The High Command of the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) has confirmed that a series of police operations led to the seizure of a shipment of illegal firearms and ammunition, and the fatal shooting of a man, in Darliston, Westmoreland, yesterday.

The operations were launched, after the police became aware of a plot to import weapons and ammunition into the country through the ports.

Police said yesterday, officers intercepted one of the individuals believed to be involved in the trade.

During the interception, the man reportedly opened fire on the police.

The fire was returned and the man was shot.

The man was taken to hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

The identity of the deceased is being withheld pending notification of his family.

Police said they recovered, one rifle, two pistols, and over one thousand one hundred rounds of assorted ammunition.

Additional items, including electronic devices and documents, were seized during follow-up operations and will be forensically examined.

Investigators are pursuing strong leads, locally and overseas, as part of ongoing inquiries.

The High Command has again warned armed criminals that confronting the police with gunfire will be met with decisive force.

It urged those challenged by the police to surrender peacefully.