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Police have issued a High Alert for 12-year-old Jayden Smith, a student of Manchester High School, who has been missing since Friday, September 26. His disappearance has prompted widespread concern, including prayer sessions and appeals from school officials, community members, and political representatives.
Key Details
According to the Alligator Pond Police, Jayden was last seen at his home in Whales district, Newport, Manchester, around 6:15 a.m. Friday, dressed in his khaki school uniform and brown shoes. He has not been seen or heard from since.
Jayden is described as being of dark complexion, slim build, and approximately 152 centimetres (5 feet) tall.
Manchester High School Principal Jasford Gabriel confirmed that Jayden attended school throughout the day on Friday and participated in evening prayers before dismissal. He was later seen in Mandeville but reportedly did not meet up with his usual transportation operators. Some classmates also claimed to have spotted him at MegaMart, but the information has not been confirmed as conclusive.
On Friday evening, when Jayden did not return home, his guardians raised the alarm. Police subsequently activated the High Alert system, which is used in cases involving missing children deemed to be at risk.
Anyone with information on Jayden’s whereabouts is urged to call the Alligator Pond Police at 876-224-3113, the Police Emergency number 119, or the nearest police station.
Background
Jayden had only recently begun his studies at Manchester High School, where he is a member of the cadet unit. Described as a bright and promising student, he was known to be quiet, disciplined, and dedicated to his academics and extracurricular activities.
Principal Gabriel noted that Friday appeared to be an ordinary day for the student, with no signs of unusual behavior or distress. He emphasized that the school community has been deeply affected by his disappearance and has organized prayer sessions involving more than 300 participants in support of his safe return.
The search for Jayden has also drawn the attention of local leaders. Manchester Southern Member of Parliament Peter Bunting publicly urged residents to act swiftly and responsibly to assist in locating the missing child.
Quotes
“Well, little Jayden did not reach home after school yesterday… Some persons right through the night were just doing their networking, sending out messages and so on,” — Principal Jasford Gabriel.
“In fact, currently we have over 300 persons online in a prayer session that we arranged just a few hours ago. That’s one of the responses that we want to entertain, just trusting God that he will somehow intervene,” — Principal Jasford Gabriel.
“Let us act swiftly and responsibly as a community,” — MP Peter Bunting.
Analysis
The case underscores the vulnerability of children who rely on public or informal transport arrangements. While Jamaica has a High Alert system for missing children, the effectiveness of these alerts often depends on rapid communication, community vigilance, and police resources. In Jayden’s case, the strong response from his school, the wider Manchester community, and political representatives illustrates the urgency and seriousness with which such cases are taken.
Our Opinion
The disappearance of Jayden Smith is a reminder of the importance of child safety measures and vigilant community support. While police investigations continue, the prayers and efforts of the school community highlight the collective will to ensure his safe return. Strengthening systems for monitoring student transportation and bolstering community-police collaboration can help reduce the risks faced by children. At this time, the nation must remain united in hope and support for Jayden’s family.
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