By Nagra Plunkett, Staff ReporterWESTERN BUREAU:
THE MONTEGO Bay police have increased their surveillance in Salt Spring and the neighbouring community of Quarrie in St. James, following a recent upsurge in shootings, robberies and housebreaking in the two communities.
"Foot and mobile patrols have been set up in the areas with uniformed and plainclothes personnel," said crime chief for the parish, Deputy Superintendent Cleon March on Wednesday.
"Four men were also detained for questioning in connection with the incidents during a police operation."
Gun violence erupted on Tuesday, following the murder of a 21-year-old man, who was shot and killed by unknown assailants in the Quarrie area. Reports are that about 2:00 p.m. residents reported hearing explosions and summoned the police. When a team of policemen went to enquire, a man identified as Gregory Lewis was found in bushes near his home with gunshot wounds to his back and forehead. He is the 47th homicide victim for St. James since the start of the year.
Three weeks ago, a police service car was badly damaged in Salt Spring during an exchange of gunfire between policemen and gunmen. Four policemen, who were in the vehicle at the time of the shooting, escaped unharmed. It was also said that several Glock-40, 9mm and 45 mm spent shells were recovered from the scene of the shooting.
Senior Superintendent John Morris, Crime Chief for the Area One Police Division, told The Gleaner that Salt Spring is numbered among the problematic areas in the parish that it was receiving high-visibility policing. The other communities include Glendevon, Norwood and Rose Heights.
"In the last two weeks, we have intensified our presence and saturated the area of Salt Spring and we intend to maintain our visibility," SSP Morris said.
Information reaching the police suggests that Lewis' murder stemmed from an ongoing feud between some men within his home community. A male suspect was picked up for the killing on Tuesday evening. The identity of the man is being withheld as he is expected to face an identification parade.
