Five people were shot dead yesterday and four others injured, including an infant, following a deadly shooting incident on a Coaster bus along Grove Road, off Half-Way Tree Road in St Andrew.

Up to press time last night, the names of the dead persons were not released.

Reports from the police are that about 1:10 p.m. gunmen who were posing as passengers commandeered the vehicle, forcing the driver to divert onto Grove Road, where they began robbing passengers.

One of the passengers, a licensed firearm holder is said to have challenged the gunmen in a shoot-out. One of the alleged gunmen was shot and killed in that exchange of gunfire.

Three others, including two males and one female were also fatally shot while four others were shot and injured.

Further reports are that two of the gunmen managed to elude a number of police patrols and made their escape.

They were eventually spotted in the Kencot gully also in St Andrew, where it is alleged that they opened fire at police personnel who returned the fire.

One of the gunmen was said to be killed during that shoot-out.

Two guns, a 9mm pistol and a revolver, were reportedly seized during the the incidents.

Meanwhile, through a release, Police Commissioner Owen Ellington commented on the deadly shootings in Portmore, St Catherine and Grove Road, St Andrew, during which at least eight persons were killed in less than 24 hours, describing them as brutal and barbaric.

"The incidents, which have also left several persons injured, represent a clear statement of intent by criminal elements that they're willing to test the resolve, determination and capabilities of the police in maintaining law and order," the release said.

Commissioner Ellington then issued a warning to criminal elements.

He said their attempts to unsettle the police in the conduct of their lawful duties will be met with stern resistance.

He also added that directives has been sent to members of the police force to remain relentless in their pursuit of these and other criminals, knowing that they have his full support.