Cop shoots alleged robbers at Clarendon shop, one dies at hospital

The Independent Commission of Investigations (INDECOM) has launched a probe into a fatal shooting in Clarendon after a policeman reportedly opened fire on three men alleged to have broken into his business establishment in the Coffee Shop community, Sandy Bay, in the early hours of Monday morning.

Dead is one of the three men who allegedly targeted the premises, while two others managed to escape on foot after the confrontation.

Police reports are that sometime after 2 a.m., residents were jolted by loud explosions coming from a nearby gaming shop reportedly owned by the off-duty policeman.

It is alleged that the men used a crowbar to force their way into the establishment before they were confronted and shot by the cop during the incident.

The crowbar was later recovered at the scene by law enforcement.

One of the wounded men was taken to hospital where he later succumbed to his injuries, while the other two reportedly fled the area and remain at large.

Lawmen were summoned to the scene shortly after the incident, where the area was cordoned off as investigators began processing evidence.

Reports from the community suggest the establishment had been repeatedly targeted by thieves, with residents claiming that similar incidents had occurred in recent weeks.

It was further revealed that the owner had only recently replaced stolen poker boxes at the gaming shop last Thursday, following what was described as a string of break-ins.

The latest incident has now placed the spotlight on the use of force and security arrangements at private establishments operated by members of the security forces.

INDECOM has since taken carriage of the investigation as it seeks to determine the full circumstances surrounding the shooting.

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