KINGSTON, Jamaica – Following the declaration of States of Emergency (SOE) across several parishes, the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) is urging citizens to observe strangers in gated communities, apartment complexes, quiet communities and parishes neighbouring those under the SOE.

Prime Minister, Andrew Holness declared SOE in the parishes of Clarendon, St Catherine and sections of Kingston and St Andrew on Tuesday, stating that the increase in crime and violence presents a threat to property and public order.

READ: PM declares States of Emergency in several parishes

In a statement to its social media pages on Wednesday, the JDF urged persons operating AirBNBs to be vigilant as they do business, warning that unscrupulous individuals may try to book stays at this time.

“Typical displacement areas for criminals running from the SOE are gated communities and apartment complexes in upper St Andrew or persons may migrate from Westmoreland to St Elizabeth, from St James to Trelawny, from St Catherine to St Ann,” the JDF said.

The JDF says it remains committed to its support to the Jamaica Constabulary Force in doing what is required to secure and safeguard Jamaica and Jamaicans.

Citizens may support the State of Public Emergency by using the JDF Tip line at 876-837-8888 or the JCF Tip line at 311.