Escaped prisoner killed

Weeks after six men escaped from the Freeport police lockup, one of the men has been shot and killed after an alleged gunfight with members of the St James police.

He has been identified as 21-year-old Benjamin Stephens of Lucea, Hanover. Stephens was facing a murder charge when he escaped from police custody.

Acting upon intelligence, the police went to a remote community in the parish called Burnt Ground where Stephens was said to be hiding. While there, it is said that the police came under heavy gunfire from two men.

The cops returned the fire and a gun battle ensued. When the shooting subsided, Stephens was found suffering from gunshot wounds. He was taken to hospital where he was pronounced dead.

However, his crony managed to elude the police.

The Independent Commission of Investigations (INDECOM) has commenced their probe into the incident.

Meanwhile, the five other men who escaped custody on November 30 remain on the run.

Commander of the St James Police Division, SSP Steve McGregor, said the police will capture the remaining escapees. He also warned family members and friends not to provide a haven for the fugitives.