By Damion Mitchell, Staff Reporter
A pedestrian uses a pathway between a building and a barrier
which has been erected at the entrance of Septimus Street, Jones Town, south St.
Andrew.
This is one of three iron barriers which have been erected in Jones Town, south St. Andrew, by residents since a drive by shooting in the community two weeks ago during which community leader George Phang and another man were shot and injured. - Photos By Ian Allen/Staff Photographer
THE COMMUNITY of Jones Town, south St. Andrew, remains tense two weeks after George 'Pepper' Phang, community leader and manager of the Arnett Gardens Football Club, and another man, were injured in a drive-by shooting at the intersection of Thompson and Septimus streets on March 13.
Since the incident, the residents have erected iron barriers at the entrance of Septimus Street and at both ends of Thompson Street, to prevent a recurrence.
A resident who identified himself as 'Cuban', said the entire community was in fear as, according to him, if the perpetrators were brave enough to attack 'the big man', then residents were just as vulnerable.
Ionie Cross shared similar sentiments. She said that while the police and soldiers patrolled the communities regularly, residents also deemed it their responsibility to protect themselves.
"They (iron barriers) necessary because we have to protect wi self and wi children," she said. The barriers, which span the roadway excluding the sidewalks are made of two upright iron posts to the sides of the road which are connected by a four-inch detachable water pipe.
Deloris Smikle, who lives in the community, expressed concern that social activities such as games, have become a daytime affair since the shooting. According to her, as early as 7 p.m., most persons opted to stay off the streets as they do not know what to expect.
A senior officer at the Admiral Town police station told The Gleaner that the Police High Command were informed just yesterday that the residents had erected barriers at the entrances to the community and said that the matter would be investigated.
Last week the police arrested a man identified as Adrian Miller, also called 'Kirk' and 'Cocoa', of Waterford, Portmore, south west St. Catherine, and Lincoln Crescent, Kingston. He has since been charged with illegal possession of firearm and ammunition and four counts of shooting with intent.
Police sources said that detectives were following leads implicating conspirators in the incident as well as persons who assisted in preparing documents for the travel of the man now in custody.
