Jamaica's security forces are defending their actions after being accused of using excessive force during the operation to capture the alleged drug dealer Christopher "Dudus" Coke.
Amnesty International, which says Jamaican police have a "dire" human rights track record, has called for an independent investigation into the deaths of more than 70 people since the operation began last weekend.
Major Riccardo Blackwood of the Jamaican Defence Force says officers had to face trained gunmen and cope with numerous explosive devices "that were quite alarming".
Mr Coke, who is still at large despite intensive efforts to find him, is wanted by the United States on drug and gun-running charges. His supporters have said they will protect him at any cost.
The BBC reports that residents of parts of Kingston affected by the violence say security forces are heavy-handed and that some people believe Mr Coke is wanted dead or alive.
But Jamaican police insist that he will be arrested and brought to trial.
