OPEN LETTER FROM SEVERAL CONCERNED COMMUNITIES: A CALL FOR JUSTICE AND ACCOUNTABILITY
To:
- The Firearm Licensing Authority (FLA)
- The Ministry of National Security
- The Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF)
- The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP)
- The Ministry of Justice
- The Ministry of Health & Wellness
- The Office of the Prime Minister
Date: May 19, 2025
We, the undersigned residents of
Iron River, Mt. Friendship, Mt. Pleasant, Mt. James, Mt. Airy, and surrounding
communities, write this open letter as concerned citizens, neighbours, and
friends of the victim in the recent and widely circulated video involving
businessman Mr. Robert Bell.
The footage, captured during the
late evening in a dark and secluded area, depicts a violent altercation in
which Mr. Bell is seen assaulting a female nurse—a trusted member of our
community. We are shocked, hurt, and deeply disturbed by both the physical
violence and the fact that a licensed firearm—entrusted to Mr. Bell under the
expectation of responsible ownership—was involved in the incident. His
aggressive behaviour may now also implicate a bystander who attempted to
intervene and de-escalate the situation.
The victim and her partner are respected
and selfless contributors to our community. They have consistently
supported our residents through:
- Providing clean, potable water during periods of public supply disruption
- Offering mechanical services for vehicles, particularly in emergencies
- Delivering basic healthcare and first aid, especially to the elderly and vulnerable children
They have never sought recognition.
Their actions come from a place of compassion, care, and quiet dedication. It
is therefore unbearable to witness such an individual being violently attacked,
and we refuse to remain silent.
We are calling on the relevant
authorities to take swift and decisive action. Specifically, we request:
- That Mr. Robert Bell’s firearm license be
permanently revoked by the Firearm Licensing Authority, as his conduct
demonstrates a blatant disregard for public safety and the ethical
responsibilities of firearm ownership.
- That all criminal charges be pursued to the full
extent of the law, with urgency, clarity, and transparency, by the Office
of the Director of Public Prosecutions and the Jamaica Constabulary Force.
- That the public be assured of regular, rigorous
evaluations of firearm holders—not only for legal compliance but also
for behaviour, temperament, and character.
- That victims of violence—particularly women—receive
full legal, psychological, and medical support through the Ministry of
Justice and the Ministry of Health & Wellness.
It is not enough for us to be
outraged. As a people, we must uphold the rule of law and protect the dignity
of every citizen. When someone abuses their status, wealth, or access to a
firearm to intimidate or harm others, it tears at the fabric of our society.
We thank the Jamaica Constabulary
Force for their prompt response in arresting Mr. Bell and seizing his firearm.
We now urge all relevant agencies to ensure that justice is fully and fairly
carried out.
We stand with the victim(s). We
demand accountability. We call for lasting change.
Sincerely,
Concerned Residents of the IRON RIVER CITIZENS ASSOCIATION
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