Running gun battles between the police and the supporters of an alleged drugs baron in Kingston, Jamaica, have forced the intermittent closure of the city’s airport.
Access to the Norman Manley International Airport has been blocked today and yesterday as Jamaican police fight running battles with the supporters Christopher Coke, who the authorities are trying to extradite to the US where he faces a number of drugs charges.
However, such is the support for Coke locally that armed battles have broken out leaving more than 30 people dead while another seven people were injured yesterday.
The Jamaican government has declared a state of emergency in the capital while the Foreign Office (FCO) is advising against all but essential travel to the capital and the British High Commission has been temporarily closed.
John Lynch, the Jamaica Tourist Board’s director of tourism, said the state of emergency was a limited one and was expected to expire in a month’s time.
He added: “Travellers to the north coast of Jamaica – the main areas including Montego Bay, Ocho Rios, Port Antonio, Negril and the south coast are some four hours away from the area of concern. Tourist areas remain safe, and normal daily activities continue in the resort areas, and cruise port facilities.
“Both international airports remain open (presently).
“The government is working towards a quick resolution of this situation, and we will continue to keep you apprised of any new developments.”