THE Jamaica Constabulary Force is reporting that 26 civilians have been killed and 25 injured in the West Kingston operation. The report the first official confirmation from the police was issued this morning.

One member of the security forces was also killed and seven injured, the police said.

The police said those killed were mostly males and their bodies were recovered from areas close to barricades, building entrances and gullies running through Tivoli Gardens. In addition to injuries and fatalities, 211 people including six women were detained.

The security forces are also reporting seizures of firearms, ammunition, binoculars, army fatigues and ballistic vests.

The operations which include building searches will continue and the public will be informed of the outcome, the police said.