Major gun bust in Kingston, JDF soldier charged

One of the largest gun busts recorded at the Kingston Logistics Centre has left a member of the Jamaica Defence Force facing serious charges, after police seized 28 firearms and more than 6,000 rounds of ammunition.

Detectives assigned to the Firearms and Narcotics Investigation Division seized the weapons and ammunition during an operation at the Kingston Logistics Centre on December 19, 2025.

Investigations later led police to 36 year old Odeen Lawrence, a Jamaica Defence Force member of Dublin Castle and Kintyre in St Andrew. On Monday, January 5, FNID personnel went to a premises in White Water Meadows, Spanish Town, St Catherine, about 5:30 p.m.

Police reports state that upon their arrival, Lawrence fled the scene on foot, abandoning a Honda Shuttle motor car, which was subsequently seized.

Lawrence later surrendered to the police on January 6, 2026. A search of his vehicle on January 7, conducted in his presence, revealed a 9mm round of ammunition in the glove compartment.

Based on the findings of the investigation, Lawrence was formally charged with conspiracy to traffic prohibited weapons and unauthorised possession of ammunition.

Investigations into the wider seizure of the 28 firearms and 6,142 rounds of ammunition remain ongoing, with police indicating that further charges are expected.

Director of FNID, Superintendent of Police Patrae Rowe, said the seizure underscores the Jamaica Constabulary Force's mandate to protect the nation.

"This investigation remains active as we work to dismantle the channels that facilitate the flow of illegal weapons into our communities. Our mission is to uphold the law without fear or favour, regardless of the status or profession of those involved. We will continue to use every resource at our disposal to bring those who threaten the nation's security to justice," Rowe said.

Lawrence's court date is being finalised.

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