The Jamaica Urban Transit Company Limited, (JUTC) is confirming reports circulating on social media that two of the drivers were abducted and robbed at gunpoint outside of the Rockfort Depot in Kingston on Tuesday, December 1, 2020.
It is reported that about 8 PM, the drivers‘ shift ended and they were standing in front of the depot awaiting public transportation when a black seven-seater vehicle with red plates stopped.
They boarded the taxi and upon reaching the vicinity of Caribbean Cement Company, they were held at gunpoint and knifepoint, tied up, and abducted by three men who were posing as passengers. They took their personal valuables; including cash and the company’s identification cards. They reportedly drove around with the staff for four hours eventually releasing them at the Waterfront in Downtown, Kingston.
JUTC says the matter has been reported to the police and an investigation into the incident is underway. The JUTC is also urging the Police Command to treat this matter with alacrity to bring the perpetrators to justice. They are further appealing to the police to increase their presence in the area to make staff and residents feel safe.
Corporate Communications Manager Cecil Thomas says the incident is regrettable and represents a major challenge faced by society at large. “I am especially grateful that they were not physically harmed but understandably have been traumatized by the incident. We will be providing psycho-social support to them shortly to deal with this unfortunate ordeal.”
The JUTC provides a pick-up service for its staff twice daily, early in the mornings (from as early as 2 am) and in the evenings (from 9/10 pm) pending curfew times.
“We are appealing to anyone with information that can assist the police in their investigation to contact the police. We also wish to appeal to our commuters to remain vigilant during this festive season.”
