The police Inspectorate and Professional Standards Oversight Bureau (I-PROB) is scrutinizing the circumstances of the escape of 8 inmates from the Black River Police Station this morning.

A manhunt is underway to recapture the inmates who were reportedly discovered to be missing from the lock-up, during a routine cell check conducted at approximately 6:00 A.M.  

According to preliminary reports, the inmates managed to escape from custody by cutting through a ventilation grille at the back of the cell. 

The escapees are 31-year-old Oral Cole, from Comfort Hall, Manchester; 34-year-old Richard Brown from Middle Quarters, 38-year-old Alrick Hutchinson from Brighton District and 34-year-old Dean Simpson from Turner Top, all in St. Elizabeth; 34-year-old Anward Hinds from Maroon Town and 25-year-old Jevaughn Simms from Copperwood, both in St. James; 30-year-old Kenneth Stewart from Beacon Hill and 29-year-old Demar Williams from Gravel Heights in Spanish Town, both in St. Catherine.  

The police say an internal investigation conducted by I-PROB is already underway to scrutinize the circumstances of the escape and to re-inforce preventative measures. 

The Jamaica Constabulary Force is urging the escapees to turn themselves in and allow the justice system to take its course. 

The JCF is also encouraging the public to remain vigilant and to report any sightings or information that could lead to the men’s recapture.

Citizens are also reminded that it is a crime to harbor a fugitive.