Woman shot in neck during robbery in St Andrew

Police in St Andrew North are probing an incident that ended with a woman being shot in the neck during an afternoon robbery along Grants Pen Road on Wednesday.

Reports are that about 4:45 pm, a man entered an establishment posing as a customer. While inside, he suddenly pulled a firearm and demanded cash and other valuables.

The injured worker handed over the company's Samsung cellphone. However, as the gunman was leaving the premises, he discharged a single shot, hitting the woman on the right side of her neck.

The attacker then escaped on a motorcycle.

The wounded woman was rushed to the University Hospital of the West Indies, where she remains admitted. Police say her condition is stable.

Divisional Commander for the St Andrew North police, Superintendent Randy Sweeney, confirmed the incident and used the opportunity to urge residents and business operators to be on high alert.

"The police use this opportunity to encourage persons to be vigilant, especially regarding acquisitory crimes such as robberies and break-ins, which is a concern to the division over the years," Superintendent Sweeney said.

He noted that as at January 17, the St Andrew North division has recorded a reduction in all major crimes, including shootings, injuries and robberies.

Superintendent Sweeney also encouraged members of the business community and private citizens to take precautionary steps.

"Install CCTV systems, join or establish business and neighbourhood watches, ensure windows and doors are properly locked and report any suspicious persons or activities observed to the police quickly," he advised.

Investigations into the incident are ongoing.