A member of the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) was shot and killed while on duty in Denham Town, Kingston this morning.

The name of the soldier has not yet been released.

Reports are that at about 1:25 AM, members of the military were conducting an operational tour of the Denham Town Zone of Special Operation, when armed men reportedly engaged them in gunfire.

The soldier was reportedly hit multiple times during the confrontation.

He was pronounced dead at hospital.

Reacting to the incident, National Security Minister Dr. Horace Chang described it as tragic.

He noted that security presence has been ramped up in the community.

Meanwhile, the JDF says it is providing counselling and support services to his family and colleagues.

It is urging anyone with information on the incident to contact Crime Stop at 311, the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB) at 811, or the JDF tip line at 876-837-8888.