St. Elizabeth, Jamaica – Chief Richard Curry of the Accompong Maroons has asserted his community’s right to protect Cockpit Country amid ongoing standoffs with authorities. The conflict intensified over the weekend as QuickStep residents and forest department officials clashed over illegal logging activities.
In a passionate Instagram Live stream on Monday morning, Chief Curry defended his community’s actions. “The Maroons have a right to defend their territory to protect their forests,” he stated. “Chief Curry is not a ‘logger’. Chief Curry is a guardian of the earth and a guardian of culture. I’ve been seeking dialogue to resolve long-standing issues, particularly with QuickStep and the illegal logging there.”
The confrontation began when seven forest department officials were reportedly trapped in Cockpit Country during an operation to disrupt illegal logging in QuickStep. They claimed that over 200 community members and illegal loggers obstructed their efforts to enforce the law.
Curry, who has been vocal about the Forest Service’s actions, emphasized his commitment to easing tensions. “It was a tense moment for us and the neighboring communities. I deployed several police officers to QuickStep to prevent any escalation of tensions,” he said.
Highlighting the complexities of the situation, Curry challenged the government’s claim over QuickStep. “The ownership of QuickStep has been questioned. Look in your history books; this is the heart of Cockpit Country. Tell us what part of Cockpit Country is owned by the Government of Jamaica,” he urged.
In response to the escalating situation, police have imposed a 48-hour curfew in QuickStep and surrounding areas, including the main road and Plethole forest reserve. This measure aims to ensure the safety and security of local residents while investigations into theft of government property, kidnapping, and obstruction of forest rangers are underway.
Authorities are urging residents to remain calm, stay indoors, and cooperate with police and other officials as the situation develops.
