KINGSTON, Jamaica, CMC – Jamaica police are warning members of the public against making false reports after conducting an “extensive investigation” into an alleged kidnapping that was later found to be a domestic dispute.
Investigators from the Specialized Investigation Branch (SIB) said they are also reminding the public of the serious consequences of false reporting after indicating that on March 16, a report was made to the police concerning the alleged kidnapping of a 25-year-old man, initially identified as an Antiguian national.
Reports are that the victim’s brother, who lives in Antigua, claimed to have received a ransom demand from individuals holding his brother against his will. In response to these threats, the victim’s mother reportedly sent a sum of money to an unidentified individual in Jamaica,” the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) said in a statement.
It said that the SIB launched an investigation and conducted an operation at another property in the capital.
Upon arrival, investigators found the alleged victim with his girlfriend. He was unharmed and not physically restrained. He later described the incident as a misunderstanding caused by a domestic dispute. He stated that he is a Jamaican residing in Antigua but recently visited the island to see his girlfriend.”
Superintendent of Police Oral Henry is urging members of the public to refrain from making false reports to the police, as they may face prosecution.
“Investigation into an alleged case of kidnapping takes considerable resources, and falsely reporting such a crime or any other offence can lead to unnecessary resource expenditure, harm the credibility of actual victims, and is also a criminal offence,” said Superintendent Henry.
The police said investigations into the matter are continuing.
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