Instructions have been given for the response mechanism and protocols around missing persons to be reviewed

Police commissioner Major General Antony Anderson says this to ensure that the police’s response is in keeping with international best practices for the safe recovery of missing persons.

The Commissioner in a statement also extended deepest sympathies to the family and friends of young Shantae Skyers, the 8-year-old whose body was found on Tuesday, April 16, in Sterling Castle, Red Hills, ST. Andrew.

He says the police sincerely regret Shantae’s tragic passing, and mourn with her family and community members. Major General Anderson adds that the police are steadfastly focused on the investigations into this gruesome act and are determined to bring the perpetrators to justice.

The statement adds that the police have maintained contact with the family through Shantae’s grandmother, who has been the primary contact since she first made the missing person’s report.

It says the police remain committed to the protection of children and all citizens. At the same time, the police are urging parents and guardians to increase their vigilance in the safety of their children.

The statement says in the unfortunate event a loved one goes missing, persons are urged to make a missing person report to the nearest police station immediately and not wait for 24 hours to elapse before making the report, if reasonable steps such as making contact with the missing person’s friends, relatives and associates) were taken to locate the individual proved futile.

Commissioner Anderson says the police officers who found Shantae’s body share greatly in this grief and are   receiving counselling.

The commissioner is renewing the appeal for persons with information to contact the nearest police station or share information anonymously through Crime Stop at 311 or by calling the police emergency number 119.