Fatal police shootings have now surpassed 100 since the start of the year, with April alone accounting for 24 incidents so far, according to data published by the Independent Commission of Investigations (INDECOM).
As of April 25, a total of 105 civilians have been killed in alleged confrontations with the police.
Among the most recent incidents is the fatal shooting of 28-year-old Shaquille Dawkins, also known as ‘Dawg Teeth’ or ‘Three Chain’, who was the alleged leader of the 100 Lane Gang in St Andrew.
According to reports, around 8:30 a.m. yesterday, a police team was conducting an operation at a premises when they were allegedly confronted by Dawkins. He was reportedly shot during the confrontation, and a firearm was seized at the scene. Dawkins was taken to the Kingston Public Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
According to the police, Dawkins was wanted for several crimes, including shooting and extortion.
Following news of the incident, residents of 100 Lane attempted to block the main thoroughfare along Red Hills Road. However, the security forces quickly responded, dispersing the crowd and clearing the debris.
One resident who spoke to The Gleaner acknowledged Dawkins as a gang leader but claimed he was killed unjustly – and in front of his children.
“Him baby-mother just give birth to twin girls. He’s a controversial figure, so the police want him… Him get shot up already by gunmen and survived. Now him gone,” the resident said.
SURRENDER YOURSELF
Head of the St Andrew North Police Division, acting Superintendent Randy Sweeney, confirmed that Dawkins was fatally shot after allegedly challenging the police.
He reiterated his warning to criminals and suspects: “Do not challenge the police. We are encouraging suspects, wanted individuals, and persons of interest to surrender themselves.”
Supt Sweeney emphasised that the police will not tolerate gunmen and gangsters disrupting the lives of law-abiding citizens, particularly within the St Andrew North Division.
He also urged members of the public to report criminal activity by calling Crime Stop at 311 or the Constant Spring police at 876-924-1421.
The monthly breakdown of police-related fatalities so far in 2025 is as follows: January – 28, February – 28, March – 25, and April – 24.
INDECOM continues to call for the mandatory use of body-worn cameras, particularly during planned operations.
At the end of 2024, a total of 189 people were killed by security forces.
