The National Security Council is assessing risks associated with the deportation of Jamaicans with serious criminal backgrounds from the United States and is formulating strategies to mitigate potential threats.

This follows concerns over reports that 5,120 Jamaicans are expected to be deported from the U.S. as the country intensifies its crackdown on illegal immigrants based on new orders from President Donald Trump.

In a statement today, Foreign Affairs Minister Kamina Johnson Smith explained that some individuals set to be deported may have breached immigration laws but have otherwise been law-abiding residents engaged in productive employment.

She noted that others have been convicted of serious criminal offenses, including violent crimes.

Mrs. Johnson Smith said the government is concerned about the potential impact of the anticipated increased return of individuals with serious criminal backgrounds and is taking steps to ensure public safety.

She also sought to clarify that reports circulating about tens of thousands of Jamaicans being deported from the U.S. simultaneously are false.

Minister Johnson Smith is urging Jamaicans in the U.S. who are concerned about their immigration status to seek professional legal advice.