiday season,” he urged.
With more operations planned, local authorities are committed to ensuring that Westmoreland remains safe as the community heads into the busy holiday period.
