JDF Launches Investigation into Soldier/ Resident Brawl in Denham Town ZOSO

Another incident of alleged brutality by members of the Jamaica Defence Force is the subject of an investigation. The standoff between soldiers and residents of Denham Town, which became physical has apparently strained the tenuous relationship. It was all captured on video.

The video making the rounds on social media shows an altercation between Jamaica Defense Force (JDF) soldiers and residents in the Denham Town ZOSO. A female resident is seen allegedly defending a young man being detained by soldiers. While she screams in the face of a soldier, he along with another opts to turn his rifle into a bat to strike the woman and man into submission. The incident sparked chaos among the soldiers and residents and may have fractured their already fragile relationship

Attorney at Law Isat Buchanan expresses that this short video shows breaches of several human rights. Acknowledging that some may be of the view that the soldier has a right to defend himself, Buchanan posits that nothing warrants that response. At the same time, citizens should gauge their own responses.

Meanwhile, The Independent Commission of Investigations (INDECOM), Commissioner Hugh Faulkner says investigations will be done into the matter.

The JDF in a release has acknowledged the incident and said they have launched their own investigation into the matter. They say they commit to ensuring that appropriate actions will be taken as deemed necessary. Watch the report here:

Reporter: Jhaneille Powell