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With police fatal shootings up more than 150 per cent this year, one man who claims to have ties to a criminal network says he no longer fears arrest, but execution.

Mark* told THE STAR that he has changed every aspect of his daily life to avoid what he believes is state-sanctioned elimination.

"Police nah come fi lock up nobody again. Once yuh name out deh, dem come fi yuh head," he said.

According to the Independent Commission of Investigations' (INDECOM) April 2025 quarterly update, 111 civilians were fatally shot by the police between January and April, compared to 44 in the corresponding period last year - that marks a 153 per cent increase. The Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) maintains that its officers are acting in response to threats, and that all shootings are reviewed. In May, Police Commissioner Dr Kevin Blake rubbished claims of the existence of a JCF 'hit squad', calling the notion illogical and harmful to the officers and the public. But Mark believes the approach has shifted away from due process toward quiet elimination.

"Dem call it operation, but it's really clean-up. No arrest, no trial, just a few shots, a press release and the story done," he said.

Mark did not deny involvement in organised crime but made no apology for his actions. He portrays himself as a necessary figure in his community.

"Just like them I serve, and I protect. The government cya reach everybody. Police only show up when a man dead. But when man hungry, when youth need help, who dem call? A man like me," he said.

While Mark portrays himself as a protector, law enforcement officials argue that such figures often fuel the very violence they claim to control, by extorting residents, ordering hits, and destabilising communities. When pressed on whether he's ever thought about leaving the life behind, Mark dismissed the idea without hesitation.

"Walk weh go weh? Fi do what?," he said. He acknowledged his life is built on fear, control, and constant surveillance but insists that the state offers no alternative.

"Police have dem role, mi have mine. But don't act like we getting justice. A elimination we a get."

*name changed to protect identity