By Aabigayle McIntosh

Ministry of education officials have moved to introduce a tighter level of security at the Clarehall Secondary School follow a major scare last week where a minor hid a loaded firearm on the compound.

The event triggered a temporary lockdown of the school last Friday as police officers combed the area in search of the offensive weapon.

During a high level meeting on Monday between staff members and ministry officials met to reflect and discuss mitigating measures to improve the safety and security of the school plant.

During an interview with state media on Monday Deputy Director of Education Dr E. Jonah Greene disclosed that metal detectors will be among the new measures implemented to ensure that offensive weapons are not brought onto the compound.

In addition to this more trained security officers will be added to the staff complement to ensure the entire school and the perimeter is covered.

Dr Greene also pointed out that school counselors will be brought in to provide emotional support to teachers and students who may require such services.

She said the measures were already on the cards for all schools on the island. However, the incident at the educational institution triggered a faster response.

Police have arrested and charged a 15-year-old boy of Potters for Being in Possession of a Firearm in the Furtherance of Committing an Offence. Further investigations are still ongoing in the matter.