St Catherine North Police addressing murders across the division

The St Catherine North Police Division has implemented strategies to address crime, particularly murders, in areas that are seeing increased activities.

Deputy Superintendent of Police Paul Bernard told Thursday's monthly meeting of the St Catherine Municipal Corporation that there has been increased deployment in Linstead and Spanish Town.

"We have 12 murders, which is four less than last year this time. But, nine of these occurred across the flat bridge towards Linstead and beyond," Bernard said.

He also expressed concern about murders in Guys Hill.

"What is alarming [is that] Guys Hill has seen a 300% rise in murder, with three murders comparing to zero in the corresponding period last year," Bernard noted.

Bernard told the meeting that the police have embarked on a strategy to curtail the problem, noting that a holistic approach is necessary.

''There is a community walk-through in the Bonnett community today, this is in an effort to bring comfort to the lives of the residents,'' he said.

The senior crime fighter said that motor vehicle theft and praedial larceny issues of concern, and that the police continue to strategise to deal with the problems.

He told the gathering that the police require the support of local elected representatives to help with curtailing criminal activities throughout the police division.

Councillors said they will support the fight against crime within their divisions.

- Rasbert Turner

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