The leader of the United Independent Congress (UIC) Joseph Patterson remains in police custody this afternoon, as a march against government’s Covid response descended into chaotic scenes in downtown Kingston.

The UIC attempted to lead a march on Gordon House in what was anticipated to be a peaceful protest.

Hundreds of placard bearing persons gathered downtown to participate in the march.

Irie F M News reporter Shanice Gibbs, who was live on location earlier today, relayed that the protesters claimed that the police were infringing on their human rights.

Meanwhile, today’s march ended with 5 persons being arrested and charged.

Speaking with Irie FM News, Senior Superintendent Steve McGregor, who is in charge of strategic operations for Area 4, said among the arrested persons are the UIC President, as well as Clive Muhammad, Jamaica’s representative for Nation of Islam Leader Louis Farrakhan.

SSP McGregor notes that the five people arrested have been charged under the Disaster Risk Management Act, and the Public Order Act.

SSP McGregor adds that a full investigation will be done based on serious declarations made by the UIC President, during the march.

The senior superintendent also explains that in anticipation of the march, measures were implemented by the police to prevent any disruption to today’s sitting of parliament.