'I have no evidence'

Deputy commissioner refutes 'security drill' claims at US Embassy

Chad Bryan, Staff Reporter

The claims that the action carried out by the man who threw a bag over the wall of the United States Embassy was done in an attempt to test the response time of the local security forces in preparation for United States President Barack Obama has been refuted.

Jamaican police and soldiers rushed to the scene, while US marines took up posts on top of the US Embassy building following the man's actions.

In social media and elsewhere, persons have stated and have believed that the man, who is believed to be a US citizen, was sent to test the country's security response leading up to Obama's visit beginning on April 8.

"Hmmm ... sound fishy, mi a wonder if a Uncle Sam set up di whole ting just fi implement some ting new dung a yaad ... cause dem so full a tricks," said a Facebook user.

Another commented, "Unuh no see a send them send the man fi test the security force out here because the boss a come - President Obama."

Yet another stated, "People, don't be fooled. This was a simulation test on the security system. President Obama arrives within a week. This man was a mole being planted within the inner city community. Notice he has been in Jamaica for a month".

Deputy Commissioner of Police Clifford Blake has refuted those claims.

"I have no evidence to suggest that. I have absolutely no evidence to suggest such a thing," he said.

It is being reported that about 7:30 a.m., the Embassy was approached by the accused, and a bag tossed over the wall. Security was alerted, and moments later, the man was apprehended by the police.

It is unclear what prompted him to toss the bag over the wall.