By Glenroy Sinclair, Staff ReporterHEAVILY ARMED gunmen went on a rampage in the rural district of Scotland Heights in Jacks Hill, St. Andrew, killing a common-law couple, burning three houses and a motor car between Wednesday night and early yesterday morning.
In a suspected reprisal attack later in the afternoon, a pregnant woman was shot and injured. Her attackers then made an unsuccessful attempt to also burn down her house.
The police have since identified the dead couple as 40-year-old domestic helper, Delores Barrett, and 52-year-old Roy Williams, a mason by profession. Both were murdered shortly after 6:00 a.m. yesterday at their home. It is alleged that Ms. Barrett had been warned to leave the community or face the prospect of being killed.
GANGS RUNNING RAMPANT
According to members of the community who spoke with The Gleaner yesterday, several gangs have been running rampant throughout the community, engaging in robberies, rapes and other criminal acts.
Residents added that the poor street lighting assisted the gunmen who use the tracks and hills to launch their attack. Following the death of the
couple yesterday, gunshots rang out in the community for more than 20 minutes. This took place while the gunmen set two houses ablaze. Students on their way to school had to retreat to their homes, until the police arrived.
The Gleaner has learnt that several residents have begun moving out of the community. Scores of police personnel have since flooded the area looking for the gunmen.
Gang warfare in the area has claimed the lives of more than 10 persons, several others have been shot and injured and a number of houses burnt.
