Mark Titus, Freelance Writer

WESTERN BUREAU:

Crime fighters in St. James have taken another illegal firearm off the streets of Montego Bay.

This brings the total number recovered in the parish for the year to 24, nine of which were seized since Superintendent Steve McGregor took command of the division on March 5.

Reports are that, yesterday between 3:00 and 6:00 a.m., the police carried out a pre-dawn operation on Barnett Lane, in downtown Montego Bay.

During the operation a rifle, an M16 magazine, and three live rounds were found in an unoccupied premises.

No one was arrested in relation to the find. However, four men were taken into custody for other crimes that have been committed in the community.

Forensic laboratory

The weapon will be sent to the forensic laboratory in Kingston for analysis and to confirm whether it was used in any criminal activities.

Meanwhile, six men were taken into custody during a police operation carried out on Lincoln Avenue, in the upscale neighbourhood of Carol Gardens, St. James, on Wednesday.

The lawmen said they were held in a dwelling house that the police suspect was captured by the group.

A number of household items, jewellery and assorted appliances suspected to be stolen were also seized from the premises.

The police believe that homes that are left unoccupied without any monitoring arrangement are creating a haven for criminals in St. James.