Gov’t, PAJ condemn gun attack at Nationwide News Network
KINGSTON, Jamaica— The Government expressed shock, as it condemned the gun attack at the Nationwide News Network offices on Friday.
In a release, the Government described the incident as “abhorrent”, and stated that such an act “must never be seen in Jamaica again”.
The release also pointed to comments made on Sunday by the general secretary of the People’s National Party (PNP), Dr Dayton Campbell who referred to Nationwide News Network as “incubator for the Jamaica Labour Party”.
The Office of the Prime Minister stated that these remarks were “unfortunate and unfounded… [and] threatened the media”.
Reports are that about 4:30pm a car drove along Bradley Avenue, in St Andrew where the news network’s office is located and several shots were fired toward the building.
While there were no reports of injury, a motor vehicle was reportedly shot four times.
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“The Government condemns the shooting which is gravely serious and affects not only Nationwide News Network but all media. The Government restates its commitment and support to a free press which should not be intimidated in any way,” the release read.
The Press Association of Jamaica (PAJ) also condemned the gun attack at the news agency stating that it was “reprehensible” and “cowardly”.
The PAJ went on to call on the police to swiftly investigate the incident, apprehend the perpetrators, and ensure that justice is served.
The association also urged Jamaicans to unite in condemning this act of violence against the press.
“We must stand together to protect and uphold the principles of press freedom, democracy, and the right of all citizens to access accurate and unbiased information,” PAJ president Milton Walker said.
