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In an emotional yet grand farewell at Perry's Hall of Thanksgiving in St Catherinex, the community gathered in overwhelming numbers to honour the life of Ophniel 'Thickman' Lobban.

Despite the service being strictly limited to one hour due to security concerns, a sea of mourners filled the venue under the watchful eyes of the security forces, reflecting the deep impact Lobban had on everyone who knew him.

The atmosphere was charged with a mix of grief and admiration.

"Society labelled him as the worst but to us, he was our hero," said one relative as she delivered a remembrance. Her words sparked cheers from the crowd that echoed like a chorus of resilience.

She continued, "To his family, friends and the community he was a source of wisdom, laughter, love and our protector, Niel was a giver, not only to his community but to other communities islandwide."

Her words, laden with emotion, resonated deeply, painting vivid images of countless moments of shared joy and unity.

In a humorous interlude, she added, "If yuh know Thickman yuh know seh all when him a eat food him always affi share wid the person next to him. Except fi me because me and him always a fight over food."

The laughter that followed cut through the heavy air, offering a brief, bitter-sweet respite from the overarching sorrow and highlighting the warm, mischievous spirit that had endeared him to so many.

These recollections underscored his generous spirit to the community, one that organised events ranging from back-to-school treats to Christmas dinners for elders and celebrations for Valentine's Day, Mother's Day, and Father's Day.

Another relative offered a tribute that captured his essence in fewer words.

"Thickman wasn't just a son, a brother, or a friend. He was a beacon of light and a unifier who made everyone feel valued," the relative said.

Lobban, who the police said was the head of the Spanish Town-based One Order gang, was killed during a police confrontation on January 22. The police said that he was one of the top five most wanted individuals by the National Joint Anti-Gang Task Force's Assault on Gang initiative.

Following his demise, members of his Tawes Meadows community revolted, leading to the closure of schools and a disruption of commerce in the old capital. Members of the security forces were placed on high alert due to an extreme threat level.

Yesterday, a heavy contingent of police and soldiers kept a close eye on his funeral proceedings.

"We weren't taking any chances, given the threats that were issued before," said Christopher Phillips, assistant commissioner of police in charge of Area 5.