316 / 494
315
Training and Preparations for Use
10.124.
Maj. Dixon had been given specific and relevant training overseas
to enable him to qualify as a Mortar Fire Controller (MFC) and he completed his
various courses with distinction. He prepared for the operation on 24 May by
studying maps of West Kingston, photographs and doing covert visits to the
general area. As a result of this reconnaissance, he identified 3 locations which
he considered to be suitable target areas for landing the mortars.
Targets
10.125.
The three locations targeted for detonation were:
(i)
A grass field due West of the Bus Park on Darling Street,
often used as a football field.
(ii)
A grass area South West of the football field and South of
the Edward Seaga Oval in the vicinity of the old train line.
(iii)
The football field in Tivoli Gardens itself and North of the
Community Centre and bounded by a gully on the West and
a 6 feet concrete wall. On the Southern side is a wall of the
Community Centre and in the East, West and North are
high-rise buildings. Maj. Dixon’s measurements of this field
are: East to West – 120 metres; North to South – 150
metres.
Who had knowledge of the Use of Mortars?
10.126.
CoP Ellington testified on 13 April 2015 that he was not aware that
mortars had been used during the operation. He said –
“I don’t know what they are. I do not recall being with the
Chief of Defence Staff when the Prime Minister said that he
had complaints from residents that what sounded like
mortars had exploded in Tivoli Gardens. I did not hear the
CDS give the Prime Minister any explanation. I do not ask