Prime Minister Andrew Holness has called a meeting of the National Security Council for 9 o’clock this morning, in light of last night’s gun attack along Cherry Lane, Clarendon.

Around eight people are feared dead, while several others are being treated at hospital.

The victims were reportedly at a games night in the area.

After receiving a preliminary briefing on the incident, Prime Minister Holness said he has advised the police to leave no stone unturned in bringing the criminals to justice as soon as possible.

Mr. Holness also noted that the incident is a reminder that despite the approximately 17 per cent reduction in murders so far this year, the Government will have to persist and intensify efforts to aggressively target criminal gangs across Jamaica.

Pledging to employ multi-faceted strategies to support the security forces, Mr. Holness said the Government will not relent in its efforts to reduce criminality.

The Prime Minister said the Government will not surrender the society to criminals.

Meanwhile, Minister of National Security Dr. Horace Chang says last night’s attack is believed to be linked to reprisal activities from a few years ago.

In a statement last night, Dr. Chang expressed deep sadness and condolences to the families who have been affected.

Describing the incident as tragic, he urged the police to utilize every available resource and power to apprehend the perpetrators swiftly.

The National Security Minister said the police have made significant progress in Clarendon, with a 39 per cent reduction in murders compared to last year.

He noted, however, that incidents like these are a reminder that the work is far from over.