Rasbert Turner, Gleaner Writer
Senior Superintendent Hector 'Bingie' White (right) in discussion with Senior Superintent Calvin Benjamin (left), as they make final strategic plans during the funeral service for area leader Donovan 'Bulbie' Bennett in Spanish Town, yesterday. Senior Superintendent Lola Evans looks on. - NORMAN GRINDLEY/DEPUTY CHIEF PHOTOGRAPHER
SPANISH TOWN, St. Catherine:
COMMUTERS TRAVELLING to Old Harbour, Linstead, May Pen, and other destinations were stranded in Spanish Town yesterday evening as the roads in the Old Capital were, for the most part, void of vehicular traffic, including public passenger vehicles.
A visit to the streets of the Old Capital at about 4:30 p.m. found scores of commuters stranded. They complained that they could not get any taxis or other transportation to get to their destinations.
The bus park was deserted. Commuters said the operators left their routes to take mourners and supporters of Donovan 'Bulbie' Bennett to his burial spot in Clarendon. They said the operators were threatened that if they did not attend the funeral to show respect for the slain gangster, they would pay the consequences.
Operators who continued to run several routes claimed they had been threatened but would not give into the hoodlums.
Businesses in proximity to the Clansman stronghold, such as the Texaco service station at the corner of Young Street and Burke Road, several bars and other businesses which are normally open on a Sunday had their shutters drawn or did not open for business at all.
The police in Spanish Town said the funeral went without incident and that they would remain vigilant. However, some business persons said they were apprehensive about what would follow yesterday's activities.
