Investigation Launched Following Arson Attack at Parliament building

KINGSTON, Jamaica – The police have launched a high-level police probe following an arson attack at Gordon House, the home of Jamaica’s Parliament, located in downtown Kingston, on Saturday night.

There were no reports of injuries or significant damage.

The police report  are that about 10:28 pm (local time) on Saturday, two police officers were on duty at the location when they smelled what appeared to be a noxious substance, and a check of the premises was carried out.

Further reports are that after checks of the building were completed, a minor burn was observed to the front door.

A plastic bottle, which was also burnt, was also seen at that location.

Surveillance footage that has gone viral showed what appeared to be a male pouring a substance on a section of the building. 

Meanwhile- Minister without Portfolio in the Office of the Prime Minister with responsibility for information, skills and digital transformation,  Dr Dana Morris Dixon, told reporters  on Sunday  that both House Speaker Juliet Holness and President of the Senate, Tom Tavares Finson, will meet with the police in the coming days to craft measures aimed at boosting security at Gordon House.

“Luckily the door (at Gordon House) is fire resistant…, and there is not any major damage to Gordon House, thankfully,” said Morris Dixon .

In a statement on the developments on Sunday, the main Opposition People’s National Party (PNP) said it is deeply concerned by the incident.

“This incident represents an attack on a symbol of the country’s legislature and law making, necessitating immediate attention from the law enforcement authorities,” the PNP stated.

The party said it is calling for a “swift” and “comprehensive” investigation to ascertain the identity and motive behind the act.

“It is imperative that the authorities take all necessary measures to ensure the security of our parliamentary institution and bring those responsible to justice,” said the PNP.

In a separate statement, the police said the attack on Gordon House represents a significant and concerning event and it is committed to thoroughly investigating the incident to identify and apprehend the perpetrator.

The statement said a senior detective from the headquarters of the Criminal Investigation Branch (CIB) is leading the ongoing investigation.

It also said Police Commissioner, Dr Kevin Blake, has since ordered a review and assessment of the security arrangements of a number of scheduled premises.